Global automation solutions supplier, Cimcorp, has appointed Simon Hester as regional director for Australia and New Zealand, aiming to increase visibility of the company’s approach to distribution centre automation in the region.
The Australian grocery trade is characterised by major supermarket chains. The benefits of automation include better employee ergonomics, less waste and higher quality produce, so the business case for automation in distribution centres in the region is strong.
With experience across the logistics, rail, telecommunications, public health and non-profit sectors in both Australia and the UK, Hester stated he plans to set up a reference site and build a mixed team of local employees, experts from HQ and local partner organisations. He hopes to support the sales team in exploring opportunities with all the supermarket chains in the major cities in Australia and New Zealand.
Having led two large container terminal automation projects – one as a customer and the other as a supplier – Hester said he sees many analogies between moving the ‘big boxes’ and smaller ones in distribution centres.
“There are similarities in the technology, and safety and testing are paramount in both. Planning and managing the transition from the project phase to operations and maintenance is a key success factor,” said Hester.
“Cimcorp has a unique approach to efficient packing of pallets with a mixture of grocery products, and I look forward to sharing this story with prospective clients.
“The decision to invest in automation is a big one, and the initial project is generally followed by more than a decade of maintenance, optimisation and changes. Establishing trust and long-term, win-win partnerships is essential. By establishing a permanent presence locally in the region, Cimcorp is demonstrating its commitment to building a sustainable business in the Oceania region.”
