MHE gravitating towards eco-friendly solutions

By OEM Update Editorial February 28, 2024 3:27 pm IST

Neville Mevawala, Head of Sales & Marketing at Godrej Material Handling, provides insight into the vibrant Material Handling Equipment market in 2024, the impact of technology on decision-making, sustainability initiatives, and the role of data-driven insights in optimising supply chain efficiency.

What factors are fueling the growth of the MHE market?

The Material Handling Equipment (MHE) market is primarily fuelled by the unprecedented expansion of e-commerce and growth in the manufacturing sector. The surge in online shopping has created a soaring demand for MHE, especially in warehousing and logistics operations. Governmental initiatives such as “Make in India” and financial support to MSMEs are anticipated to stimulate investment in contemporary powered and advanced MHE further. These initiatives are enabling a leap forward in the domestic manufacturing sector. Also, it is encouraging the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in material handling processes. Additionally, as sustainability concerns continue to gain prominence, the industry is increasingly gravitating towards eco-friendly solutions in material handling.

How is Godrej Material Handling enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability by deploying technology?

The efficiency improvements being enabled by MHE are connectivity, automation, and analytical capabilities. Integrating automation, robotics, and unique warehouse management software elevates operational efficiency and productivity across the intralogistics sector. These advancements enable seamless connectivity and real-time monitoring of operations. This results in facilitating informed decision-making and optimising resource utilisation.

Godrej Material Handling is committed to double investments in cutting-edge technology at various operational phases. These encompass manufacturing, sales, and sustainability throughout our value chain. In the last two years, we have launched electric equipment. They are more efficient in energy consumption and thus provide more run time per charge. This equipment can work in outdoor conditions presently dominated by diesel-powered equipment. This improves efficiency at the workplace with a substantial reduction in the overall cost of operations.

How are AR, VR, predictive analytics, and green logistics solutions utilised in warehouse operations and logistics?

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies are being leveraged to improve warehouse efficiency and enhance training programs for logistics personnel.

Predictive analytics tools are also being utilised to forecast demand, optimise inventory levels, and mitigate supply chain risks. By analysing historical data and external factors, predictive analytics help logistics companies anticipate and respond to changing market conditions more effectively. It improves overall operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Green logistics solutions are now growing due to the rise in environmental concerns. These include electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and renewable energy-powered warehouses. These aim to reduce carbon emissions and ecological impact in logistics operations.

What benefits do AI and IoT capabilities bring to supply chain and manufacturing processes?

AI and IoT technologies are propagating supply chain and manufacturing processes. The same is enabled by enhancing efficiency, using predictive maintenance, optimising inventory management, and improving visibility and traceability. Through real-time monitoring and analysis, these technologies empower companies to make informed decisions. Also, these streamline workflows and reduce operational inefficiencies.

IoT sensors and AI algorithms provide predictive maintenance capabilities for proactive equipment maintenance. They minimise downtime, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and improve operational reliability and cost-effectiveness.

AI and IoT integration enhances supply chain visibility, resulting in better stakeholder coordination and timely identification of bottlenecks or delays. Quality control processes benefit from AI-driven defect detection. The benefit allows for early identification and resolution of issues, thus reducing waste and enhancing product quality.

With the successful implementation of Salesforce CRM, Godrej Material Handling has observed a remarkable 10 percent enhancement in user experience efficiency. This is attributable to technological advancements. This boost in technological capabilities aligns with our ambitious plans to expand our business capacity by a significant fourfold. It rests upon our firm belief in the industry’s robust demand growth.

How is Godrej Material Handling leading the shift towards sustainable manufacturing practices and eco-friendly equipment production?

Manufacturers focus on electric forklifts, conveyors, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) powered by renewable energy sources or high-efficiency motors. Prioritising energy efficiency helps warehouses and distribution centres lower their operating costs in the long term.

Manufacturers are now increasingly using eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing processes. By adopting these practices, equipment manufacturers contribute to a more circular economy and minimise their environmental footprint.

At Godrej Material Handling, we incorporate sustainable technologies and design elements into our material handling equipment and offer solutions that minimise environmental impact, increase operational efficiency, and align with our commitment to sustainability. The electric forklift is a new product in the Good & Green line-up. It is committed to giving customers a more effective and advanced technology experience. Electric forklifts offer lower operating expenses than diesel forklift trucks by as much as 70 percent and are more manoeuvrable and adaptable. Godrej Material Handling provides three electric forklifts: UNO, Bravo, and NEO.

How are material handling systems evolving to accommodate the diverse product offerings and fluctuating order volumes of e-commerce platforms?

Flexibility will be crucial as e-commerce platforms diversify their product offerings with varying customer preferences. Material handling systems should easily adapt to different types of products, packaging sizes, and order volumes. This will be essential to ensure smooth operations and minimise bottlenecks in the fulfilment process. The advanced shuttle systems, AGVs, and utilisation of vertical space will be the key to meeting growing demand in e-commerce space.

How are advanced analytics and machines enabling companies to streamline processes and minimise costs?

One key approach is using advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms. They analyse large volumes of data collected from various sources such as sensors, IoT devices, customer transactions, and supply chain operations. This analysis can generate valuable insights into operations, helping identify patterns, trends, and anomalies and make better-informed decisions to optimise performance.

Companies can utilise data-driven insights to optimise their supply chain processes. Companies can identify opportunities to streamline processes, reduce lead times, and minimise transportation costs by analysing data on supplier performance, transportation routes, and inventory levels. This may involve optimising warehouse layouts or implementing more efficient routing and scheduling algorithms.