There are three different types of distribution centers - conventional, mechanized and automated - and it is important to keep their functions in mind when designing them, according to Marc Wulfraat, president of MWPVL International, a supply chain and logistics services consulting firm.

Accellos Inc., a vendor of supply-chain execution software, has developed version 6.4 of the AccellosOne Warehouse Management System (WMS).

RedPrairie Corp. has acquired Vortex Connect, a vendor of mobile workforce management technology.

Motorola Solutions has introduced a vehicle-mount mobile computer for use in warehouse and distribution environments.

Officials at CaseStack, Inc. says its facility in Scranton, Pa., has expanded its Wal-Mart Stores consolidation program to include all 42 of the retailer's regional distribution centers.

Newgistics Inc., a vendor of small-parcel delivery, returns-management and freight-shipping services, has acquired AtLast Fulfillment, a Colorado-based provider of fulfillment and warehousing services.

The CMA CGM Group is upgrading its weekly, fixed-day Brazil Express (Brazex) container service, with the introduction of two new Brazilian ports, Manaus and Salvador de Bahia, to the rotation.

DHL Global Forwarding has opened an Automotive Competence Center in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The logistics group of Crowley Maritime Corp. has expanded its service to include less-than-containerload (LCL) ocean and air-cargo lifts, as well as customs brokerage services, to Cartagena, Colombia from key points within the U.S. and Latin America.