This issue of Evolution has the materials handling business in focus – a business that all of us are involved in several times a day. Just-in-time, more reliable and cheaper transports are some of the key words for today’s modern transportation systems.

    Having a high-quality supply chain is often what sets one company apart from others in the same business – and creates world leaders. The reasons are easy to understand: If you don’t deliver on time, other suppliers will be more than willing to replace you in the marketplace. In addition, in logistics work it is easy to run into the “red” – a problem you can avoid with careful analysis.

    This issue features a story about shipboard cranes from MacGregor Cranes. These machines are a vital link in the supply chain. You’ll also find a subject that’s closer to home – shopping carts that don’t maneuver well. Canadian cart manufacturer Cari-All has found a solution.

    My experience in working with materials handling dates back to my student days in the 1960s, when I worked as a stevedore on Gothenburg’s harborfront. The easiest job was to unload bananas – but you had to watch out for snakes which might be lying in wait in the boxes. The hardest job was to unload boats with cargos of raw salt or raw hides. At the end of your shift, either you had to drink for several hours to get rid of your thirst or shower for several hours to get rid of the smell.

    Evolution is published on the Web in four languages and 140,000 copies of the 1/98 issue were printed in 11 different language editions. Our 2/98 issue will focus on the high-volume electrical business. Click on “Evolution” below and then click “Next issue” for the complete contents.

    I hope you find Evolution a pleasant reading experience. If you have any questions on products, applications or service, please don’t hesitate to contact your SKF dealer or distributor. Addresses and other information can be found by clicking “SKF Group homepage.”
Janerik Dimming,  
editor-in-Chief