Menzies seeks next gen air cargo technology
24 / 02 / 2022
Menzies’ new robot “MimI". Photo: Menzies
Menzies Aviation is holding an air cargo technology showcase at Heathrow Airport to find new solutions to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of its cargo operations.
The technology showcase on March 1 is the first initiative of its kind for Menzies and technology solutions will range from truck management and security scanning to employee wellbeing and training.
Microsoft, Ricoh and Vodafone are among 14 suppliers set to pitch and demonstrate their systems to Menzies executives, including Mervyn Walker, chief operating officer, and Mark Reid, chief information officer.
Also presenting at the event, coordinated by Rory Fidler, Menzies’ vice president – cargo technology, are Speedcargo, Descartes Systems Group, Forward Momentum, i6 Group, KCL, Meraki, OnAssett Intelligence Inc, WePlan, HIK Vision and BotsAndUs.
Menzies cargo facility at Heathrow Airport serves as an innovation space, which aims to foster a creative environment for the development of new technology to be rolled out across its global network.
There are already a number of new solutions being put in place, such as Menzies’ new robot “Mimi”. Developed by BotsAndUs, the autonomous robot tracks goods at every stage of the warehouse process, enhancing inventory management and slot utilisation.
Robert Fordree, executive vice president – world cargo services at Menzies Aviation, said: “We are very excited to be hosting this showcase at our innovation space at Heathrow Airport, which will shine a spotlight on the latest cargo technologies. This initiative is designed to ensure Menzies remains at the forefront of the cargo industry.
“Digital capabilities are becoming increasingly critical for an industry with a need for speed as cargo volumes continue to rise. The showcase is the perfect opportunity to identify solutions that have the potential to transform our global network of cargo handling operations. We’re looking forward to the presentations and thank all of the participants for their involvement.”
John Menzies, the holding company of Menzies Aviation, has recently approved a takeover proposal from Agility subsidiary National Aviation Services (NAS) Holding following its rejection of earlier offers.
