Textile Recycling Partnership Supports Circular Economy Goals

ABB and Syre will investigate how automation, electrification and digital technologies can support the development of Syre’s first textile-to-textile recycling facility in Gia Lai province, Vietnam.

The MoU provides a framework for assessing how ABB’s technologies could contribute to safe, efficient and scalable operations. The companies will also examine how process optimisation and quality control could support Syre’s ambition to produce circular polyester at industrial scale.

The proposed facility is designed to recycle polyester from used textiles and industrial waste into new recycled polyester material. Recycling polyester reduces reliance on virgin fossil-based inputs, lowers climate impact and keeps materials in circulation, supporting the transition to a more circular textile industry.

Automation and Digital Technologies Under Evaluation

Under the agreement, ABB and Syre will assess how ABB’s distributed control systems, digital industrial software and electrification portfolio could be adapted to the specific requirements of textile-to-textile polyester recycling.

The work is expected to take place alongside the detailed engineering phase of Syre’s first production plant.

“This agreement reflects ABB’s role in supporting emerging industrial applications where automation and electrification can enable greater resource efficiency,” said Wilson Monteiro, Global Business Line Manager for Pulp, Paper and Fiber, ABB Process Industries. “Together with Syre, we will explore how our experience in fibre processing, chemicals and advanced process industries can be applied to polyester recycling. We’re excited to discover what’s possible as we embark on this new technological collaboration.”

Industrial Partnerships Key to Scaling Circular Polyester

Syre says industrial partnerships will play an important role as it moves from technology development to commercial-scale production.

“As we now move into full industrial deployment, partnerships like this become critical,” said Dennis Nobelius, CEO of Syre. “Industrialising textile-to-textile recycling is a complex undertaking, and while strong customer demand is essential, it must be matched with best-in-class industrial partners. ABB brings exactly the depth of expertise and execution capability needed, they are a cornerstone of the industrial ecosystem we are building.”

Focus Shifts to Commercial-Scale Production

Since launching publicly two years ago, Syre has established a research and development facility and pilot production line in Mebane, North Carolina.

In 2025, the company progressed to multi-ton production of circular polyethylene terephthalate (PET) chips, demonstrating the viability of its textile-to-textile recycling process.

Syre is now advancing plans for its first large-scale production facility in Vietnam, with construction targeted to begin in 2027.

Supporting The Next Generation of Circular Manufacturing

Although the collaboration is exploratory, ABB said the agreement reflects its commitment to supporting emerging fibre-based industries through automation, electrification and digital technologies.

As circular materials move towards industrial-scale production, the partnership aims to explore how these technologies can help enable efficient, scalable manufacturing while supporting the growth of circular polyester production.

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Supply Chain Complexity Is Driving a Strategic Shift

According to GXO Logistics, organisations are managing greater Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) complexity, expanding into new markets, scaling omnichannel operations and responding to rising customer expectations while operating in an increasingly volatile environment. These pressures are exposing the limitations of traditional in-house logistics models, which were designed for predictability rather than flexibility and rapid growth.

The Rethinking Logistics report argues that logistics is no longer simply an operational function, but a strategic capability that influences resilience, customer experience, speed to market and long-term margin performance.

“Wherever they are in the world, organizations are facing growing operational complexity driven by disruption, rising customer expectations and pressure to grow faster. In this environment, traditional logistics models can quickly become difficult to scale efficiently.

The businesses that succeed will be those that rethink how logistics capability is built and accessed using strategic partnerships, technology and operational expertise to create more flexible, resilient and scalable operations,” said Paul Mohan, President, Continental Europe, GXO Logistics.

Outsourcing Moves Beyond Cost Savings

The report positions logistics outsourcing as a strategic business decision rather than simply a means of reducing costs.

GXO Logistics says organisations are increasingly evaluating outsourcing based on its ability to improve resilience, support expansion, align operating costs with demand and reduce the capital investment required to scale logistics operations.

“For many organizations, the most significant impact of outsourcing logistics is not only immediate savings, but the ability to scale without major capital investment, fund expansion more efficiently, improve resilience in uncertain conditions and align cost structures more closely with demand. This shifts logistics from a fixed cost base to a more flexible, strategic component of the business,” said Eric Rougié, Senior Vice President Finance, Continental Europe, GXO Logistics.

The report also states that organisations adopting outsourcing models typically achieve cost savings of 10 to 15 per cent alongside improved operational efficiency and service.

Technology Supports More Scalable Logistics Operations

The report identifies technology as a key enabler of more scalable logistics operations.

According to GXO, outsourcing provides organisations with access to automation, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled operational visibility platforms, alongside operational expertise and workforce flexibility. The report also states that shared infrastructure can provide access to advanced automation, robotics and integrated technology platforms while reducing upfront capital requirements and accelerating implementation.

Maintaining Continuity During Logistics Transitions

The report emphasises that successful outsourcing depends on maintaining operational continuity throughout the transition process.

GXO outlines a structured approach based on stabilising operations, optimising performance and scaling capability, supported by governance, workforce engagement and local execution expertise. The report states that this phased approach helps reduce operational risk while maintaining workforce confidence, governance and customer service continuity.

“What customers are really evaluating when considering outsourcing logistics is continuity. They need confidence that the operation will continue to perform exactly as it should from day one, while people remain informed, supported and engaged throughout the transition and beyond. That’s what reduces risk and creates the foundation for long-term partnership success,” said Steve Wiersma, Vice President Account Management, Continental Europe & UKI, GXO Logistics.

Case Studies Demonstrate Scalable Growth

The report includes examples of organisations that have used outsourcing to support growth and operational resilience.

One case study describes a global apparel retailer that transitioned from an in-house logistics operation to an outsourced model, increasing capacity from 37 million to 55 million units while enabling omnichannel distribution and the progressive onboarding of additional European markets.

