Innovative logistics technology under the spotlight

Logistics technology drivers Kaleido Logistics and RocketSpace have showcased the work of the second group of ten startup businesses within their Logistics Tech Accelerator programme, which was launched just over a year ago. The 10 businesses that participated in the latest demonstration include Equivvy, IAM Robotics, Freightly, OBUU, Optiply, Stowga, Trackersense, Getvu, Sennder and Undagrid, all technology startup businesses that are bringing innovation to logistics and supply chains. Kaleido Logistics and RocketSpace launched its Logistics Tech Accelerator programme to connect disruptive startups from around the world with technology-driven corporates to fuel cross-industry innovation. The programme combines RocketSpace's technological ecosystem and open innovation expertise with Kaleido's pioneering technological approach to logistics solutions using an open innovation model to draw from the diverse expertise of multiple corporate members, selected startup businesses and industry mentors. Under the programme, the participating startup businesses are challenged to rethink logistics and work hand-in-hand on a pilot programme, to develop solutions that can be taken to the market. During the latest event, each startup presented their unique offerings, showcasing specific problems they’re solving with exclusive demonstrations as well as the future partnership pathways they have forged with the corporate collaborators throughout the accelerator programme. Xoán Martínez, Kaleido Logistics CEO & founder of the programme said: “It is very motivating to see how startups are bringing their technologies to the market in collaboration with the corporates, a great mix between technology, energy and experience, with the common goal of bringing out-of-the-box thinking to the logistics sector. “And it’s also great to see how open innovation culture is shared by colleagues from the founders of the Logistics Tech Accelerator programme, the startups that made it onto the programme, as well as our corporate partners such as Lufthansa Cargo, Ingram Micro, MAN Truck & Bus, and Fiege.” During the latest event, one of the successful business outcomes from the first group of projects was showcased. In this, startup member CargoSteps and corporate partner Kaleido Logistics demonstrated how they jointly developed Freight Intelligence, an airfreight track and trace tool for the manufacturing industry that gives companies complete visibility and control over their air freight supply chain. “The objective behind the creation of the Logistics Tech Accelerator programme is to allow stunning technologies that are ready to go to market to work with corporate collaborators to open a new period in logistics,” Martínez added. “The latest event shows that joining the Logistics Tech Accelerator programme is a great opportunity to explore and experiment with a diverse group of industry leaders, opening the door for new applications of technology and potential long-term partnerships.” Applications for the third group of startup businesses to join the programme are now open and will close on July 23, 2017. Interested startups and corporations can learn more about qualifications for the Logistics Tech Accelerator programme at the following website: www.logisticstechaccelerator.com