About FORTNA

End-to-end warehouse design for distribution challenges

FORTNA is an end-to-end design-build firm, delivering transformative, data-driven distribution solutions to the world’s leading brands. We empower our customers with the design and delivery of intelligent solutions that optimize performance, address disruption and increase profitability.

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FORTNA Differentiator

From early strategy through system design, delivery and integration, we work alongside our customers to keep operations on track and performing—especially in times of change. We select the best-fit, solution-agnostic technologies for each operation and bring them together into one unified ecosystem that works as one.

FORTNA Distribution Optimization Framework Lifecycle Performance Services supports a diverse portfolio of MHE and software implementations worldwide

FORTNA Framework

Optimize business-critical operations with the FORTNA Framework

The FORTNA Distribution Optimization Framework™ (FORTNA Framework) leverages proprietary processes, tools and algorithms to design and deliver solutions using best-fit automation technologies and intelligent software.

Fueled by Optimization Science™, the FORTNA Framework facilitates fast, accurate and profitable order fulfillment.

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FORTNA Evolution

FORTNA traces its roots back to 1946, when H. E. Fortna Brothers Inc. opened in Reading, Pennsylvania. What began as a material handling equipment business has evolved into a global leader in distribution, fulfillment and warehouse automation solutions.

Over nearly 80 years, FORTNA has continuously expanded its capabilities to meet the changing needs of supply chains and distribution operations. Key milestones include:

1946: Founded as H. E. Fortna Brothers Inc.

1992: Became a full-service material handling systems integrator and launched one of its first warehouse software platforms.

1997–2005: Expanded consulting and engineering capabilities while developing advanced supply chain modeling tools.

2006–2018: Grew globally through expansion and strategic acquisitions in Europe, Africa and Latin America.

2018: Introduced FORTNA WES™, a warehouse execution system designed to optimize fulfillment operations.

2019: Received investment from Thomas H. Lee Partners to accelerate growth.

2020–2022: Expanded automation, controls and software capabilities through strategic acquisitions including Pierau Planung, eMotion Controls, TGW US Conveyors and Optricity.

2022: Combined with Material Handling Systems (MHS) to create a global automation and software leader operating under the FORTNA brand.

2023–Present: Expanded partnerships with leading robotics, software and automation providers while continuing to invest in next-generation fulfillment technologies.

Leadership team

Our leadership team brings deep expertise and diverse experience to the day-to-day operations at FORTNA. They support the FORTNA team in helping customers solve complex distribution challenges of today and prepare for the challenges of tomorrow.

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Culture at FORTNA

Life at FORTNA offers opportunities for complex problem-solving, limitless innovation and accelerated professional development. Explore the passion, creativity and excellence that are part of our DNA and drive our culture.

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Careers at FORTNA

FORTNA offers a dynamic work environment for purposeful innovators, passionate creators and persistent problem-solvers. Whether you are just starting out or a seasoned professional, accelerate your career and make an impact by joining the growing FORTNA team.

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FAQs

FORTNA helps organizations optimize distribution and fulfillment operations through strategy, design, implementation and ongoing support. Our solutions combine consulting, software, automation and robotics to improve productivity, increase accuracy, reduce costs and support long-term growth.

FORTNA works with customers throughout the entire distribution lifecycle, from network strategy and facility design to automation implementation, software deployment and lifecycle performance services.

FORTNA designs, integrates and supports a broad range of distribution and fulfillment technologies, including:

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)
Goods-to-person (GTP) solutions
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)
Conveyor and sortation systems
Robotic picking and fulfillment technologies
Packaging automation systems
Warehouse control and execution software

FORTNA also develops proprietary software solutions, including FORTNA WES™ (warehouse execution system), FORTNA WCS™ (warehouse control system) and FORTNA OptiSlot DC™ (warehouse slotting software). Together, these technologies help organizations orchestrate labor, inventory, equipment and automation more effectively.

FORTNA takes a customer-centric, technology-agnostic approach to distribution optimization. Rather than promoting a single automation platform, FORTNA evaluates each customer's operation to identify the right combination of software, automation, robotics and processes needed to achieve business objectives.

Using its proven Distribution Optimization Framework™, FORTNA combines data analytics, simulation, benchmarking, technology evaluation and implementation planning to help customers reduce risk, improve performance and maximize return on investment. This approach enables organizations to implement solutions that address today's operational challenges while remaining adaptable for future growth.

FORTNA collaborates with leading automation, robotics and technology providers to deliver best-fit solutions for distribution and fulfillment operations. Strategic partnerships include AutoStore, Hai Robotics, Rockwell Automation, Jacobi Robotics, Geekplus, Packsize and Sitma.

These partnerships enable FORTNA to remain technology-agnostic and recommend solutions based on operational fit and business objectives rather than a single vendor ecosystem. By combining its consulting, engineering, software and systems integration expertise with industry-leading technologies, FORTNA helps customers implement solutions that maximize performance, scalability and long-term value.

Yes. FORTNA's Lifecycle Performance Services help customers maximize the value of their automation investments long after go-live. Services include preventative and corrective maintenance, remote and on-site support, spare parts management, software support and upgrades, system health monitoring, performance optimization and continuous improvement initiatives.

This ongoing partnership helps ensure systems continue operating at peak performance while adapting to changing business requirements and evolving fulfillment demands.