A second case study details how GXO assumed responsibility for a European fashion retailer’s logistics operation following an operational shutdown. Approximately 180 employees transitioned alongside operational assets, warehouse management systems and logistics processes within an eight-day implementation window while preserving workforce continuity, operational knowledge and service performance.

The report also highlights a first-time outsourcing project for a leading multi-channel DIY retailer in the Netherlands and Belgium. Following the implementation of a new Warehouse Management System (WMS), the operation achieved a 96 per cent workforce retention rate, improved operational visibility and established a more flexible and scalable logistics platform capable of supporting future retail expansion and continued business growth.

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ACCELERATING THE NEXT PHASE

London-based AI infrastructure company OLIX has raised $312 million in a Series B funding round, valuing the business at $3.3 billion just two years after its founding.

The funding marks another milestone for Founder James Dacombe as OLIX prepares to bring its first AI inference platform to market and expand its global engineering footprint.

The financing attracted new investors including Fundomo, Arm, Hudson River Trading, and angel investor Reed Hastings, co-Founder of Netflix. Existing backers Hummingbird Ventures, Crane, Plural, Creandum, Phoenix Court, and Transition also increased their commitments, signalling continued confidence in the company’s long-term vision.

Alongside the investment, OLIX has strengthened its leadership with two high-profile appointments. Professor Nick McKeown has joined the board of directors, whilst former Wise CFO Matt Briers has been named Chief Financial Officer.

McKeown is recognised as one of the pioneers of modern networking, having co-invented software-defined networking, OpenFlow, and P4. A Professor Emeritus at Stanford University and recipient of the 2025 Marconi Prize, he has also founded several networking companies, including Nicira and Barefoot Networks.

REIMAGINING AI INFERENCE

OLIX believes the current approach to AI inference hardware is approaching its efficiency limits.

Rather than relying on increasingly powerful general-purpose processors, the company has developed an architecture that assigns specialised chips to individual stages of the AI inference process. By fully distributing AI models across multiple chips, its X-1 platform creates a production line where each processor performs a dedicated task whilst retaining the flexibility to support evolving model architectures.

At the heart of the system is a proprietary optical interconnect that transfers data between chips using light rather than copper, reducing both latency and energy consumption. Combined with a deterministic compiler that schedules workloads across multiple racks, OLIX believes the approach will improve AI inference performance whilst reducing operational costs.

The first processor in the platform, DX-1, has been designed specifically for the decoding stage of AI inference, where models generate responses. The company says the accelerator is capable of delivering more than 10,000 tokens per second per user for 100-billion-parameter models, whilst maintaining higher output token throughput per watt than conventional general-purpose chips.

SCALING FOR THE FUTURE

DX-1 has also been engineered with scalability and supply chain resilience in mind.

The processor stores AI models in fast on-chip SRAM memory to improve energy efficiency and reduce latency. It also avoids the use of advanced packaging and high-bandwidth memory, two components that remain in particularly short supply across the semiconductor industry.

According to OLIX, the architecture has been designed to scale efficiently to AI models exceeding 10 trillion parameters, supporting increasingly demanding inference workloads as frontier AI continues to evolve.

BUILDING TOWARDS COMMERCIAL DEPLOYMENT

The new funding will support the delivery of DX-1 to OLIX’s first customers during the second half of 2027, whilst accelerating development of the wider custom silicon platform underpinning its AI infrastructure.

Investment will also fund manufacturing capacity and supply chain commitments needed to scale production, alongside continued recruitment across silicon, photonics, compiler, and systems engineering teams in London, Bristol, Austin, Toronto, and San Francisco.

Founded in London in 2024, OLIX designs every element of its AI inference systems, from chips and optical networking technology to complete rack-scale infrastructure. With fresh capital, expanded leadership, and commercial deployment on the horizon, the company is positioning itself to support the next generation of frontier AI workloads.

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A BLUEPRINT FOR MODERN SHIPBUILDING  

Siemens and HD Hyundai have announced an expanded strategic partnership aimed at transforming the future of shipbuilding through the creation of a digital shipyard blueprint. 

The collaboration is underpinned by a low-triple-digit million USD agreement that will see HD Hyundai adopt the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industrial software and automation. Together, the companies aim to address increasing global demand for greater shipbuilding capacity and modernised production capabilities across the US and other international markets. 

The initiative will establish a connected digital thread spanning engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, and shipyard operations. By bringing these areas together, the partnership seeks to enable artificial intelligence (AI)-powered insights, intelligent automation and data-driven decision-making throughout the entire shipbuilding lifecycle. 

DRIVING PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH DIGITALISATION  

The integrated digital backbone is designed to help shipbuilders increase production capacity whilst improving quality and reducing rework. By creating a more connected and efficient operating environment, the companies intend to support a more resilient shipbuilding ecosystem capable of responding to rising global demand. 

The digital shipyard model has also been designed to support both new shipyard developments and phased modernisation programmes, allowing existing facilities to introduce digital technologies without interrupting day-to-day operations. 

“AI is not merely a tool for improving productivity, but a transformative technology that is reshaping how ships are designed, built, and operated. By integrating AI, digital twin, and automation technologies into a connected digital shipyard environment, we aim to establish a future-ready model for the shipbuilding industry,” said H.K. Kim, President and CEO of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering. 

Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG, highlighted the complexity involved in modern shipbuilding and the role digital technologies can play in streamlining production. 

“To build the world’s most advanced vessels, shipbuilders must manage enormous complexity across millions of components. Through our extended partnership with HD Hyundai, we are creating a scalable blueprint for the digital shipyard of the future, with Siemens Xcelerator at its core,” he said.  

STRENGTHENING US-KOREA COLLABORATION  

Alongside the digital shipyard initiative, Siemens and HD Hyundai will support the launch of a US-Korea Shipbuilding Technology Cooperation Center in Washington, D.C. 

