As part of the move, long-established automated warehouse systems integrator Greenstone Systems will become Invar Integration and will work together on intralogistics projects.
The new group comprises: Invar Systems, a developer of warehouse control and management systems; Invar Integration (Greenstone Systems) which offers solutions design, hardware integration and project management; and Invar Controls, specialists in the design, implementation and maintenance of PLC software and hardware.
Invar and Greenstone have worked closely together in recent years on a large number of major projects for international brands. Most recently, the two companies worked on a joint initiative to deliver a multi-million pound omni-channel distribution centre for a large logistics company. The project comprised WMS, WCS and PLC software, integrating 1.5km of conveyor connecting inbound, bulk storage, active picking, packing and outbound processes. Some of the hardware technologies integrated within the system include multiple vertical goods lifts servicing a mezzanine floor and put-to-light technology. The system also includes weighing, volumetrics, packing and label applying automated processes.
The formation of the Invar Group of companies creates a ‘union of technological excellence’ focused on delivering turnkey warehouse automation solutions – using a combination of advanced technologies such as industrial robotics, AMR goods-to-person solutions, pick-to-light technology, sortation systems, as well as the full gamut of conventional warehouse automation.
Tim Wright, managing director, Invar Systems says: “By working even closer, we can combine our experience and knowledge to offer our customers a complete automation solution in house, all from our UK base in Cranfield. This includes solutions design and consultancy, bespoke hardware, bespoke software, project management and system implementation – along with on-going support.”
Craig Whitehouse, managing director, Invar Integration says: “Businesses are having to adapt as never before. A shortage of available labour, the pressures of social distancing and an unpredicted surge in demand for online orders has created a perfect storm, where the automation of key warehouse processes is the only viable or sustainable way forward. We believe this is the perfect opportunity for companies to adopt flexible, scalable warehouse automation – clever systems that can adapt to the changing needs of a business. Together, Invar Group has all the necessary capabilities, inspiration and talent to design, build and deliver ‘transformative’ automated solutions, suited to today’s new challenges.”
Headquartered in Cranfield, UK, and operating from offices in the US and The Netherlands, the Invar Group of companies has a team of over 65 staff – from software developers, design engineers and project managers, to installation specialists, electrical engineers and support services.