Challenge: Handling multimodal logistics over a period of rapid growth with spreadsheets and whiteboards. That was the challenge that faced an American crude oil logistics company in 2012, when it grew 10-fold in just six months. It needed a planning solution that could handle the complexities of multimodal logistics, and fast.

A new generation of robots is on the way - smarter, more mobile, more collaborative and more adaptable. They promise to bring major changes to the factory floor, as well as potentially to the global competitive landscape.

Toys "R" Us Inc. has opened a distribution center in Saint-Fargeau-Ponthierry, France, to support the company's expanding e-commerce business throughout the country and in select sections of Europe.