Fortna VP recognized as ‘Physical Internet Pioneer’

Russ Meller was named a “Physical Internet Pioneer” at this month’s inaugural International Physical Internet Conference.

Meller, Fortna’s vice president of R&D, was honored for being one of the forerunners of the Physical Internet concept, which aims to move physical goods in packets in much the same way the cyber Internet moves data. Standardized containers, like smaller versions of the large ocean-faring shipping containers, will simplify the delivery of goods all the way to the consumer. Models have shown that the idea will relieve highway congestion, reduce carbon emissions and improve working conditions for truckers. Meller has been the leader for U.S. research efforts since its inception in 2006.

In honoring Meller with this award, Benoit Montreuil, the creator of the Physical Internet concept, remarked on Meller’s ability not only to develop models that illustrate the potential of the Physical Internet, but also his ability to bring academia and industry together with the creation of the Physical Internet Thought Leaders group in the U.S.

“We are pleased that Russ has been honored for his work with the physical internet to improve the efficiency of the supply chain by increasing collaboration in the distribution of goods,” said John White, president at Fortna. “It is a testimony to his leadership and innovation in the industry.”

Also honored were Eric Ballot, a professor at Mines-Paris Tech in Paris France, and Sergio Barbarino, head of the Supply Chain Innovation Center for Proctor & Gamble Worldwide in Brussels, Belgium.