**Stuttgart**: Peter MacLeod interviews Thomas van Workum, President of FORTNA International, discussing the company’s commitment to supply chain optimisation through AI, robotic solutions and sustainability as they prepare for the LogiMAT trade show to showcase their end-to-end solutions in the European market.
In a recent interview, Peter MacLeod engaged with Thomas van Workum, the President of FORTNA International, a leading player in the global supply chain optimisation sector. The conversation was timely given the ongoing challenges faced in contemporary supply chains, where heightened unpredictability necessitates robust, flexible, and cost-effective fulfilment operations. FORTNA has gained prominence for its commitment to delivering efficient solutions that address the needs of an increasingly demanding customer base.
FORTNA, which has nearly 80 years of experience in the industry, is well-known for offering comprehensive end-to-end solutions tailored to enhance operational excellence. These solutions range from consultancy and system design to automation, software integration, and lifecycle services. As the company expands its reach in the European market, the upcoming LogiMAT trade show in Stuttgart, Germany, will serve as a platform to showcase its expertise and prospective partnerships in the region.
A significant aspect of FORTNA’s innovation strategy is its pragmatic application of artificial intelligence (AI). “Our focus is on leveraging AI to create optimal outcomes for our customers,” van Workum stated, emphasizing that AI is deeply integrated into their Tech Support, Software Development, and Automation processes. The company has developed advanced language models that enable tech support teams to swiftly identify and resolve issues. “Instead of manually searching through manuals, our AI assistant quickly scans both documentation and past cases, providing a solution in seconds,” van Workum explained.
In software development, AI plays a critical role in assisting the programming teams, with about 30% of code now generated by AI, allowing engineers to concentrate on more intricate problem-solving tasks. Moreover, FORTNA’s AI-driven robotic solutions utilise vision technology for efficient product handling, leading to enhanced pick rates and accuracy. With escalating labour costs and a shortage of available workers, the shift towards robotic solutions is becoming increasingly prominent among businesses seeking efficiency.
Additionally, as sustainability becomes a pressing priority in logistics, FORTNA is actively addressing decarbonisation challenges. Van Workum identified two primary strategies for reducing carbon consumption: designing energy-efficient warehouse automation systems and optimising packaging methods to minimise vehicle mileage. “If the load on a system is lower due to order fluctuations, we don’t need it running at full capacity,” he noted, illustrating FORTNA’s approach to adaptive energy consumption during periods of reduced demand. Collaborations with companies like Packsize and Sitma further enhance their capabilities to reduce packaging waste and logistical costs, thereby lowering carbon emissions.
In a climate marked by geopolitical uncertainties, preparing for supply chain disruptions is crucial. Van Workum highlighted FORTNA’s commitment to helping customers navigate these unpredictable environments through consulting services that focus on mitigating risks and enhancing inventory planning. The integration of automation and software solutions bolsters resilience in warehouse operations by reducing reliance on manual labour, addressing workforce shortages more effectively.
As FORTNA gears up for the LogiMAT trade show, van Workum emphasised the company’s dedication to embracing emerging technologies, differentiating itself from competitors whose focus is limited to proprietary products. FORTNA’s collaborations with technology innovators like AutoStore and Geek+ reflect its strategy to integrate the best solutions for its customers, underscoring their continued commitment to operational excellence.
With a solid foundation of impactful solutions and an expanding presence in Europe, FORTNA is poised to make a significant impact at LogiMAT, illustrating its role in helping businesses adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing supply chain landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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