Export & Freight Apr-May 22 by 4SMNI

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INCORPORATING

www.exportandfreight.com IRELAND’S TRANSPORT MAGAZINE APR-MAY 2022

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MANFREIGHT

Contents MAR-APR 2022

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COVER VOLVO

COMMENT Our hauliers certainly know when and how to pull out the stops when a crisis arises, with many of our leading companies putting their own challenges to one side to help the people of war-torn Ukraine. They’ve been using their own resources to send truck loads of much needed essential supplies, with drivers volunteering to travel thousands of miles to do so. One could be forgiven to think that after two years of Covid-19 restrictions, Brexit woes and issues over the Northern Ireland Protocol weighing heavy on the transport sector, they have had enough on their plate to contend with, but no! It was heartening to see one recent convoy of 25 trucks carrying 500 tonnes of aid leaving Dublin Port for the long journey to the border of Ukraine. A journey that has since been replicated by other transport companies many times over and it is continuing. It is also welcome news that the profession will have the opportunity to come together for a gala dinner in May being hosted by the NI Region of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport; after two years of social distancing it should be quite a night at Titanic Belfast.

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GENERAL NEWS UK Freight Association reintroduces face-to-face Page 4

training programme TTS Host Women in Wheels Initiative

Page 26-27

Aid convoys leave NI for Ukraine

Page 50-51

McCulla Ireland Turning the Logistics Industry Green

Page 64-65

UKWA Belfast explores closer links between Page 68-69

Ireland and Great Britain

REGULAR FEATURES

Also upcoming is the return of the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC in Birmingham. While many of the big names may be missing, the show has attracted hundreds of exhibitors representing a broad spectrum of vehicle manufacturers, trailers and equipment suppliers bringing the latest products, services and technology solutions to the industry.

Court Report

Page 24

Seamus Leheny, Logistics UK Policy Manager-NI

Page 31

John Martin, RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland

Page 32-33

Before we sign off, we want to say congratulations to Shelly Taylor who has over the last 25 years become a friend of the transport industry in producing a wide range of workwear and promotional clothing for many of our leading companies; we have a comprehensive report on her Taylored Workwear business in this issue. Other local companies in the news include Mulgrew Haulage, McCulla Ireland, SDC Trailers, MAW Engineering and Diamond Trucks.

David Mullan, Transport Regulation Unit

Page 34-35

Well, that’s it for now, but remember, you can keep up to date with all the industry news 24/7 by logging on to our website at www.exportandfreight.com. You should also be receiving our FREE weekly newsletter, sent to your inbox every Wednesday; if not, let us know and we will make sure you do.

Helen Beggs Editor-in-Chief/Publisher Email: Helen@4squaremedia.net

SPECIAL FEATURES Taylored Workwear in the Spotlight

Page 38-43

Looking ahead to the CV Show

Page 52-57

SHIPPING NEWS Stena Line’s Super-Ferries Complete €1m Makeover

Page 78

Artemis Technologies Adds Powerboat Page 80

Capability to Simulator

VAN & PICK-UP IRELAND IRELAND’S TRANSPORT MAGAZINE

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

Next-Gen Ford Ranger Raptor Rewrites the Rulebook for Ultimate Off-Road Performance

Page 82-83

EXPORT & FREIGHT SUBSCRIPTIONS, 4 SM (NI) Ltd

An ‘Away Day’ with Iveco’s DriveAway Range

Page 84-86

Email: eleanor@4squaremedia.net Tel: 028 9268 8888 Web: www.exportandfreight.com

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Export & Freight is Published by: 4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE Tel: 028 9268 8888 Fax: 028 9268 8866 Email: info@4squaremedia.net

AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL NEWSAGENT

Helen Beggs Editor-in-Chief, David Stokes Editor, Phil Eaglestone Commercial Vehicle Editor, Joel Byers Production Manager, Eleanor Blane Accounts Manager and Helen Beggs & Garfield Harrison Publishers

CIRCULATION: Ireland’s specialist magazine for the transport industry. Export & Freight is packed with news, information, developments and trends dedicated to the local marketplace. Export & Freight is a controlled circulation journal, posted each month to exporters, manufacturers, hauliers, own account operators, transport suppliers, commercial vehicle manufacturers, rail companies, bus and coach operators and manufacturers, air and sea terminal, passenger and freight ferry operators, shipping agents and freight forwarders, to name but a few. Export & Freight is also sent to members of professional bodies, including the IRTE, Institute of Quarrying and Institute of Freight Forwarders, FTA and RHA. Export & Freight is also available in your local newsagent. Export & Freight, is published by ‘4 SM (NI) Ltd’, at The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, N. Ireland BT26 6AE. We are a completely independent voice and are not connected to any Institutes or Associations within the industry. Our aim is to publish accurate, specific and dedicated information, targeting each sector of the transport industry, throughout Ireland. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies supplied by the contributors. All rights reserved. The contents of this publications may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, either in part or in full, including photocopying and recording, without the written consent of the owner. Nor may any part of this publication be stored in a retrieval system of any nature without prior written consent of 4 SM (NI) Ltd.

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UK Freight Association reintroduces face-to-face training programme The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has confirmed that some of its extensive portfolio of training courses will return to being conducted in person, as it strengthens the team of people that deliver that training. “Delegates have shown their appreciation for being able to complete our various courses online since classroom training was suspended in March 2020. They have also expressed their desire to receive face-to-face training. Hence, we plan to reintroduce classroom sessions from late April 2022,” explains executive director Carl Hobbis, who has overall responsibility for BIFA’s training activities. “Whilst we will recommence face-to-face training, our successful online training courses will continue.” The first course to return to the classroom on 27 April 2022 at Heathrow, will be Customs Essentials. This is a one-day course that provides knowledge around the key customs documentation and regimes. It is ideal for someone with a basic understanding of the industry. There will be a return to the classroom for BIFA’s four-day BTEC Intermediate Award in Customs Export and Import

Procedures, commencing in May. This course is designed for those that would prefer a formal qualification and covers a wide range of customs-related topics. On 26 May 2022, BIFA’s Freight Forwarding Essentials course will re-commence in person. This oneday course is ideal for someone new to the industry and provides a basic knowledge around the key documentation, modes of transport, insurance, bookings, charges and consolidations. Hobbis adds, “Despite having to deliver our entire portfolio of courses online in 2021, it was an excellent year for the trade association’s training programme, culminating in our decision to appoint an additional full-time trainer to our training delivery team.”

New Trainer Lisa Rose has joined BIFA as trainer – freight and customs procedures, giving the trade association a fourstrong team based in Manchester, Birmingham and Feltham, which will

enable it to deliver more training days for its members during 2022. Lisa, who joins BIFA from Intelligent Global Logistics, will be based in the Midlands, and has over 20 years of experience in freight forwarding and logistics. This includes management and supervisory roles, including branch manager, covering sales, customs, customer service, documentation, special projects, and key account management. Prior to Intelligent Global Logistics, she worked in senior roles at Air Menzies International for over a decade. Hobbis added: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Lisa to the team that delivers our freight and customs training. She has extensive industry experience, and in 2020 achieved a distinction in BIFA’s BTEC in Customs Export and Import Procedures, so has practical experience of the trade association’s training activities. Having her onboard will help us to further demonstrate that BIFA’s freight and customs training programmes are the most engaging in the industry.”

Gus Commercials Introduces New Fleet Management App Gus Commercials, one of Northern Ireland’s most reputable independent providers of commercial vehicle hire, sales, servicing and parts, has introduced a new mobile application to help customers manage their fleets.

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BIFA director general, Robert Keen adds: “Our previous prediction that Brexit, the switch from CHIEF to CDS, and the development of a relevant freight forwarding apprenticeship, would lead to a significant increase in the demand for our training programmes, has been proved correct. “We hope to see more of our members start to take on more apprentices and Lisa’s appointment strengthens the team to have the resources in place to handle any further increase in demand that accompanies the growth in apprentice employment.”

add value for all Gus Commercials’ customers, it is particularly useful for the company’s contract hire customers, who can report monthly vehicle mileage. Users can book a vehicle service via the app and can access Gus Commercials’ used stock for sale or raise a rental enquiry directly from their smartphone or tablet. The app, which was designed by local company, Podium Apps, can now be downloaded from the App Store or from Google Play. Ciarán O’Neill, Commercial Director for Gus Commercials had this to say: “Gus Commercials is known for going the extra mile for customers and we are always looking for ways to make life easier for them. This app allows fleet managers and drivers of Gus vehicles to communicate with us more easily and helps them to get the right assistance in the most efficient way possible, no matter what time of day it is.

The app’s primary function is to assist customers that use Gus Commercials’ 24-hour support service when requiring roadside assistance, giving advice on what to do in the event of an accident and who to contact if a breakdown occurs. While the company has always provided a 24-hour phone line and call out service, often the assistance needed is not mechanical and therefore the most efficient resolution to a breakdown is to contact the specific equipment provider in the first instance. The app contains the contact names and telephone numbers for all of Gus Commercials’ preferred service

Lisa Rose

partners, including tyres, tail lifts, refrigeration units, hydraulic hoses and windscreens. While the app has been designed to

“The introduction of this app is just one step in our plan to modernise how we do things and to bring Gus more in line with the parent company, Traction Finance, that has had its own fleet management app for many years.”

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IOE&IT open new office to help support Northern Ireland businesses trade internationally The Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT) has opened a new office in Northern Ireland to continue its rapid expansion to support businesses and facilitate trade. Located in Bangor, the new office has been established in partnership with the South Eastern Regional College (SERC) to provide vital training and support for companies to ensure they are able to trade effectively, sustainably, and competitively. Marco Forgione, director general of the IOE&IT said: “This is a landmark day for the IOE&IT and our members. We are delighted to be partnering with SERC to deliver the highest quality education and training. Northern Ireland is in a unique position, as part of the UK’s customs union and the EU’s single market. The IOE&IT has been working with businesses over the past two years to ensure NI is in a position to take advantage of these trading relationships.” He continued: “We have always had a strong presence in Northern Ireland with our chief examiner and director of the academy based here. We are so proud to have a physical office that can further expand our footprint to support businesses, our members and students.”

Pictured here (L-R) are Elaine Flynn, SERC Head of Business Services; Marco Forgione, IOE&IT Director General; Ken Webb, SERC Principal; and Aimee Maltman, IOE&IT Director of Academy.

Aimee Maltman MIEx (Grad) and director of the IOE&IT Academy said: “We are delighted to be partnering with SERC and with North West Regional College (NWRC) to deliver a suite of courses. We have had upwards of 140 students so far, proving that the demand is there for education around international trade.”

more qualifications to enable those learners to progress their careers and encourage new people to enter international trade. As a graduate of the IOE&IT myself, I know how vital the education we offer is to help businesses and individuals navigate the international trade landscape.”

She added: “This is an important next step in the work we will be doing in Northern Ireland, and we have plans to expand our offering to include

Ken Webb, Principal and Chief Executive of SERC commented: “The Economic Recovery Action Plan for Northern Ireland prioritises working with

businesses to help them adapt to new trading conditions, and ensuring SMEs are supported and guided to fully benefit from opportunities for cross-border growth. SERC and the IOE&IT have already been working together to fulfil these aims. Since 2021 we have provided many courses from level 2 to level 4, and we are looking forward to building on this firm foundation, to continue to deliver results for employers and the wider economy of Northern Ireland.”

Fuel Efficiency Meets High Mileage with ContiEco Regional Generation 3+ The Conti EcoRegional Generation 3+ tyre line is ideally suited to mixed regional and long-distance haulage. It has been developed for journeys involving multiple deliveries over the course of a day, driving in heavy traffic and winding roads. The tyres’ standout characteristics include reduced rolling resistance and superior fuel efficiency, with their low CO2 emissions contributing to sustainable mobility and future-proof logistics. “The Conti EcoRegional HS3+ for the steering axle and Conti EcoRegional HD3+ for the drive axle represent an uncompromising upgrade for this tyre family,” comments Hinnerk Kaiser, Head of Product Development Bus and Truck Tyres at Continental. The new Conti EcoRegional HS3+ retains the innovative tread design of its tried-and-tested predecessor. The new-generation

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deformation, low rolling resistance and high mileage. Special 3D sipes reinforce tread stability and durability. A substantial reduction in rolling resistance was achieved through the implementation of an enhanced production process for the drive axle. A modified, innovative compound in the tread helps with an overall reduction in the tyre’s rolling resistance.

tyre once again features pocket sipes to minimise uneven wear and improve water dispersion for optimised performance in the wet. Full-depth sipes continue across 50 percent of the rib width. Specially designed groove geometries ensure uniform transfer of power together with a long tyre service life. A modified, innovative compound in the tread helps with an overall reduction in the tyre’s rolling resistance.

Conti Diamond Technique

Like the Conti EcoRegional HS3+, the new Conti EcoRegional HD3+ cannot be distinguished externally from the model it replaces. The proven low-void design with a high number of gripping edges in the tread delivers low

“The tyres in the Conti EcoRegional Generation 3+ line are the result of an enhanced production process that lowers rolling resistance without sacrificing mileage performance,” explains Hinnerk Kaiser. “This

process involves curing the tyres at a relatively low temperature for longer and is known as the Conti Diamond Technique. It has the benefit of giving the polymers and carbon particles more time to react with one another and crosslink effectively, resulting in less internal friction within the compound. This in turn improves the rolling resistance.” Both the Conti EcoRegional HS3+ and the Conti EcoRegional HD3+ bear the 3PMSF marking on their sidewalls, indicating their suitability for wintry conditions. This means these tyres are designed for year-round use in all weathers, including on winter roads and in adverse weather conditions. Certain tyre sizes can be ordered with “intelligent” properties; i.e. they leave the factory already equipped with sensors.

Saving fuel has never felt so good

Volvo fh with i-save

Volvo FH with I-Save – our ultimate long haul truck, is designed, tested and proven to save fuel in long haul operations. Without compromising productivity this truck can cut fuel costs*. It combines the D13TC engine and the unique Long Haul Fuel Package which includes hi-tech, fuel-saving features such as an update of I-See predictive cruise control and an improved Economy Mode. You can also look forward to 300 Nm of extra torque at low revs and together with I-See, the engine makes it possible to tackle hills and gradients in a higher gear – enabling an increased average speed without using more fuel. Effortless efficiency. For more information on our fuel efficient trucks please contact your local Volvo Trucks dealer. Visit volvotrucks.co.uk/i-save *

The fuel improvement claim is calculated by comparing costs of diesel and AdBlue for the new range I-Save D13TC Euro 6 step D with the FUELECO+ package to Classic D13 eSCR Euro 6 step D without the features included in the Fuel Package. Actual fuel economy may vary depending on many factors i.e. driving speed, use of cruise control, vehicle specification, vehicle load, actual topography, the driver’s driving experience, vehicle maintenance, and weather conditions.

Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress

Meet the cargo of the future. Now 8% better. With climate change, we are facing the biggest challenge in human history. And some things must change. What exactly is hard to tell for sure. But whatever innovative cargo you choose to carry, we’re confident we’ll make it 8 % better. That’s because our new Scania Super is the best powertrain we’ve ever built. The most efficient and sustainable of its kind. Setting a new industry standard for powertrains and combustion engines, with a fuel saving of at least 8%. The Super is ready today to carry the cargo of tomorrow. Scan the QR code, search Scania Super or call 0845 034 3034.

The new Scania Super powertrain, with the combustion engine as its centrepiece, will deliver a fuel saving of 8% compared to Scania’s current 13l engine (DLU). The comparison is made for long distance operations.

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Volvo Trucks Improves Fuel Performance on Long-Haul Routes New refinements are being added to Volvo Trucks’ I-Save concept which are designed to lower fuel consumption and give substantial savings in CO2 emissions, while simultaneously improving driveability for a more enjoyable ride. I-Save covers optimisations of the engine technology, the control software and measures to reduce air resistance, all to achieve one shared purpose – increasing energy efficiency as much as possible. Volvo has now taken its Volvo FH I-Save concept one step further to ensure full optimisation of the engines’ combustion process by adapting the injectors, compression and camshaft specifically to the refined and unique new wavepatterned pistons. The overall weight and internal friction have also been reduced. The highperformance turbo charger and oil pump have received upgrades and even the filters for oil, fuel and air have patented refinements for better performance. “Starting from an already highperformance engine, we have looked deeply into many critical details that all together add up to substantial savings. It’s all about getting more usable energy out of every drop of fuel,” says Helena Alsiö, VP Powertrain Product Management at Volvo Trucks. The heart of I-Save is the 13-litre engine with Volvo’s turbo compound technology, D13TC, which makes it possible to drive with low engine revs and high gears for longer periods of time.

from the driveline,” Alsiö continues. When driving long distances, the truck’s aerodynamics play an important role for fuel economy and there have been several changes to improve air flow, such as tighter gaps on the front of the cab and a longer door extension. I-Save has served Volvo’s truck customers well since it was launched in 2019. In response to the great interest, a new power level of 420 hp is now being added to the previous ones of 460 and 500 hp. All engines are certified to run on HVO100, a renewable diesel in the form of hydrogenated vegetable oils. Volvo Trucks’ FH, FM and FMX with standard 11- and 13-litre Euro 6 engines are also getting updates that will increase the energy efficiency.

Fossil-free

The result is a smoother and quieter ride. The engine can run at high efficiency over the entire speed range, with the best result from 900 to 1,300 rpm.

Torque Software Besides all the hardware updates, a new generation of software for engine management has been added, which in turn communicates with an updated I-Shift gearbox. The result not only improves fuel economy, but also provides clearly improved driveability since this intelligent update of the shifting strategy delivers a faster response and an even more harmonious driving experience.

I-Torque is a new intelligent torque software that increases energy efficiency by analysing the topography data from I-See and adapting the driving to the actual route. I-See uses information about the planned route to take advantage of the truck’s kinetic energy in the best possible way when driving on hilly terrain. The new I-Torque function manages gear selection, engine torque and braking when I-Cruise is activated. “To save fuel, the truck starts in Eco mode and as a driver you always have easy access to the power needed and can look forward to faster gearing and torque response

Volvo Trucks goal is that electric trucks will account for half of its truck sales in 2030. The internal combustion engine will, however, continue to play a role and the improved efficiency coming from these new I-Save advances in the driveline is one important way to contribute to lower the CO2 emissions. “We are committed to the Paris Agreement on climate change, and we are taking firm action to dramatically lower CO2 emissions related to on-road freight transports. Even if we see electromobility as the main solution in the longer perspective, energy efficient combustion engines will continue to make an important contribution for many years to come,” concludes Alsiö.

DHL Express opens new state of the art facility in Co. Cork DHL Express has opened its new state of the art logistics hub in Blarney, Co. Cork. DHL has been operating its express service in Cork since 1979 and the significant investment into this new facility is a testament to the company’s long-term commitment to the region. Despite a challenging and turbulent few years, DHL’s focus on maintaining operations and service levels to customers has remained constant. This €11.7m investment into the new purpose-built Cork facility will allow the company to more efficiently service and deliver for customers across Ireland. Comments Bernard McCarthy, Managing Director at DHL Express Ireland: “We’re delighted to open our new purpose built facility in Blarney Business Park which provides a great base to service our many customers in Cork and across the South-Western region.

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Through the pandemic with pressure and congestion in global supply chains, access to international express services has become even more important for Irish businesses trading internationally. In that regard this new facility provides further scope and capacity to manage the volume growth that we are experiencing and in so doing further improve our service offering to our local customer base.” This facility in Blarney Business Park sees a significant increase in terms of sorting capacity, from 2,308 total usable sqm in the current facility, to over 14,980 sqm in the new facility.

This will facilitate significant growth in the DHL business, as well its customers, with the capability to handle 60 routes at a time. This state of the art facility comes just three and half years after the opening of a similarly impressive facility in Shannon, Co. Clare in November 2018 and it was built in full compliance with the latest guidelines of the Deutsche Post DHL Group GoGreen strategy for new facilities, inspired by sustainability, safety and efficiency.

Groundbreaking

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Fuel Transporter Aims for Earned Recognition Status Using TruTac and Microlise Platforms AD fuels, a leading independent road haulage provider for the renewable fuels and waste cycling industries, is working to secure the highly regarded Earned Recognition (ER) status and improve its fleet efficiency. The company’s ER goal is being supported with the help of compliance control and fleet management software systems from both TruTac and Microlise. According to AD Fuels Managing Director Jon Mayes, the transport team now has everything on one platform making complete fleet control easier than ever before, thanks to single sign on (SSO) between the two systems. All data is remotely captured, securely transferred and instantly accessible, saving time, increasing accuracy and virtually eliminating the risk of either duplication or human error.

maintenance, inspections, MOTs and repairs, while adding calendar reminders for tax, insurance and service intervals. Furthermore, inspection sheets can be instantly uploaded and if needed, the system can also manage multiple garages, schedules and bookings.

“The integrated compliance portal from TruTac is easy to use and looks after everything from driver’s hours and vehicle checks to licence details and workshop schedules. The Microlise system focuses on improving driver behaviour and delivers value-add benefits such as fuel reduction.”

every aspect of the fleet operation must run like clockwork and be open to scrutiny and checks. In this regard, he says the data captured and digitally stored by the TruTac and Microlise systems spans a wide range of driver and vehicle activity which can be accessed and retrieved from any portal for auditing and compliance checks at any time.

AD Fuels collects from gas suppliers and delivers to end users throughout the UK, supporting a range of industries and businesses including LNG and CNG suppliers, anaerobic digestion operators and local authorities.