The centre is intended to encourage closer collaboration between government, industry, and technology organisations while providing a platform to explore shipyard modernisation strategies. It will also focus on accelerating the adoption of digital shipyard technologies and supporting workforce and industrial development initiatives that strengthen maritime competitiveness across the US and allied markets. 

Through the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, HD Hyundai will gain access to software and technologies that support controlled data sharing, configuration management, digital approvals, production visibility, and lifecycle traceability. These capabilities are designed to maintain design authority and execution responsibility across a range of shipbuilding scenarios while creating a more connected and digitally enabled production environment.

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OPENNESS AS A SECURITY ADVANTAGE

The Linux Foundation has announced it is joining NVIDIA and a broad coalition of technology leaders as an inaugural partner in the Open Secure AI Alliance, a new initiative designed to strengthen the security of artificial intelligence (AI) through open collaboration.

The Alliance aims to develop open tools, standards, and techniques that help organisations identify vulnerabilities, improve governance, and build more secure AI systems as adoption accelerates across industries.

According to the Linux Foundation, open source has become the backbone of the modern economy because it allows software to be inspected, improved, and secured by a broad community. The organisation argues the same principles should underpin AI development, particularly as businesses increasingly rely on advanced models and AI agents for everyday operations.

BUILDING TRUST THROUGH OPEN MODELS

Central to the Linux Foundation’s position is the importance of open models and open weights, which enable organisations to download, inspect, modify, and deploy AI models on their own infrastructure.

The Foundation believes this approach expands access to advanced AI capabilities, promotes greater competition across the technology ecosystem, and allows businesses to retain control over their data, models, and long-term investments rather than becoming dependent on a single provider.

While acknowledging that open models present unique security challenges, the organisation maintains that transparency ultimately creates stronger defences. Rather than relying on closed systems, a wider community of developers and security experts can identify vulnerabilities, benchmark performance, conduct red-team testing, and develop shared safeguards.

The Linux Foundation also highlights the growing importance of AI agent harnesses – the software that enables models to interact with their environment and perform tasks. Making these frameworks open, testable, and auditable is viewed as essential to building trustworthy AI systems.

COLLABORATION ACROSS THE INDUSTRY

The Open Secure AI Alliance brings together organisations from across the technology sector, including Adobe, Cisco, Dell Technologies, IBM, Meta, Microsoft, NVIDIA, Red Hat, Salesforce, SAP, Siemens, Snowflake, and many others.

As part of the initiative, NVIDIA is contributing the open source NVIDIA Labs Object-Oriented Agent (NOOA) framework, making it available through GitHub. The research framework is designed to help organisations test, trace, audit, and govern AI agent behaviour more effectively by improving how agent harnesses integrate with AI models.

The Linux Foundation sees this contribution as an example of practical collaboration that goes beyond discussion by delivering working tools that can be adopted across the industry.

The initiative also builds on the Foundation’s existing work through the Open Source Security Foundation (OpenSSF), which develops security tools, best practices, and education programmes to strengthen open source software security.

Commenting on the announcement, Jim Zemlin, CEO of the Linux Foundation, said: “Open source became the backbone of modern computing because it let everyone see, improve, and secure the technology they rely on. AI deserves the same foundation.”

A MESSAGE FOR POLICYMAKERS

Alongside the Alliance launch, the Linux Foundation is encouraging policymakers to distinguish between transparent, secure AI and opaque systems rather than framing the debate as open versus closed.

The organisation argues that open models and open tooling should be viewed as defensive assets that enable independent evaluation, collaborative security improvements, and faster responses to emerging threats.

While openness alone is not sufficient to guarantee trustworthy AI, the Foundation believes combining transparent development with rigorous testing, secure infrastructure, strong governance, and human oversight provides the most resilient foundation for the next generation of AI innovation.

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A FAST-GROWING MARKET

Germany has become one of Europe’s most active markets for trade between private individuals, according to DHL’s latest E-Commerce Trends Report. Spanning clothing, electronics, and household goods, approximately 67 percent of online shoppers in the country have already participated in the selling of items via an online marketplace.

One of the most rapidly expanding online marketplaces within the continent is Vinted – a leading platform for second-hand items headquartered in Lithuania. Together, as part of a strategic partnership, DHL and Vinted are working to drive the continued growth of the second-hand market in Germany.

Through the combination of DHL’s nationwide presence and Vinted’s broad reach, the two companies are expanding and simplifying the shipping and collection of parcels, with a specific focus on locker-to-locker shipping options.

“Reselling used goods online has evolved from a niche activity to an everyday phenomenon within just a few years. As a result, expectations regarding shipping are rising. People buying and selling privately want shipping to involve as little effort as possible. It should be just as easy as purchasing from an online store. Many people want to send or collect parcels independently of opening hours. This is exactly why automated solutions such as Packstations are becoming increasingly important. That is also why we will continue to invest heavily in expanding our automated network in the years ahead. Vinted is one of the companies driving Europe’s booming second-hand market. We are delighted to continue Vinted’s success story in Germany together,” states Benjamin Rasch, Head of Sales and Products, Post & Parcel Germany, DHL Group.

INVESTING IN SUSTAINABLE LOGISTICS

Through DHL’s Packstations, Vinted’s buyers and sellers are able to drop off and collect parcels as and when it best suits them. Additionally, no prior registration is required to ship or collect via Packstations. A collection code is sent by DHL and will, in the near future, be directly available through Vinted.

Already operating around 41,000 parcel drop-off and collection points nationwide, DHL’s expanded network of Packstations, Poststations, and DeinFach lockers is anticipated to grow from 18,500 to over 30,000 by 2030 to accommodate the fast-growing market.

Also highlighted in the E-Commerce Trends Report is how widely shipping services are already in use in the peer-to-peer market. According to research, approximately 70 percent of respondents use parcel shops or automated lockers to ship online items, whilst the remaining 30 percent hand goods over in person.

