REI Receives Productivity Award for Innovation from Modern Materials Handling Magazine

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REI Receives Modern Material Handling Productivity Award; KNAPP Technology & Innovation Take Center Stage

KNAPP announced that specialty outdoor retailer REI was the recipient of Modern Material Handling Magazine’s Productivity Award for Innovation. The annual award is given to those companies that demonstrate outstanding operational improvements through material handling systems and related information systems – and this year’s recipient REI in Goodyear, AZ features first-of-its-kind supply chain automation technology in North America –provided by KNAPP.

Featuring KNAPP OSR Shuttle technology, Pocket Sorter, Streamline conveyor, patent pending Pick-it-Easy Multi ergonomic workstations and KiSoft WCS, the new REI facility is considered a state-of-the-art model for omnichannel distribution center design and innovation. REI has also been awarded LEED platinum status for outstanding building performance. Both KNAPP technology and the building infrastructure were designed to operate at very low energy consumption levels, and the facility actually returns energy to the grid – a “net negative” energy distribution center.

According to judges from MHI, St Onge, Kimberly Ellis, Virginia Tech and editors of Modern Material Handling, “REI integrated their corporate core values into both the design process and the design outcome of their distribution center. For example, they used a design charrette process to integrate input from key stakeholders and to incorporate important features such as energy efficiency and omnichannel fulfillment. REI has taken innovation to the next level with their new DC. They have not only looked at what they need for best-in-class distribution to their customers, but also the impacts they can have on their employees and the environment.”

About Modern Material Handling
Since 1946, Modern Materials Handling has provided the most comprehensive coverage of productivity solutions for materials handling professionals in distribution, warehousing and manufacturing. In total, Modern Materials Handling reaches the largest and most highly qualified audience of executives, distribution center professionals and engineers involved in buying/specifying materials handling equipment and services.  We deliver an estimated audience of over 132,000 individuals through our web site, email newsletters, printed magazines, online webcasts/conferences and market-defining research

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.comREI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:

Kevin Reader
Director Business Development and Marketing KNAPP US

M: 678-267-4426

O: 678-388-2880 x 5226

kevin.reader@knapp.com