“Plus of course, forward planning and preventative maintenance keeps the fleet running efficiently and smoothly” adds Jon, “and that’s where TruTac’s TruFleet maintenance and workshop planning system comes in.”

Fuel transport, explains Jon Mayes, requires maximum safety and compliance, plus

By using TruFleet on a tablet or any terminal, the workshop team can instantly view planned

Meanwhile, complying with Working Time Directive regulations is made simple for AD Fuels by using TruTac’s time and attendance clocking system, TruTime: Using digital tachograph driver cards, TruTime supports duty of care and H & S obligations, plus HR records for holidays, absences and shift activity. Also, by integrating with TruTac’s TruAnalysis module, TruTime monitors and controls each driver’s working hours and calculates lead-in and lead-out times, by comparing clocked time with tachograph start and/or end times. AD Fuels recently expanded its fleet with the addition of four ADR-specified Volvo FH LNG 6x2 tractor units and in keeping with the spirit of the company’s environmental programme - “Fuelling our future with LNG”- all four trucks were christened by pupils from a local school with the names: Sir Gas’Elot, Greenzilla, Eco Eddie and Leafy Luna - each of which is incorporated into the company’s distinctive truck livery.

Growing Calls for Fuel Duty Cut FairFuelUK is calling on the Chancellor for an urgent cut in Fuel Duty of at least 5p per litre; it has emailed every MP in the country after Brent crude oil hit $130 a barrel. FairFuelUK argues that the extra VAT generated in the last year and the coming months because of the record prices at the pumps is more than enough to give drivers some respite, and cut Fuel Duty to bring pump prices in line with the average of Europe and make businesses more competitive and viable in a post Covid recovery phase. “A fighting fit resilient road freight and logistics sector is essential, not only to keep Britain moving, but to help build back better as we return to normality following the pandemic,” the organisation tells

the Chancellor in an open email. “Without your support through the introduction of an essential user rebate, we run the very real risk that as hauliers continue to be hit with sky high diesel prices during a cost-of-living crisis, the industry’s economic future will become ever more uncertain. “With over half of the cost of a litre of diesel accounted for by tax, we firmly believe that action should be taken to back UK hauliers and keep consumer prices under control through the introduction of an essential user rebate of 15p per litre. This step would mirror an approach taken by many other European nations including Spain, France and Italy which has proved successful. “For over a decade of campaigning for FairFuelUK, we have witnessed the insidious unchecked fleecing of UK drivers. Our nation’s commercial, community, social heartbeat and our right of travel choice have

been so relentlessly demonised and ruthlessly exploited, it has become an institutionalised commercial and fiscal fixation to implement a tsunami of antidriver policies. And it seems, there are more to come. “The exploitation of drivers is running even more rampant, with businesses shameless without any compunction using the Ukrainian Conflict to line their pockets. This has to stop. There has to be transparency in the way petrol and diesel prices are reached as ‘global market commodity costs and exchange rates ‘legitimately’ fluctuate.

fortunate high cost of filling up. “If gas, electricity, water and telecoms get price protection bodies, why shouldn’t motorists have one too? Most of the profiteering is at wholesale level not by small independent retailers, who are also victims of the greedy fuel supply chain.

“Why is the Treasury, and they know full well, not acting to check uncontrolled profiteering is damaging the economy, hitting the already highest taxed drivers in the world, and fuelling inflation? Surely the lack of any monetary help for drivers is not down to the £2bn gargantuan pile of extra VAT the Treasury has relished due to a

“It really is time, the Government recognise that reducing the cost of living, should be their prime focus. Cutting Fuel Duty by at least 5p per litre, before pump prices become increasingly more un-affordable and even more debilitating for your constituents, it is the morally and fiscally, right thing to do.”

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PJD SAFETY SUPPLIES ADD ANOTHER TWO RENAULT TRUCKS TO ITS FLEET

www.diamondtrucks.co.uk

Tel. 028 90 837171 info@diamondtrucks.co.uk

As leading providers of specialised Personal Protection Equipment and Workwear to businesses across Ireland and throughout the UK , County Tyrone based PJD Safety Supplies continues to grow and expand its reach, which is why it recently invested into another two Renault Trucks from dealers Diamond Trucks at Mallusk. The company’s range of products is extensive – from footwear, hearing and head protection to clothing, infection protection and First Aid, from leading brands such as Kimberly Clark, 3M, Ansell and Bodytech. More than ever are the products in big demand, so putting another two Renault trucks on the road was a necessity, with the company having no hesitation in placing what was essentially a repeat order with Diamond Trucks. One of the trucks, a Renault Evolution T High rigid, is the first of its kind to go into service on the island of Ireland, the other is a standard T cab, and both have been highly spec’d to meet PJD’s demanding requirements. They join two other Renault trucks which make up the PJD fleet and comments Operations Director Daryl Coote: “We had no concerns in opting for the two new Renault Trucks vehicles, not only do they represent good value for money, our drivers tell us they are really impressed

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with the trucks handling, performance and comfort, so adding another two to cope with increasing demand wasn’t a difficult decision.” The trucks deliver to customers across the island of Ireland, and clock up thousands of miles annually, so fuel consumption is an important factor, especially given the high cost at the pumps, and says Daryl, the Renaults don’t disappoint on fuel efficiency.

DEALER SUPPORT Another factor in opting for more Renault Trucks vehicles was the ‘excellent level of support’ provided by dealers Diamond Trucks, plus both new vehicles will be maintained under a five year S&D contract. “That means we can get on with doing what we do best without having to worry about any servicing or maintenance,” adds Daryl. Diamond Trucks’ sales executive Matthew Keys tells us that the Renault Trucks flat floored T High 440 rigid, which is powered by a fuel efficient 13 litre Euro VI Step E engine

matched with an Optidriver gearbox, boasts a number of extra features, with a 30 foot long body supplied by Houston Coachworks, complete with a tuck away tail lift. “Our service team at Mallusk also fitted a reversing camera and a top light bar with six LED spot lamps, as well as carry out the pre-delivery inspections,” says Matthew. “The other standard T 460 6x2 rigid enjoys a similar spec; both have sleeper cabs.”

DRIVER FRIENDLY Taking a closer look at the Renault Trucks T and T High, they are fitted with a new full three-axis adjustable steering column for drivers to adopt the driving position that suits them best, tailored to their personal preference. An intuitive, single foot control sets both the position and the tilt of the steering wheel.

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Adjustment with both hands on the wheel and instant locking ensures both precision and safety. The curved design of the dashboard keeps everything within easy reach of the driver, and there is plenty of handy storage space for documents and other paperwork as well as personal effects. The trucks are, as we said, fitted with LED front lamps with daytime running, main beam, fog and indicator functions. As it is closer to natural light, LED light gives drivers a better perception of contrasts and colours, and with light output that is three times that of standard lights, night-time visibility and therefore safety is significantly improved.

As PJD’s drivers spends many hours a day behind the wheel, the trucks are not only the driver’s work place, it is also where they rest and sleep, which is why the cabs feature bunks with thicker than usual mattresses – something, says Daryl, that the company’s drivers are really appreciating. And for added convenience, two USB-C sockets have also been provided in the bunk area to make it easier to charge electronic devices, while keeping them within easy reach of the drivers during their rest periods.

Additional LED lights have also been positioned on the inside of the doors to illuminate the door sill for increased driver safety when getting in and out of the vehicle at night.

FUEL EFFICIENT As we mentioned, the trucks are powered by a Euro 6 engine, the fuel efficiency of which is further enhanced by the cab’s aerodynamics that have been improved around the front grille and wheel arch extensions, aiding airflow. The vehicles have also been fitted with new technology to further reduce fuel consumption. These include a new version of the Optivision predictive cruise control system with two selectable driving modes. ‘Eco on’ is the default mode and optimises fuel consumption by adjusting acceleration, gear shifting, cruise control and deceleration, whereas “Eco off” allows drivers to change the driving mode, while a new “Pulse and Glide” function further improves fuel consumption by maintaining the vehicle’s speed around the Cruise Control set point (+/- 2km/h).

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With Stephen Kelly, ManufacturingNI and Chris Brown, Brown O’Connor.

With Stephen Kelly, ManufacturingNI and Robert Mauro, Boston College at the Irelands Fund Dinner.

NI PROTOCOL TOPS AGENDA AT WHITE HOUSE MEETING The impact of Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol on NI’s supply chain were top of the agenda when Logistics UK’s Policy Manager for Northern Ireland, Seamus Leheny, met with the President of the United States, Joe Biden, at the White House St Patrick’s Day Reception. As part of a week-long visit to the US capital, the meeting gave Seamus the opportunity to outline Logistics UK’s work to support the country’s supply chain and pinpoint areas of concern.

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“It was a huge honour to be invited to the White House to represent the work of Logistics UK, and to have the chance to outline the extensive work Logistics UK has been doing over Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol with President Biden,” says Seamys.

While in Washington, Seamus Leheny also participated in several senior meetings alongside members of the US State Department and Department of Commerce, the US Consul General to NI and the American Trucking Association (ATA).

I also thanked the President and his administration for their work with the EU and UK in reaching an agreed solution to the NI Protocol that will protect NI trade. He was keen to discuss the need for solutions that work for Northern Ireland and its economy and encouraged our members to maintain their focus on protecting the supply chain.”

Topics discussed included the Northern Ireland Protocol, as well as comparisons between the challenges both nations are facing in logistics, in which ideas and strategies for solutions were shared.

Other senior politicians from America, Northern Ireland and Ireland were also in attendance

With Alexandra Rosen and Daniel American Trucking Association.

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Wance from the

at the reception, hosted by the President and the First Lady, to celebrate St Patrick’s Day and discuss US future trade with Ireland.

He was also a guest at the Ireland Fund’s 30th Gala Dinner – one of the most prestigious gatherings of Irish America over St Patrick’s Day – during which President Joe Biden addressed guests.

Seamus with US Congressman Bren dan

Boyle.

Seamus Leheny in conversation with US President Joe Biden at the White House.

“It was great to be invited to America to participate and represent the interests of our members. The President was very warm and understood the issues we are facing, and we look forward to working with our American counterparts to build trading opportunities in the future.”

At the British Embassy, pictured is Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce and NI SoS Brandon Lewis MP.

AC T I V E LY, P R AC T I CA LLY, W E ’ LL H E LP YO U T H R I V E AG A I N These challenging times are affecting us all in many different ways. But we’re here to reignite your plans – with expert advice and support, to help you drive forward again with confidence.

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Classic Scania Centurion Restored and Ready to Roll on Michelin Tyres Modern Tyres has supplied a set of MICHELIN X Multi regional truck tyres to Craigavon-based MST Transport for fitment to a very special restoration of an iconic Scania truck.

“The Centurion is such a special truck, whenever we went to the classic truck shows over in England it would always be the

one everyone was interested in,” explains Taylor. “This example was first owned by J M Phillips and was originally used to work on a contract for Armstrong Steel. “When we did our research and spoke to the people who ran it back in the day, we found out the Centurion was fitted with Michelin’s fuel-saving tyres as original equipment. It was very

“Primoz and the team from Modern Tyres were all very helpful,” adds Taylor. “They delivered the tyres and ensured they were set up properly and the pressures were absolutely as they should be. We couldn’t be happier with how the truck looks, it’s drawn a huge amount of attention already and the Michelin tyres were just the added cherry on the cake.”

important to us to have everything as close to the original as we physically could, so we spoke to our local dealer Modern Tyres, who put us in touch with the local Michelin rep to source us the correct rubber for the job.”

MICHELIN X Multi tyres are packed full of the latest technologies including InfiniCoil, a continuous steel wire wrapped around the tyre to improve mileage potential and fuel efficiency, and Forcion, a material that helps to increase mileage potential and also improve resistance to abrasions, cuts, chunking and chipping. The X Multi D tyres also benefit from Regenion technology within the tread, along with Powercoil – the name Michelin gives to strong steel cables which ensure a lighter casing and contribute towards the drive tyre’s superior longevity and lower rolling resistance.

Michelin Truck Sales Account Manager Primoz Lakota supplied a pair of X Multi Z tyres for the steer axle of the 4x2 tractor unit and

MST Transport will be displaying the Scania Royal Centurion 143 at various classic truck shows across the UK throughout 2022.

The Northern Irish haulier has painstakingly restored a Scania Royal Centurion 143 – one of only 100 Centurion models released in 1991 to celebrate the Swedish manufacturer’s 100th anniversary. The limited-edition truck originally rolled off the production line on Michelin tyres, so the firm’s owner Michael Taylor – who first acquired the vehicle in 2008 – was adamant it had to be the latest generation 315/80 R22.5 MICHELIN X Multi fitments to keep his restoration as authentic as possible.

four X Multi D tyres for the drive axle, all of which are covered by Michelin’s accidental tyre damage guarantee.

ATLAS-L4 funding project: self-driving from hub to hub MAN Truck & Bus, Knorr-Bremse, Leoni and Bosch are joining forces for greater safety, flexibility and efficiency in logistics. Together with automated logistics provider Fernride and test tool manufacturer BTC Embedded Systems, they aim to have autonomously driving trucks on the highway for the first time by the middle of this decade in the ATLAS-L4 project. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the Technische Universität Braunschweig are providing scientific support for the project, while TÜV SÜD and Autobahn GmbH are contributing their expertise with regard to practical feasibility and the approval process. ATLAS-L4: Funding project with partners from the vehicle industry, software development, scientific research and administration to bring autonomous trucks to the streets. Worldwide, trucks are indispensable for transporting goods, but in Germany alone, traffic jams cause billions of euros in economic damage every year, around 90

percent of accidents on the roads are the result of human error, and a lack of drivers is slowing down growth at many companies. The ATLAS-L4 (Automated Transport between Logistics centres on highways, Level 4) research and development project focuses on the operation of autonomous trucks on public motorways and highways, contributing towards lessening congestion and accidents, reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, increasing the flexibility of vehicle use and demonstrating concepts to counter the driver shortage. At the heart of the holistic approach to the project, with partners from the automotive industry, software development, scientific research and administration, is the development of an autonomous truck that meets the requirements for future driverless operation between logistics nodes, on defined public highways and

expressways, in terms of operational safety, remote monitoring and data transmission. The project, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, is already specifically targeting the opportunities opened up by the legislation on autonomous driving passed in 2021, in which Germany is set to hold a worldwide pioneering position. ATLAS-L4 therefore contributes towards the shaping the future of road freight transport, but also strengthens Germany as a business location. By the middle of the decade, the project should have produced a concept for the operation of automated trucks on the motorways ready to enter production.

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ALL ELECTRIC MERCEDES-BENZ eACTROS GOES ON SALE UK truck operators are being invited to enter a new age of sustainable road transport by placing the first orders for right-hand drive versions of the battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros. Aimed at those engaged in heavy-duty, shorthaul distribution, the ground-breaking vehicle produces zero tailpipe emissions and offers a range of up to 249 miles (400 km). It is now available to order as a 4×2 or 6×2 chassis, with deliveries to UK customers beginning in May. Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK has adopted the ‘direct sales’ model already successfully employed for the 7.5-tonne FUSO eCanter, the world’s first fully electric light-duty truck to enter series production. However, while – initially, at least – eActros orders can only be placed with the manufacturer, members of its Dealer network are also embracing the opportunity to take their next steps on the road to a cleaner, ‘greener’ future. Co-operation Partnership Agreements have been eagerly taken up, with sales teams standing ready to provide expert advice on the eActros and channel ‘live’ leads to specialist eConsultants at Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK. Dealers are also investing significant sums in the technical training and additional equipment needed to secure ‘eTruck-ready’ status for their workshops – 17 locations have already been accredited, with more set to follow in the coming months.

Developed and extensively tested in real-life conditions with operators across Europe, eActros is the first series-produced electric truck to bear a three-pointed star. It comes as a 4×2 variant with 19-tonnes gross weight and three battery packs, and as a six-wheeled 27-tonner with either three or four battery packs. Each battery pack has an installed energy capacity of 112 kWh, and a useable capacity of 97 kWh. As a result, the eActros 300 with three battery packs can travel up to 300 km, while the four-battery pack eActros 400 achieves up to 400 km. The 4×2 chassis with three battery packs offers a maximum body and payload allowance of 10.6 tonnes – this rises to 17.7 tonnes in the 6×2 chassis with three batteries, or 16.6 tonnes for the longer-range version of the 6×2 with four battery packs. The drive unit at the vehicle’s heart comprises a rigid electric axle with a pair of integrated electric motors and a two-speed transmission. Both liquid-cooled motors generate a continuous output of 330 kW (443 hp) and peak power of 400 kW (536 hp). Electrical energy recovered through recuperation while braking is fed back into the batteries for use by the drive system.

The highly efficient electric motors offer constant delivery of power with high starting torque for powerful acceleration. Impressive comfort and low levels of noise – roughly half those of a conventional diesel truck – combined with reduced vibration contribute to a relaxed, lowstress driving experience, while the vehicle’s low centre of gravity helps when cornering. The truck rides on full air suspension and despite the fact that the batteries are safely and securely housed beneath the frame, it is no higher than a standard vehicle. The eActros can be charged with up to 160 kW – when connected to a regular 400A DC charging station three battery packs need just over an hour to recharge from 20 to 80% capacity. Its low operational noise makes the eActros ideal for night-time deliveries in built-up areas. Drivers benefit too – the interior noise level has been reduced by 10 dB, roughly corresponding to a halving of the perceptible noise level. Standard equipment, meanwhile, includes MirrorCam, Multimedia Cockpit, Active Brake Assist 5, Sideguard Assist and an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System.

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RENAULT TRUCKS UNVEILS ITS NEW AMBITIONS IN ELECTRIC MOBILITY Renault Trucks is expanding its all-electric range and has announced the start of sales for 2023 of two new models of up to 44 tonnes, the Renault Trucks T E-Tech for regional transport and the Renault Trucks C E-Tech for the construction industry. As Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone reports, the news was announced during a recent visit to Renault Trucks in France when we also got the opportunity to spend a little time putting the D E-Tech and D Wide E-Tech through their paces, in addition to taking in the sights, including the famous Pegasus Bridge, the successful capture of which during WW2 played an important role in limiting the effectiveness of a German counter-attack in the aftermath of the Normandy invasion. Since 2020, the manufacturer has been producing a range of all-electric vehicles from 3.1 to 26 tonnes, manufactured in France. These two new models in Renault Trucks’ heavy-duty range will be fitted with two or three electric motors providing a combined power of up to 490 kW (equivalent to 666 hp). They will be also equipped with an Optidriver gearbox. The Renault Trucks T and C E-Tech will have two to six lithium-ion battery packs with a capacity of 180 to 540 kWh. The vehicles’ batteries can be fully charged in 9.5 hours by alternating current (AC) up to 43 kW, or in 2.5 hours by direct current (DC) up to 250 kW. These trucks will be able to travel up to 300 km on a single charge and up to 500 km with a one-hour intermediate fast charge (250 kW). Five axle configuration and three power take-offs for

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easier bodybuilding For easy adaption to any type of bodywork and consequently to any type of use, the Renault Trucks T and C E-Tech can be equipped with three types of power take-off (PTO): electric, electromechanical or on the gearbox. These new electric trucks will have a gross vehicle weight of 44 tonnes and be available in 4x2 and 6x2 tractor versions and 4x2, 6x2 and 8x4 tridem rigids. The Renault Trucks T and C E-Tech will go on sale in the first quarter of 2023. They will be manufactured at the Renault Trucks plant in Bourg-en-Bresse. With a full electric range that now extends from 3.1 to 44 tonnes and a 360° customer support offering,

Renault Trucks is stepping up its strategy and setting its sights higher: the manufacturer intends to sell 50% of its vehicles in electric form by 2030. Its sales volumes reflect this rapid progress: in 2021, 249 electric trucks were delivered and 613 were ordered. Renault say that by 2040, 100% of the vehicles sold will be fossil free.

E-TECH SUPPORT To support these ambitions, Renault Trucks is entering a new era, rolling out an offer designed to provide comprehensive support for hauliers in their transition to carbon neutrality. The Renault Trucks E-Tech offer comprises both a range of highperformance electric vehicles and all-round support for customers in

their energy transition, from their initial purchase to monitoring the operations of their electric trucks. This 360° support is structured in four phases: 1. An initial phase during which Renault Trucks helps customers draw up their decarbonisation plans and analyse and define their needs. The manufacturer provides its expertise in the solutions available on the market and understanding of the business constraints of its customers. 2. A second phase of diagnosis, based on precise knowledge of the customer’s activity, including analysis of the fleet and routes and an analysis of the sites’ electrical facilities. It involves use of simulation tools to help customers make decisions and monitor their activity, such as a carbon emission reduction simulator and a range simulator. Following this diagnosis, Renault Trucks provides the customer with a detailed recommendation, which includes a roll-out schedule and a forecast of the reduction in CO2 emissions for the coming years.

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3. Next, a phase during which Renault Trucks becomes the architect of the decarbonisation project and co-builds the new electric mobility ecosystem alongside the customer. The solution includes financing, taking into account local or governmental subsidies, the definition and setup of the complete truck with its

equipment and bodywork, on-site charging facilities, maintenance agreements, etc. It is during this phase that Renault Trucks provides its customer with an electric truck, so that it can be tested in real working conditions. 4. In the final phase, Renault Trucks acts as the project manager for the customer’s decarbonisation solution:

installation of on-site charging facilities, training of drivers and fleet administrators, etc. Last but not least, Renault Trucks and its network support customers in the operational monitoring of their fleet, thanks to vehicle connectivity. This involves the manufacturer monitoring the charging facilities, tracking driving and consumption

and making suggestions for optimisation, recommending routes, and optimising maintenance operations. Hauliers need practical support in their transition to electric vehicles. Renault Trucks is at their side in their decarbonisation plans, providing support based on expertise, anticipation, proximity, peace of mind and fast performance.

