EPG ColorCards for Supply Chain Execution Capabilities
Discover our co-branded report with Gartner.
Discover our co-branded report with Gartner.
International industry giants like Bossard, BMW, Misumi, YKK, Fiege, DHL and Hellmann rely on pioneering technologies to automate their logistics processes. A central component of their strategy is the integration of comprehensive automation solutions from the EPG ONE Supply Chain Execution Suite developed by EPG (Ehrhardt Partner Group). With an impressive international track record for the implementation of highly automated warehouses and manufacturer-independent material handling systems, EPG has once again established itself as the leading software provider in this segment, securing first place in the global ranking of outfitters.
Rapid changes in international markets, coupled with demand fluctuations, staff shortages, and increasing cost pressure, pose immense challenges for the logistics industry. Geopolitical tensions and trade conflicts intensify this pressure and require companies to prepare their supply chains for maximum flexibility. For intralogistics in particular, it is clear that modern automation solutions can successfully meet these requirements - from modular warehouse automation systems such as AutoStore to automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Choosing the right software and project partner is crucial for success. Numerous leading companies rely on EPG's high-performance automation software to make their processes future-proof and efficient.
Digital Twins and Daring Global Projects
EPG’s Warehouse Control System (WCS) is at the heart of this transformation, offering a comprehensive end-to-end solution based on 35+ years of experience in warehouse automation. This solution manages, controls, and coordinates all aspects of automated material flow – integrating technologies across manufacturers for unified control of any and all hardware solutions. This guarantees companies maximum flexibility, empowering companies to leverage a wide range of automation technologies and providers - today and in the future. EPG relies on the latest technologies, such as digital twins, to visualize, simulate, or emulate material flow across a wide range of industries. This digital transformation gives companies a high degree of flexibility when adapting and integrating different systems. A prime example of this is the global rollout of EPG solutions as part of Bossard AG's BOOST investment program, which has been implemented in over 40 warehouses worldwide to sustainably increase efficiency and resilience.
2024 Trends in Logistics Automation
The global shift towards automation is confirmed by independent market observers. Market research company Gartner forecasts that around 80% of warehouses and distribution centers will be using some sort of automation solutions by 2028. In recent reports, Gartner also emphasizes EPG's leading position in this important market segment. According to Gartner, EPG is one of the leading providers of automation solutions and is classified as the global market leader in the area of material handling integration and supportive automation technologies.
The latest trends shaping the industry include the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to optimize processes, predict maintenance, and manage inventory. In addition, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are bringing major changes to warehouse operations. These technologies reduce labor costs and increase operational efficiency. With IoT technologies, warehouses are monitored in real time and important data on stock, transportation and equipment status are accurately recorded.
Challenges and Solutions for the Future
Although automation brings many benefits, companies must overcome challenges such as high initial investment and the complexity of integration. EPG's solutions are based on scalable and modular systems that enable step-by-step implementation for a wide range of technologies, reducing investment risk by streamlining and uniting integration efforts. This plug-and-play functionality is appreciated by a growing number of companies as it enables fast and flexible implementations. Additionally, the vendor-neutral integration approach offers companies a high degree of future security.
Future-Proof Solutions for Sustainable Logistics
In addition to efficiency gains and cost savings, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important motivator for logistics automation. EPG solutions support companies' efforts to shrink their carbon footprint. In particular, the use of IoT to monitor energy-intensive automation processes and the integration of "green logistics" concepts are key topics for the coming years.
With over 35 years of experience and an ever-growing slew of successful global projects, EPG offers a future-proof and flexible solution for companies that want to meet the growing challenges of modern logistics automation.
