Category Archives: Business

Automha and Comau to Showcase Integrated Logistics Automation Solutions at Modex 2026

Atlanta, April 14, 2026 – Automha and Comau, will present their synergistic portfolio of integrated logistics automation solutions at MODEX 2026, taking place April 13–16 in Atlanta, Georgia (USA), booth A3418.

The joint portfolio enables customers to rely on a complete offering that covers all phases of the logistics flow: inbound product handling, intelligent storage strategies, automated storage and retrieval, order preparation and synchronized shipping. This integrated 360° approach ensures seamless connectivity across the entire logistics process and can include, when required, process design, software orchestration and turnkey solutions implementation.

“Our presence at MODEX 2026, marks an important step forward in Comau’s expansion strategy into high-growth markets, with a primary focus on automated logistics, that is expected to grow more than 10% of annual growth” stated Pietro Gorlier, CEO of Comau. “In a global landscape where flow efficiency has become a critical competitive factor, we are bringing our long-standing expertise to new, dynamic segments. By integrating Comau’s robotics, mobile automation and digital capabilities with Automha’s expertise in automated storage systems, we offer a comprehensive modular ecosystem. Our goal is to simplify the automation of complex processes, providing customers not only with productivity and scalability but also with enhanced operator ergonomics through our wearable solutions.“

At MODEX, Automha unveils for the first time NOVA AI, showcasing it through a live demo. NOVA AI is an artificial intelligence assistant natively integrated into AWMS (Automha Warehouse Management System) that leverages real-time plant data to interpret operations, events, and anomalies, enabling faster issue analysis and more efficient process management. Built on a multi-agent architecture and accessible via a conversational interface, it delivers contextual insights without the need for manual data consultation, improving efficiency and reducing intervention times.

During the event, visitors will be able to see Quaterways, Automha’s multidirectional shuttle system designed to move orthogonally along aisles and easily access accumulation channels to enable fully automated storage and retrieval operations. Managed through the Automha Warehouse Management System (AWMS), the solution allows operators to optimize storage density while maintaining flexibility and real-time control. Its capability to manage multiple pallet formats within the same channel and dynamically optimize travel paths makes it well suited for high-mix logistics environments such as those typical of 3PL and e-commerce operations.

Unlike traditional shuttle solutions, which are limited in movement or require dedicated transfer systems between different warehouse areas, Quaterways introduces a truly multidirectional movement logic, allowing the shuttle to operate continuously and smoothly both along main aisles and within storage channels. This approach enables significantly reduced cycle times, increased storage density, simplified system architecture and improved operational flexibility, especially in high-variability environments.

Integrated with the Automha proprietary Warehouse Management System (AWMS), Quaterways offers high versatility, enabling maximum storage density, operational flexibility and real-time control. Its capability to manage multiple pallet formats within the same channel and dynamically optimize travel paths makes it well suited for complex logistics environments, such as those typical of 3PL and e-commerce operations.

Pallet Runner GTR and Pallet Runner 4D solutions, the latest evolutions of Automha’s shuttle technology for multi-depth pallet storage, will also be on display. With over 12,500 units installed worldwide and a presence in 79 countries, the system is available in multiple standard configurations designed to accommodate different pallet types and load units, while maintaining full compatibility with major racking systems and forklifts, ensuring easy integration into both new and existing warehouses.

Comau will also present its MyMR autonomous mobile robots, developed in collaboration with Milvus Robotics. Built to Comau’s quality standards, with Comau acting as an integrator in developing the innovative AMR product, MyMR robots provide flexible, infrastructure-free material transport between storage areas, workstations and production lines. Key advantages of the MyMR platform include a robust fleet management system, rapid deployment without fixed infrastructure, flexible navigation capabilities and advanced safety features that allow the mobile robots to operate efficiently alongside people and existing equipment. These characteristics help companies improve internal logistics flows while achieving fast return on investment and scalable automation.

Finally, Comau’s MATE-XT GO wearable robotic exoskeletons, designed to support operators during repetitive or physically demanding tasks by reducing shoulder strain, is also on display. The device, along with the entire MATE exoskeleton family, can help improve worker ergonomics and productivity in applications such as truck unloading, manual sorting and warehouse handling activities.

* In-house estimates based on published market research.