Dovilė Riškutė, Senior Director of Business Development and Operations, Vinted Go, notes that, “Tons of people in Germany use Vinted to give products a second life. This requires shipping solutions that fit seamlessly into everyday life. Thanks to DHL’s nationwide network and, in particular, its 24/7 accessible Packstations, our members can send and receive parcels with maximum flexibility. This provides a strong base for further expanding our offering in Germany, and deliver against our ambitious growth aspiration.”

For Vinted, keeping products in use for longer is a core element of its business model, whilst DHL is actively investing in the sustainability of its logistics network. Therefore, this strategic partnership combines reselling used goods with low-emission parcel delivery.

The post DHL and Vinted Grow Second-Hand Market in Germany appeared first on EME Outlook Magazine.

New Cuisine Centre to Boost Sustainable Food Manufacturing

Compass Group UK & Ireland has announced the launch of a new Cuisine Centre in Derbyshire, marking a major investment in large-scale food production and sustainable manufacturing.

Scheduled to open in late 2026, the 10,000 square metre facility will produce more than 70 million nutritious meals each year for customers across the public and private sectors.

The Cuisine Centre will be located at SmartParc SEGRO Derby, part of a £300 million investment to create a 155-acre regenerated brownfield food manufacturing and distribution site. The facility is designed to increase production capacity while enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability.

Technology and Sustainability Drive Facility Design

The new Cuisine Centre will incorporate modern production capabilities alongside sustainability-focused infrastructure.

An on-site energy centre will recycle waste heat to reduce energy consumption, while the first phase of solar generation will provide approximately 20 per cent of the facility’s electricity requirements.

Compass Group said the site will also contribute to wider sustainability objectives through improvements in water conservation, waste reduction, transport efficiency and packaging.

The facility will support the company’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Five Product Ranges Support Diverse Catering Requirements

The Cuisine Centre will manufacture five specialist meal ranges – Moreish, Medley, Nurture, Steamplicity and Esteem – with all products freshly prepared on site.

Together, the ranges will include more than 200 main meals, side dishes and desserts developed through collaboration between chefs and dietitians to deliver taste, quality and nutritional value.

Compass Group said ingredients will be sourced from trusted suppliers that meet its food safety, quality and responsible sourcing standards. Alongside its established supplier network, the business also plans to explore opportunities to increase regional sourcing as the facility opens, supporting local communities and British food producers.

Centralised Production Supports Operational Efficiency

The company said the Cuisine Centre has been designed to help catering operations improve efficiency while maintaining consistent food quality.

Meals will be available in flexible formats, including multiportion and plated options, helping kitchen teams reduce preparation time while improving allergen control measures. Compass Group added that centralised production will also help reduce energy consumption and food waste.

Charles Brown, Interim CEO of Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: “The new Cuisine Centre is a significant step forward for our business, allowing us to scale up our existing operations through a larger, more advanced facility. The scale and capability of the new facility brings more production in-house, strengthening supply continuity, delivering greater supply chain resilience, and enhancing our ability to deliver high-quality, nutritious meals produced responsibly and at scale.

“We are a large and diverse business that has the dexterity to meet specific market demands within the sectors we operate. This facility meets a specific need case, for delivering consistent, quality, nutritious meals in a safe and controlled environment, reducing allergen risks, as well as giving time back to kitchen teams.”

Investment Supports Skills and Regional Food Manufacturing

Compass Group said the Cuisine Centre will also support its Social Promise, which aims to help one million people by 2030 through employment, training, skills development and community engagement.

Jackie Wild of SmartParc SEGRO Derby said: “Compass Group’s new Cuisine Centre is exactly the kind of investment SmartParc SEGRO Derby was designed to support. The development brings advanced food production, shared infrastructure and lower-carbon operational benefits together on a regenerated brownfield site, giving businesses the space and flexibility to modernise how they produce food.

We look forward to seeing the facility become an important part of Compass Group’s future production network and of Derby’s growing food manufacturing sector.”

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AI BECOMES A PREMIUM BANKING BENEFIT

Revolut is expanding its premium banking proposition through a new partnership with OpenAI, bringing ChatGPT Go to millions of retail customers as demand for artificial intelligence continues to grow.

The collaboration gives eligible customers access to ChatGPT Go at no additional cost for up to 12 months, depending on their subscription plan, reinforcing Revolut’s strategy of extending value beyond traditional financial services.

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in both professional and personal life, the partnership aims to provide customers with access to advanced productivity tools while simplifying subscription management through a single banking platform.

With almost one billion people using ChatGPT every week to learn, create, solve problems, and complete everyday tasks, the announcement reflects the growing role of AI as an essential digital service rather than an optional technology.

EXPANDING EVERYDAY PRODUCTIVITY

ChatGPT Go provides users with significantly higher usage limits than the free service, alongside additional capabilities including more file uploads, document analysis, image generation, and memory.

The enhanced functionality is designed to support a wide range of everyday activities, from researching purchases and planning travel to organising personal tasks and running a business, allowing customers to use AI more seamlessly without encountering free-tier restrictions.

The offering follows the launch of OpenAI’s GPT 5.6 model family, providing Revolut customers with access to the latest generation of AI capabilities through their existing banking subscription.

Eligible customers will receive different access periods depending on their plan. Ultra subscribers receive 12 months of ChatGPT Go alongside a 12-month Buddy Pass, while Metal customers receive 12 months of complimentary access. Premium, Revolut Pro, and Revolut Mobile customers receive six months, while Plus and Standard customers will receive a promotional three-month offer.

The three-month promotional offer for Plus and Standard customers will be rolled out in the coming weeks, while benefits for all other eligible plans are available immediately.

BUILDING VALUE BEYOND FINANCE

The partnership forms part of Revolut’s wider strategy to position its subscription plans as comprehensive lifestyle offerings rather than purely financial products.

