SSI Schaefer and MoTuM NV - a specialist in the development of AGVs and decentralised control technology, based in Mechelen, Belgium - have extended their existing partnership. SSI Schaefer has now acquired a majority holding in the company. Hence both companies are strengthening their existing product portfolio towards their customers. "SSI Schaefer develops and implements complete intralogistics solutions for customers across the globe. Systems involving automated guided vehicles are becoming an increasingly important aspect of such projects," explains Harrie Swinkels, Managing Director at SSI Schaefer in Giebelstadt. "With MoTuM as our strategic partner, we can complete our product range in this segment. We can now offer an AGV portfolio designed for all picking strategies and link our storage solutions; from simple transport applications following the person-to-goods principle to fully automated picking. This means that the range of AGVs can transport cases, small totes, roll containers and pallets."
MoTuM NV has extensive experience in the development of customer-specific AGVs. In addition to the production of bespoke AGVs, MoTuM occupies a strong position in the fast growing market of automation of standard warehouse trucks. The range includes automated stackers, reach trucks and VNAs. Due to the complementarity in the product offering of both companies, SSI Schaefer can offer tailored solutions that meet every requirement in the field of automated guided vehicles.
Furthermore, the Belgian AGV specialist is using an innovative decentralised control technology, which will play an important role in future "swarm intelligence" concepts. With the help of swarm intelligence, intralogistics transport systems will be able to communicate with and among one another and organise themselves to carry out tasks efficiently. "MoTuM has already integrated the relevant technologies into its AGVs and is constantly extending the limits of the multi-agent technology," explains Pieter Van Caesbroeck, Managing Director of MoTuM. "We are delighted to have such a strong partner in SSI Schaefer - both from a strategic and financial point of view - with whom we can continue to strengthen our position on the AGV market."
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