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PARTNERING GEODIS Meanwhile, Renault Trucks and GEODIS are combining their industrial, logistics and engineering expertise to design an electric heavy truck dedicated to urban logistics, meeting the requirements of city-centre freight transport. Changes are occurring in urban freight transport, whether in terms of emission regulations, restricted access, or the proliferation of modes of mobility (cargo bikes, bicycles, scooters, etc.) sharing the public space.

will seamlessly blend into the urban landscape, among other road users in areas with traffic and even in pedestrian zones. This new truck will be designed for the driver’s working comfort and safety, and for the safety of city dwellers.”

excellent direct view for optimal protection of road users; a large windshield and multiple cameras instead of rear-view mirrors, offering a 360° view; a sliding side door on the passenger side restricting the door opening angle.

GEODIS, whose ambition is to reduce its CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030, has undertaken to provide carbon-free deliveries to 37 cities in France by 2023.

Thanks to the collaborative work carried out from the design stage onwards, this vehicle will make it possible to integrate all the requirements and functions of city-center delivery: elimination of nuisances such as pollution and noise, and improvement of active and passive safety in order to better manage co-existence with all road users (pedestrians and people using soft modes of transport).

• Greater comfort for the driver, who will be able to get out of the truck on either side, left or right. Climbing in and out of the truck will be made easier by a much lower access height than on a standard delivery truck.

Through their new collaboration, the constructor and its logistics partner are taking this approach a step further and combining their know-how to develop a brand new 16-tonne electric urban truck, at a comparable cost (TCO2) to that of a diesel vehicle, which is a prerequisite for the widespread adoption of alternative power units. Marie-Christine Lombard, Chief Executive Officer of GEODIS, said: “The environmental emergency combined with the growth of e-Commerce and the implementation of lowemission zones in major French cities mean that we urgently need to step up the decarbonization of transport. This is the objective of GEODIS in forming this partnership with Renault Trucks. We want to quickly provide concrete answers to the issue of sustainable urban logistics.” Bruno Blin, president of Renault Trucks, added: “We have noticed that the image of the truck is changing; at last, it is being perceived as an indispensable tool. The purpose of the Oxygen project, in which Renault Trucks is working alongside GEODIS, is to design a truck that

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In the early phases of work, the following areas of focus were identified: • Improved safety for the driver and the public thanks to a lowered cab giving the driver an

• Optimal ergonomics and easier access to the cargo space. To achieve this, a threeway partnership with a bodybuilder is under consideration with a view to improving loading/ unloading operations in an urban environment. • Connected tools enabling drivers to optimise their delivery operations and their routes. • To ensure that this vehicle blends into the urban landscape perfectly and with a view to enhancing both the comfort and the selfesteem of the driver, Renault Trucks designers have completely redesigned both the exterior lines of the truck and the interior of the cab.

TRIAL IN PARIS The truck will be trialed for urban deliveries in Paris, starting in 2023. This real-world testing will be followed by a phase of adaptation of the vehicle incorporating feedback from drivers covering comfort of use, practicality, recharging, etc., and then by a study to optimise the total cost of ownership.

Go Further Grow Stronger Growing exports from local companies is one of the most effective ways to stimulate economic recovery and grow the Northern Ireland economy. This school of thought has been endorsed further by The Department for the Economy’s 10X Economic Vision published last year. 10X sets out the ambition to harness trade opportunities outside Northern Ireland to create a more prosperous and competitive economy for all. So, with this in mind, Invest Northern Ireland launched its Go Further Grow Stronger exporting campaign earlier this month. Go Further Grow Stronger aims to make businesses which have previously focused on domestic sales aware of the breadth of opportunities which exist right on our doorsteps. Northern Ireland’s business landscape is predominantly comprised of micro, small and medium sized enterprises – so for many the prospect of tackling international markets may be a step too far. However, the reality for many of these businesses is that by targeting neighbouring markets they could access a much bigger customer base quite easily. Both the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain are within easy reach – there are no additional administrative requirements or regulatory checks to selling goods to either of these markets, yet they present the opportunity to sell products and services to an additional 70 million people. Around 25,000* local companies are already selling in to these markets successfully – in 2020 sales to Great Britain and Ireland from Northern Ireland totalled £15 billion** and demand for products and services from Northern Ireland is forecast to continue growing. As well as developing an aspiration to secure sales in neighbouring markets, Invest Northern Ireland also

wants to ensure businesses planning to sell outside the region for the first time have access to all the support they will need to begin their exporting journey. Businesses considering expanding their sales network can take the Export Health Check which was launched in conjunction with the campaign. The Export Health Check has a maximum of 8 questions and will take about 10 minutes to complete and it helps businesses understand the importance of export and quickly assesses their level of export readiness. Upon completion, businesses will receive a tailored export guide with practical tips and templates for exporting as well as signposting to support. Northern Ireland based businesses can also get in touch with Invest Northern Ireland’s team of International Trade Advisors who can provide expert advice and guidance to help prepare your strategic exporting plans. This team provides critical linkages for local exporters, connecting and signposting businesses to assistance and support across Northern Ireland. If your business is considering selling outside Northern Ireland, visit Investni.com/export or if you would like to speak to a trade advisor please contact us or alternatively call our Business Support Team on 0800 181 4422 * BESES ** Broad Economy Sales and Export Statistics, NISRA

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New Trailer Tyre in the Conti Hybrid Generation 3+ Range

Snowflake) marking on its sidewall. This symbol indicates the tyre’s suitability for wintry conditions and therefore year-round use in all weathers.

In the Conti Hybrid tyre line for regional transport, the addition of a plus symbol in the product name indicates more than just a cosmetic update. Offering powerful performance on winding, hilly roads and a high level of adaptability over long journeys, these tyres are designed for consistently outstanding mileage and minimal fuel consumption – both on country roads and out on the motorway. Having already launched the Conti Hybrid

HS3+ to replace the Conti Hybrid HS3 for the steering axle in recent months, Continental is now bringing out the Conti Hybrid HT3+. In contrast to the tried-and-tested Conti Hybrid HT3 model it replaces, the new trailer tyre for regional distribution applications bears the statutory 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain

The specially designed groove geometry and improved pocket sipes offer enhanced grip in wet and wintry road conditions, while the tread design ensures outstanding mileage too. “The new Conti Hybrid HT3+ represents the logical next step for heavy-duty transport,” remarks Hinnerk Kaiser, Head of Product Development Bus and Truck Tyres at Continental. “The Hybrid line is renowned for its combination of long service life and outstanding fuel efficiency. This maximises cost effectiveness for fleet operators – and can now do so 365 days a year thanks to the 3PMSF rating.”

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Haulier in Court on Multiple Offences A County Antrim haulier has been convicted at Banbridge Court and fined £700 for multiple offences after DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a Scania articulated unit and trailer in the Banbridge area. An examination of the vehicle revealed that neither the unit nor trailer had a valid Goods vehicle certificate. An inspection of the Tachograph vehicle unit and the driver’s tachograph card had not been downloaded within the legislation timeframe of 90 days and 28 days respectively.

Failed to Download Tachograph Card

No Valid Goods Operator Licence A County Down operator was convicted at Belfast Court £1000 for a number of offences after DVA Enforcement Officers stopped an articulated lorry in combination with a Faymonville Special Types four axle trailer in the Belfast area. During an examination of the vehicle, officers found the operator of the vehicle did not have a valid Goods Operator licence. Furthermore, the tachograph unit in the vehicle had not been calibrated as required by the regulations. Officers also identified the tachograph unit in the vehicle had not been downloaded within the 90 day timeframe provided by statute and the driver’s card had not been downloaded within the 28 day timeframe provided by statute. The unit had not been downloaded in 422 days missing the deadline by 332 days and the driver’s card had not been downloaded in 49 days missing the deadline by 21 days.

A County Tyrone operator has been found guilty on appeal and fined £2,500 for a number of tachograph offences. The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a Mercedes HGV near Omagh. During an examination of the vehicle, it was discovered the vehicle’s tachograph unit had not been downloaded within the 90 days legislative timescale and the driver’s tachograph card had not been downloaded within the required timeframe of 28 days. There were also three occasions where the vehicle had been driven and the recording equipment had not been used as no driver’s card had been inserted.

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MULGREW HAULAGE TURNS TO TIGER TRAILERS FOR ITS 200 LATEST CURTAINSIDERS The drinks specialist’s procurement move was influenced heavily by the manufacturer’s ability to build bespoke trailers to exacting specifications, reflecting Mulgrew’s ferry routes, operational parameters and end-customers’ requirements. Tiger collaborated closely with Paul Mulgrew to build an initial prototype trailer before its production lines turned into a sea of the operator’s distinctive orange livery.

A SIGNIFICANT SWITCH IN TRAILER SUPPLIER Over 50 of the haulier’s 200 new trailers have so far departed Tiger’s factory in Cheshire for Mulgrew’s sites in County Down, Dublin, Deeside and Heysham, and will take the operator’s fleet to around 1,000 trailers, therefore representing around a fifth. Its truck fleet is predominantly comprised Scania, and Mulgrew’s warehousing division offers 150,000 square foot of space.

A COMPELLING CHOICE FOR IRISH FLEETS Tiger Trailers offers the full product range, from curtainsiders and box vans to double decks, temperature controlled, demounts, and rigid bodywork, along with a portfolio of services including finance, parts, and rentals. Its indoor showroom enables customers to view their products in comfort. The manufacturer has been rapidly welcoming a growing number of hauliers from across the island of Ireland to its customer base over the last eighteen months, supported by its sales team who make regular visits.

PAUL MULGREW, DIRECTOR, SAYS: “Darren and his colleagues certainly lived up to Tiger’s customer-first way of building trailers and his repeated visits to see our operations and understand our requirements first hand have resulted in new trailers that we are very happy with.” “It’s refreshing to work with a manufacturer that goes the extra mile in tailoring its products for each customer like this”, he adds.

EACH CUSTOMER VIEWED AS UNIQUE Mulgrew’s EN 12642 XL-rated Tiger curtainsider trailers have been optimised with recessed and protected lighting, underrun positioning, D-buffers to protect from damage, heavyduty and removeable roof cappings, and tapered and plated bottoms to the corner pillars to reduce coupling impact. Operational restraints of 4650mm at the core are also reflected in Tiger’s solution that equips the haulier with the maximum side aperture possible for multi-user movements, and a very specific load restraint setup. Michelin is the chosen tyre brand for Mulgrew’s new curtainsiders, which run on the firm’s X® MULTI™ HL T product.

DARREN HOLLAND, TIGER TRAILERS’ SALES DIRECTOR, COMMENTS: “It has been a pleasure to work closely with Paul to produce a trailer to suit Mulgrew’s individual needs and the environments they operate in”. He continues: “Visiting the customer multiple times enabled us to understand their requirements and ensure that Tiger met their specification 100%, building the one-off protype up front to iron out any challenges before commencing building the remainder of the 200 ordered.”

Tiger Trailers’ full product range and profile as a company, including its CSR and road safety activities, can be found online at tigertrailers.co.uk

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

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TRANSPORT TRAINING SERVICES HOSTS ‘WOMEN IN WHEELS NI’ EVENT TO SHOWCASE AUTOMOTIVE AND TRANSPORT CAREERS Local training provider, Transport Training Services, hosted the first ever Women in Wheels NI event recently to coincide with International Women’s Day. The event called Women Driving Change offered females of all ages from across Northern Ireland the opportunity to find out about the wide range of career opportunities in the automotive and transport/logistics sectors. Participants took part in interactive activities, including getting behind the wheel of a truck or bus and getting hands-on with vehicle maintenance demonstrations. The event also had speakers from a broad cross-section of the motor and transport sectors, from truck and bus

drivers, vehicle technicians, fleet and transport managers, female business owners and many more.

Caroline Delaney from Donnelly Group and TTS Apprentice

Zhara Hunter from TrustFord striking the International A range of employers were Women’s Day ‘Break the Bias’ pose. also there to talk about live job opportunities on the day, including Woodside Logistics & Logistics and HGV Driver panels, a Group, Translink, Bryson Recycling, Compliance & Fleet Management panel Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, DHL gave attendees the chance to find out about Supply Chain, Manpower and Mercedes-Benz career possibilities that may be lesser known Truck & Van, as well as Donnelly Group roles to anyone outside of the industry. representing the automotive sector.

With more than 120 people through the doors at TTS and 72 getting behind the wheel of a truck or bus, the event was a huge success. As well as practical activities such as vehicle technician demonstrations and vehicle paint technician displays, a range of panel discussions, hosted by Pamela Dennison, ran throughout the day with speakers from a broad cross-section of the sectors being promoted. In addition to Automotive, Transport

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BUILDING ON PROGRESS

Siofra McClure, Recruitment Co-Ordinator at Woodside Logistics Group had this to say: “At Woodside Logistics Group, our aim is to continue to build an inclusive culture where all our staff feel welcome and valued. We recognise there is a need to encourage more women into the transport and logistics industry and we are proud to work with partners like Women in Wheels NI to show the opportunities we have

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Julie Martin, Bryson Recycling. tics Charlie Thompson, Woodside Logis

Group.

for women interested in a career in logistics and build on the progress we have already made. “We were delighted to be a partner at the inaugural Women Driving Change event at the Transport Training Services on Sunday 6th March. The event was a huge success and really highlighted not only the opportunities available for women in the industry but the amount of women in Northern Ireland who want to break down the barriers and start a career in logistics. We are excited to continue our work to drive inclusion and we look forward to working with our colleagues in the industry to provide more opportunities for women.”

POSITIVE FEEDBACK

have received since. We couldn’t have been more pleased to see the fantastic turn out at the first ever Women in Wheels NI event.” TTS runs a Facebook Group (www.facebook. com/groups/womeninwheelsni) which now has more than 340 members, a combination of automotive and transport industry professionals and women interested in careers in these sectors. Due to the success of this inaugural Women in Wheels NI event, TTS hopes to run another one later in the year. Any employers interested in getting involved

should contact TTS to register their interest. This event followed TTS’s launch of its 2022 apprentice recruitment campaign at an Open Day on Thursday 10th February to coincide with Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week. As well as showcasing the organisation’s range of existing apprenticeship frameworks, new logistics industry apprenticeships were announced, including Warehousing & Storage, Logistics Operations and Supply Chain Management, as well as apprenticeships in Customer Service, Management and Team Leading.

DRIVER PANEL

One participant, Zoe McVey, said: “Thank you so much for today. It was so interesting. I really enjoyed the practical aspect too. I am definitely going to do my HGV training. Thanks for helping me decide!” Another, Stephanie Blain, added: “Great day all round. It has totally inspired me! I have plenty of homework and reading to do… Hopefully I’ll be going forward into the future for something that really interests me.” And Alex Jay, had this to say: “Absolutely class! I’ve been struggling a lot lately and today was such an amazing experience. I’m still smiling from my drive in the fire engine! So many lovely people sharing their experiences in various careers has really given me inspiration. Thank you so much to everyone who spent time chatting with me.”

t Training for the n Northern Ireland

ort CPC

Zara Walker from Manfreight.

Driver Panel left to right: Andrea Laing, Firefighter, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service; Julie Martin, HGV Driver, Bryson Recycling; Cathy McGeough, Senior Bus Inspector, Translink; Charlie Thompson, HGV Driver, Woodside Logistics Group; Zara Walker, HGV Driver, Manfreight.

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS PANEL

Other comments included: “a new career beckons” and “change of career direction I think”.

With less than 2% of vehicle technicians and large goods vehicle drivers in NI, and just 14% of all UK logistics workers being female, the organisations involved in this event are Transport committed to attracting more women into a ADR range & DGSA Industrycareers. of historically male-dominated

Training Michael Strain, CEO Apprenticeship of TTS, added: “I have no doubt that many of the women in attendance Provider

Transport & Logistics Panel left to right: Sarah Crowe, Group HR Manager, Woodside Logistics Group; Maire Claire Reid of TST Group; Jemma Woolsley, Commercial Director, Global Cargo Solutions; Imelda Haran from The Open University in Ireland and South West College.

COMPLIANCE & FLEET MANAGEMENT

will go on to take up careers in automotive or transport, having seen the response on the day and the very positive feedback that we

training.org

Compliance & Fleet Management Panel left to right: Charlene Quayle, Group Fleet Manager at Pivotal and Chair of NI Freight Council; Naomi Orr, Fleet Standards Manager, Translink; Leona Morrow, Owner of LM Transport Consultant; Sharon O’Reilly, Compliance Manager, Mar-Train Heavy Haulage; Aileen Monaghan, Assistant Director Business Development at Bryson Recycling.

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TRUCK NEWS

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VOLVO TRUCKS REVEALS THE TECHNOLOGY IN ITS NEW HEAVY-DUTY ELECTRIC TRUCKS Volvo Trucks is fully prepared to catalyze a rapid shift to more sustainable transportation, and a major upswing in electrification of heavy road transport, with its recently launched Volvo FH, FM and FMX Electric vehicles. Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone recently travelled to the west coast of Sweden to get more familiar with the range. He managed to spend some time behind the wheel of several models, travelling around the seaport city of Gothenburg and was suitably impressed with both performance and handling. Breakthrough technology based on shared platforms makes them highly suitable for a wide range of hauling assignments, enabling many transport companies to embark on their own electrification journey more easily. With the sales start of three new all-electric trucks – the FH, FM and FMX – Volvo Trucks

can now offer customers a total range of six electrified truck models. The production of the new trucks will initially start with tractors in the second half of 2022, followed by rigids in the beginning of 2023. The new heavy-duty trucks for the regional haul and construction segments have a gross combination weight (GCW) of up to 44 tons and come in two alternative chassis heights, with wheelbases from 3800 to 6700 mm and a variety of two, three or four axle configurations. “Built on the same highly-successful platform as their diesel or gaspowered counterparts, our new electric trucks provide great flexibility and the ability to meet a very wide variety of transport needs,” comments Jonas Odermalm, Vice President of Electromobility Product Management at Volvo Trucks.

THREE MOTORS Three electric motors are coupled with Volvo Trucks’ well-proven I-Shift gearbox which has a unique new gear shifting

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strategy optimized for electric operations. Together, the motors and I-Shift gearbox form a powerful electric drive unit that offers unprecedented, high-efficiency drivability – with a combined electric motor power of 490 kW (666 hp) and a gearbox torque of up to 28,000 Nm.

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TRUCK NEWS

VOLVO TRUCKS CAN NOW OFFER CUSTOMERS A TOTAL RANGE OF SIX ELECTRIFIED TRUCK MODELS

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TRUCK NEWS

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transition to electrified transport.

“Because the truck always starts in the highest possible gear, energy efficiency and savings are achieved, thanks to minimized gear shifting. At the same time lower gears are of course available for steep roads or in starting situations that require additional torque and control,” Jonas Odermalm explains.

“For hauliers, it’s important that the transition to electric trucks can be done gradually and in a smooth and easy way. They will have a mixed fleet with different drivelines for many years to come and they can continue to use systems like Dynafleet as well as the same service provider for all their Volvo trucks. The driveline may differ, but the rest is very similar, making the move to electric trucks both seamless and logical,” concludes Jonas Odermalm.

For power take-off, PTO, capability there are three options to meet the customer’s needs: one electric (40 kW), one electro-mechanical (70 kW) and one gearbox mounted (150 kW).

NEXT GENERATION BATTERIES The high energy density traction batteries use the latest generation of lithium-ion cell technology and will be assembled in a Volvo production plant. An electric truck with six battery packs has a nominal capacity of 540 kWh, allowing a range of up to 300 km*.

charge the vehicle during a lunch break, to add additional range. With a 250 kW DC-charger it is possible to charge up to 80 percent of the battery capacity in less than 90 minutes.

FLEXIBLE AND FAST CHARGING

SMOOTH TRANSITION

The trucks offer two ways of charging: AC charging up to 43 kW, which is ideal for overnight charging, or a much faster DC charging of up to 250 kW. This is very useful when driving two shifts or if you need to

In addition to the electric trucks, Volvo Trucks also offers a complete ecosystem of service, maintenance and financing solutions that are made specifically for hauliers to support their easier and faster

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VOLVO TRUCKS’ ELECTRIC VEHICLE OFFERING FOR EUROPE • Volvo FH Electric, for regional and intercity transport. • Volvo FM Electric, a versatile truck for heavy local transports and regional distribution. • Volvo FMX Electric, for cleaner and quieter construction transport. • Volvo FE Electric, for local and city distribution, waste transport. • Volvo FL Electric, for local and city distribution.