By combining premium services into a single membership, the company aims to reduce the need for multiple standalone subscriptions while increasing the overall value available to customers. According to Revolut, its subscription portfolio now represents a combined value of £4,000 per year across travel, transport, health, fitness, learning, creativity, and entertainment services.

Tara Massoudi, Partner and General Manager for Premium Products at Revolut, said: “We want to empower our customers with tools that are part of their entire day, beyond finance. We’ve been building an extensive portfolio that supports how they travel, work, connect, and take care of their health.

Emmanuel Marill, Managing Director, EMEA, at OpenAI, added: “We’re excited to partner with Revolut to bring ChatGPT Go to its millions of customers worldwide, so they can use AI to make everyday life easier – from tackling life admin and planning trips to learning and creating. With this partnership even more people will be able to get even more from AI.”

The collaboration underscores how financial services providers are increasingly evolving into digital lifestyle platforms, using strategic partnerships to deliver technology, productivity, and everyday services alongside core banking products.

The post “Today, AI is not a nice-to-have; it’s an essential for everyday life”: Revolut and OpenAI Launch ChatGPT Go appeared first on EME Outlook Magazine.

DISRUPTION RESHAPES STRATEGY

Supply chain disruption is continuing to redefine how organisations approach long-term operational strategy, according to new research from Accenture.

Drawing on insights from 3,000 C-suite leaders across 20 countries and 19 industries – including 322 senior supply chain and engineering (SC&E) executives – the latest Pulse of Change survey reveals that persistent uncertainty is making operations increasingly difficult and influencing where businesses are directing investment.

More than three-quarters (78 percent) of SC&E leaders say geopolitical uncertainty, economic volatility, regulatory complexity, and compliance pressures have made operations materially harder over the past six months.

While concern levels are broadly aligned across the wider C-suite, operational leaders remain more focused on maintaining supply chain continuity and controlling rising operating costs than accelerating technology adoption.

For many organisations, the findings suggest resilience has become a competitive necessity rather than a reactive measure.

BUILDING RESILIENCE OVER RESHORING

Six in 10 SC&E executives identify supply chain disruption as the issue most likely to force a significant strategic shift in 2026, ahead of emerging technologies, trade and compliance changes, and labour shortages.

That outlook is directly shaping investment priorities.

Rather than pursuing large-scale production moves, 59 percent of SC&E leaders are prioritising forecasting, scenario planning, and risk management. Almost half are also diversifying supplier networks, while others are reassessing capital expenditure, expanding mergers and acquisitions or partnership activity, and strengthening geopolitical risk management capabilities.

Despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, reshoring remains a comparatively low priority.

Fewer than one-third (29 percent) of operational leaders intend to reshore or nearshore operations, making domestic production the lowest-ranked strategic priority once again, although its importance has increased since January.

Instead, businesses are adapting existing commercial relationships to reflect changing geopolitical realities. Two-thirds (67 percent) of SC&E executives report they have already altered the terms, scope, or governance of partnerships based on a partner’s country of origin or geopolitical alignment.

AI AND PEOPLE GO HAND IN HAND

Artificial intelligence continues to attract significant investment, although SC&E leaders are approaching implementation differently from the broader executive leadership.

More than two-thirds (68 percent) expect to increase AI investment over the next year, compared to 82 percent across the wider C-suite. Rather than focusing primarily on immediate financial returns, operational leaders are placing greater emphasis on workforce readiness.

Seven in 10 organisations are investing in employee upskilling and reskilling programmes, preparing staff to work alongside AI through new team structures and greater cross-functional collaboration. Many also expect human and AI integration to expand rapidly, either across multiple business functions or throughout entire organisations within the next 12 months.

Regional priorities also vary considerably. Talent shortages are viewed as the most significant disruption in the Americas, where more than half (56 percent) of SC&E leaders expect labour challenges to drive strategic change. Meanwhile, APAC organisations are placing greater emphasis on supplier diversification, while EMEA leaders are more focused on strengthening geopolitical risk management.

Commenting on the findings, Tracey Countryman, Global Supply Chain and Engineering Lead at Accenture, said:

“They’re investing in AI through a practical, workforce-led lens, helping their people make faster, AI-enabled decisions and adapt more effectively as conditions continue to change,” she added.

The research suggests that, as disruption becomes an enduring feature of the global operating environment, organisations are increasingly favouring agility, diversified supplier ecosystems, and workforce-enabled AI adoption over fundamental changes to manufacturing location.

The post “Building resilience through better forecasting, diversified supplier networks, and stronger risk management”: Accenture Maps a Resilient Supply Chain appeared first on EME Outlook Magazine.

INTRODUCING NEXT-GEN TRUCKS

Mercedes-Benz Trucks has proudly delivered three state-of-the-art battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 400 trucks, representing the second generation equipped with the innovative ProCabin, to Abfallentsorgungs- und Verwertungsgesellschaft Köln mbH (AVG Köln).

The eActros is an all-electric version of the Mercedes-Benz Actros, designed for heavy-duty transport tasks. It offers a variety of configurations, including different battery packs and cab options, to meet diverse transport needs.

The new advanced electric vehicles (EVs) are set to operate as tipper tractor units within municipal services, significantly enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of their operations.

Remarkably, these trucks are the first in the Mercedes-Benz Trucks line-up to feature a factory-integrated mechanical power take-off (mPTO).

Moreover, this significant advancement marks a departure from previous solutions that necessitated modifications by external bodybuilders and system suppliers, thereby streamlining the integration process.

PIONEERING WASTE MANAGEMENT

The finalisation of the hydraulic system will be meticulously handled by Erkes Nutzfahrzeuge, who will also oversee the installation of robust steel half-round tipping trailers provided by Schwarzmüller.

Consequently, this collaboration ensures that the eActros trucks are fully equipped and ready for their demanding roles in the community’s waste management efforts.

