According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 25 percent of the manufacturing workforce is 55 or older. Recognizing the baby boomer generation’s gradual retirement, the labor shortage problem became a reality for the largest Steel manufacturer in the U.S., Thyssenkrupp.

Finding labor after a COVID shutdown has been challenging for nearly every industry. While many companies ramp up their HR departments, contacted recruiters, and sourced online employment sites, Thyssenkrupp tackled their labor shortage by embracing automation technology. They called on Equipment Depot, the largest independently operated material handling and rental source in America, for their automation and equipment solutions experience and electrification knowledge.

“We identified many areas that involved routine and repetitive tasks, and how existing labor and resources could be reallocated to where they are needed most,” said David O. Turner, President and CEO of Equipment Depot. “Thyssenkrupp is a highly innovative company, and their conditions demanded solutions that would be effective and scalable.”

Equipment Depot recommended one of their top OEMs, Jungheinrich®, and seamlessly integrated their Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) into Thyssenkrupp’s existing host system. Equipment Depot’s specialized EQSOLUTIONS^™ group provided hands-on support throughout the entire process. From analysis, design, technology, equipment, integration, and implementation, their team of intralogistics experts focused on streamlining processes, maximizing throughput, reducing labor costs, and improving productivity.

“The demand for automation technology is increasing at an unprecedented rate, and Thyssenkrupp’s willingness to take an in-depth look at their operations and recognize the value AGVs provide is a true testament to their progression,” said Turner. “The Jungheinrich® brand has over 50 years of proven automation solutions in warehouses around the world.

Equipment Depot, headquartered in Houston, Texas, is proud to be a member of the third largest material handling group in the world, Mitsubishi Logisnext (ML). ML provides Equipment Depot full factory access to top OEMs such as Cat®lift trucks, Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Jungheinrich®, and Unicarrier® Forklift brands allowing for an unrepresented range of multi-brand tailored solutions.

With over 80 years of experience, local knowledge, and extensive resources to drive positive results, Equipment Depot is a one-stop source, providing an unmatched range of services and solutions with coast-to-coast support.

“We continue to provide ongoing support, leading automotive solutions, and future warehouse storage systems,” said Turner. “It is our pledge and promise to be the Best Service Company in the industry, and we are pleased to be Thyssenkrupp’s trusted partner.”