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Seamus Leheny Policy Manager - Northern Ireland. Logistics UK

IMPACT OF UKRAINE CRISIS ON LOGISTICS The logistics industry has faced significant disruption in recent years, with challenges such as Brexit, Covid-19 and skills shortages affecting the movement of goods both nationally and internationally. Now, as businesses look to recover from these significant issues, global supply chains are facing further challenges due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. While some levels of disruption to the supply chain are inevitable, the logistics industry remains resilient. In this article, Seamus Leheny, Logistics UK’s Policy Manager for Northern Ireland, outlines the challenges faced by this adaptable industry. Despite Russian and Ukrainian trade combined only accounting for £1 in every £50, a small portion of the world’s economy, key global markets have been disrupted by the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. Global economic sanctions imposed on Russia aimed at crippling the nation’s economy are having wider effects; with many western governments looking to seek alternative to Russian energy, a report from the Organisation for Economic Development (OECD) warns that the conflict could increase fuel prices globally by around 2.5%. In addition, Russia and Ukraine are major exporters of key commodities such as cereals (Ukraine is often described as the ‘breadbasket of Europe), sunflower seeds, rape and colza seeds, with businesses that are reliant on these items, whether sourced directly or indirectly, likely to be affected. Both Ukraine and Russia are also large producers of industrial metals and other raw materials, such as neon and palladium, used to produce semiconductors. The automotive industry was already suffering from a global shortage of semi-conductor chips before the Russian offensive, and the ongoing conflict is likely to further impact this with vehicle delivery times now being stretched even further. As well as the impact on global supply chains, the cost of fuel has been heavily affected. Fuel

accounts for a third of the annual operating costs of a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) and is the single biggest expense incurred by road transport operators. Logistics UK wrote to Rishi Sunak MP, the Chancellor of the Exchequer ahead of the Budget 2022, urging for a temporary reduction in diesel Fuel Duty to ensure logistics operators can continue to operate efficiently. And, following the budget announcement made by the Chancellor on 23 March 2022, while the news that Fuel Duty will be cut by 5ppl across both petrol and diesel for the next 12 months, the rapid rise in the cost of fuel will still see logistics businesses, which operate on narrow margins of around 1%, impacted by the ongoing increased price of such a key commodity. The conflict has also impacted rail, sea and air freight. Across the air freight sector, flights are being diverted, delayed and in some cases, cancelled, as a result of the reciprocal flight bans between Russia, Europe and North America as part of sanctions and countersanction packages. Diverted flights can lead to lengthy blockages on key flight corridors, potentially limiting freight capacity. Following COVID-19, air freight prices rose to two and a half times higher than prepandemic levels, and potential limited capacity could see costs further increase. As with road freight, fuel prices have also risen since the crisis. For the week ending 4 March 2022, jet fuel rose to $1119 per tonne, an increase of 28% from the previous week and a 45% increase since the start of 2022. This causes further turbulence for the sector that was in the early stages of recoveryfrom the COVID19 pandemic; according to the Civil Aviation

Authority, total UK air freight tonnes increased by 5.9% compared with November 2020. Shipping has also been affected – the closure of Ukrainian seaports is bringing shipping in the Black Sea to a standstill, and major shipping lines are interrupting their services to Russian ports – as well as rail, where the New Silk Road rail routes are either closed or deemed as too risky for use by many freight operators. Despite these challenges, the logistics industry continues to adapt and to ensure the nation remains stocked with the supplies it needs. Amid these challenges, the sector has also remained focused in its efforts towards humanitarian aid. Logistics UK issued an urgent appeal to its air and road members to help in the collection and distribution of aid to support the humanitarian crisis taking place in Ukraine’s surrounding countries, and has seen a staggering response with around 70 businesses and individuals offering transportation, warehousing space, packaging and vehicles to assist with relief aid, with offers continuing to be received on a regular basis. Personally, I have been very proud of our local logistics industry’s response here in Northern Ireland, seeing many of our local businesses arranging and consolidating aid supplies for Ukraine and then transporting it to the relevant aid distribution centres near Ukraine border. Those businesses have represented the very best of us not just as a sector of the economy, but of our society. Should you be able to provide support, please contact supplyukraine@logistics.org.uk. While the future remains unclear, Logistics UK will continue to work together with members, government and key policy makers to ensure solutions are sought for the challenges that continue to arise as a result of the conflict. Logistics, while extremely complex, is highly adaptable and will continue to deliver for the nation.

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John Martin RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

RHA LAUNCHES THREE CAMPAIGNS FOR THE TRANSPORT SECTOR The RHA have launched three key campaigns – facilities, driver shortages and the environment - this year to highlight the critical issues facing both the freight and coach sectors. These campaigns are not designed to detract from the other issues sectors are facing both at regional and national level including fuel prices, the new rules on the use of red diesel or the impact of the post Brexit rules but it’s to bring some focus on the issues featured in the campaigns. The lack of suitable facilities is an issue drivers and operators have been raising for years. If you travel around Europe, you will encounter some fantastic facilities to cater for driver’s basic needs and welfare. The provision of suitable and sufficient facilities also is inextricably linked to driver retention. It’s just not about facilities on the major road networks it’s also facilities at delivery or collection hubs, regional distribution centres, etc. Once drivers join our industry, assuming their pay is appropriate, the reason most leave is poor driver facilities. Nowhere to park safely, no adequate toilet, washing and food facilities and poor treatment while making deliveries. We need to change the “they don’t matter” culture which seems to infect local authority and national government planning decisions and make our

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driver facilities the envy of the world – not the shame of it. The RHA is urging people in the commercial vehicle sector to get behind a new campaign to improve driver facilities. The RHA Facilities Campaign will galvanise the industry to press for more safe and secure

parking and improve the standard of driver facilities. There’s an estimated shortfall of 11,000 lorry parking spaces nationally exposing an all-too familiar reality for commercial vehicle drivers without somewhere secure to eat, sleep, and access toilets.

bureaucracy holding up plans to build much-needed facilities with an example of that with the delays with the planning process for the Drumahoe Transport Service and Driver Rest Facility Hub on the new A6 road between Londonderry/ Derry and Dungiven Road.

Developers are often frustrated by local authority and/or Departmental

The RHA calls on firms and industry professionals to add their voices to

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John Martin RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

issues within the sector.

the campaign which launched with a petition calling on Government ministers to pave the way for more safe and secure facilities.

A number of the larger local logistics providers also have very successful internal training academies which also assists, however the Government Department’s including the Department for the Economy, the Department for Infrastructure and the Department for Finance need to join forces with the sector and develop a strategy to address the issues and concerns of the logistics and coach sector to ensure we can continue to deliver for the economy of Northern Ireland.

Richard Smith, the RHA Managing Director said: “We’re determined to kick-start a culture change. Commercial vehicle drivers continue to put up with poor facilities out on the road and it’s just not good enough. People at work should feel safe and respected; our drivers expect better and deserve better.” The petition is on the RHA website: https://www.rha. uk.net/Campaigns/Facilities/ Facilities-Petition. Follow the campaign on social media through: #RHAfacilities.

ENVIRONMENT

Commercial vehicle drivers are the backbone of our economy yet every day they are up against a lack of safe and secure parking areas, toilet, and shower facilities.

• Amend the National Planning Policy Framework mandate for local authorities to approve appropriate and low impact plans for new parking and facilities.

All too often commercial drivers are forced to take their rest periods in their vehicles at the side of the road or on industrial estates, with no access to hygiene facilities. This highlights one of the key challenges in tackling the driver shortage, ensuring that a career in haulage is seen a valuable and valued career choice.

Put simply, without a concerted partnership between Government and industry we run the very real risk that the unacceptable and inadequate facilities available to drivers will only serve to continue the UK’s driver shortage a major problem that will hold back our economy.

Whilst we welcome efforts to tackle this through the Government’s HGV Bootcamps, in GB without tackling the crisis in driver facilities these efforts are unlikely to provide the long-term solution that Government and industry are committed to finding. We are therefore lobbying Government: • To introduce a cross Government task force to review all existing driver facilities and work with industry on a long-term solution • Increase the funding provided to improve and increase the provision of safe and secure driver facilities and parking spaces

The political scene in the UK is increasingly polarised, often angrier and more confrontational that we’ve seen in the past. Indeed, there’s an argument than the United Kingdom has never been so dis-united. This plays into the world in which the RHA operates, representing our coach, van and freight members, their interests and concerns. We need to broaden our political support, deepen relationships and extend our influence even more. One in seven of MPs at Westminster attended our parliamentary event last year – not only was this a record for us but clear evidence that all parties now understand

the challenges we face. We aim to do this in 2022 by concentrating our campaigning across three big themes: skills, facilities and the environment. Our Policy lead on the issue is Tom Cornwall.

DRIVER SHORTAGE Skills is all about the ongoing driver shortage which we currently estimate at 85,000. There’s been some encouraging moves from the government on this, not least the skills bootcamps idea in GB but what more can we do to build on our original 12-point plan for tackling the shortage. We’re looking to campaign for even greater visibility by the public and politicians and action points to further tackle it. Our Policy lead on the issue is Sally Gilson. Some local authorities within Northern Ireland including Belfast, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Mid and East Antrim and Antrim and Newtownabbey Council have launched Transport training academies recently which are all very welcome with their schemes mostly over-subscribed, however these academies alone will not address the underlying

The environment is a massive issue for the Logistics and Coach sectors: The aftermath of COP26, the projected end of heavy diesel coaches and lorries and the pathway to that date. We need to work with the manufacturers on this and explain that a logical step by step approach is needed if we are to avoid a disastrous cliff-edge with stranded assets littering the UK. The life cycle of a lorry, or coach, needs to be taken into account. Chris Ashley, architect of our environmental policy, will lead. We’ll keep you posted through the year on the progress of all these three campaigns. We encourage everyone to play their part and in particular RHA members. We would like to hear your thoughts and possible solutions and would encourage you to contact your local MPs or other political representatives on any or all of these issues and you can do so through the RHA website. Throughout the coronavirus pandemic many people in the UK discovered how vital transport supply chains are to society as virtually everything we use or consume travels on the back of a truck at some stage.

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David Mullan Head of Transport Regulation Unit

MANDATING DIGITAL AND DRIVER POSTING 2022 will be a year of development in respect of the licensing and regulation of goods vehicle operators and this edition notifies you of a couple of those developments; “Mandating Digital” - which sees the removal of paper forms for all new applications and major variations - and “Driver Posting” – which requires the registration on a database of in scope operations such as cabotage and cross-trade jobs. In some instances, such as Mandating Digital, this is part on an ongoing program of continuous improvement to ensure that the VOL system is modernised and conforms to best practice. Of course, some users may be unable to use the digital service for a variety of reasons and, therefore, an assisted digital service will be available for those users. In other cases, such as Driver Posting, the changes are required to ensure that NI operators can conform to EU requirements, keeping in-scope operators compliant should they transit beyond NI & GB.

LICENCE CONDITIONS – CHANGES THAT MUST BE NOTIFIED It is essential that you have a good understanding of your licence conditions to remain compliant as there are several matters that must be notified to the Department. Your licence conditions state that “The licence holder SHALL, within 28 days of their occurrence, inform the Department of any:” listing then the matters that should be notified such as, but not limited to, the maintenance and safety inspection arrangements, changes in the business ownership or company shareholders, company directors, partnership agreements but also some of the most important matters like events which affect your good repute (any infringements or convictions), your professional competence, your establishment or your financial standing if you hold a standard licence, or your fitness and financial resources if you hold a restricted licence. One of the most common issues is failing to notify infringements. Any events which affect the good repute of the licence holder and transport manager, in particular, convictions or penalties

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(this includes the issue of a fixed penalty notice or conditional offer recorded against officers, employees or agents) have to be notified. You should be aware that ALL infringements and convictions will have an impact on your good repute or fitness and some may result in the automatic loss of your good repute like Most Serious Infringements. This is a condition that, when ignored, has a further negative impact on the operator’s repute or fitness to hold a licence. When an operator fails to notify the Department of an infringement or a conviction and the TRU receives a referral from DVA, DVSA, the PSNI or another enforcement agency, the

operator automatically incurs two faults. The first fault being the infringement or conviction itself, and the second being the breach of a licence condition. Do not assume that because an enforcement agency, like DVA, dealt with a prosecution or issued a penalty, that the TRU will be aware. It is the licence holder’s responsibility to notify the Department. It is in your own interest to notify the Department of any infringement or conviction, as that would demonstrate a professional and honest way to manage a licence, and would prompt a more lenient approach from the TRU on your case. It is also unfortunately common to see

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David Mullan Head of Transport Regulation Unit

operators failing to notify changes to the safety inspection arrangements. When an operator is granted a licence, a safety inspection schedule is agreed and recorded online, generally between 4 and 13 weeks. If by any reason you decide to change the stated schedule of your safety inspections, you must update that on your licence via web service. Failing to update your licence with the current safety inspection plan is considered a serious breach of the licence conditions. Attention must be paid too to other matters such as changes to company directors, partnership agreements or company shareholders. It is essential that the Department has an accurate understanding of who is the controlling mind of any licensed operator. Failing to notify the Department of such changes has very often resulted in a Propose to Revoke letter being issued to the operator and in some of those cases, the licence has been revoked. If you are in doubt, always check with TRU or the Northern Ireland Central Licensing Office (NICLO) about how to handle any change that affects your licence conditions.

NEW RULES FOR CABOTAGE TYPE OPERATIONS WITHIN THE EU – DRIVER POSTING On 2 February 2022 the EU implemented new rules which will affect NI operators who move goods from one point to another within the EU. The new requirements are part of the EU Mobility Package, and apply to operators who move goods from point to point outside of their home state. Operators who are carrying out cabotagetype operations within the EU have to make a declaration on an EU web portal, where they must provide information about the drivers they will deploy on those operations. These drivers are considered by the EU to have been ‘posted’. The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and Europe, which established frameworks for commerce and business between the two territories post-Brexit, applies the same requirements to UK operators who

wish to operate within the EU. This brief article will give an overview of the new rules.

posting declaration using the portal, at the latest at the beginning of the posting.

WHEN EXACTLY ARE DRIVERS CONSIDERED TO BE POSTED?

(The IMI system enables instant translation of information uploaded in one member state, when the same information is viewed in a different member state, and has both public facing portals and official channels for use in compliance and enforcement.)

The new rules apply to drivers deployed on the following types of road haulage operations: • cabotage jobs (loading goods in an EU member State and unloading them at another point in the same country using a UK-registered vehicle) • cross-trade jobs (loading goods in an EU member State and unloading them in another an EU member State using a UK-registered vehicle) • moving goods for your own business’ use inside these countries (including if your business is not mainly about moving goods).

WHEN EXACTLY ARE DRIVERS NOT CONSIDERED TO BE POSTED? The new rules DO NOT APPLY to the following types of haulage operations: • Bi-lateral operations, being journeys from NI to one place in Europe, where goods can be unloaded and/or loaded for a return journey; • Journeys from NI to Europe, with the vehicle unloading goods at more than one location within the EU (but without loading goods in the EU) • Journeys from Europe to NI, with the vehicle loading goods at more than one location within the EU (but without unloading any goods within the EU) • Journeys from NI to a non-European country (where the vehicle transits the EU without loading or unloading any goods).

During the posting, drivers will have to carry certain documentation which may need to be presented to compliance and enforcement authorities at the roadside. These include a copy of the posting declaration (electronic or paper version), evidence that the transport operation takes place in host Member States (e.g. consignment note) and tachograph records. Both during and after the posting, authorities of the Member State where the posting took place can contact the operator to ask them to send documentation, which might include payslips and proof of payment, tachograph records and time sheets, evidence that the transport operation has taken place, and employment contracts. Where an authority, either in the UK or the EU, is concerned that particular operators are failing to comply with the driver posting requirements, they may request that further sanctions are actioned by the competent authority in the state of establishment. For example, where an NI operator has been found to be not fully compliant by the German authorities, they can request that the competent authority in NI (the Department for Infrastructure) impose sanctions on that operator. The sanctions will lie within the normal compliance measures open to a competent authority.

WHAT ADMINISTRATIVE AND CONTROL PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN PUT IN PLACE?

FEEDBACK

The operator must first create an account on the EU’s Internal Market Information system (IMI) portal, Once an account has been created, and before any ‘posting’ begins, the operator is required to submit a

I hope you find this edition useful, and as always we welcome feedback. If there are any subjects that you would like covered in future editions please let us know by emailing – TRU@Infrastructure-ni.gov.uk

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NEWS

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM working on the project for us so I am delighted to welcome the first batch of completed buses for our Belfast Metro fleet. “The remainder of the buses will be delivered in the coming weeks and from this summer Translink will have the fourth largest fleet across these islands of zero emission buses – demonstrating my commitment to ensuring Northern Ireland is building a cleaner, greener society.”

Pictured here (L-R) are Translink Group Chief Executive, Chris Conway, Buta Atwal, Wrightbus Chief Exeutive and Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon.

First new Electric Powered Buses enter passenger service in Belfast The first batch of zero emission, electric double decker buses has entered passenger service in Belfast; the launch of these vehicles, which are the first of their type to enter passenger service on the island of Ireland, represents a landmark moment for Belfast as the start of a move towards innovative, smarter and cleaner transport solutions for a modern city. The new zero emission fleet, made up of 80 Battery-Electric and 20 Hydrogen buses, will be gradually introduced over the coming months and will

mean around 33% of all Metro services will be net zero carbon. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: “I recently visited

Wrightbus where I had the opportunity to see at the first hand their expertise and the technologies they use to build the new buses. I also met with some of the staff

Added Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive: “This is a very exciting time in public transport, as we start to realise our ambitious plans to transform public transport and decarbonise our fleet. The new buses, which will run on sustainably sourced electricity, will offer the latest standards in comfort, quality and accessibility with in-seat USB chargers, WiFi and new accessibility features. They will also come with double doors for getting off, facilitating faster journey times, and improving fresh air flow on board for passengers. With new contactless ticketing also being introduced, these developments will bring a step change in the overall customer experience. “This new zero emission fleet including our 23 new Hydrogen powered buses, is just the start of a customer-led enhancement programme aimed to deliver bus service improvements right across Belfast over the coming years, including dedicated zero emission corridors, enhanced shelter facilities with ‘living’ roofs, more bus priority and bus stop rationalisation.

DAF delivers five CF Electric trucks to Amazon UK DAF delivers five CF Electric tractors to Amazon UK. The 37-tonne GCW fully-electric vehicles join Amazon’s middle mile delivery fleet, transporting goods with zero tailpipe emissions. The five DAF CF Electric trucks are the first electric middle mile trucks Amazon is operating in Europe. The vehicles mark an important milestone towards the electrification of Amazon’s fleet, forming part of Shipment Zero – Amazon’s goal to deliver 50% of Amazon shipments with net-zero carbon by 2030.The five vehicles replace diesel trucks, resulting in up to 100,000 annual road miles fuelled with renewable electricity, preventing about 170 tonnes of CO2being emitted. “We are excited to bring the DAF CF Electric

into Amazon’s fleet and support their commitment to The Climate Pledge,” stated DAF Trucks’ Director Fleet Sales, Eelco van Veen. “The DAF CF Electric truck represents an important step in the industry towards zero emission middle mile distribution. It has been developed in response to rising demand for better air quality and lower CO2 emissions in the transportation sector. Thanks to smart planning and fast charging the CF Electric can clock up to 500 kilometres per day.

That is a figure operators really can work with.” “Amazon is one of the first companies in the world to put electric heavy goods trucks on the road,” said John Boumphrey, Amazon UK Country Manager. “We’re committed to becoming net-zero carbon by 2040, and this is a milestone as we continue to decarbonize our transportation network so we can deliver more customer orders using zero emissions vehicles.”

www.exportandfreight.com 36

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NEWS

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Northern Ireland Logistics & Transport Annual Gala Dinner After two tumultuous years, during which our local transport and logistics sector has been at the heart of keeping Northern Ireland moving in the face of a pandemic and protocol/political uncertainty, it is welcome news that the profession will have the opportunity to come together for a gala dinner on the evening of Thursday 12th May. The event, which is being hosted by the NI Region of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, will take place at Titanic Belfast and is being supported by Stena Line, Belfast Harbour, Bluestones, RSA and Tughans. Returning for the first time since 2020, the gala dinner will see some 250+ industry professionals gather to catch up with old friends and make new connections. It will also allow sector as a whole to reflect, recognise and even celebrate the unprecedented contribution that transport and logistics has made to the NI economy and wider society over the past 24 months. Speaking at the launch, CILT NI’s Nick McCullough explained: “We feel the time is now right to bring back this event which has become one of the highlights of the industry calendar. I am immensely proud of

the contribution that our profession has made over the past 2 years and am thoroughly looking forward to promises to be a wonderful evening of entertainment, excellent company and inspiration that will come from our after-dinner speaker, Nigel Owens MBE”. No stranger to working under pressure, the CILT’s guest of honour, Nigel Owens, has taken charge of some of the biggest fixtures in world sport with global audiences running into the millions. He has refereed some 100 test matches including the 2015 Rugby World Cup Final. He is recognised globally for his levelled decision-making, reliable leadership, effective communication and ability to remain calm under pressure. Nigel has been invited to speak to some of the most successful organisations on the planet

Nigel Owens MBE

and what sets him apart is that he speaks openly and emotively about challenging times within his own life and how the support of others has helped him through them. Awarded an MBE for services to sport, Nigel is now a highly sought-after speaker, a diversity and mental health ambassador, and a cattle farmer in his native Wales. The event is proving to be exceptionally popular so those interested in reserving seats or a table are encouraged to act quickly by emailing jessica.higginson@podiem.com or calling 028 9076 1030.

YOUR PARTNER ON THE ROAD Tel: 02890 320190 www.rsagroupni.com Ask your broker to include a quote from RSA at your next renewal

RSA Northern Ireland Insurance Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (309296). The registered office is Law Society House, 90 -106 Victoria Street, Belfast, BT1 3GN, Northern Ireland and is registered in Northern Ireland under company number NI 39814.