The joint effort marks a significant step towards integrating sustainable practices within the industry.

DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY

As part of the innovative BELLA project, which stands for Battery-Electric Emission-Free Truck Logistics for Incinerator Bottom Ash, AVG Köln is set to deploy a fleet of advanced EVs.

As a result, these eco-friendly trucks are designed to replace traditional diesel-powered vehicles, serving a vital role in transporting incinerator bottom ash – a byproduct of the thermal treatment of both household and commercial waste.

The vehicles will operate within the confines of the plant and facilitate the movement of this residual material to adjacent processing facilities.

POWERING THE FUTURE

In tandem with this initiative, AVG Köln is also making significant investments in sustainable infrastructure by establishing its own EV charging network.

This includes the development of an expansive charging hub spanning approximately 3,000 square meters and featuring nine dedicated charging stations specifically designed for commercial vehicles.

Notably, these charging stations will draw power from a direct connection to the company’s state-of-the-art waste-to-energy plant, ensuring a seamless and efficient energy supply.

Amongst the vehicles being deployed is the Mercedes-Benz eActros 400, which boasts an impressive configuration of two battery packs.

Each battery pack has a capacity of 207 kilowatt-hour (kWh), culminating in a robust total battery capacity of 414 kWh.

These batteries utilise cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cell technology, well-regarded for its exceptional longevity and reliable performance, making them an ideal choice for heavy-duty applications in environmentally conscious logistics.

The post Mercedes-Benz Trucks Delivers Electric Tipper Tractors with 400 Mechanical Power Take-Off to AVG Köln appeared first on EME Outlook Magazine.

Partnership Advances Hydrogen Aviation

Airbus and MTU Aero Engines intend to deepen their collaboration by creating a joint venture focused on developing a fully electric hydrogen fuel cell engine for the aviation sector.

The announcement follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two companies at the Paris Air Show in June 2025.

The proposed joint venture will combine expertise from both organisations to accelerate the design, development, testing and certification of a hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system for commercial aircraft. Subject to regulatory approvals and completion of social processes, the new company is expected to begin operations in 2027.

Accelerating Low-Emission Aircraft Technology

The new organisation will be supported by engineering and manufacturing teams from both companies and is intended to provide a dedicated structure for advancing hydrogen propulsion technologies.

Airbus and MTU said the joint venture will focus on developing a fully electric propulsion system powered by hydrogen fuel cells, with the goal of bringing the technology to commercial aviation.

“Our planned joint venture is the next logical step in our shared vision of a hydrogen-based propulsion concept for aviation,” said Bruno Fichefeux, Head of Future Programmes at Airbus.

“By pooling our respective technology and expertise into a dedicated entity, we are establishing a European powerhouse capable of transforming advanced research into industrialised, certifiable electric propulsion systems. This new company will help secure strategic sovereignty in the next generation of aviation technologies while strengthening our ability to achieve the long-term ZEROe ambition.”

Supporting Climate-Neutral Aviation

The collaboration represents an important milestone in the development of hydrogen-powered aircraft propulsion.

“Our ambitious goal is to pave the way for a newly developed, safe, reliable and economical propulsion system that will contribute to climate-neutral aviation,” said Dr. Stefan Weber, Senior Vice President Engineering and Technology at MTU Aero Engines.

“This project is a crucial milestone on our path to the first hydrogen-powered engine – and this is true European technology leadership. To that end, we want to create a company that covers the entire life cycle of fuel cell powertrains – from development and testing through certification to commercialisation.”

Combining Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Expertise

The proposed joint venture will combine Airbus’ commercial aircraft programme experience, fuel cell propulsion research and liquid hydrogen expertise with MTU’s capabilities in fuel cell technology development, engine design, integration, validation, certification and maintenance.

The two companies also plan to continue working together to support the development of a hydrogen aviation economy and the regulatory framework needed to enable the wider adoption of hydrogen-powered flight.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells Offer Lower-Emission Propulsion

Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing water vapour as its only byproduct during operation. According to Airbus and MTU, the technology would eliminate in-flight carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions, helping to reduce aviation’s climate impact.

Airbus said it has focused its ZEROe programme on fully electric fuel cell propulsion since March 2025, following testing of fuel cell prototypes, powertrains and complementary technologies including cryogenics.

MTU also reported progress across its hydrogen technology programme, including finalising the design of its Flying Fuel Cell, beginning fuel cell stack manufacturing for its demonstrator, successfully testing its eMoSys electric motor and commissioning its first fuel cell test facility in Munich.

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AI PLANNING ARRIVES CLOSER TO HOME

Anaplan has expanded its longstanding collaboration with Google Cloud, bringing its AI-driven scenario planning and analysis platform onto Google Cloud’s infrastructure in France.

The move enables French organisations to access Anaplan’s decision-making capabilities through a scalable and secure cloud environment designed to support increasingly complex business operations. It also responds to growing demand for local data residency and sovereignty, allowing businesses to leverage their own data securely while complying with national data residency requirements.

The announcement builds on a relationship between the two companies that began almost six years ago and complements existing collaborations across the US, Canada, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and Japan.

Designed as the decision infrastructure for the Agentic Enterprise, Anaplan’s platform combines deterministic calculations, probabilistic AI, connected data, workflows, and role-based AI agents to help organisations make informed, high-stakes decisions with greater confidence.

SUPPORTING FRENCH ENTERPRISES

The expansion is particularly relevant for organisations operating in sectors where speed, compliance, and data control are increasingly critical, including luxury, retail, and consumer products.

By hosting the platform closer to customers’ operations, Anaplan aims to provide businesses with the secure and compliant infrastructure needed to respond more quickly to changing market conditions.

