K+N targets digitisation with new innovation centres

Kuhne+Nagel (K+N) is hoping to speed up the process of digitisation in the supply chain with the opening of new innovation centres.
The Switzerland-based freight forwarder this week announced the opening of innovation centres in Utrecht, Netherlands, and Singapore.
The Innovation Centre in Utrecht will primarily focus on automation and picking technologies.
The Asia Pacific Innovation Centre in Singapore will research and deploy new solutions on connected warehouses, with a focus on data analytics and Internet of Things.
Both centres hold partnerships with universities, start-ups and organisations to develop innovative supply chain solutions.
K+N chief information officer Martin Kolbe said: “We are working on seamless data exchange of different systems to drive automation and to minimise manual efforts.
“In addition we create new services and interfaces allowing customers to easily connect with K+N.
“Applying Big Data and predictive analytics, supply chains can be managed more efficiently and effectively.”
K+N member of the managing board Gianfranco Sgro added: “The innovation centres in Singapore and Utrecht will boost our digital road map by exploring, applying and deploying leading technologies to manage our customers’ supply chains even more efficiently and effectively.
“The market for contract logistics services is transforming substantially due to the effects of digitalisation.
“With the Innovation Centers we invest in research and new technologies to accelerate this transformation.”
During the inauguration ceremony in Singapore, the forwarder announced a strategic partnership with global software-industrial provider Honeywell to support its warehouse initiatives.
Last week, the forwarder launched a new digital supply chain management platform.
The forwarder’s new end-to-end purchase order management service will allow customers to connect with their vendors, their buyers and sellers, Kuehne + Nagel’s physical assets and experts, and their cargo flows.
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