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25 YEARS

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TAYLORED WORKWEAR

25 YEARS ON AND STILL GROWING

When Shelly Taylor began as a sole trader producing workwear 25 years ago she had just two items in her portfolio; today she has over 1,000 products, many of them used by some of the country’s leading transport & logistics companies. A native of India, Shelly, supported by husband Michael, set up her Taylored Workwear company in a rented home in Newtownabbey in 1996 not long after arriving in Northern Ireland; it seemed a natural step for her having been associated with the textile business through her late father since childhood. One of her early ‘sales’ was to McBurney Transport. “I am much indebted to Lyn McBurney,” says Shelly, “who gave me an added incentive to build the business. She has been a tremendous help and encouragement to me and McBurney Transport remains a loyal customer to this day.” Since those early days, Shelly has built up an extensive client base, with customers across the island of Ireland, Great Britain and the Channel Islands, thanks in no small measure to her ‘hands-on’ approach to the business. However, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. Successful businesses take a lot of hard

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work, long hours and sheer drive and determination – qualities that Shelly has in abundance, despite having to conquer periods of illness, recessions, Covid-19 and other obstacles along the way. Indeed, at the height of the coronavirus pandemic Shelly was admitted to hospital and remained ‘very ill’ for 11 days before finally recovering, an experience that did not dampen her enthusiasm for the business. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my family and the small dedicated team of employees who are the backbone of the business,” says Shelly. “They don’t work for me, they work with me – and that makes a big difference. It is a family business and we are all family.” In 2000, the business became a limited company having rapidly outgrown that spare room in her rented home. It moved to larger premises that not only accommodated the family, but

also had the potential to grow the business.

THIRD GENERATION Apart from husband Michael, Shelly’s daughter Amba is now supporting the business, and six year old granddaughter Skarlett is waiting eagerly in the wings to make it a third generation affair. Originally out sourcing the embroidery

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25 YEARS

process it seemed that the purchase of its own machine would be the next crucial step for the business and with quite a large investment in 2007 the company purchased its first eight head machine. This brought it into a new dimension, not only through the huge learning curve and the technicalities of embroidery but also that the company was now able to offer an even faster turnaround service for its growing customer base. Inhouse embroidery also opened doors for a bespoke service which Taylored Workwear Ltd specialises in.

GROWING PRODUCT RANGE As Shelly travelled around the province word of mouth started to prove that it was a very important to build up close and personal working relationships and it was not long

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25 YEARS

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THE TAYLORED WORKWEAR TEAM L-R: Heather Garrett, Amba Taylor, Shelly Taylor, Michael Taylor, Tomas Talik and Kathy Magill.

before people from different business and sports sectors wanted her products which now range from everyday workwear, trousers and bags to T-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies, with new styles and products being constantly added. “I am a people person,” says Shelly, “and I believe it important to have regular face to face contact with my customers, all of whom are on first name terms, which is why I have been able to retain clients throughout my 25 years in business. Customer service is everything – and that includes being transparent and honest in all my dealings with people.”

FURTHER EXPANSION The company, which also does its own inhouse printing, expanded further in 2010 with the purchase of its second eight head embroidery machine and was also able to employ another member of staff; the investment helped double production and provided an even faster turnaround time. Back then, of course, the recession impacted all businesses and Taylored Workwear was no exception, so the decision was taken by Shelly to look farther afield for new customers; she was able to land a contract from a major truck manufacturer in England which has proved to be a resounding success, supplying the whole of the manufacturer’s dealer network throughout the UK and Ireland. Initially, taking on that work brought new challenges as they needed printed garments and subsequently Shelly made the decision to diversify into heat seal printing which is also now carried out inhouse.

AWARD WINNING Deserved recognition of Shelly’s endeavours came in 2012 when Taylored Workwear won the Best Small Business award, sponsored by the

www.tayloredworkwear.co.uk

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Henderson Group, at the Newtownabbey Business Awards 2012. The following year, in November 2013, the company also won the Best Small Business award. A year later, Shelly won Business Person of the Year award at the Newtownabbey Business Awards 2014 sponsored by Full Circle Management Solutions. Speaking at the time on behalf of the sponsors, Managing Director Simon Devlin said: “The judges were all unanimous in their decision for this award. The preparedness of the company’s owner-manager Shelly Taylor to invest in new plant and equipment has been a key success factor in the growth of the business and highlights the fact that hard work, determination and energy are key ingredients in business success.” Comments Shelly who in 2017 moved into purpose built premises on the Ballyclare Road in Newtownabbey and continues to expand: “I have to say that I remain so very grateful to both my staff and my loyal customers without whom the business wouldn’t exist, and I am looking forward to building on our successes in the years ahead.”

A big thank you to all our customers.

Shelly with her grand daughter Skarlett Taylor saying a big thank you to all their customers.

25 YEARS

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Congratulations to all the team, Briggs Equipment proud to work with Taylored Workwear.

Congratulations to all the Team at Taylored Workwear on their 25th Anniversary, wishing you all the best for the future. From

Unit 23 Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena BT43 3HB

www.briggsequipment.co.uk | www.briggsequipment.ie

077 1188 5275

www.carmichaellogistics.com

info@cjmfreight.com

Cecil Minford, on behalf of CJM Freight & Sons, would like to congratulate Shelly and all at Taylored Workwear on achieving 25 Years in Business. Having worked with Shelly over the last 10 years, we continue to be impressed by all aspects of Taylored Workwear; the quality of service she provides and the attention to detail she affords our company and our staff are second to none. We look forward to working alongside Taylored Workwear for many years to come and wish them continued success for their future.

CONGRATULATIONS TO TAYLORED WORKWEAR ON 25 YEARS FROM ALL AT MCBURNEY TRANSPORT GROUP LTD

www.mcburneytransportgroup.com

Local & National Freight Services ⧫ Warehousing & Storage ⧫ Same Day & Next Day 42 Tully Road, Nutts Corner BT29 4SW

NEXT DAY UK & IRELAND SAME DAY UK & IRELAND EUROPEAN ROADFREIGHT INTERNATIONAL AIRFREIGHT INTERNATIONAL SEAFREIGHT

028 9083 8388

www.mmkexpress.co.uk

PHILLIPS LOGISTICS LTD WAREHOUSING & HOME DELIVERY SERVICES THROUGHOUT IRELAND

Tel: 02887 726414

phillipslogisticsquery@outlook.com

EQUESTRIAN > COMMERCIAL > LEISURE

B U I LT B E Y O N D

overlandervehicles.co.uk PA R T O F T H E

GROUP

PROUD TO BE WORKING WITH TAYLORED WORKWEAR SINCE 1989

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25 YEARS

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Congratulations to Shelly and everyone at Taylored Workwear on their 25th Anniversary. From all the team at

SUREFREIGHT

CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS ALL MAKES Webasto Heating/Air-Con Systems Replacement MAN Parts Air-Con Service Centre: Cars-Vans-Coaches Trucks-Marine-Industrial-Motor Homes Diagnostic Service Centre: All Vehicles

www.surefreight.co.uk

Proud customer of Taylored Workwear and we wish them every success in the future. RETAIL, HOME DELIVERY & WAREHOUSING SPECIALISTS

P: 028 4372 3644 E: ofﬁce@terrykingandsons.co.uk W: www.terrykingandsons.co.uk

CONGRATULATIONS ON REACHING THIS SPECIAL MILESTONE. WISHING YOU MANY MORE YEARS OF BUSINESS SUCCESS. FROM ALL THE TEAM AT

1, 3 MCKINNEY ROAD, MALLUSK, NEWTOWNABBEY BT36 4PX

T: 028 9083 0596

TEL: (028) 9034 2665

info@attrentals.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE TEAM AT

TAYLORED WORKWEAR ON THEIR 25TH ANNIVERSARY. FROM ALL THE TEAM AT

Congratulations to all the Team at Taylored Workwear on their 25th Anniversary.

Congratulations to Shelly and

SM MEDIA & EVENTS

everyone at Taylored Workwear on their 25th Anniversary.

www.exportandfreight.com www.plantandcivilengineer.com

4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE Tel: 028 9268 8888

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54 Derrycoose Road, Portadown, Co Armagh BT62 1LY Tel: 028 38 852888

FIND YOUR FAVOURITES

EMBROIDERY

SERVICE

Taylored Workwear Ltd feels very strongly and passionate about the embroidery service they offer to their clients. Embroidery enhances the garment and also promotes a company name/logo, it also helps to identify the wearer, especially for household and company deliveries.

GET IN CONTACT WITH US! 374 Ballyclare Road, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim BT36 4TQ

Tel: 028 9084 4999 info@tayloredworkwear.co.uk www.tayloredworkwear.co.uk

FROM THE OFFICE OF

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Richard Crawford Freight Policy Branch, Department of Infrastructure for Northern Ireland

OPERATOR LICENSING FOR LIGHT GOODS VEHICLES USED IN THE EU Over the last few years, the EU has been working to improve working conditions for workers in the transport industry, and to move towards and integrated and seamless road transport system. The EU Mobility Package is a threepart collection of initiatives intended to streamline the governing, administration and operation of the transport industry across all EU member states. Mobility Package 1 has been almost entirely implemented, with the final changes taking place this year. The second and third parts are scheduled to come into effect between 2025 and 2030. These changes were already scheduled before the UK took the decision to leave the EU, so they won’t directly affect road transport within the UK. However, they may impact on UK operators working within the EU, as all vehicles and their operators will be expected to comply with the requirements while they are on EU territory. Because of this, the road haulage elements of Mobility Package 1 were included in the Trade and Cooperation Agreement drawn up by the EU and the UK to cover all the various interoperabilities which continue to exist post Brexit. The road haulage sections of the TCA set out the rules enabling UK operators to continue to work in the EU under specific conditions, most of which were already in place prior to Brexit – so the majority of operators won’t see a great deal of change. There are two areas, however, where the mobility package does require some changes to how the UK, and NI, organise the operator licensing regime. One is the introduction of operator licensing for light goods vehicles, the other is the posting of drivers’ details onto a EU web portal when they’re carrying out cabotage work in Europe.

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The Department for Infrastructure has been working closely with the Department for Transport and DVSA in Leeds to bring in legislation to enable anyone operating a light goods vehicle in Europe to apply for an operator’s licence. The legislation had to amend both GB and NI law at the same time, and because the NI Assembly mandate was ending in March 2022, the necessary changes for NI were included in legislation laid in Westminster. The main part of the Regulations come into effect on 20th May 2022.

SO, WHAT DOES THAT ALL MEAN FOR OPERATORS IN NORTHERN IRELAND? The answer is that the new requirements will only affect anyone operating light goods vehicles for hire and reward on EU territory – including the Republic of Ireland. In this case a light goods vehicle is something with a maximum laden weight of between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes, or in the case of a car and trailer, a gross train weight in the same bracket. Operators who find themselves in scope will have to apply for a Standard International operator’s licence in order to stay legal in the EU. In order to do this they will have to meet most of the normal requirements for an operator’s licence, with the exception of the operating centre requirement – an LGV only licence can be registered at a private address – and a lesser financial standing requirement, of

£1600 for the first vehicle in an LGV only fleet and £800 for any additional vehicle thereafter. (for mixed fleets, the first vehicle will be taken as an HGV and so all LGVs will only require the £800 financial standing). There are two things to focus on, if you think you’re in-scope: firstly, you will need to have a transport manager. This can be the operator, or an employee with the appropriate qualifications, or someone who is contracted-in. Alternatively, if the operator doesn’t have the qualifications but does have ten years relevant experience (prior to August 2020) they can apply for temporary transport manager status. This will give them a maximum of 3 years to acquire the necessary qualifications. The second thing to be aware of is that the issuing of a new operator’s licence can be a lengthy process and although both the Department of Infrastructure and the DVSA have done everything they can to cut out any slack, it is still possible that an application made now may not be completed by the EU implementation date of 21 May 2022. So, all applicants are advised to consider applying for an interim licence at the same time they make their main application. An interim licence can be issued quickly, to be followed up by the full licence in due course. Detailed guidance is available on the DFT website for anyone who may need to go down this route. The advice is to do some research now and try to get organised sooner rather than later.

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AWARDS2022 GALA DINNER

THURSDAY 15th SEPTEMBER CROWNE PLAZA, SHAWS BRIDGE, BELFAST

ENTRY DEADLINE

1st AUGUST 2022 ENTRIES SUBMITTED AFTER THIS DATE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AS JUDGING DAYS ARE IN AUGUST Entries are invited from individuals or companies connected with the road transport & logistics industry, for any or all of the categories listed

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EXPORT & FREIGHT TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS 2022

CATEGORIES ANNOUNCED TRANSPORT MANAGER OF THE YEAR

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and ability in managing all aspects of a modern transport undertaking.

This will be awarded to an Apprentice, someone not certificated at Level 3 before Sept 21, who has demonstrated skill and determination in the course of their training and working in a workshop.

b. The applicant will be assessed against all aspects of transport management including – driver recruitment, maintenance, driver licensing, operator licensing, drivers hours/rest periods, vehicle testing, contracts of employment, vehicle excise, financial management, use of IT, fuel efficiency and disciplinary procedures.

CHILLED OPERATOR OF THE YEAR This award will be presented to the best Chilled Operator who presents an up-to-date modern fleet with a high quality distribution service. The judges will be looking for an operator who complies with all temperature controlled regulations and service options.

OWN ACCOUNT OPERATOR OF THE YEAR (Restricted Licence Holder)

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under an own account (Restricted) operator’s licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues.

SAFETY AWARD Each company will need to demonstrate how they manage, control, and monitor the quality aspects of their respective companies and be able to describe roles, responsibilities, and methodologies for ensuring compliance with all regulatory bodies. Review of the company’s strategy and controls currently employed, or to be developed and implemented by the company, to consistently deliver products and services that meet the requirements of the Safety Award. *Read more at https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-22/

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL HAULIER OF THE YEAR (over 20 Vehicles)

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with more than 20 vehicles specified on their operators licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues.

HAULIER OF THE YEAR (up to 20 Vehicles)

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with 20 or less vehicles specified on their operator’s licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues.

TOP TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OPERATOR OF THE YEAR This award will be presented to the operator who demonstrates the highest standards of in-house training programmes developed in line with best practice and leading edge training providers to ensure compliance, enhance safety and develop staff. The training must be designed and provided for delivery to staff solely within the business and not for delivery to external 3rd party customers.

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DRIVER OF THE YEAR

TOP FLEET OF THE YEAR

This Award will be presented to the commercial vehicle driver who offers a high standard of driving skills, excellent driving record, immaculate vehicle and dress code and dedication to the trade. This will be a practical test held at Transport Training Services, Nutts Corner, in August. Please send a CV and hi res image of the candidate. A practical driving test will determine the winner.

This will be presented to an outstanding fleet of vehicles based on appearance, quality, maintenance programmes, driver efficiency, skill and professionalism. Judges will be looking for carefully planned maintenance systems, low levels of downtime, well-kept vehicles and drivers and investment in the latest models, driving aids and technology.

TRAILER FLEET OF THE YEAR

INNOVATION EXCELLENCE AWARD The Innovation Excellence Award is open to all companies operating within the transport and logistics sector who have invested in innovative solutions to make their operations more efficient, profitable and successful. This can be any type of innovation from the latest equipment and facilities to cutting edge technology or environmental solutions. Any type of transport operation is invited to enter from shipping lines to hauliers, van fleet operators to own account fleets. The contender is invited to illustrate in the entry their innovative solutions for their business.

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

TBC

This will be open to all companies who pride themselves in the level of their customer service including Dealers, Service Agents, Equipment Suppliers, Hauliers, Shipping companies etc. Entrants should show how they have gone the extra mile to provide the highest level of excellence in their service to all customers and outline why their company deserves the accolade of the best Service Provider. Customer testimonies, though not essential, are advised, as these will show examples of quality customer service. These will be totally confidential and shredded once the judging has taken place.

TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR This award is open to all companies and businesses in every sector of the logistics industry - from transport and logistics operators to exporters, warehousing experts, shipping companies and dealerships - and recognises teams within the organisation who by working together on a project, initiative or strategy have made a significant and positive contribution, perhaps by overcoming difficulties and challenges to do so. A team, by definition, could be made up by just two people, or a hundred; size is not important. What is important is that the team can demonstrate outstanding achievement or accomplishment in their area or field of expertise.

HOME AND BUSINESS DELIVERY OPERATOR OF THE YEAR This award is aimed at operators in the Home and Business Delivery sectors who can clearly demonstrate high standards of operational compliance and customer service. Operators will be required to provide evidence of safe and efficient best practice in the areas of; vehicle maintenance and standards; driver licencing, competence and behaviour; safe working environment including working practices and fuel efficiency; demonstrate how peak flows in demand are handled; proven on-time delivery statistics; and customer service. Entries are encouraged from companies who consider themselves the delivery operator of choice for the retailer, business owner and consumer.

This award will be presented to an operator whose trailer fleet consistently offers exceptional standards in every aspect of operation, including use of innovation, safety performance, vehicle efficiency and operational uptime. The winner will also be able to demonstrate how their trailer specification is tailored to their operational requirements and supports their business objectives. Please send details of your trailer fleet including any specialist operations offered.

VAN OF THE YEAR

TBC

This Award invites all van manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range with a 900-1700 kg payload, which they see as the ultimate fleet van for the UK and Ireland. The only conditions are that the nominated vehicle must be reasonably new and a proven workhorse for a wide range of locally, nationally or internationally running fleets. One will be picked as Van of the Year by an independent panel of Judges.

LIVERIED VEHICLE OF THE YEAR

TBC

This Award is open to any company who owns and operates an individual vehicle with an outstanding livery and befitting a flagship vehicle within the company. Entries must be accompanied by hi res photographs of the vehicle and details of the livery, what the vehicle is used for operationally and why the company invested in the unit.

FLEET TRUCK OF THE YEAR This award invites all truck manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range over 18 tonnes GVW which they see as the ultimate fleet truck for the UK and Ireland, the only conditions being that the nominated vehicle must be reasonably new and a proven workhorse for a wide range of locally, nationally or internationally running fleets. One will be picked as Fleet Truck of the Year by an independent panel of judges.

LOGISTICS & WAREHOUSING SPECIALIST This will be presented to a national organisation with bases in Ireland/UK and/or Europe offering a high level of international logistics service covering all aspects of the supply chain including haulage, warehousing, and distribution. The winner will prove a total commitment to providing an excellent range of logistics services and exceptional levels of customer care.

TRANSPORT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR This award will be presented to the individual whose personal achievement deserves industry recognition.

SO HOW DO YOU ENTER? IT’S NOT AS COMPLICATED AS YOU MIGHT THINK. IN FACT, OUR ADVICE AS ALWAYS IS: KEEP IT SIMPLE. ALL CHANGE FOR JUDGING 2022 This year awards category finalists will be judged by telephone entry or Zoom Call. Due to Covid Restrictions no site visits or face to face interviews will be held. Judging will be held in August 2022.

HOW DO YOU ENTER? Your entry will not be judged on presentation but make sure it is easy to read and is filled by both reasons why you should win and evidence to support these reasons. Any factual information, such as operational, service, financial or personal details, to back up any claims expressed in your entry, should be clearly and concisely laid out. You don’t have to be a big concern to enter. You could be an individual, a company with less than 10 employees or a large national/international outfit. You will be judged on merit, not size. The judges are looking for excellence, outstanding qualities or contributions, unrivalled service and innovation, individuals and organisations who have gone the extra mile – so demonstrate all of that in your entry; make it stand out from the rest! If you have faced any difficulties or obstacles in achieving your goals, make sure you note it on your entry. If you need to provide any additional information to support your entry, keep it as brief and to the point as possible. Feel free to send customer testimonies to support your entries.

• Entries should state the category they are entering. • Entries must be made by emailing a word / PDF document stating the award category to helen@4squaremedia.net • A minimum of 2 high res images that best depict your entry to be supplied in high resolution (if an image is embedded in your entry, please also supply separately - this is for multi media use, should you be a finalist) • Entries should not exceed 1000 words (approx.) • Separate award entries to be emailed for each category entered. • Large files can be sent via WeTransfer - email to be sent to helen@4squaremedia.net to advise thereof. • Award entry enquiries can be made to Helen Beggs: helen@4squaremedia.net or M: 07779 713762 You can also submit supporting corporate material – brochures etc, including photographs of projects, services or products. You can enter any number of categories but bear in mind, it is left to the judges opinion to reallocate any entry which may be more suitable to another category or an additional category. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. All entries are private & confidential. The winner will remain confidential until the event. All entries should be received by 1st August 2022.

NON CATEGORY SPONSORS CHAMPAGNE courtesy of

TBC

WINE courtesy of

PRE-DINNER RECEPTION courtesy of

SOCIAL MEDIA WALL courtesy of

TBC

TOP TABLE AWARD courtesy of

AFTER SHOW PARTY courtesy of

TBC

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

AWARDS2022

CROWNE PLAZA, SHAW'S BRIDGE, BELFAST THURSDAY 15th SEPTEMBER 2022

BOOK YOUR TABLE NOW EXPORT & FREIGHT 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6AE N.Ireland

Tel: 028 9268 8888 Fax: 028 9268 8866 Email: helen@4squaremedia.net

PLEASE RESERVE SEATS @£140+VAT TABLES(S) OF TEN PLACES @£1,270+VAT OR AT THE EXPORT & FREIGHT IRISH TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS 2022, THURSDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER 2022 AT 7PM FOR 7:30PM SHARP. Name of Company:____________________________________________________________________ Invoice Address:______________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Post Code:____________________________ Contact Name:___________________________________ Tel:__________________________________

Dress Code: Gentlemen - Lounge Suit. Ladies - Cocktail Dress

The above prices are plus VAT and will be shown as such on the official receipt. THIS PRIORITY BOOKING FORM TO BE POSTED TO:

Export & Freight, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6AE, or email table / seating requirements to helen@4squaremedia.net FOLLOW US ON

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IRISH AID

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HUGE IRISH AID CONVOYS HEAD OUT TO HELP PEOPLE OF UKRAINE Haulage operators across the island of Ireland have combined forces to transport vital supplies to help the stricken people of Ukraine following the Russian invasion; social media platforms have been awash with stories of their courageous efforts. One convoy of 25 trucks carrying 500 tonnes of aid recently left Dublin Port for the long journey to the border of Ukraine; the ‘Aid From Ireland’ convoy is believed to be the largest such convoy ever to leave Ireland. Those taking part included Hendrick European, BM Transport, Virginia Logistics, Amigo International, and McCulla Ireland.