Source Logistics Named In 2026 Latino Leaders Index 500

Top logistics provider earns a spot among the nation’s largest Latino-owned companies for the second year in a row

HOUSTON, April 14: Source Logistics, a leading omni-channel distribution, warehousing, and transportation provider, has been named to the 2026 Latino Leaders Index 500, an annual ranking of the largest Latino-owned businesses in the United States. Published by Latino Leaders Magazine, the list underscores the nationwide economic strength, innovation, and leadership demonstrated by Latino entrepreneurs.

This recognition marks the second consecutive year that Source Logistics has earned a spot on the prestigious Index 500, reinforcing the company’s continued growth trajectory and its position as one of the most prominent Latino-owned logistics providers in the country.

“Being named to the Latino Leaders Index 500 for another consecutive year is a testament to the hard work, resilience, and dedication of our entire team,” said Marcelo Sada, President of Source Logistics. “We are proud of our heritage and the journey that has brought us here. As we continue to grow, we remain focused on creating opportunities for our employees, delivering exceptional value to our customers, and contributing meaningfully to the communities we serve.”

Over the past year, Source Logistics has continued to invest in infrastructure, technology, and talent to meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company has strengthened its capabilities in warehousing, transportation management, and integrated supply chain solutions, supporting clients across industries such as food and beverage, consumer goods, and retail. This sustained growth underscores the company’s commitment to operational excellence and long-term customer partnerships.

The Latino Leaders Index 500 ranks companies based exclusively on annual revenue, serving as a benchmark for the scale and economic impact of Latino-owned enterprises across diverse industries. Source Logistics’ continued inclusion reflects not only its expanding national footprint but also its increasing influence within the highly competitive U.S. supply chain and logistics sector.

The recognition also highlights the broader impact of Latino-owned businesses on the U.S. economy. Collectively, companies on the Index 500 generate billions in revenue and play a critical role in job creation, innovation, and economic development across the country.

As Source Logistics scales nationally, it remains committed to driving innovation, delivering best-in-class supply chain solutions, and creating value for customers and partners. Learn more at www.sourcelogistics.com or contact the team to discuss your supply chain needs.

VST Tillers Tractors Showcases Innovative Product Portfolio at National Agriculture Expo 2026

Raisen, Madhya Pradesh | Apr 13: VST Tillers Tractors Ltd., a pioneer in compact agricultural machinery in India, showcased its latest portfolio of innovative farm mechanisation solutions at the National Agriculture Expo 2026 organised by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in association with the Ministry of Agriculture, Madhya Pradesh in Raisen, Madhya Pradesh. Designed to address the evolving needs of modern farmers, VST’s new product range marks a significant advancement in fuel efficiency, performance, and versatility for small and mid-sized farming operations.

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Government of India and Shri Narayan Singh Kushwaha, Hon’ble Minister for Horticulture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, visited the VST stall at the exhibition and commended the company’s innovations and sustained efforts in advancing horticulture mechanization. At the Expo, the company unveiled its latest innovations, including the FENTM Series Tractors, Electric Power Tiller, and Electric Power Weeder, each reflecting VST’s commitment to sustainable and technology-driven agriculture.

The FENTM Series comprises five high-performance and fuel-efficient models, 180 FENTM, 224 FENTM, 225 FENTM, 270 FENTM, and 929 FENTM, offering a horsepower range of 18.5 HP to 29 HP. Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations, these tractors are engineered to deliver enhanced productivity, superior operator comfort, and long-term reliability.

Positioned as compact yet powerful farming solutions, the FENTM Series is designed for versatility across diverse terrains and agricultural applications. Each model delivers an optimal balance of power, manoeuvrability, and fuel efficiency, making it ideally suited for the varied needs of Indian farmers.

VST’s Electric Power Tiller and Electric Power Weeder further underscore the company’s vision to enable sustainable agriculture through advanced mechanisation. These EV solutions are engineered to deliver high performance with minimal environmental impact, aligning with India’s clean energy and decarbonisation goals. The electric range offers farmers eco-friendly operations, lower running costs, and ease of use, heralding a new era of green farming solutions.

Building on its strong legacy of engineering excellence and indigenous innovation, VST is now leveraging global EV learnings to strengthen India’s small-farm mechanisation ecosystem. Through future-ready, locally developed solutions, the company aims to redefine productivity, sustainability, and affordability for the next generation of farmers.

