Detroit Diesel, BAE Systems, Parker-Hannifin, Cooper-Standard Automotive, Mahle, Crown Battery, NTN Driveshaft, Kautex Textron, and Denso Manufacturing are companies that have recently discovered the benefits of automating distribution of MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations) supplies, personal protective equipment, and other tools and supplies through Internet-based vending systems by Apex Industrial Technologies.
“Adding control and automation to the distribution of MRO materials typically drives cost savings of 20% to 30% of the spend,” said Kent Savage, Apex chief executive officer. “Technology costs dropped dramatically in the past year. Now this technology is easily affordable for all businesses. Many MRO suppliers now offer Apex solutions as part of their supply agreements.”
Apex's Edge 5000 system is now being used by other firms including Oshkosh Corp, Rotary Lift, Beall Corp, Brenner Tank, Collins Bus, TBEI, and Johnson Truck Bodies. Apex systems are utilized by emergency vehicle manufacturers including Medtec Ambulance, General Safety, KME, Central State Fire Apparatus, and Rennert's Fire Equipment Service.
Connect n' Go technology provides easy-to-use industrial vending systems at the point-of-use in manufacturing and distribution facilities. There is no software to purchase or install. Users just plug into an electrical outlet and an Internet connection, and they are up and running.
The Edge 5000 offers new technology for dispensing supplies, replacing inefficient standing and handing at tool cribs or traveling to a central distribution site while providing automatic inventory usage tracking reports as well as reordering.