Automation and transportation have come together in the air in the form of drones. On land, many tech companies and automakers are working on self-driving cars. Although we don’t hear quite as much about is the application of the technology to transport over water, we may see it become a reality within just a few…
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Whether you know it as the “fourth industrial revolution” or industry 4.0, there is no denying that a fundamental shift in the supply chain is changing the way manufacturing and distribution industries operate. These sectors must undertake major digital transformations to remain competitive. Most strategies go beyond simple automation and straightforward technology implementation. A recent…
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Like many manufacturers, Columbia Tech and Cogmedix, providers of design-through-production manufacturing and worldwide fulfillment services for both the non-medical and medical markets, run a tight supply chain. The two subsidiaries of the Coghlin Companies, headquartered in Westborough, MA, source from a global roster of suppliers to manage costs and maximize selection and flexibility. Both companies…
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Global high-tech companies are melding technology and processes to create supply chains that build empires in the industry. These supply chain organizations are fighting to stand out amongst political chaos from Brexit and the current U.S. administration, which makes today’s business landscape much different than it was just a year ago. The cutting-edge strategies and…
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At its inception, the Global 450 Consortium (G450C), a New York-based public/private program with a goal of building the 450mm wafer and equipment development environment , was a promising sign. As I wrote at that time: This collaboration is first step forward by the global semiconductor industry to ensure a steady supply of 450mm diameter…
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Continuing its acquisition strategy to expand in several key markets, Littelfuse Inc. recently acquired U.S. Sensor Corp., headquartered in Orange, California. The company is a manufacturer of thermistors and probe assemblies used in temperature sensing applications. The acquisition is part of the Littelfuse’s new five-year corporate strategy to double its sensor platform by 2021. “This…
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The advent of industrial robots is changing the way manufacturing is being done. The debate rages about whether the impact is more positive or negative, of course. Proponents say that robots allow companies, especially small and mid-sized manufacturers, to stay competitive. Detractors worry that the same technologies can endanger employment opportunities for human beings. In…
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Think about all our familiar, modern superheroes: Superman, Spiderman, Batman, Ironman, and Wonder Woman. What differentiates them from others is, at least in part, a heroic attitude, let’s call it swagger. All the movies that trace their exploits did an excellent job of taking us vicariously through their adventures, making us believe that just about…
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While many distributors are still struggling to move their businesses online, a new player has arrived and is making a lot of noise. Amazon’s business to business (B2B) marketplace, Amazon Business, already is making significant progress in multiple verticals, armed with low prices, an extensive international logistics network, and a universally recognized brand. While some…
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We are all aware of the disruption occurring in the retail space and the digital transformation the sector is currently undergoing, underlined by Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods and bringing its supply chain, e-commerce, and big data expertise to bear. In fact, big data played a role in the selection of the acquisition target; Amazon…
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