The National Agriculture Expo 2026, a premier three-day agricultural exhibition and training platform, is being held from April 11–13, 2026, at the Dussehra Ground in Raisen. The event brings together farmers, policymakers, researchers, agri-startups, and industry leaders to showcase advancements across the agricultural value chain. With over 300 exhibition stalls, the expo features innovations in farm mechanisation, improved seeds, irrigation technologies, drones, digital agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and food processing.

India, Oman Explore Ways to Strengthen Trade and Investment Ties

New Delhi, Apr 13 (BNP): India and Oman have discussed ways to enhance bilateral trade and investment, focusing on expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held discussions with Oman’s Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Minister Anwar bin Hilal bin Hamdoun Al Jabri on strengthening economic relations and identifying new areas of partnership.

The talks also centred on leveraging opportunities under the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to further boost trade flows and investment ties for mutual growth.

Officials noted that in recent days, Goyal has also engaged with trade ministers from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait as part of broader efforts to deepen India’s economic engagement with West Asian countries.

Indore SEZ Exports Rise 10.5 pc to Cross INR 14,000 Crore in FY26

New Delhi, Apr 13 (BNP): Indore’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) recorded a steady growth in exports, with shipments rising by around 10.5% to reach ₹14,302 crore in the financial year 2025–26, despite global economic uncertainties.

Officials from the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry said the growth was supported by strong order pipelines from overseas buyers. They noted that even amid disruptions caused by shifting US tariff policies and geopolitical tensions in West Asia, export momentum remained largely resilient.

The performance highlights the continued strength of export-oriented industries operating out of the Indore SEZ, which have maintained consistent demand in international markets.

Sensex Drops Over 700 Points Amid Global Uncertainty

New Delhi, Apr 13 (BNP): Indian equity markets ended lower on Monday, with benchmark indices slipping nearly 1% amid rising global tensions and concerns over crude oil prices.

The decline came after reports of stalled US-Iran negotiations, which heightened fears of a prolonged geopolitical conflict and its potential impact on global energy markets.

The BSE Sensex dropped 702.68 points, or 0.91%, to close at 76,847.57. During intraday trade, it fell as much as 1,681.93 points, or 2.16%, to touch 75,868.32.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty declined 207.95 points, or 0.86%, to settle at 23,842.65.

Market analysts said rising uncertainty in global crude oil prices added pressure on investor sentiment, leading to broad-based selling across sectors.

EU Sustainability Governance: A Solid Foundation for the Rapid Expansion of the Hydrogen Sector

The wars in Ukraine and the Middle East once again highlight the importance of an energy supply free from fossil fuels. Renewable hydrogen is a key component in finding a way out of this dependency and achieving climate targets, including for energy-intensive sectors. A new policy paper from the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) brings good news in this regard: in the EU, as in other countries, there are already governance frameworks in place that can be built upon – and which promote a rapid yet sustainable ramp-up of the global hydrogen economy. Join the online event about this topic and publications on the 15th of April 2026, 10:00 to 11:00 AM (CEST). 

Green hydrogen has great potential to replace fossil fuels in energy-intensive industries such as the steel and chemical sectors. However, the roll-out of the hydrogen economy must happen quickly, as the climate crisis demands urgent action. At the same time, hydrogen offers opportunities for value creation, particularly in countries with abundant renewable energy resources. 

However, hydrogen production also carries environmental and social risks: for example, expanding hydrogen production capacity could exacerbate existing water shortages. This is because more than 60 per cent of the global onshore production potential of renewable hydrogen is located in regions facing water scarcity. 

The recently published policy paper “Strengthening Sustainability Governance for a Rapid Hydrogen Ramp-Up” by Rainer Quitzow and Maximilian Rischer builds on an assessment of sustainability governance mechanisms in the hydrogen sector across various countries. The conclusion: “The rules and mechanisms do not need to be completely reinvented,” says researcher Maximilian Rischer – “as frameworks for environmental and social considerations already exist in other areas, such as development banks, which need to be adapted to the hydrogen sector.” 

Sustainability governance (see figure) also helps to ensure transparency and fair competition by ensuring that all economic actors adhere to the same standards and safeguards.

Finally, this policy paper proposes four measures at international and EU level that not only make governance structures more effective in supporting sustainability goals, but also strengthen capacities along the value chain. 