“In a dynamic market, being able to act with speed and confidence is a significant advantage for business leaders who have to make critical decisions in real time every day, especially in fast-moving sectors like luxury and retail,” said Laurent Martini, Managing Director, EMEA, Anaplan.

“With Anaplan on Google Cloud, our customers in France can now harness the full power of our platform at closer proximity to their operations, ensuring they have the secure, compliant decision infrastructure required to drive their business forward.”

Beyond infrastructure, the collaboration enables organisations to combine internal business data with third-party sources while taking advantage of BigQuery, Google Cloud’s autonomous data-to-AI platform that automates the data lifecycle.

For Google Cloud, the agreement further strengthens its presence among major French organisations seeking scalable AI capabilities alongside greater control over where their data resides.

“This collaboration with Anaplan illustrates our commitment to supporting French companies in their digital transformation efforts by combining the power of our scalable and secure AI cloud infrastructure with Anaplan’s leading AI-driven planning capabilities,” said Brian Goldstein, Vice President and General Manager of Strategic AI and ISV GTM, Google.

“We’re excited to expand our partnership with Anaplan and help decision-makers in France unlock new opportunities for growth.”

BUILDING THE AGENTIC ENTERPRISE

The announcement also follows Anaplan’s recent introduction of the Agentic Enterprise – an operational model built on a shared computational and data foundation that uses AI agents to streamline core business functions while allowing employees to focus on strategic decision-making.

As part of this vision, the company is developing an agentic portfolio spanning finance, supply chain, sales, and human resources. The first skills-based AI agents for the office of the CFO are planned for release later this year.

With more than 2,600 organisations worldwide using its platform, including AXA, Generali, JLR, and L’Oréal, Anaplan continues to expand the reach of its AI-driven planning capabilities. The latest collaboration with Google Cloud reinforces its focus on delivering secure, compliant, and intelligent decision infrastructure for businesses navigating an increasingly data-driven future.

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Mars is incorporating natural menthol sourced through its Shubh Mint programme into its European chewing gum supply chain, supplying manufacturing facilities in the UK and Poland. 

The move marks the latest milestone for the initiative, which was launched in 2017 to improve the resilience of natural mint production whilst creating more sustainable livelihoods for farming communities in Uttar Pradesh, India. 

Natural menthol is a vital ingredient across many of Mars’ chewing gum brands. However, with around 80 percent of global natural menthol production concentrated in a single region of India, the supply chain has become increasingly exposed to climate change, declining yields, and rising production costs. 

Rather than relying on synthetic alternatives, Mars has invested in strengthening natural mint production, recognising the opportunity to build a more resilient agricultural supply chain whilst supporting the communities that depend upon it. 

BUILDING RESILIENCE FROM THE GROUND UP  

Developed in partnership with implementation expert Tanager, the Shubh Mint programme began with a two-year research and pilot phase aimed at identifying the factors limiting productivity and farmer incomes. 

Climate-smart agricultural techniques and improved planting materials were first introduced through quarter-acre demonstration plots managed by volunteer farmers. This approach encouraged peer-to-peer learning, reduced the risks associated with adopting new practices, and laid the foundations for wider implementation. 

“Before the programme started, many mint farming households were struggling to remain profitable. Through Mars’ investment, farmers now have access to the knowledge, practices, and inputs that have significantly improved their profitability. You can really see the difference in how the programme has impacted these mint farming communities,” says Joseph Boulier, Managing Director, Food Systems, Tanager. 

CREATING VALUE ACROSS THE SUPPLY CHAIN  

The programme has since evolved into a community-wide initiative, expanding participation through Farmer Producer Companies whilst creating additional opportunities for women through self-help groups. 

To date, more than 24,000 farmers have participated in the programme, with mint incomes more than doubling. Alongside this, over 8,500 women have received training in climate-smart agricultural practices to support farming as a family business. 

More than 1,000 women have gone on to establish independent income-generating enterprises, including retail businesses, tailoring, and dairy farming, whilst more than 4,500 have participated in self-help groups focused on financial literacy and confidence building. 

Climate-smart practices, including improved plant spacing, irrigation systems, intercropping, and fertiliser management, have also reduced mint production costs by around 20 percent whilst improving yields and overall production. These improvements have helped strengthen household incomes whilst increasing the long-term resilience of Mars’ natural menthol supply. 

The programme has also enabled the company to establish a traceable supply chain, allowing Shubh Mint to become part of its commercial operations as Mars integrates the ingredient across its European brand portfolio. 

“The most meaningful impact of Shubh is seeing women who once identified themselves with a thumbprint now proudly signing their own names. That simple change reflects something far greater: confidence, agency and the belief that they can shape their own futures,” said Meenal Bahirwani, Sustainable Sourcing Lead, Mars Snacking. 

SCALING FOR THE FUTURE 

Building on almost a decade of progress, Mars is now expanding the programme through a “full farm” approach designed to help more farmers achieve a verified living income. 

Rather than focusing exclusively on mint, the next phase will apply climate-smart farming practices across entire farms, with the aim of improving year-round profitability, diversifying household income, and reducing dependence on a single crop. 

“What began as a response to a single, vulnerable ingredient has become a long-term commitment and a replicable blueprint for transforming agricultural systems and empowering communities,” said Sam de Frates, VP Commercial and Sustainability, Mars Snacking Europe and Central Eurasia. 

As Mars continues to embed Shubh Mint throughout its European operations, the programme demonstrates how investment in sustainable agriculture can strengthen supply chain resilience while delivering long-term environmental, social and commercial value. 

The post Mars Strengthens European Supply Chain with Shubh Mint appeared first on EME Outlook Magazine.

A FULLY AUTOMATED GOODS RECEIVING PROCESS

XYZ Robotics, recognised as a pioneer, innovator, and global leader in mobile manipulation robots (MMRs), proudly announces the introduction of its cutting-edge automation solution for efficiently handling goods receiving at the BAUHAUS central warehouse in Krefeld, Germany.