Commented Brian Beattie, Operations Director at McCulla Ireland: “We are really proud to have been at Dublin port to see off our driver Karol Kowalczuk along with all the other drivers in the aid convoy and wish them a safe trip out to the Poland /Ukraine border with this much needed humanitarian aid for Ukraine.” And added Thomas Reid, Business Development Manager at Virginia International Logistics: “It’s a strange sight to see so many companies working together that would normally be in competition with each other, but the fabric of our transport industry in Ireland is so tightly woven that we are a lot closer than we think. Great work ‘Aid from Ireland’ and the team of hauliers for bringing this all together.” Separate relief operations have also been staged by many other transport companies

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in the north and south of Ireland, including Manfreight who kicked off their effort with a truck loaded with 26 pallets of essential supplies and driven by the company’s Bruce Hunt. “We are proud to be assisting Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Turkington Windows & Conservatories and ‘Help Ukraine’ in supplying humanitarian and medical aid to those in need,” said Manfreight on their Facebook page. “Thanks to Derry

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THOSE TAKING PART INCLUDED HENDRICK EUROPEAN, BM TRANSPORT, VIRGINIA LOGISTICS, AMIGO INTERNATIONAL & MCCULLA IRELAND Brothers for their assistance in clearing customs. This wouldn’t be possible without the amazing generosity of the community and the work put in by our drivers, planners and all of the volunteers working tirelessly to make a difference.” Jemma Woolsey, Commercial Director at Global Cargo Solutions, wrote: “We are so humbled to be able to have the opportunity to help at such devastating times. It’s great how our industry even when fuel is at an all time high still always work together and help others - the generosity we have seen as of lately is amazing.” GCS recently sent a truck and trailer to Poland with much needed humanitarian supplies and said they would welcome any donations of toiletries and food at their Armagh depot. Meanwhile, Allied Fleet Services has seen its first transit load of humanitarian aid recently arrive in Poland. “We are very proud to have helped Toomebridge based Bell Transport and Alan Armstrong and his team deliver this in good time, and we want to thank them for the feedback. We are currently helping others do the same. If you require our help please reach out.”

COLLECTION POINTS Other people across Northern Ireland have also been rallying together to collect supplies for refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, including Kinga Orkisz, part of a group of Polish people organising a collection point in a Belfast warehouse. Ms Orkisz said people had been very generous with their donations and they were planning to send a lorry to Poland every week. “My initial idea was to send a few packets to Ukraine. I did not expect so many people to be so helpful,” she said. “On one Sunday alone, we had around 100 people bring donations.”

Red Cross in Northern Ireland said the response had been “overwhelming”. He added: “The circumstances facing the people of Ukraine are unimaginable, and we know the need for humanitarian support will exist in the long term. With this in mind, we would encourage those who feel they can to continue donating and help the people of Ukraine in their darkest hour.”

In the first four days of the war, a humanitarian appeal coordinated by the Disasters Emergency Committee for those affected in Ukraine raised £1.4m in Northern Ireland; in total the UK response had seen £100m raised. Kevin McCaughan from the British

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CV SHOW

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COUNTDOWN TO THE 2022 COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW The Commercial Vehicle Show, the UK’s largest road transport exhibition, returns to its Spring-time date, taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 24-26 May. The show is renowned for attracting hundreds of exhibitors representing a broad spectrum of vehicle manufacturers, trailers and equipment suppliers bringing the latest products, services and technology solutions to the industry. The annual business event is the perfect platform to see product launches, re-engage with existing contacts and connect with key decision makers, creating new growth opportunities for operators of all sizes. This year will be no different, featuring exhibitors such as Ford, Harris Maxus, Whale Tankers, Trakm8 and Totalkare, demonstrating the Commercial Vehicle Show’s longevity and uniqueness as the largest and best attended commercial

vehicle event in the UK. Last year’s Commercial Vehicle Show brought businesses back to a face-to-face environment, giving attendees the opportunity to get their hands on tangible products and to network in person. The Show was hailed as a success for providing exhibitors with a high number of quality engagements.

these challenges, including the return of a series of expert panel discussions. Panellists will also field questions from visitors, as part of live theatre sessions across all three days at the NEC.

As 2022 unfolds, the commercial vehicle sector continues to feature multiple challenges, from short term shortages in resourcing, to long-term fleet planning and preparation towards the end of sale of conventionally fuelled vans in 2030 and HGVs in 2040.

Murray Ellis, Show Director, said: “Despite the challenges the industry has faced in recent months, it is time to look ahead, to prepare businesses large and small for the future. The 2022 Commercial Vehicle Show is the place for everyone working within the commercial vehicle sector to be at – offering the ideal opportunity for seeing new products and services, gathering information and networking with industry colleagues to discuss the most important issues facing SMEs and large operators. The Commercial Vehicle Show is the event where business gets done.”

A host of Show content will be available to help visitors address

Visitors can register for their free tickets now at www.cvshow.com

Maxus Goes Fully Electric at CV Show once again MAXUS is gearing up for its biggest CV Show ever with two new vehicle reveals planned, as part of the brand’s continued commitment to greener motoring, copper-fastening its position in the commercial EV market. While the details are still under wraps, MAXUS has confirmed that it will showcase two new vehicles for the UK market on Tuesday 24th May at 11am and invites CV Show visitors to join the team for the big reveal. For the second consecutive year, MAXUS is going fully electric at the CV Show. The brand has confirmed that stand 5D110 will be a pure EV experience featuring 12 zero emission vehicles, including an e DELIVER 9 panel van, dropside and minibus, as well as featuring the e DELIVER 3 sports model panel van, tipper, specialist conversion van and milk float.

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Mark Barrett, General Manager of HARRIS MAXUS said: “The CV Show is always a highlight on the calendar for MAXUS, but this year we are planning to go bigger than ever before. Extending our range beyond LCVs, we will be unveiling two new vehicles to the UK market on Tuesday morning, which we are confident will attract interest beyond the commercial market. This is a big moment for MAXUS so make sure to stop by our stand because you won’t want to miss it. This year we are also bringing our largest fleet of EVs to the CV Show with 12 of our most innovative zero-emission vehicles making

the journey to the NEC Birmingham. “Our stand will be fully electric for the second year running. EV experts from MAXUS and our wider dealership network will be available to CV show visitors to answer any questions related to electric motoring. So, for anyone considering making the switch to electric, this is a golden opportunity to get up close not only with the MAXUS EV range, but those who can offer advice and insight.”

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SDC Trailers Promoting Its Freespan Curtainsider SDC Trailers plans to show one trailer from their range in the vehicle display area, along with a custom-made ‘semi-trailer’ exhibition stand. The company’s Truck & Trailer Parts division will also have a dedicated exhibit area on SDC’s stand 5D85. SDC’s Group President, Paul Bratton said: “The Commercial Vehicle show provides a premium opportunity for us to showcase our comprehensive semi-trailer range and services. Given the fluidity of the market and many challenges that hauliers are currently facing, the CV show will provide us with the opportunity to meet customers and decision-makers during these difficult times. As well as having a trailer in the vehicle display area, our stand has been built to showcase the key features of our Freespan Curtainsider following its successful launch to customers UK-wide in 2020. The Freespan trailer theme allows us to focus on the key design features which add to the durability, functionality, and reliability of this model.” SDC’s EN-XL rated Freespan Curtainsider features a fully clear side aperture and 5* Easy-Roll technology, ideal for customers

who require a side loading solution. Mounted on a robotically welded chassis, the Freespan’s unique low friction alloy system allows for efficient loading with minimal driver intervention. Available as a straight or step-frame, SDC will customise the Freespan trailer to any length, with numerous combinations of door, floor, and storage options, as well as aerodynamic aids. SDC’s aftermarket Parts division will exhibit at the CV show in Hall 5, stand 5D85, showcasing their catalogue of over 16,000 Truck and Trailer parts from axles, suspensions, ABS and air brakes to electrical components, landing legs and body parts. Supplying the leading OE brands for all vehicle makes and models, SDC’s long-established Parts division provides same-day or nextday delivery throughout the UK and Ireland,

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keeping operator downtime to a minimum. Parts Director, Gavin Diamond said, “SDC Truck & Trailer Parts has 10 customer depots and is growing with dedicated warehouse facilities and systems, holding thousands of Parts for prompt delivery to customers across the UK and Ireland. Our purchasing power within the SDC Group allows us to provide highly competitive prices to our customers, with high rising costs SDC Parts can provide savings to your fleet and I would encourage Parts users attending the CV show to come along and speak to our team to see how they can save on the leading Parts brands.”

HALL 5 STAND 5D85

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CV SHOW

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BPW ePower Makes its UK Debut Launched in November ’21 at Solutrans, BPW’s ePower is a new axle module developed by the engineers at BPW that recovers energy when the trailer is moving, enabling a carbon-neutral and quiet supply of power to refrigeration units for temperature-controlled transport. Two generators are used to provide double the power and reliability. Intelligent energy management ensures that the cooling system always has access to sufficient battery reserves, even on long journeys or in traffic jams. ePower is the basis for the latest generation of refrigeration units from Thermo King. The overall system created by the two partners means that forthcoming vehicle bans and delivery restrictions can be avoided, resources can be conserved, and sustainability can be improved in the transport chain. Also on show will be BPW’s AirSave tyre pressure control system which continuously tracks and controls tyre pressure while driving, helping to prevent unnecessary expenditures caused by worn out tyres or a roadside prohibition for under-inflated tyres. According to a British study, 82% of tyre failures can be prevented if the tyre pressure is controlled automatically. AirSave uses the trailer’s existing pneumatics and directs the air through the axle beam to the wheel end and from there to the tyre valve. The system

permanently monitors tyre pressure and starts to inflate at a pressure deviation of just 0.2 bar, making it a very fast and reliable system. Even a small loss in tyre pressure increases fuel consumption and consequently a higher level of emissions from your vehicle. Environmentally friendly AirSave can save 655 kilograms in CO2 emissions per year due to the reduction in fuel consumption. This is based on a tri-axle trailer with a mileage of 120,000 kilometres per annum.

Reverse Control Meanwhile, the Active Reverse Control system from BPW is designed to support the steering functionality of trailers working in tight spaces, as it offers an increase in the agility and manoeuvrability of the vehicle. Until now, the benefits of a selfsteering axle have only been available during forward travel, as the steering mechanism is locked and the axle remains rigid when reversing. However, BPW has

developed this electro-hydraulic auxiliary system, Active Reverse Control, to automatically control the steering axle when reversing. Active Reverse Control consists of control and hydraulic units and a steering cylinder with integrated steering angle and rotational speed sensor. When a driver engages the reverse gear, the steering system is automatically activated via the reversing lights. Additionally, for precise movement, steering can be manually operated with a remote control, accurately manoeuvring a trailer into a defined area. The innovative sensor technology, mounted in the control unit, rather than the kingpin, detects the direction and angle of the steering.

By utilising BPW’s Active Reverse Control, both fuel consumption and tyre wear will be reduced: at an annual mileage of 100,000 kilometres, you could save up to 1,000 litres of diesel and four tyres. The system, which can be retrofitted to an existing self-steering axle, is suitable for both commercial and agricultural purposes. Active Reverse Control can be utilised independently of the EBS system and can also be used to control two steering axles (four axles are even possible with agricultural vehicles). This easy-to-install, plug-and-play technology will help to increase fleet productivity and safety.

TIP hopes to earn further recognition TIP, along with associate businesses Grayrentals and Eurotrail, will return to the show after a two-year absence, to promote their range of industry leading rental, leasing and maintenance services for both ‘trucks’ and trailers.

They will be showcasing one or two new initiatives, including their new Earned Recognition service and their Electronic Braking Performance Monitoring System, BrakePlus. Earned Recognition by TIP is a service targeted at transport operators aspiring to achieve ‘exemplar’ Earned Recognition status and lists data entry, ‘compliance’ documentation provision, maintenance

KPI monitoring, dashboard access and dedicated Earned Recognition support as key features of the service. Stand visitors can sign up for a FREE trial. The team will also welcome the opportunity to discuss any requirements to equip trailer fleets with telematics solutions, including its BrakePlus ‘EBPMS’ that is aimed at improving safety and reducing costs associated with roller brake testing.

TruTac Provide Compliance One-Stop Shop TruTac, the tachograph analysis and fleet compliance experts, are showcasing their suite of products; its modular based package can expand to fit any size fleet and is designed to simplify compliance management by providing a one stop shop to save operators time and money. The company’s market-proven products include TruAnalysis, for complete tachograph compliance; TruChecks for daily vehicle driver checking; TruLicence which enables quick driving licence verification; TruFleet for complete fleet maintenance management,

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and soon-to-be launched, TruVan which allows complete compliance for Van fleets. Earned Recognition reporting is included free of charge. Launching in May, TruVan is a complete App and web-based ‘back-office’ management system

enabling compliance with DVSA Best Practice and operating guidelines for all van fleets. TruVan delivers minimum risk exposure and compliance with rules and legislation - all in one easyto-use system. Company directors

are afforded protection while being provided with demonstrable reporting and dashboards for full audit control. Designed as a modular system in a single portal, TruVan has the flexibility to grow with each individual business.

CV SHOW

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Brigade Electronics returns to CV Show after two years Brigade Electronics is returning to the Commercial Vehicle Show following a two-year break. Located at stand 4F15, Brigade will be showcasing Sidescan®Predict - its next generation of collision avoidance systems. The system uses artificial intelligence to constantly gather object detection data, such as the speed and distance of a cyclist or other vulnerable road user from a vehicle.

Brigade’s Sidescan®Predict is the next generation of side-detection sensor system, designed for collision avoidance between vehicles, objects and vulnerable road users. Utilising ultrasonic technology, this intelligent system predicts if a collision is likely to occur and alerts the driver by a visual and/or audible warning, depending on the severity of the calculation.

Sidescan®Predict With the consultation for updates to the London’s Direct Vision Standard opening in October 2022, Emily Hardy, Marketing Manager of Brigade UK, believes that technology like Sidescan®Predict is very likely to be included. She said:

• Differentiates between stationary and moving objects • Data such as vehicle speed, wheel position and the speed and direction of a VRU feeds an algorithm to calculate the risk of a collision • System in constant operation below 20mph/32kmh, with or without the indicators activated • Detection area extends up to 2.5m from side of vehicle • Designed and developed by Brigade

01322 420300 brigade-electronics.com You’re safer with us 56

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“TfL always wanted a system that could be on continuously. However, this causes an issue with potential driver distractions because the existing technology was only designed for low-speed manoeuvring. However, with Sidescan®Predict the collision protection is active with or without the indicators on.” The introduction of the Highway Code Hierarchy, meaning that HGVs will now bear the burden of responsibility in the event of an incident, is also making fleet operators think more carefully about how they can enhance vehicle safety. Emily said: “Even if you are not driving in Greater London, the approved solutions for the Direct Vision Standard, along with other industry accreditations, such as FORS, CLOCS and Van Excellence, are

ideal templates for mitigating the risks of collisions.” Brigade will be joined on its stand by Logistics UK to raise awareness of the updates to the Van Excellence Scheme, which requires all new vans entering fleets to be fitted with safety equipment, such as reversing alarms, sensors and cameras. Brigade, which is Logistics UK’s Van Gold partner, will also be celebrating the launch of Brigade VAN – its range of vehicle safety devices tailored specifically for the van market. As part of the Van Excellence Audit requirements, Brigade has created a risk assessment to help van operators assess which vehicle safety equipment will be most suitable for their needs. Alongside this, Brigade will be unveiling the latest addition to its MDR 600 series of vehicle CCTV digital video recorders (DVR), the MDR 644, and its new Backeye®360 HD BN360300 and highlighting its fully managed Cloud connectivity service, BRIDGE, which can now be linked to its full range of MDRs.

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Aquarius Showcasing Fleet Compliance and Management Solutions Aquarius IT will be showcasing its full range of fleet compliance and Earned Recognition approved management solutions; this will include their popular Asset Maintenance portal, which integrates with the company’s tacho analysis system and defect App to provide operators with a smarter way of managing both vehicle maintenance / inspection and driver activity. Plus, the team will be offering a first look at the company’s refreshed Document Management system. Visitors will see how Aquarius IT’s ClockWatcher Elite software has led the way in technology innovation for the last 18 years, and how today it has evolved to provide operators with a real ‘connected’ solution for processing, managing, analysing and reporting on all aspects of driver and vehicle data. Mark Johnston, Aquarius IT’s Customer Service Director; “With ClockWatcher Elite, driver and vehicle data has never been more accessible or easier to manage. This is not only vital for compliance; it also helps a road transport operation drill deeper into driver / vehicle data to provide wider operational and business benefits.” Developed from the ground-up by Aquarius’s in-house team of UK software specialists,

ClockWatcher Elite enables operators, from one source, one dashboard, one log-in, to monitor and manage tachograph data, vehicle defects, remote downloading, driver debriefs, employee’s time and attendance, plus lots more, including for 2022, an innovative electronic Document Management system. It also integrates with the company’s highly regarded Asset Maintenance portal, which uses a range of smart and intuitive features to help operators manage company assets requiring periodic maintenance or inspection; from vehicles to plant equipment and machinery. ClockWatcher Elite’s integrated Tachograph

Analysis software and Asset Maintenance portal have also both been accredited by the DVSA for the Earned Recognition Scheme, and in conjunction with the system’s Vehicle Defect Check App provides an allencompassing digital solution for managing and reporting on KPIs related to vehicle maintenance / inspection and driver activity. By combining these technologies, the software also allows operators to uniquely drill deeper into this linked driver and vehicle information for even greater clarity.

Trusted, integrated, cloud based solutions... Tachograph Analysis Asset Maintenance eSIGN Time & Attendance Document Management Defect checking

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LOGISTICS CONFERENCE

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ITT HUB 2022 TO HIGHLIGHT LATEST FEATURES & INNOVATIONS Following industry-wide success for its launch in 2021, the second instalment of Innovation and Technology in Transport Hub (ITT Hub) will bring the future of transport innovation to life across two days of knowledge sharing, networking and product unveilings. Taking place 11-12 May 2022 at Farnborough International’s world-class exhibition and conference centre, ITT Hub is the go-to event for the commercial and passenger road transport sector, bringing together the latest innovation and technology for bus, coach, truck, van, last mile, and autonomous vehicle fleets. Over 110 exhibitors across the vehicles, warehouse, fleet management, software, safety, and compliance sectors are taking part this year, including DAF Trucks, Renault Trucks, Volta Trucks, Ford, Harris Maxus, Iveco, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, TRAILAR, Schmitz Cargobull, Tachosys, TruTac, TyreWatch,Disc-Lock, Air Products and Argent Energy. Supported by commercial partners, National Grid, Western Power Distribution (WPD), Zenob, Lloyds Bank and Lex Autolease, ITT Hub is gearing up for a bigger and even more innovative experience. The event will see Trudy Harrison Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department for Transport, deliver the keynote at the Future Logistics Conference on the second day of the show. With this sector set to revolutionise as the industry transitions to net zero, the need for collaboration, learning, networking and experiencing is more potent than ever. To provide sector-specific platforms to enable thought leadership, collaboration and knowledge share, ITT Hub has increased the number of exclusive insight hubs throughout the show. Hosted by National Grid and

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Western Power Distribution, the Energy Theatre Hub will be the place where debate and discussion on transport issues will have energy running through the heart of them. Ten of the leading bus and coach manufacturer and dealers will be showcasing latest vehicles with Alexander Dennis, Wrightbus, Plaxton, Dawson Bus and Coach, Pelican Yutong, Caetanobus, Islebus UK, Mellor, Volvo Bus and Coach, Switch Mobility throughout the exhibition. Exclusive for bus and coach operators, the Bus & Coach Hub will shine a light on challenges and opportunities for bus and coach operations through panel discussions and one-to-one advice. Future Van Hub, hosted by Lex Autolease is a showcase of the latest innovation in the zeroemission van market. Featuring eLCV expert Paul Kirby, leading fleet operators will be showcasing latest models and share their insights on how OEM innovation is fast tracking the de-carbonisation of fleets.

COLD CHAIN HUB Buyers from the frozen and chilled goods sectors plus storage and distribution buyers will be able to meet over 30 suppliers, see new equipment and catch up with the latest technology at the brand-new Cold Chain Hub. As the largest gathering of the cold chain sector at any UK trade show, the event will see leading brands coming together, including: Gray & Adams, Carrier Transicold, Dawson Group, Paneltex, Thermo King, CoolKit, Chereau,SOR, SSI Schaefer, Cold Clad, Wagner UK, Polar Thermal, ABC Trailer Solutions, Sunswap, Cit-E Vans, Longhurst Refrigeration, Schmitz Cargobull, Petit Forestier, Smart Graphics, Myriad, Hultsteins Diesel Free Refrigeration, AddSecure, Prohire/ ProGreen, SPAL Automotive, Polar Thermal Packaging, Genie Insights, Zhyphen Bespoke Auxiliary Power and, of course, TCS&D Magazine.