1.  Recommendation: Develop guidelines for hydrogen to implement sustainability-related due diligence 

Guidelines for hydrogen to implement sustainability-related due diligence can help companies gain access to finance whilst strengthening efforts to mitigate environmental and social risks. A joint initiative by the major multilateral development banks and key private financial institutions to develop such guidelines for the hydrogen sector could help establish a global benchmark for this purpose.

2. Recommendation: ISO standard for hydrogen sustainability

In addition to the development of sector-specific guidelines, the introduction of an ISO standard for assessing sustainability in the hydrogen sector could further support the harmonisation and alignment of approaches over time. It also provides certainty for project developers in times of potential regulatory changes. In Germany, a draft sustainability standard for hydrogen has already been developed by the national standards institute DIN, which could be adopted at the international level. 

3. Recommendation: Promote best practices in sustainability, capacity building and knowledge sharing

The promotion of best practices in the field of sustainable hydrogen production, combined with capacity building and knowledge sharing, can strengthen the ability of project developers to develop credible and cost-effective approaches to meeting sustainability criteria and due diligence obligations. Stakeholders such as the International PtX Hub are already playing an important role in this regard.

4. Recommendation: Ensuring a level playing field through robust certification systems

Ensure a level playing field for all economic operators by having the European Commission implement the established monitoring and reporting obligations.

Study defining sustainability governance

In their study “Governance for a Sustainable Hydrogen Economy. A Review of the Current State of Play”, published concurrently and forming the basis for this policy paper, the authors examine approaches from various regions in detail. For the first time, the two authors define what sustainability governance entails – a definition that is not limited to the hydrogen economy but can also be applied to other sectors.

Firstly, it encompasses government strategies, rules and regulations designed to ensure sustainability in the hydrogen sector. These include direct requirements for actors in the hydrogen value chain, as well as regulations aimed at creating transparency regarding specific economic activities.

Furthermore, there are sustainability-related rules and framework conditions that apply to the financing of hydrogen-related facilities. This may concern government support programmes as well as financing by public and private financial institutions.

Standards and certification systems serve as the basis for defining and verifying sustainability requirements or claims. These are intended to be core elements of a developing, sustainability-oriented quality infrastructure in the hydrogen sector.
Finally, high-level principles and initiatives serve as reference points for sustainability governance mechanisms and provide guidance to actors along the value chain towards more sustainable practices.

The authors’ conclusion: The European Union’s existing sustainability governance framework provides a basis for the sustainable expansion of the hydrogen sector. To be effective, therefore, there is no need for a multitude of new instruments or mechanisms. Rather, the next step requires targeted adjustments and additions to drive forward the expansion of a sustainable hydrogen sector.

Berger Paints Responds to India’s Heat Challenge with ‘Garmi Gone, Thandak On’ Home Cooling Solutions Range

Apr 13: As temperatures continue to climb year after year, staying cool is no longer just about comfort, it is becoming a daily challenge for millions of households across India. Against this backdrop, Berger Paints India Ltd., the country’s second-largest paint company and a leader in protective coatings, has introduced a more intuitive and immersive way to tackle rising heat through its Home Cooling Paints Range. This is supported by a nationwide campaign, Garmi Gone, Thandak On’, which promotes smarter and more energy-efficient ways of living.

Recognizing that a significant amount of heat enters homes through walls, roofs, and structural openings, Berger Paints’ Home Cooling range offers a practical solution through innovative products such as Berger Anti Dustt Kool and Berger Roof Kool & Seal, which are designed to reduce heat absorption across walls and rooftops. The range also includes Berger Tank Kool, which addresses an often-overlooked source of heat—black synthetic water tanks that tend to overheat during peak summers. Together, the range provides a holistic approach to lowering indoor temperatures at the source.

At the heart of the campaign lies a simple but powerful idea, smarter cooling must go beyond air conditioning. By addressing heat ingress at its origin, Berger Paints is positioning its solutions as not only effective and accessible, but also as a more sustainable alternative to energy-intensive cooling methods. The solutions can help reduce surface and ambient temperatures by up to 10°C, making them especially relevant for heat-prone regions and cost-conscious households.

Taking this commitment a step further, Berger Paints is extending its cooling solutions to underserved communities through a partnership with Smile Foundation. As part of this initiative, the company will undertake a school beautification programme across 30 government schools in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. By applying heat-reflective coatings to school buildings, the initiative aims to lower indoor temperatures and create more comfortable, heat-resilient learning environments, particularly critical during peak summer months when extreme heat can impact attendance, concentration, and overall student well-being.

