Cemat 2016 Germany: The Century of E-Commerce

The intralogistics specialist fair Cemat in Hannover finds itself in the middle of a constant, trend- oriented transformation. It is showing how logistics processes can in future be planned for automation and networking. The incorporation of a representative of SAP and of Team into the Cemat board indicates the new direction taken by this world-leading fair.

With the user forum “Logistics IT”, the “new” Cemat is taking up themes from “Smart Intralogistics”. Here the focus is on efficiency, for example how one can avoid unnecessary transport paths within the firm. Altered value-creation chains have to be managed sensibly across company borders. Hardware, such as stackers, racks and conveyor installations, continue to be in demand, but tendencies such as digitalisation and networking are clearly detectable. MM Logistik spoke to Ralf Schränkler, solution expert SCM at SAP, and with Team CEO Michael Baronowski about sector trends.

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Mr. Schränkler, in our preliminary discussion you said that you had previously only attended the Cemat as a visitor. What is the motivation for SAP to have a presence in Hannover now?

Ralf Schränkler: In previous Cemat fairs, the focus was more on the presentation of intralogistics appliances such as warehouse technology, industrial trucks and conveying technology. For the Cemat 2016, however, a second emphasis is of course been chosen: logistics software. For many years now, SAP has been expanding its portfolio in the field of logistics software massively, so this new concept for the fair was a very obvious opportunity for us to participate now as an exhibitor. For us, the biggest role is played by solutions for warehouse and transport logistics – summed up as the supplychain execution platform – as well as by the new SAP S/4HANA suite.

Mr. Baranowski, in our preliminary discussion you too expressed your satisfaction that IT is moving so strongly into the forefront at the Cemat. Yet the topic is not so entirely new ...

Michael Baranowski: With the motto “Smart Supply Chain Solutions”, combined with addressing the thematic area “Logistics IT”, the fair is sending clear signals this year. It has been recognised that IT solutions are the central element in logistics, especially considering the opportunities offered by digitalisation. Visitors to the Cemat find out which technologies and IT solutions are needed to give them the right positioning for the future.

You go one step further and top the hype theme “Industry 4.0” by introducing “Logistics 4.0”. What exactly does this mean? Perhaps a combination of Lean and Logistics?

Baranowski: Under “Logistics 4.0” we understand the transfer of concepts from “Industry 4.0” to logistics. The paradigmatic change associated with digitalisation is creating completely new chances in logistics as well. Aspects such as using Cloud solutions for the integration of cyber-physical entities open up new possibilities. With digitalisation, a range of new data elements are available, bringing additional transparency and dynamics into processes. This also offers opportunities to add new perspectives to concepts associated with Lean Management.

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