FUTURE LOGISTICS CONFERENCE Organised by Logistics UK, the conference programme brings a stellar line up of some of the most influential and knowledgeable professionals in the transport sector to the stage, giving attendees real insight into what they need to do to plan their future business. Headlined by a keynote speech from world renowned space scientist Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE, the free-to-attend conference will provide a comprehensive overview of future-focussed developments in technology, regulation, society and public perception that will have significant impact on operational and strategic activity of logistics business in the next 5-10 years.

RIDE & DRIVE In a unique feature for events of this scale, ITT Hub offers the chance for ride-and-drive experiences on public roads as part of the two-day event. Those with an appropriate driving licence can get behind the wheel of a variety of vehicles on a test route that starts from the heart of the exhibition and includes a selection of local roads. With a number of new models being launched by manufacturers and unveiled at the show, as well as the latest updates and innovations to current models, more than 130 vehicles will be showcased across the exhibitor stands and demonstration facility. Schmitz Cargobull are sponsors of the Truck Demo Hub, which will see latest trailer units being used for road route experience with truck models.

20TH ANNIVERSARY

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TELEMATICS COMPANY CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH REBRAND ONE of Northern Ireland’s leading telematics and communication providers is celebrating 20 years in business with a new name and brand identity to reflect a significant growth in business across the Republic of Ireland and United Kingdom including a £500,000 contract with DCC Retail & Oil. Cubo, formerly known as Northern Ireland Business Communications (NIBC), has also announced plans to increase its workforce by 40 per cent over the next 12 months with the creation of 10 new jobs. The company first started selling corporate mobile phone solutions operating from an office in a farm in Glenwherry, Ballymena. They responded to increased customer demand for SIM cards for tracking devices which led them to research the market and identify a gap that existed for an affordable and innovative web-based tracking solution to help customers manage their fleets with ease. Today the company offers an extensive range of solutions including telematics, telecommunications, cameras, and compliance and prides itself on bringing these solutions together in one platform and two decades later, the company continues to place its customers at the heart of what they do. Five years ago, only 25 per cent of Cubo’s customer base was from outside of the Northern Ireland market and following significant growth in ROI and GB, it now accounts for 70 per cent of the customer base. The company has continued to win large contracts, most recently with FreshLinc, a leading service provider throughout the UK and Europe to retailers, food manufacturers, growers and importers. In Ireland, Cubo delivers The Greener HGV Programme as part of the Irish Government’s Project Ireland 2040 – they recently secured a £500,000 contract with DCC Retail & Oil (which includes Jones Oil, Emo Oil and Campus Oil.) Elizabeth Vuagniaux, Marketing Manager of Cubo said: “We’ve been operating across Northern Ireland for two decades and have developed a stellar reputation and loyal and growing customer base. In recent years we have massively increased our client base across the ROI and UK and to maximise the opportunities available, and support our ambitious plans for growth, we recognised that it was the right time for change. We had

Pictured are Cubo’s Sales Director, Conor Patton, Marketing Manager, Elizabeth Vuagniaux and Financial Director, Declan McArdle.

a clear vision for our brand, one that could take us into the future, allow us to strengthen our market presence and reflect our success. “Cubo was created to reposition the company as a one-stop-shop for telematics and communication solutions. We are confident that the new, modern and clear identity will appeal to a much wider and tech-savvy audience, and whilst competition exists for individual solutions, no other company offers this same level of integration. Our customers have access to their information in one place due to our in-house development and strategic partnerships – we bring it all together.” Conor Patton, Sales Director of Cubo added: “We have experienced a 23 per cent increase in connected devices over the last two years, which

is impressive when you consider the pressure businesses have been under due to Covid, Brexit and lorry driver shortages and we are proud to have helped our customers through this very challenging time. Not only enabling them to continue to efficiently communicate with their colleagues, customers and suppliers – but also giving them the tools at their fingertips to ensure they remain compliant, whilst protecting their most valuable assets – their staff, fleet and loads. “It’s an exciting time for Cubo, for both our employees and our customers. We have ambitious plans for further growth in the months ahead and as part of this we will be creating 10 new jobs right across the business in Technical and Service Delivery, Customer Experience, Finance and Sales and Marketing.”

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NEWS

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Renault Trucks Records Significant Business Growth At the end of a year marked by a general recovery in economic activity and strong demand in commercial vehicle markets, Renault Trucks recorded a 25% increase to 51,460 vehicles in its total invoicing, despite the disruption to supplies to its production lines. Renault Trucks also recorded a 44% increase in its order intake. In Europe, Renault Trucks also confirmed its strong results, with a 41% increase in invoicing in the market for vehicles over 6 tonnes and increased activity in all its markets. In France, the manufacturer now boasts a ten-year high market share of 29.8%. The brand performed particularly well in Poland, with an 89% increase (1,705 vehicles), and the UK (+56%). The manufacturer also recorded steady growth in the penetration of its service agreements, which accompanied 45% of its vehicle sales in 2021. In the over 16t segment,

registrations rose by 20.7%, enabling Renault Trucks to stabilise its market share at 8.8%. Renault Trucks is keeping pace with the 6-16t market, with its share up 0.7 points to 7.3% and registrations increasing by 11%. In the LCV market, Renault Trucks’ invoicing rose by 20%, with significant increases in the Netherlands (+57%), Belgium, the UK (+20%), Central Europe and Italy (+45%).

Used trucks In 2021, demand for used trucks remained very high in a market boosted by the upturn in activity and a shortage of new vehicles due

to disruptions to production. Renault Trucks invoiced 13% (8,926 units) fewer vehicles than in 2020, due to a historically low stock level of under 1,000 vehicles. In 2021, Renault Trucks continued its investment in the circular economy, converting 300 vehicles at its Used Trucks Factory in Bourg-en-Bresse and launching a limited series of used T Robust 13 L tractors designed to last at least 1 million km.

Electric mobility For several years now, Renault Trucks’ range of electric trucks

has been constantly expanding and its sales volumes reflect this rapid progress: in 2021, 249 electric trucks were delivered and 613 were ordered. In a European market where volumes remain modest (450 registrations), the manufacturer’s share stands at 17%. Renault Trucks is stepping up its strategy with increased ambitions: 50% of its sales volumes in 2030 will comprise electric vehicles and 100% of the vehicles it markets will be carbon neutral by 2040.

Transporter is first to fit Ecogen power generators ahead of diesel price hike McLaughlan Transport, one of Scotland’s best known and long-established hauliers has fitted the first of three Hultsteins Ecogen systems to one of three new DAF 105 XF tractors which, says the company is expected to make significant cuts in fuel consumption while extending the working life of their existing diesel fridges and greatly reducing harmful emissions. “We ordered the new units with a factory-fitted PTO (power take off) so the Ecogen system could be put to work straight away,” says Managing Director, George McLaughlan. “We are the first in Scotland to benefit from Hultsteins’ onboard generators and with the use of gas oil for dieselpowered refrigeration units now stopped since 1st April, the price of fuel is going to rocket. Plus, with carbon emissions now high on the environmental list of concerns, it seems like the best thing to do.” Plus, adds George, he expects Ecogen to power his diesel fridges for at least 10 years and over that time, maintenance, fuel and vehicle downtime will all be greatly decreased. Plus, although he may see a very slight increase in fuel consumption from the tractors, he also anticipates that the harmful emissions from the diesel refrigeration unit will be virtually eliminated. “Whichever way you look at it, we will definitely be cutting running costs, because the diesel fridge engines will no longer be

as the mains supply” adds George, “which transforms the existing diesel TRU into a hybrid solution that can run any marque of diesel fridge and fit to any tractor with a PTO.” Specialising in temperature-controlled transport but also offering a wide range of general haulage, consolidation and storage services for supermarkets and producers throughout Europe, McLaughlan Transport also moves a significant number of ISO containers from ‘farm to dock’, containing temperature sensitive cargo. required when the Ecogens are running.” Hultsteins, based in Sweden, has been designing and producing hydraulic and electricdrive transport refrigeration systems for nearly 60 years and as the environmentally damaging effects of diesel consumption are now widely visible, retailers and transport operators are turning to the Ecogen hybrid system to validate their respective environmental objectives. “The system generates a constant 400-volt, 3-phase electrical power to the same standard

“This is where the Ecogen system will really benefit our customers,” explains George. “Normally, the fridge systems on these ISO containers require an electric plug-in and of course when they are on the road, unless the trailer has an on-board genset, the load will not remain temperature controlled. With Ecogen however, Hultsteins have provided a special converter so the suzi can simply plug straight in and keep driving the fridge. Currently, we are the only transporter who can provide this facility.”

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NEWS

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Krone supports fleet expansion for KBC Logistics A containerised transport specialist has added more than 50 trailers to its fleet as its deep-sea operations continue to expand. KBC Logistics has taken delivery of 51 Box Liner FS10 skeletal trailers from Krone UK to support rapid growth in its deepsea business. KBC has won significant new contracts - and increased levels of business with existing clients - after opening a depot at DP World in London Gateway. David Ashford, who is a company director and its Transport and Compliance Manager, said: “Previously we predominantly operated fixed chassis trailers. However, our presence at London Gateway has enabled us to win some substantial new deep-sea contracts, which required

investment in more sliding skeletal trailers.” Founded in 2008, KBC Logistics specialises in transporting ambient and chilled containerised goods from ports to regional distribution centres. It also provides traction services for unaccompanied trailers. KBC operates a fleet of more than 300 vehicles from four locations, with depots in Purfleet in Essex, Killingholme in Lincolnshire, Southampton, and London Gateway. It has 360 skeletal trailers with plans to expand this to 450 by the end of 2022, in line with predicted growth. The company invested in Krone trailers following feedback from its in-house workshop team. “The workshop really like the Krone kit as the build quality is excellent - they are robust and extremely easy to maintain,” added David. “Krone was also competitive on price, which made it a very straightforward decision.”

The FS10 has a flat chassis configuration with a sliding bogie for carrying 20ft, 30ft, 40ft and 45ft containers. Krone container chassis are designed to be durable and versatile, with features including fold-out and retractable container locks, as well as extendable underrun protection. They come with a 10-year guarantee against corrosion perforation. Krone trailers are manufactured at its facility in Werlte, Germany, with Krone UK providing nationwide product support and aftersales care throughout Britain. “Krone UK has been great,” said David. “They listen to us, take on board what we need and are very accommodating. They went the extra mile to help us specify the right axles for our trailers, which we really appreciated. KBC Logistics is a very customer-driven business and it is always nice to see that same ethos from your suppliers.”

Cold transport braced for diesel price hike Virtually all temperature-controlled operators are facing massive cost increases when the treasury’s controversial initiative to claw back funds from an already over-stretched transport sector comes into play next month on April 1st. Graham Usher, Managing Director of Hultsteins, the hydraulic refrigeration and electric generator manufacturer, offers some advice and suggests a tried and tested solution to literally bypass the existing fridge engine and thereby, during transit, virtually dispense with fridge diesel altogether. “I’m sure all temp-controlled operators are well aware that from April 1st, the Government’s mandate states that all TRUs must be emptied of red diesel and refuelled with white – which means a sudden and massive price increase for all. I’m not so sure however, that every operator has calculated how much this change in the law will cost or how they might avoid the problem in the first place.” Hultsteins focus on two key product groups: Hydraulic drive fridge units, called EcoFridge, which use a hydraulic pump to draw energy from the rigid truck engine to drive the fridge; and Ecogen, a small electric generator which Hultsteins claims is an ideal and affordable solution to the cost increases which will hit the refrigerated sector in April. Ecogen, says Hultsteins, does not replace the existing diesel refrigeration system, but instead works in tandem with the

be used by the tractor during transit, but the overall reduction in fuel is very significant.” Graham goes on to explain that based on the aforementioned fuel and usage assumptions, a carbon saving of around 20 tonnes per year can be expected from each Ecogen system. “Also, Ecogen is ideal for urban and night-time use because the TRU’s diesel engine will not be running” and in turn, the greatly reduced engine use means less maintenance, which extends the life of the fridge unit.”

Graham Usher.

fridge trailer unit to generate a constant 400V - even at idle speed. This power, supplied via the tractor’s PTO, literally transforms the diesel unit into a hybrid solution which uses the TRU’s built-in electric motor to drive the fridge during transit.

of £9,000 can be expected. However, says Graham Usher, by fitting an Ecogen system the fuel cost per fridge unit can be reduced by around 90%, which means a pay back for the equipment in under two years.

Hultsteins add that a very small amount of diesel will be required from the tractor unit to power the generator, but even so, the company claims diesel consumption to the fridge unit will be reduced by more than 90%.

Hultsteins also point to the guaranteed reduction in environmental impact: according to the company, Ecogen will reduce carbon and NOx (nitric oxide) emissions by up to 95%, while particulate pollution is also reduced.

To this end, Hultsteins calculate that for a typical fridge unit operating for 56 hours per week and using 3 litres per hour, an annual fuel bill in the region

“It follows”, says Graham Usher, ”that if no diesel is being used by the fridge unit, no emissions will be produced. Yes, a very small amount of additional diesel will

As April 1st looms, Hultsteins advise temperature-controlled trailer operators to take stock of their situation and make the necessary preparations. ”If you operate Scania, Volvo or Renault, an Ecogen system can be quickly and easily retrofitted. Or simply retrofit a PTO, but remember to specify your next tractor with a PTO already factory fitted, so an Ecogen can be quickly put to use.” Advice taken on board by Managing Director, George McLaughlan of McLaughlan Transport: “We ordered the new units with a factory-fitted PTO so the Ecogen system could be put to work straight away. We are the first in Scotland to benefit from Hultsteins’ onboard generators and with the price of diesel set to rocket in April and carbon emissions now high on the environmental list of concerns, it seems like the best thing to do.”

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RECYCLING

RUBBER RECYCLING:

THE CORE OF TYRE SUSTAINABILITY Bandvulc began operating 50 years ago, primarily recycling rubber for its local community. Today it is the UK’s leading commercial tyre retreader and part of Continental, yet despite significant expansion in capabilities and product offerings over the years, the company remains true to its founding principles and commitment to the environment, putting in place a myriad of efficient manufacturing processes to make sure the retread tyres produced are as sustainable as possible. Here, Tony Mailling, Bandvulc Operations Director, focuses on rubber recycling at the Ivybridge plant and the important role it plays in contributing to a more sustainable UK road transport industry.

WHAT HAPPENS TO USED TYRES AT BANDVULC? Rubber recycling at Bandvulc starts with the worn tyres, or casings, which arrive with us from customers all over the country. These casing are extensively inspected before we decide if retreading will be an option. Understanding the exact quality of the casing is really important to ensure product integrity. The Bandvulc facility is able to inspect up to 2,500 casings per day, each subject to over 20 quality assurance checks including both visual assessment and mechanical checks. If a casing is of satisfactory quality, it is selected for retread. Some 30% of the tyres received at Bandvulc are not suitable for retreading, so these are baled and collected for recycling. Casings which are fit for retreading are placed into a buffing machine to remove any remaining rubber. This process alone can generate around 7kg of buffing crumb per tyre. Bandvulc also recycle this, bagging up the crumb for collection by approved suppliers for use in other rubber products for example playground matting, carpet underlay or equestrian training arenas with some crumb also used in the manufacture of new tyres. This means all rubber which comes into the

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Devon site is recycled in one way or another, we do not send any waste to landfill.

WHAT ABOUT THE RUBBER YOU NEED FOR THE NEW RETREAD TYRES? Reclaimed rubber crumb from buffing is also used to manufacture our unique tyre compounds. Bandvulc are the only retreader in the UK with our own in-house rubber mixing and development capabilities – Bandvulc Mixing. This on-site lab means we can develop and test tyres on-site, and now thanks to our relationship with Continental, we have a twoway technology sharing model with Continental’s Research and Development engineers in Stöcken, Germany, allowing us to create tyres to meet the hefty demands of a broad range of commercial vehicle applications.

MATERIAL SAVINGS Every Bandvulc tyre produced saves 80% of the materials required to manufacture a new tyre,

Tony Mailling, Bandvulc Operations Director.

therefore significantly reducing the impact on the environment. This means we are able to save 30kg of rubber compound, up to 20kg of steel and 60kg of CO2 on every retread tyre produced compared to a new tyre. In addition, retreading tyres reduces scrapping, exportation, and incineration of worn-out tyres which, over the course of a year, can release over 160,000 tonnes of CO2 into the air.

HOW HAS BANDVULC CONSIDERED ITS MANUFACTURING PROCESSES AS PART OF THE SUSTAINABILITY EQUATION? Every part of our production has been considered with sustainability in mind and our customers understand and appreciate this. We use innovative and highly efficient solutions in our retreading plant which combines the retreading of truck tyres and recycling of used rubber under one roof. The advanced energy monitoring system at the Ivybridge facility keeps close track of the energy levels and output of every piece of equipment across the whole factory, ensuring environmental sustainability and efficiency at every stage of the process. The factory has also introduced a zero-tolandfill policy, which ensures that no production waste goes to landfill. As a result, 100% of the factory’s waste is recycled or incinerated. Bandvulc consider sustainability at the heart of our operations – across the board. This not only includes the manufacturing processes in place on site, and our zero-tolandfill policy but also through our diverse product offering and the quality retreads we provide for customers who understand that considering how a tyre will be managed throughout its lifecycle can make a huge difference to operating costs and environmental impact.

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Customer service expansion supports growth at Pall-Ex Group

“Our role is now much more focused on delivering training and problem-solving; residential pallet deliveries continue to increase, which also increases the need for customer support.

Pall-Ex Group is driving into 2022 with an expanded customer service team following a department restructure and a number of new appointments.

“Most consumers are unfamiliar with this method of delivery and there might be restricted access so we have to be more proactive with solving issues before they occur.”

The team has expanded with the addition of four new hires and the merger of the Pall-Ex and Fortec Distribution Network customer service personnel. Recently appointed Group Customer Service Manager, Rachel Coe, is taking the department up a gear at Pall-Ex Group’s central hub in Leicestershire to support on-going growth and staff development. With over 20 years’ experience in customer service and HR, Rachel is helping to deliver PallEx’s investments in its workforce, working to enhance knowledge, skills and progression opportunities. Rachel comments: “Investing in staff development is a core belief at Pall-Ex Group and we’ve

implemented cross-departmental training across operations and the whole pallet network to support the team with their own personal development, from problem solving to leadership skills. “We are also committed to providing quick and efficient resolutions to customer issues via innovation and collaboration, and our training programme will enable us to continue developing solutions. “Our aims for the next 12 months are to work with customers to make their processes more efficient and with our network members to share customer feedback in order to improve the Pall-Ex and Fortec services.”

service for its corporate clients, which include large ecommerce retailers, Pall-Ex also provides customer service implants who are permanently based at client sites. Pall-Ex Group’s multi-million investment in a new transport management system Nexus and tracking technology MyNexus, has improved the customer experience and changed the role of the team. Rachel comments: “We want our customers to get the most out of the technology we’ve built, so we’re training our customers to use MyNexus to the best of its ability and we find this collaborative approach is valuable for our large corporate clients.

Kevin Buchanan, Group CEO, comments: “Providing first-class customer service is always top of the agenda at Pall-Ex and we are committed to improving that experience for every customer. “There has been significant growth in residential pallet deliveries in the last couple of years, so it is vital we adapt and develop to meet these changing needs. “As a pallet network, we believe that working together is the key to success and it is this collaborative approach across the business that helps us to put our customers first.”

To ensure first-class customer

Volvo Trucks Leads Electric Truck Market in Europe New statistics show that Volvo Trucks is the market leader for all-electric heavy trucks in Europe with a market share of 42 per cent. In 2021 the company took orders, including letters of intent to buy, for more than 1,100 electric trucks worldwide. The international road transport industry is undergoing a transformation towards more sustainable logistics as sales of battery electric heavy trucks are starting to pick up, with Europe in the lead. An increasing number of all-electric heavy trucks are now running in commercial traffic. Statistics from the market analysis group IHS Markit show that during 2021 a total of 346 electric trucks (≥16 tonnes) were registered in Europe – an increase of 193 per cent from 2020. Volvo Trucks has the largest market share at 42 per cent. The countries in Europe with the most electric trucks registered (≥16 tonnes) are Switzerland, Norway, Sweden and The Netherlands. “We are determined to drive the electric truck revolution and our market leading position in Europe is proof that we are doing just that. Even if volumes are still low, we see rapidly growing interest, both in Europe, North America and in other parts of the world. It’s quickly becoming a key competitive advantage for our customers to be able to offer electric, zero emission trucks,” says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.

In the UK… However, whilst figures from IHS Markit do not include the UK, Christian Coolsaet, Managing

Director of Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, estimates the UK would likely rank no higher than eighth in the table, despite being one of the largest commercial vehicle markets in Western Europe. He says: “When you look at the incentives offered in other European markets, it’s clear that the UK Government needs a more robust strategy to drive the change to e-mobility for HGVs. Other countries have put far more on the table to support operators in making the switch, such as Norway, where one measure they have adopted includes the state-owned enterprise Enova funding electric vehicles with up to 50 % of the additional investments compared to a diesel truck. “We also need to see immediate investment in a nationwide charging infrastructure to support electric HGVs. It’s not product availability which will delay our ability to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions within this sector – it’s the lack of electrical infrastructure. Building a renewal energy charging network is vital if we are to hit our net zero goals.