The rollout will focus on some of India’s most heat-affected regions, aligning with the growing urgency around climate adaptation. As weather patterns continue to shift, Berger Paints’ Kool range signals a broader transition in how India approaches cooling by moving from reactive solutions to preventive ones. It is a step that combines innovation with purpose, helping households and communities better cope with increasingly harsh summers.

Mr. Abhijit Roy, MD & CEO of Berger Paints India Limited, said, “At Berger Paints, we have always believed in staying ahead of consumer needs, and as we are known to launch industry first innovative products, we understand the evolving challenges households face in heat-prone regions. With our Home Cooling range, we are looking at addressing heat where it begins, rather than where it is felt. Through ‘Garmi Gone, Thandak On’ campaign, we want to drive a larger behavioral shift towards more sustainable and accessible cooling practices, while also extending this impact to communities through our partnership with Smile Foundation.”

SWITCH Mobility Hands Over 100 Electric Buses to Mauritius to Boost Green Transport

A milestone for green steel: SuSteelAG consortium achieves hydrogen-based ore reduction on an industrial scale

The hydrogen rotary kiln in Oshivela, Namibia. Photo: HyIron.

Berlin, 13.04.2026. In 2025, the international SuSteelAG consortium – led by Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) – launched its mission to decarbonize steel production using hydrogen, including when working with lower‑grade ores. Now, the first industrial‑scale pilot test has been successfully completed in Namibia: In an electrically powered hydrogen rotary kiln, 80 tonnes of Australian iron ore were converted climate‑neutrally into direct‑reduced iron (DRI). With this, SuSteelAG is paving the way for a sustainable value chain linking Australia, Namibia, and Germany -from iron production and refinement to green steel.

The steel industry accounts for around seven percent of global CO₂ emissions; transforming it is therefore a central lever of the energy transition. This is where the SuSteelAG project (Sustainable Steel from Australia and Germany) comes in: Coordinated by BAM, the project is developing a hydrogen‑based direct‑reduction process that, for the first time, can also utilize lower‑grade ores – thereby expanding the resource base available for green steel production.

Until now, climate‑neutral steel production has only been feasible using premium ores with an iron content of roughly 70 percent. These ores, however, are scarce and expensive worldwide. Moreover, existing processes require the use of a shaft furnace, which in turn demands cost‑ and energy‑intensive pelletizing of the ore.

In early April 2026, for the first time, untreated Australian iron ore with a comparatively low iron content (~56 percent) was processed into direct‑reduced iron at industrial scale at the Oshivela site in Namibia, where project partner HyIron Green Technologies operates an innovative hydrogen rotary kiln.

For the campaign, 80 tonnes of iron ore supplied by Australian mining and technology company Fortescue – also a SuSteelAG partner – were available. The German industrial furnace manufacturer TS Elino GmbH was primarily responsible for designing and constructing the rotary kiln. Prior to the industrial trial, BAM had extensively studied hydrogen‑based iron reduction at laboratory scale and derived the optimal operating parameters for the large‑scale process. Based on these findings, the Oshivela plant succeeded in refining the Australian ore into iron under climate‑neutral conditions and with a throughput of approximately five tonnes per hour.

“We have now reached a scale that is highly relevant for industrial production and demonstrated that hydrogen‑based direct reduction of lower‑grade ores can be operated economically – an essential step toward accelerating green steel production in Germany and beyond,” says Christian Adam (BAM), who coordinates the international SuSteelAG consortium. “This also means that green steel production need not be constrained by the limited availability of premium ores.”

The next step will be to ship the refined iron from Namibia to Germany. Salzgitter Mannesmann Forschung GmbH will investigate how the refined iron can best be integrated into existing industrial processes in order to eventually produce climate‑friendly steel for cars and other key products.

RWTH Aachen University (Advanced Mineral Processing Technologies Research and Teaching Unit – AMR) will investigate how Australian ores with lower iron content can be further optimized for direct reduction.

In addition to the companies already mentioned, the SuSteelAG consortium includes HyIron GmbH, Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films IST, Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS, Heidelberg Manufacturing Deutschland GmbH, and HANSAPORT.

SuSteelAG is funded with approximately €4.5 million under the 7th Energy Research Programme of the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space. The innovative hydrogen rotary kiln operated by HyIron Green Technologies in Namibia was supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy.