Analysis

Epicor acquires smart software for AI-Powered inventory planning & optimisation technologies

Epicor has acquired Smart Software, a leading provider of cloud-based, AI-driven inventory planning and optimisation (IP&O) applications, and an existing Epicor ISV partner. The acquisition accelerates Epicor’s delivery of best-in-class ERP solutions that provide practical application of AI across the spectrum of business operations for the make, move, and sell industries. Financial terms were not discloseds “In today’s fast-paced and constantly evolving supply chain landscape, effective inventory management is critical for success,” said Epicor CEO Steve Murphy. “The Smart Software acquisition further accelerates our focus in transforming traditional ERP from a system of record to a system of action, giving Epicor customers AI-powered capabilities to turn inventory into a competitive asset that helps drive up customer service levels and drive down costs.” Smart Software’s Smart IP&O platform is an intuitive, cloud-based portfolio of technologies that leverages patented, probabilistic AI and machine learning models to deliver superior forecasting and “what if” analysis. These models run thousands of simulations of outcomes to deliver precise predictions and avoid unrealistic assumptions, enabling users to better predict demand, stockout risks, and costs. This improves forecasting accuracy, helps users quickly identify and correct inventory imbalances, predict future operational performance, and track actuals. Customers also can use “what if” analysis to test and risk-adjust stocking policies to ensure alignment with their strategic objectives, as well as leverage the platform’s AI to prescribe optimal policies that will yield the highest financial return. As an existing Epicor ISV partner, Smart Software solutions are already integrated with several Epicor ERP platforms, extending functionality to help users make informed, strategic inventory decisions that align with their business goals. Additional benefits include: AI-Driven Operational Efficiency: With this acquisition, Epicor customers can strengthen and streamline inventory management processes, ensuring optimal stock levels. By eliminating manual data entry/data prep and automating demand forecasting while accounting […]

Sweetch Energy to use turnkey process control platform from Rockwell Automation

French renewables startup to leverage extensive domain expertise and global presence to help scale its osmotic power generation technology for the first time Rockwell Automation will support the automation of Sweetch Energy’s unique power generation technology through the deployment of a process control system and remote operations visualisation. Sweetch Energy’s first osmotic demonstrator plant is currently under construction and will soon be operational at the Barcarin lock in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, France. The company plans to deploy several osmotic stations at the mouth of the Rhône to harness natural osmotic energy. These stations will represent up to 500 MW of carbon-free electricity production capacity, capable of supplying more than 1.5 million people – the equivalent to the population of cities such as Marseille and its surrounding areas, Barcelona, Amsterdam or Montreal. “Sweetch Energy mirrors our own deep commitment to sustainability and the development of enabling technologies,” said Eric Chalengeas, regional vice president, south region, Rockwell Automation. “We are delighted that our process solutions, visualization technology and domain expertise are being deployed in such a fascinating project. As well as helping Sweetch Energy scale and enhance its technology, our global presence will also help it expand into other regions, where we can continue to offer comprehensive global service and support.” Osmotic energy is naturally generated by the difference in salinity between freshwater and seawater. The INOD (Ionic Nano Osmotic Diffusion) technology developed by Sweetch Energy is the first technology of its kind to be marketed on an industrial scale. Manufactured using environmentally friendly bio-sourced materials, the osmotic generators using the technology can be located at any estuary or delta. Water is the only input in the process and is fully returned to the river mouth, with no chemical waste or pollutants created. And, unlike other renewables, it is not dependent on weather conditions […]

