AELER has designed and manufactured a next-generation shipping container called Unit One, using composites instead of steel for increased strength and insulation, and integrated with a real-time monitoring system and IoT technology.
Easy Engineering: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
We are active in the following markets:
- Bulk liquid transportation
- Sensitive goods
- High Value goods
E.E: What’s the news about new products/services?
AELER is developing the Unit Two container, a larger 40ft version of its innovative container, and is expanding its global network through multiple partnerships across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America, and the USA. This expansion aims to enhance logistics solutions and operational reach in key global markets.
E.E: What are the ranges of products/services?
AELER offers a range of products and services centered around the Unit One, a next-generation smart shipping container designed to revolutionize the logistics and shipping industries with its advanced features.
These offerings include:
Smart Shipping Containers: AELER’s Unit One containers are crafted from innovative recycled composites that enhance payload and insulation, making them a sustainable choice. The containers are 65% stronger than standard steel, allowing for the safe transportation of up to 17% additional payload without bulging or deformation. This strength enables the containers to withstand up to 28 tones of pressure, significantly higher than traditional metal containers, which may bend or dent under 22-24 tones. These advanced composite materials increase payload capacity and durability, ensure greater integrity and reduce the risk of cargo damage. Designed to meet ISO specifications, AELER’s containers are suitable for various cargoes, including food-grade materials, and feature smooth, flat walls that safeguard goods against damage. The easy-loading design streamlines logistics, improving turnaround times and simplifying shipping.
IoT Technology for Transporting High-Value Goods: Leveraging proprietary IoT technology, AELER offers tailored solutions for the transportation of high-value goods. This technology provides comprehensive visibility and enhanced security, allowing real-time monitoring of the container’s location, door openings, and shock detection. This ensures that goods are transported securely, offering peace of mind throughout the transportation process.
Container as a Service (CaaS): AELER introduces an innovative leasing model for its smart containers, offering them on a short-term basis. This approach enables flexible allocation of containers, significantly reduces costs, and minimizes the environmental impact by eliminating the need to manage specific repositioning and reducing empty trips.
E.E: What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
The state of the logistics and supply chain data services market is undergoing significant transformation, fueled by the expansion of e-commerce and the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). This evolution is part of a broader digital transformation trend aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and enabling real-time tracking and monitoring solutions. Customers’ expectations are also evolving; there is a growing demand for logistics visibility to extend beyond simple track and trace functions to include business intelligence and analytics tools. This shift indicates a move towards more sophisticated, data-driven decision-making processes that leverage analytics to optimize logistics and supply chain operations.
Additionally, the market is experiencing substantial growth in supply chain risk management, driven by the need for resilience against global disruptions and a push for enhanced operational efficiency through technological innovation. This sector is expected to reach CHF 6 billion by 2031, highlighting the increasing importance of risk mitigation strategies in ensuring supply chain continuity and compliance with regulatory standards. Another key trend is the rising focus on sustainability and green logistics, aligning with broader trends towards sustainability and resilience in supply chain management. These trends collectively underscore a dynamic market environment that presents opportunities and challenges for businesses operating within this space.
E.E: What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2024?
AELER has made significant strides in securing funding to fuel its ambitious growth plans. In 2022, we completed a pre-series A financing round, raising $7.5 million. This infusion of capital has been instrumental in accelerating product development, expanding market reach, and enhancing operational capabilities. Looking ahead, AELER is gearing up for a Series A investment round. This upcoming financing round is poised to bolster our financial foundation, supporting strategic growth initiatives and reinforcing our commitment to revolutionizing the supply chain industry through innovative and sustainable solutions.
Additionally, AELER is set to significantly scale up its production capabilities, aiming to exceed 5000 containers within the next 12 months. This ambitious production expansion indicates our commitment to meet the growing demand and its readiness to solidify its position as a supply chain leader. These planned milestones demonstrate AELER’s dedication to innovation and global expansion, setting the stage for continued success and influence in the industry.
Finally, AELER is poised for significant geographical expansion in 2024, with targeted growth in key regions, including Southeast Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East.