This advanced system leverages the capabilities of the RockyOne and RockyOne SE robots, seamlessly automating the entire workflow from the moment shipping containers arrive to the final arrangement of shelf-ready pallets.

By streamlining this critical process, the solution not only enhances operational consistency and efficiency but also empowers the warehouse team to focus on more engaging and value-added tasks, ultimately transforming the dynamics of warehouse operations.

SOLVING REAL-WORLD LOGISTICS COMPLEXITY

Since 1960, BAUHAUS has been a prominent leader in the home improvement retail sector across Europe, boasting an extensive network of over 290 specialised centres across 19 countries.

At its Krefeld centre, the operation is bustling with activity, processing thousands of inbound shipments each day and managing an impressive inventory of more than 10,000 distinct SKUs. The variety in received cartons is wide, differing notably in shape, weight, and stacking configurations, which poses significant challenges that traditional automation systems cannot adequately handle.

To tackle these complexities, XYZ Robotics has ingeniously designed an advanced, end-to-end automation system. This innovative solution, known as RockyOne, can autonomously navigate shipping containers to unload loose cartons of diverse sizes and orientations efficiently.

As each carton passes through the system, an integrated barcode scanning mechanism identifies it, enabling real-time sorting based on the operation’s specific requirements.

Subsequently, the RockyOne SE variant meticulously constructs pallets in accordance with customer-defined patterns, ensuring that the pallets are not only stable but also ready for immediate storage, optimising the logistics process within the Krefeld centre.

OPTIMISED WORKFLOWS BOOST EFFICIENCY IN WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS

The traditional method of manual container unloading often entails repetitive lifting in tight, confined spaces, often exacerbated by harsh temperature extremes.

This gruelling process not only leads to a high turnover of personnel but also significantly increases the risk of injury amongst workers.

In contrast, the innovative Rocky robots transform this labour-intensive task by allowing operators to transition from strenuous physical labour to a more manageable role. Using a tablet interface, they can easily oversee the entire unloading process with minimal training.

The daily operation of the robots is designed to be straightforward, empowering workers to focus on monitoring and optimising system efficiency rather than enduring the physical demands of manual unloading.

Following the successful Krefeld deployment, XYZ Robotics is set to broaden its presence across Europe.

This expansion aims to better assist warehouse and distribution operators by establishing local teams dedicated to delivering comprehensive support throughout the entire lifecycle of their services.

These teams will ensure tailored solutions and prompt assistance, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction in the rapidly evolving logistics landscape.

The post BAUHAUS Partners with XYZ Robotics in a New Era of Logistics Efficiency appeared first on EME Outlook Magazine.

Sustainable Healthcare Innovation

AstraZeneca’s Trixeo Aerosphere (budesonide/glycopyrronium/formoterol fumarate), already approved for the treatment of adults with COPD, has received a positive CHMP opinion for use in the European Union (EU) with a next-generation propellant that has near-zero GWP.

The propellant delivers a 99.9 per cent reduction in GWP compared with those used in current pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs). As a result, Trixeo will have a carbon footprint comparable to inhaled medicines that do not require a propellant.

Following the positive opinion, AstraZeneca plans to begin transitioning its European Trixeo supply to the new propellant.

Clinical Performance Maintained

The CHMP recommendation is based on AstraZeneca’s next-generation propellant clinical development programme, which demonstrated bioequivalence between Trixeo using the new propellant and the current formulation.

The safety and tolerability profile of Trixeo with the next-generation propellant was consistent with the medicine’s known profile.

Supporting Patient Care and Environmental Goals

“Respiratory medicines delivered by pressurised metered-dose inhalers are essential for millions of people living with respiratory diseases in Europe, including specific vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. The transition of Trixeo to the propellant with near-zero Global Warming Potential ensures clinicians’ treatment decisions can focus on clinical needs while also supporting environmental goals,” said Professor Frederik Trinkmann, Senior Pulmonologist at the Thoracic Clinic, Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany.

Ruud Dobber, Executive Vice President, BioPharmaceuticals Business Unit, AstraZeneca, added: “The CHMP positive opinion of Trixeo Aerosphere with the next-generation propellant allows us to address the needs of both patients and the planet and is a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering innovations for sustainable healthcare in the EU. Starting with Trixeo, the transition to the near-zero Global Warming Potential propellant across our pressurised metered-dose inhaled respiratory medicines is an important step towards achieving our Ambition Zero Carbon strategy.”

Reducing The Carbon Footprint of Respiratory Care

Trixeo is the first medicine in AstraZeneca’s portfolio of pMDIs to transition to the new propellant. The company plans to transition its wider pMDI portfolio to the near-zero GWP propellant by 2030 as part of its Ambition Zero Carbon strategy.

Trixeo with the new propellant received its first approval in the UK in May 2025. Regulatory applications are also under review in China and additional countries.

Supporting the Transition to Lower-Carbon Inhalers

According to AstraZeneca, pMDIs account for 76 per cent of inhaler use in Europe and contribute 0.04 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Studies show the largest environmental impact associated with respiratory diseases comes from poorly controlled symptoms that lead to increased healthcare utilisation. It said implementing evidence-based clinical guidelines can reduce exacerbations and unscheduled healthcare use, improving patient outcomes while also lowering the overall carbon footprint of respiratory care.

Next Steps for Sustainable Respiratory Medicines

Susanna Palkonen, Director of the European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations, said: “COPD is a devastating disease and the third leading cause of mortality in the world. People living with COPD need access to a treatment which is right for them as well as a healthy environment and clean air. We welcome the positive opinion from the CHMP for the inhaled respiratory medicine containing the next-generation propellant with a significantly reduced carbon footprint.”

Additional studies are underway to assess the next-generation propellant across its wider portfolio of pressurised metered-dose inhalers as it continues its transition to lower-carbon respiratory medicines.

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