Award Logistics Project 2024 for iPallet - Intelligent Metal Pallet

22.7.2024

The Logistics Project 2024 recognition will be awarded to the company Grinblu for the Intelligent Metal Pallet for Improved Logistics Efficiency - iPallet.

The iPallet transport pallet is distinguished by innovative, patented technology that optimises warehouse and logistics processes, simplifies work processes and at the same time maintains the efficiency of logistics throughout the transport route.

The award ceremony will take place on 3 October 2024 at the 8th Keep IT Simple Conference 2024 in Bled. The awarded project will also be nominated for the ELA Awards 2024 (European Logistics Project of the Year), which is awarded by the European Logistics Association (ELA).

The logistics industry faces persistent challenges in improving efficiency, reducing operational costs, and meeting increasing customer demands. Traditional pallets, often made from wood or plastic, are prone to wear and tear, leading to frequent replacements and higher costs. Moreover, manual handling of these pallets poses safety risks to workers and limits operational efficiency. Company Grinblu addressed these challenges with the project "iPallet- Intelligent Metal Pallet for Improved Logistics Efficiency" recognised by the expert committee for the Logistics Project 2024 as the best among the received nominations.

 

Innovative Solution for Transporting 1/4 Trolleys

iPallet is a metal pallet with standard Euro pallet dimensions, which allows easy integration into existing logistics systems. A key innovative element of iPALLET is its patented design, which includes advanced features for even load distribution and improved handling efficiency. The patented pallet lift mechanism compensates for deformations during lifting, ensuring stability and reducing horizontal loads on the cargo.

RFID and IoT tracking technologies provide real-time traceability throughout the supply chain, increasing inventory management accuracy and operational efficiency. Flexible pallet loading options by width or length further increase flexibility in transport operations.

Additional automation for loading and unloading reduces the need for manual labor and physical strain on workers. This automation streamlines logistics processes, lowers labor costs, and improves work productivity. A safer and more ergonomically designed work environment contributes to overall employee satisfaction.

In addition to better inventory management, the iPallet system also enables faster delivery times, which is reflected in greater customer satisfaction.

The use of pallets is part of the company's vision for sustainable development, as it reduces the carbon footprint and resource utilisation. Time and labor savings effectively impact the entire supply chain, lowering costs and enhancing the company’s financial operations.

"The iPallet project stands as a benchmark for innovation in the logistics industry, addressing key challenges of efficiency, cost and sustainability. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering organisational changes, the project enhances logistics operations and sets new benchmarks for the industry’s future," said Chairman of the Selection Committee, Tomislav Letnik, PhD, from the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Transport Engineering and Architecture, University of Maribor. Other members of the expert committee included Patricija Bajec, PhD, Faculty of Maritime Studies and Transport, University of Ljubljana, Tina Cvahte Ojsteršek, PhD, Faculty of Logistics, University of Maribor, Andreja Habjan, PhD, Habjan Transport, d. o. o. and Gregor Rak, MSc, Traffic School Maribor.

Jernej Skrbinšek, owner of Grinblu: "iPallet is the result of years of development and testing. We successfully combined the expertise and dedication of six professionals in mechanical engineering and logistics. The project involved collaboration from Borut Jerovšek, Tomislav Pavlič, Vilijem Perše, Luka Velepič, Marko Cedilnik, PhD, Siniša Popović, and Marjan Delić, PhD. All of them have been highly successful in their respective companies for many years. We are delighted and proud that the iPallet pallet has been recognised as a significant element that brings many changes and benefits to the entire logistics chain."

 

Nomination for ELA Awards 2024

The awarded project will also be submitted by the Slovenian Logistics Association for the ELA Awards 2024, the best European logistics project awarded by the European Logistics Association (ELA). The award will be open to national winning projects submitted by ELA members by the end of July 2024. An international expert jury will select up to six final projects from the submitted nominations, which will then be presented live at the ELA Awards 2024 closing event on 3 October 2024 in Bled.

 

About the Logistics Project of the Year Award

Through its annual call for submissions, the Slovenian Logistics Association wants to recognise the latest best practices that companies have implemented into their operations and share this knowledge with professionals and the wider public. The award is given to a project that has achieved exceptional achievements in logistics and supply chains in the past or current year with its work, innovative approach, renewal of business processes and adaptation of technological development. The best project is selected by an expert committee from nominations that arrive by the specified deadline. The call for the Logistics Project 2024 award concluded on 10 June 2024.

 

About Grinblu

Grinblu is a dynamic company founded in 2013 that is primarily focused on creating innovative solutions, especially in logistics. Their mission is to offer solutions that reduce the need for employees, increase productivity, reduce costs, improve financial results, and accelerate the approach to climate neutrality and CO2 reduction goals. The future of the store is on wheels, so their goal is to optimise the logistical steps from production to store shelves and get closer to the One Touch system.