CeMAT Southeast Asia – Unveiling the Future of Intralogistics

CeMAT Southeast Asia, the leading global trade event for warehousing, intralogistics and materials handling, will be happening in Singapore from 15 May to 17 May 2024, at the Singapore EXPO. As the premier platform for showcasing the latest industry innovations and industry 4.0 for the future of intralogistics, warehousing, automation, materials handling and supply chain management, the trade show promises an unparalleled experience for attendees. CeMAT Southeast Asia, organised by Hannover Fairs Asia Pacific, a subsidiary of Deutsche Messe, serves as a comprehensive hub of leading technology and service providers in the intralogistics industry. CeMAT events draw over 100,000 attendees at exhibitions around the world. The growing demand for advanced intralogistics technologies and the adoption of industry 4.0 are driving demand. Singapore’s intralogistics market was valued at USD 43.13 billion in 2023, and is predicted to reach USD 115.9 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 15.0% from 2020 to 2030, according to new research by Next Move Strategy Consulting. With a diverse array of exhibitors, CeMAT will present a one-stop-shop for attendees to explore cutting-edge solutions and best practices across various sectors, including e-commerce, manufacturing, food industry, pharmaceutical, FMCG, supply chain management and retail. “We are thrilled to bring CeMAT back to Southeast Asia, reaffirming our commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in the intralogistics and materials handling sectors. Singapore is positioned as the international gateway to Southeast Asia and a recognised global logistics hub, making this the ideal location for the next chapter for CeMAT. This event provides attendees an opportunity to witness first-hand the latest innovations, technologies and trends with leading subject experts”, said Tim Bostridge of Hannover Fairs. In addition to the exhibition floor, CeMAT will feature a free show floor theatre featuring knowledge sessions and dedicated local content during Singapore Hour. Attendees can access a […]

Unlocking Growth: BLT achieved revenue of around USD170 million in 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of additive manufacturing, BLT stands as a pioneer in the field. The fiscal year 2023 marked yet another milestone for the company, with its financial report showcasing impressive growth and unwavering dedication to excellence. Financial Highlights BLT’s financial performance in 2023 was nothing short of exceptional. With operating income surging to an impressive approx USD 170 million, representing a robust 34.24% increase compared to the previous year, the company demonstrated its resilience and agility in navigating challenging market conditions. The net income attributed to shareholders witnessed a significant rise, soaring to approx. USD 19.6 million, marking a notable increase of 78.11% year-over-year. Revenue breakdown by industries reveals a strong foothold in key sectors: Aerospace & Aviation comprising 56.02%, Industry with 37.32%, and Research Institute contributing 5.64%. Revenue from customised 3D printing products, self-developed 3D printing equipment, and 3D printing raw materials saw significant increases of 34.45%, 26.46%, and an impressive 98.98% respectively compared to the prior year. This growth can be attributed to BLT’s continued emphasis on the aerospace sector, coupled with its proactive exploration of new markets and applications. These figures underscore BLT’s strong position in the market and its unwavering commitment to delivering value to shareholders and stakeholders alike. (Exchange Rate: 1 USD = 7.23 CNY, March 28, 2024) A Comprehensive Metal AM Solution Provider As of December 31, 2023, BLT boasted a workforce of 1,720 employees, with approximately 30% dedicated to research and development efforts. The company’s extensive infrastructure, comprising over 440 sets of additive manufacturing equipment, and over 120 sets of complementary analysis and testing equipment, solidified its position as the largest metal additive manufacturing industrial base in the world. At its core, BLT specializes in industrial-grade metal additive manufacturing, offering customers a comprehensive solution for their metal additive manufacturing needs. By […]

Epson Plans Construction of Biomass Power Plant

The company’s first power plant aims to use renewable electricity Epson has announced planning for the construction of the their first biomass power plant in Iida City, in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Epson hopes to have the plant in operation in the 2026 fiscal year (ending March 2027) and is working to secure the land and buildings, contract construction, and file the paperwork for power generation. Conceptual drawing of the Minami-Shinshu Biomass Power Plant Epson is publicly committed to becoming carbon negative and underground resource free in Environmental Vision 2050. The use of renewable electricity is a key means by which Epson seeks to reach its goal of decarbonisation and, in December 2023, Epson completed the switch to 100% renewable electricity at all Epson Group sites around the world. The new power plant is intended to provide Epson with self-generated renewable electricity on a continuous basis and reduce the ratio of electricity the company purchases from external power companies, thereby promoting wider public adoption of renewable electricity. Epson plans to construct the plant on the site of the former Kiribayashi Clean Center, which the Minami Shinshu Wide-Area Union shut down in December 2017. The electricity generated will be sold to the market under a feed-in premium (FIP) scheme, and Epson will convert the electricity that it uses into renewable electricity by leveraging the environmental value created through power generation. Moreover, the power is expected to be supplied to local facilities in the event of a disaster or other emergency. The power plant will not depend on fossil fuels. It will be fueled primarily by unused wood from the Minami Shinshu area, as well as by materials such as tree bark, mushroom culture medium, and some waste wooden pallets from Epson. By utilising wood and bark from neglected forests, Epson will also […]

Revolutionary battery launch a significant milestone

The upcoming launch of a revolutionary battery series called Jumbo-Power (JP series) during the 37th China International Hardware Fair on March 20 2024 is a significant milestone. It represents Ampace’s groundbreaking advancements in new and sustainable energy technologies for the power tool industry, propelling the world forward and empowering a better quality of life. By the end of 2024, cordless power tools are projected to capture over 70% of the market share. The rapid advancement of power tools necessitates batteries that meet increasingly demanding criteria, including higher power output, reduced dimensions, and lighter weight. Li-ion batteries are anticipated to maintain their pivotal role in the ongoing evolution of power tool technology. Nevertheless, conventional Li-ion batteries encounter significant obstacles such as sustained high-current discharge capabilities, runtime limitations, suboptimal performance in lower temperatures, lifespan concerns, and charging speed constraints. As a key player in the power tool industry’s upstream sector, Ampace is dedicated to overcoming these bottlenecks through innovative technologies. A prime illustration of this commitment is the JP40, one of the flagship products in the JP series, which has successfully achieved widespread global production and is currently empowering a wide array of top-tier brands with its impressive power output.

Mariya Prempeh, Singapore's RA Country Manager ASIA MN

Interview: Mariya Prempeh, country manager, Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei, Rockwell Automation

Tell readers what it is that you do? I am the country manager for Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei at Rockwell Automation. My team and I primarily work with manufacturers in industries such as life sciences, semiconductors, and oil and gas, helping them to be more productive and more sustainable. My responsibilities also include enhancing the team’s capabilities to accelerate our growth in the region, capitalizing on the increasing demand for smart manufacturing solutions. Where are opportunities for growth for the company? I am based in Singapore, where the country’s strategic location and advanced infrastructure make it a hub for automation and Industry 4.0 technologies. Leading in robotics, predictive analytics, and now artificial intelligence (AI), the nation is spearheading technological advancements. The adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies, such as automation, IoT, and the latest industrial revolution, are reshaping the manufacturing landscape in Singapore and improving efficiency. According to our State of Smart Manufacturing Report, close to half (44%) of APAC manufacturers plan to adopt smart manufacturing within the next year; out of this, China (80%), Australia (60%) and India (59%) are already using some components of smart manufacturing. We are also seeing interest right across the region from companies looking to improve the sustainability of their manufacturing operations or exploring their suitability for World Economic Forum ‘Lighthouse’ status. How is Rockwell Automation integrating AI into its product range? At Rockwell Automation, our solutions such as AI-powered systems can optimize manufacturing processes by adjusting parameters in real-time to maximize efficiency and product quality. One of our solutions in the Life Sciences industry, FactoryTalk PharmaSuite®, tailors its optimization strategies according to different stages of a process and ensures users achieve results efficiently. With its flexible design and smart upgrade mechanism, it offers a strong framework for expanding capabilities in both continuous and separate […]

Smart Production Solutions Guangzhou 2024 introduces ‘Hosted Buyer Programme’

Smart Production Solutions Guangzhou from 4-6 March is committed to building a platform for the manufacturing sector to discover the latest technologies in smart production. Nearly all of the exhibition space at the show’s 2024 edition has been claimed, reflecting the event’s widespread recognition within the industry. To streamline interactions between exhibitors and buyers and ensure mutually beneficial exchanges, the event organisers have launched the ‘Hosted Buyer Programme’. This scheme is designed to facilitate effective business matchmaking, helping participants to expand their business network and nurture new opportunities. Under the programme, VIP buyers can also expect to receive a wide range of exclusive benefits and privileges. As it enters 2024, China’s manufacturing sector is poised for a new era of advancements. Policy initiatives are steering the sector into an era of advanced industrial practices and intelligent production solutions, with the objective of maintaining the country’s leadership in global manufacturing. On New Year’s Day, a government article was released, emphasising the importance of ‘new industrialisation’ – a national development strategy focused on upgrading and modernising the country’s manufacturing sector – as a path to achieving a higher standard of economic growth. The article proposed seven key initiatives, including the deployment of new smart manufacturing projects, a heightened focus on developing smart products and equipment, and the further enhancement of smart factories and supply chains. In alignment with this recommendation, the Central Economic Work Conference on 11 December 2023 stressed the need to stimulate industrial innovation by fusing technological advancement with a committed focus to new industrialisation. The conference called for the acceleration of artificial intelligence development and the transformation of the country’s traditional industries. Meanwhile, a separate government conference held the same month reaffirmed that 2024 would be a decisive year for the implementation of the national new industrialisation plan. Reflecting […]

FPT launches automotive technology subsidiary, facilitating SDV transition

Hanoi – Global technology services provider FPT has launched its automotive technology subsidiary – FPT Automotive. With a mission to drive the advancement of software-defined vehicles (SDV), shape the new mobility era, and deliver the highest standards of safety and superior experiences to customers, FPT Automotive sets its sights on becoming a billion-dollar world-class automotive services and products provider in 2030. FPT Automotive offers a comprehensive suite of engineering services encompassing in-vehicle infotainment, Electronic Control Units (ECU), functional safety, security, automotive UI/UX design, wireless connectivity, and digital engineering. Central to these offerings is MaaZ, the proprietary AUTOSAR for turn-key ECU solutions. Leveraging its strength in software development, the company aims to empower global tier-1 suppliers, OEMs, and chipmakers to enhance market competitiveness and deliver more connected, intelligent, sustainable, and future-ready vehicles. The company ensures full compliance with industry standards such as ISO26262 for functional safety management and Automotive SPICE for software development processes in the automotive sector. FPT Automotive currently has a global team of 4,000 automotive software engineers and experts across diversified delivery models, allowing streamlined solutions, optimised cost, and adaptability to clients’ and industry’s changing requirements. Its major markets include the United States, Europe, Japan, South Korea, China, and Vietnam. The launch of FPT Automotive responds to the global demand for SDVs, aligns with FPT’s strategic investment in automotive product engineering services and solutions, and leverages its extensive expertise. It allows a more client-centric approach, accelerated by global account management and M&As. “With more than 10 years of experience in the automotive industry, a diverse pool of talented human resources, the latest technologies like AI, cloud computing, and computer vision, as well as partnerships and investments with renowned companies like Landing AI and Cardinal Peak, we aspire to accelerate the rapid development of automotive, a sector now determined […]

Building Cambodia’s Future

OCIC’s Stellar Year of Award Wins, Strategic Partnerships, and Visionary Projects Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC), Cambodia’s leading diversified property development and infrastructure conglomerate, has had an enriching 2023, packed with strategic partnerships and groundbreaking developments across the year. From winning prestigious awards to forging key collaborations, OCIC has set the stage for continued success in 2024. Strategic Partnerships This year, OCIC Group forged partnerships with international brands such as Singapore Airline Engineering (SAIEC), Phillip Capital from Singapore, CBRE from USA, Accor from France and Big C from Thailand. With a global vision in mind, OCIC Group continued its growth trajectory through a strategic partnership with Phillip Trustee, a subsidiary of Singapore’s capital management firm PhillipCapital. The partnership aims to provide trustee services to foreign investors purchasing landed properties in Cambodia. This long-term collaboration provides more options for both groups’ customers. As Phillip Capital operates in 15 countries worldwide, it shall bring more foreign investment opportunities to Cambodia. In 2023, a joint venture was signed between OCIC Group’s affiliate Cambodia Airport Investment Corporation (CAIC) and Singapore Airline Engineering Corporation (SIAEC) to establish a centre of excellence in the field of aircraft maintenance, in order to support the future operations at the new Phnom Penh Techo International Airport. This alliance was facilitated by Changi Airport, an existing OCIC partner. OCIC also cemented a 30-year agreement with Big C, one of Southeast Asia’s largest retail chain. The USD $15 million investment on a 2.7-hectare land will see the first hypermarket in Cambodia, located in the district of Chroy Changvar, a 300-hectare satellite city in Phnom Penh. The construction to build an enhanced retail landscape has kickstarted and is set to be completed within 2026. Discussing OCIC’s partnership milestones, Thierry Tea, Vice President of OCIC Group shared: “These partnerships reflect OCIC Group’s objective […]

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