Joint Venture Last year Volvo Group announced a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Trucks and the Traton Group to set up a company which will roll out charging points for HGVs

across Europe, and the first sites to get these charging points will be motorways. “As manufacturers we are demonstrating our commitment to e-mobility – but a collaborative approach with Government is crucial if we are to meet our global climate objectives,” explains Coolsaet. Volvo Trucks began serial production of electric trucks in 2019, as one of the very first truck brands in the world to do so. Today Volvo offers the most complete electric truck line up in the global truck industry and has delivered electric vehicles to a wide range of customers in Europe, North America and Australia. The company’s target is that half of its total truck sales will be electric by 2030. Alm adds: “Clearly, these numbers show that we’re off to a very good start in sales. With our broad electric truck line up, it’s now possible to electrify a large part of the heavy road transport sector already today. This proportion will grow even larger as the distance that electric trucks can drive increases and the charging infrastructure for heavy trucks becomes further developed.”

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WASTE-TO-ENERGY

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MCCULLA IRELAND LAUNCHES SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT FLEET McCulla Ireland, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading storage and logistics companies, has launched its circular economy waste-to-energy transport fleet at an event at its Lisburn headquarters. This new sustainable transport fleet is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland and has been many years in development. The company has long been conscious of its environmental impact but some years ago set out a long-term strategy to make environmental protection a core part of the business. McCulla Ireland now has its own energy division, called Alternity Biogas Energy (ABE). This includes an anaerobic digester plant which enables the company to produce all of its own energy. The company is now using food waste as feedstock for the biofuel plant, which has been powering its offices and cold stores since 2017 and has now started producing bio-methane for use as fuel in the company’s fleet of gas-powered trucks. The new sustainable transport fleet delivers improved efficiencies and reduces the haulier’s carbon emissions by 93% in comparison to diesel. At the event, Ashley McCulla, Chairman of McCulla Ireland said: “We are extremely proud to introduce Northern Ireland’s first circular economy waste-to-energy transport fleet.

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Circular economy waste-to-energy transport fleet launch: Ashley McCulla, Chairman, McCulla (Ireland) Ltd, Edwin Poots Environment Minister and Peter Somerton, McCulla (Ireland) Ltd.

Through collaborative partnerships we collect food waste from our customers and process it through our anaerobic digester plant to produce energy. This includes electricity for our cold stores and bio-methane gas for our trucks.

These trucks reduce CO2 emissions by 93% in comparison to diesel. We also supply bio-fertiliser to local farms to grow more food. It really is a full circle process that reduces waste to an absolute minimum right across our supply chain.

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The decision to embark on this project started in 2012 and was primarily driven by my desire to be in control of my own destiny. The logistics industry is very energy intensive with over 40% of our costs coming from electricity and diesel, both of which fluctuate wildly from year to year. With this plant we are now able to manage our biggest costs. Northern Ireland has the technical expertise and resources to become energy secure and less dependent on outside influences. If this model was adopted by more companies, the people of Northern Ireland would ultimately benefit.” Speaking at the event, Environment Minister Edwin Poots said: “I welcome this innovative and exciting initiative by McCulla Transport to power its fleet which is also very timely this Food Waste Action Week. This is a prime example of the circular economy at work. In this case, compressed bio-methane produced from waste food is being used to power the vehicles that deliver food to the very supermarkets whose waste was used to

produce the bio-fuel in the first place.” The Minister added: “This waste to energy recovery makes a very positive contribution to society. This initiative demonstrates how business needs and environmental needs can complement each other for mutual benefit. Northern Ireland’s transition to a circular economy will undoubtedly be a cornerstone of achieving reductions in carbon emissions as well as contributing to our net zero ambitions. This will help us deliver a greener, low carbon and circular economy for Northern Ireland and contribute towards my Green Growth Strategy and our new climate legislation.” As a business, McCulla says that it has always sought to develop mutually beneficial partnerships with its customers and suppliers and this project has been the ultimate display of this in practice. At the event, Ashley thanked all of those that have played a role in the company’s “green journey”.

www.mcculla.co.uk

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MANVIK AND DENNIS EAGLE CLEANING UP IN RCV MARKET Five new Dennis Eagle refuse collection vehicles (RCVs) have started work with Ards and North Down Borough Council, rounding off a bumper year for the Belfast-based dealer Manvik Plant & Hire Ltd. The 26-tonne vehicles all feature the Elite 6x2 mid-steer chassiswith Olympus 23m3 bodies and Terberg OmniDEKA electric binlifts. “These new trucks mean we now have 26 front line Dennis Eagle RCVs and eight back-up trucks at Ards and North Down, all fitted with Terberg lifts,” said Manvik director Alan Haire. “This latest order was an easy choice for the council to make. The vehicles have already proven themselves to the council to be very efficient and very reliable.In addition to that, the drivers, crews and engineersare alreadyvery familiar with them, which obviously helps.

Jeff Shaw, Transport Manager, Ards and North Down Borough Council, Alan Haire, Director Manvik & James Mannis, Transport Operations Supervisor, Ards and North Down Borough Council.

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“The low-entry cab is particularly popular with everyone. It’s both safer and easier to get in and out – which, of course, the crews are doing all day long, so they love it. But it also means fewer injuries from slips and falls, fewer people off work and less unbudgeted cost for operators to cover – so they love it too. “And while the council looks after routine service and maintenance in-house, whenever they need anything more, Manvik is just minutes away on the Belfast Harbour Estate. Our goal is to provide a customer support service second to none and our service engineers will beon the scene in no time.”

This emphasis on customer service has played a crucial role in winning orders for Manvik. Since July 2021, Dennis Eagle vehicles have been delivered to Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon BC, Belfast CC, Derry City & Strabane DC, Fermanagh & Omagh DC, Mid Ulster DC and more will be delivered to Belfast CC and Causeway Coast & Glens BC any day now. “During the pandemic lockdowns, orders dried up,”said Alan. “But while we knew they’d pick up again, once everyone returned to their routines, nobody expected

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“PLACING AN EMPHASIS ON CUSTOMER SERVICE HAS PLAYED A CRUCIAL ROLE IN WINNING ORDERS FOR MANVIK” the boom to be as sustained as this. “We’ve supplied around 50 trucks in the last 12 months – nearly double what we’ve sold before – and there’s no sign of it letting up.” He believes the combination of great vehicles with the best customer support in the industry from both Manvik and Dennis Eagle, is proving to be the winning combination. “Our existing customers keep coming back to us, which is always reassuring but we’ve had a couple of orders from outside our established customer base too,” said Alan. “Cost and efficiency are the key requirements but of course, efficiency isn’t just about how good the vehicle is. It’s strongly influenced by how good the customer support is and our hard-earned reputation is attracting attention. “At Manvik, we’re a one-stop-shop catering

for all our customers’ needs. We understand that they are trying to provide increasingly better services to the residents and businesses they serve. We realise they’re trying to do this in increasingly challenging circumstances. “So, in order for them to succeed, they need us towork to the very highest standards and aim to constantly improve what we do. That’s what Manvik Plant & Hire is about.”

VEHICLE SPEC Dennis Eagle Elite 6 6x2 Mid Steer with Olympus OL23W 23 cubic metre body with Terberg Omnideka Electric bin lifts. The vehicles are also fitted with DE Connect on board Telematics and diagnostics, Trailar Solar Panels and Banksman Auto Braking Reverse Radar system.

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LOGISTICS UK VAN BRIEFING

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UKWA BELFAST WAREHOUSING SHOWCASE EXPLORES CLOSER LINKS BETWEEN IRELAND & GREAT BRITAIN Barriers created by Brexit along with changes in supply chains and storage strategy are driving Irish companies to consider warehousing options on the mainland, according to a report produced by Model Logistics in collaboration with the UK Warehousing Association. This was the timely context for the UKWA Warehousing Showcase held recently in Belfast, where Irish delegates heard from Paul Johnson of Model Logistics about the benefits of holding stock closer to customers and the different options available to them. Simon McKeever of Irish Exporters Association spoke about the increasing importance of sustainability as a strategic priority but said that the warehousing and logistics industry was ‘behind the curve’. “Sustainability encompasses human rights and a decent working environment as well clean, affordable energy and a commitment to addressing climate change,” he explained. “While economic, social and environmental considerations are key to a sustainable framework for businesses, the challenge is to find the balance between the three.” Simon said that drivers for change include climate change, consumer demand, the need for legal compliance, pressure from investors, suppliers and employees, as well as brand reputation. He added that research indicates

that consumers are prepared to pay between 2-10% more for services or goods from ethical companies with prominent ESG (Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance) credentials. With that, he announced the imminent launch of the Institute of Sustainable Trade, a new initiative by the Irish Exporters Association to support Irish businesses on their journey to sustainability.

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT Ruth Edwards, Operations Director at Talent in Logistics shared her latest research on Employee Engagement, first presented at UKWA’s National Conference in March. She alluded to an aging population, Brexit and poor industry image as barriers to recruitment, with 54% of logistics businesses expecting to see severe worker and skills shortages by 2024. Her research, undertaken with UKMHA, surveyed attitudes of 11,000 forklift operators in an attempt to understand what attracted workers to an employer and what motivated them to stay. “People create business value – so employee engagement is a massive differentiator in times of change and is

Ruth Edwards, Talent in Logistics, Clare Botte C.E.O. U.K.W.A. and Paul Johnson, Model Logic U.K.

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Clare Bottle, C.E.O. U.K.W.A.

essential to future talent pipelines,” she said. Respondents confirmed that while pay was important, it was by no means the only factor in attracting and retaining employees. The survey showed that diversity and inclusion, trusted managers, and a better work/life balance were all more highly valued than a 5% pay rise. Training in particular was viewed as vital by younger workers, with 94% wanting to progress their careers. Ruth concluded, “The cost of recruitment, onboarding and training is high – between £10-30K, depending on job function – so that engaging with employees, ensuring they feel valued, included and motivated simply makes sense!” Following Paul Johnson’s presentation of Enterprise Ireland’s report on the options

Eddie Vietrmas, John Heron and Eoin Conway from Meteor Space.

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Ruth Edwards, Talent in Logistics. Paul Johnson, Model Logic.

Simon McAteer, Institute of Exporters.

for Irish businesses to find warehousing in Great Britain, the event closed with a Q&A session focusing on property issues in Ireland with experts Nigel Healy of JLL and Frazer Hood of McConnells in the hot seat. Topics ranged from land values (significantly less in Northern Ireland than in the South or Great Britain) and the impact on size of buildings and rental values, to frustration with planning and ‘land banking’ by big companies, which is pushing prices up.

nnells Property Nigel Healy, JLL, Frazer Hood, McCo and Clare Bottle, C.E.O, U.K.W.A.

Frazer Hood, McConnell Property, Lisa McAteer CBRE, Nigel Healy, JLL and Simon McAteer, Institute of Export.

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WOMEN DRIVING CHANGE BY IAN GREEN

The logistics sector across the UK & Ireland has long been facing a looming skills shortage. An ageing work population, rising reliance on e-commerce and delivery services, a lack of industry education to the younger generation and the impact of Brexit on immigration have created a growing talent shortage. On Sunday 6th March, I had the pleasure of attending the Women Driving Change event hosted by Transport Training Services in Crumlin. This event gave interested females the opportunity to try their hand at driving an HGV or Bus, take part in interactive workshops, listen to and meet with women currently working within the Automotive, Transport & Logistics sectors.

greater pool of talent to attract from but can also impact their bottom line, with research from PwC showing a link between a gender diverse workforce and higher financial returns. Historically only 1% of all registered lorry drivers in the UK have been female – the vast majority of drivers are still male, with the average age being around 48 years old. There are also many preconceptions about the industry – that immense physical strength is requirement of the job, or that sexism is widespread among the driving workforce.

The event consisted of several local businesses showcasing their career opportunities and also which apprenticeship options are available. Speaking with many of the attendees about the possibility of entering the logistics industry exceeded my own expectations about the number of women who are interested and actively seeking to join the industry. On the day, I had the chance to speak with a variety of people from all backgrounds. From a 15-year-old who was exploring options beyond University to others who were looking for a complete career change.

MANPOWER DRIVING ACADEMY As the event offered women the chance to drive HGV/PCV vehicles, the most popular topic of conversation was Professional Driving and this gave me the opportunity to talk to people in detail about the Manpower Driving Academy. We know there are significant barriers to beginning a career in driving, especially for those new to the logistics industry. Knowing which training courses to start with, getting the right support through these programmes and understanding how to get a foothold in the world of work can all cause significant problems and potentially put ambitious new drivers off taking that next step. With a huge problem to solve and in a bid to tackle the Professional driver shortage, Manpower UK launched the Manpower Driver Academy. This programme supports students with the necessary training, certification and employment support to help candidates begin a safe and successful career as an HGV driver.

Ian Green

Future drivers can get access to extensive training that will build the skills needed to become an HGV driver and achieve the right certifications to accelerate their careers. Students also benefit from a bespoke recruitment and professional development programme tailored to their needs, so that they are fully prepared when entering the jobs market. With more than 3,000 students completing the Academy each year based all across the UK, we’re able to connect our Graduates with a valuable, exclusive and more diverse range of career opportunities. The value of logistics and our programme is that we understand how fast paced the industry is and we place our candidates efficiently.

BROADER DIVERSITY AGENDA Female participation across the logistics industry is hugely underrepresented and supporting women into the logistics sector, whilst promoting a broader diversity agenda is critical to solving the skills shortage. This will give employers a

Launched in 2021, the Women In Driving Development Pathway put a training group of carefully selected female individuals through our established Manpower Driver Academy programme, where they benefited from the necessary training, certification, mentoring and work experience to enable them to launch a successful career as a fully licenced LGV driver. I’ve seen first-hand how entrants to the Academy can build up their driving capabilities and bridge into new roles in logistics. Now, by committing to supporting more women through this programme, as well as actively promoting the benefits that a career in driving can offer, we hope to help create a new pipeline of driving talent for the future. I firmly believe the expansion of the female workforce in driving will help to bring about the significant impact the sector desperately needs, but while there is still work to be done, the reality is that the haulage industry is changing – women are increasingly entering the sector and are challenging the stereotypes surrounding it, to the benefit of all! *Ian Green is a former Professional Driver and Transport Planner who now specialises in Logistics & Supply Chain Recruitment, on behalf of Manpower UK. All views expressed in this article are representative of Ian Green and not Manpower UK. You can contact Ian on 07483901801 or via email at ian.green@Manpower.co.uk

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LOGISTICS UK BRIEFS VAN OPERATORS ON THE CHANGES AHEAD The rules for operating a van in an EU member state are changing in May 2022 and operators working internationally must be prepared to avoid costly consequences. To help operators understand how this legislation may affect their business, Logistics UK recently held a free-to-attend Northern Ireland Van Operational Briefing in Newtownabbey. From 21 May, anyone operating a light goods vehicle and/or trailer between 2.5 and 3.5 tons in an EU member state will be required to have a goods vehicle operator’s licence. The changes will apply to anyone operating a light goods vehicle for hire or reward (goods, not owned by the operator, being transported for payment). During the briefing Richard Crawford from the Freight Policy Branch at the Department of Infrastructure for NI discussed

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Seamus Leheny, Policy Manager NI, Will Reeves, Sector Development Manager, Eric Higham, Senior Contract Manager VIS, Jayne Currie, Member Relations and Contract Manager NI and Ian Wright, General Manager Major Account Development.

the latest EU mobility package, which ensures changes to road legislation can be implemented effectively, as well as the new rules for operator licencing for vans. Other speakers included Keith Pollock from Translink who highlighted road safety issues

around the province’s 141 level crossings, especially those relevant to van operators. Robert Walker from MBNI Truck and Van was also at the briefing, promoting some of the new electric vehicles available from Mercedes-Benz and highlighting

their sustainability benefits. The well attended event was opened up by Logistic UK’s Policy Manager for Northern Ireland Seamus Leheny who spoke about his recent meeting with US President Joe Biden at the White House.

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Constable Neale Moore, Road Policing P.S.N.I.

Richard Crawford, Department of Infastructure.

Rachel O’Kane, Robert Walker and Paul McCurkin from M.B.N.I. Truck and Van.

Robert Walker, MBNI Truck and Van.

Will Reeves, Sector Development Manager, Logistics UK.

Seamus Leheny, Logistics UK.

Keith Pollock, Translink.

Seamus Leheny, Logistics UK, Keith Pollock, Translink and Constable Neale Moore, Road Policing P.S.N.I.

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MAW ENGINEERING MAKING BIG IMPACT IN COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MARKET Less than three years since it was set up, County Antrim based MAW Engineering has established a strong presence in the specialist trailer market across the UK and Ireland. It is headed up by Mark Cuskeran, the former boss of SDC Trailers, and William Stobart, co-founder of Eddie Stobart Ltd, who together bring a wealth of knowledge and industry experience to the business.

years experience, Production Manager Kieran McTaggart, a former Repair Centre Manager with another well-known trailer manufacturer and Michael McAleese, Engineering Manager. While the main activity is focused on the production of rigid curtainsiders and box vans for the haulage, home delivery and construction sectors, it also manufactures a comprehensive range of other specialist trailers - and represents Hiab, the Scandinavian lorry loader crane producer, as its authorised dealer and installer for Northern Ireland.

While the past two years has seen many challenges, not least because of Brexit and the global pandemic, MAW Engineering has successfully weathered the storm and even now is looking to recruit more skilled personnel to cope with a steadily growing demand for its innovative product range Its state-of-the-art 57,000 sq ft manufacturing facility on a six acre site at Toome in County Antrim, currently employs 20 people, but there is a need for more fitters, welders and painters as the company seeks to further expand in the near future.

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Ideally situated close to the new A6 dual carriageway, just 25 minutes from Belfast, MAW Engineering has some of the most experienced management on board, including sales and Sales Manager Hugh Dillon, with 30

It is all a long way from when it first started out in April 2019 with a £2.8 million investment with the aim of targeting a gap in the market. “William and I have decades of experience across the sector; we work well together, and

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since establishing the business we have built a highly skilled and well-educated workforce,” says Mark. “Innovation is at the centre of our operations and we provide a bespoke service allowing customers to define a finished product that is suited to their transport operation, all of which is reinforced by our industry leading after sales and customer support package.” He adds: “Our purpose-built facility incorporates the latest state-of-the-art equipment to deliver full end to end customer solutions, from 3D design and fabrication, right through to assembly, painting and branded livery. We use the highest quality materials and have a flexible production system, which allows us to provide custom-built solutions at competitive rates.”

PRODUCT RANGE The range includes rigid curtainsiders,

from 3.5 tonne to 26 tonnes, and rigid boxvan trailers from 3.5 tonnes to 32 tonnes, utilising heavy duty GRP and alloy panels; an aluminium construction can be offered where weight is critical. The product range also includes plant rigid trailers, extending from 7.5 to 32 tonnes, and offering low loading angles to suit plant and machinery such as mini diggers and forklifts to large boom and scissor lifts. An anti-corrosion galvanised headboard and ramp is fitted as standard and there is a wide range of dropside, floor, load restraint and safety options which can be configuration to specific requirements. Its walking floor trailers are manufactured using lightweight high tensile steel and represent an ideal solution for transporting aggregates and large heavy loads.

Providing highly efficient material handling, MAW Engineering’s range of tipper trailers, again designed and engineered to customers’ own specification, are ideal for transporting a wide variety of products - from loose aggregates to agricultural and waste materials. MAW also carries out a variety of truck chassis modifications. They work closely with Nugent Engineering who manufacture concrete mixer products on the MAW factory site. MAW also works closely with NI based truck dealers like TBF Thompson to provide a bespoke and professionally built body for their customers. Other specialist trailer solutions and services include double-deck, drawbar, turntable drawbar, wheelbox and de-mountable bodies, in addition to a comprehensive trailer refurbishment, maintenance and repair service; a full range of spare parts is also available.

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UR PALLET

Meanwhile, as Hiab’s authorised dealer and installer for Northern Ireland, MAW Engineering is responsible for selling and installing Hiab, Multilift, Jonsered and Effer brands across Northern Ireland – as well as Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan.

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Dennison Commercials remains Hiab’s service and spare parts representative across the same regions, working closely with MAW Engineering.

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BPW’S RENEWED AIRLIGHT II ROUND AXLE The development of the Airlight II Round axle (Airlight II-R) has proved successful since its UK launch in 2021 and it has further strengthened BPW’s successful universal air suspension systems. Due to its innovative lightweight design, which reduces fuel consumption, whilst increasing payload, Airlight II-R has been welcomed into the market and has already become a standard fit for both trailer builders and customers alike. As the Airlight II range continues to grow and deliver unparalleled performance for trailers of nine to twelve tonnes, BPW here discusses what makes it its most advanced modular solution for trailers so far and how it can bring your fleet to the next level.

LIGHTER THAN AIR: We pride ourselves on our ability to constantly optimise our products and services in response to the needs of our customers. We understand there is always a next step, and we always want to be the first to take it. That’s what drove the development of this new generation of lightweight running gear. To further reduce the weight on the Airlight II-R, there is the option to fit a forged aluminium hub, offering a hefty 54 kg weight saving per tri axle. It’s available for 22.5” wheels in a centre nave format. Additionally, a reduction of 4 kg per axle can be achieved by specifying the BPW lightweight air bag. Not only is the new Airlight II-R one of the

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lightest axle and suspension systems on the market, but it is also incredibly effective in applications across the board, from transporting liquid goods cross-country to carrying logs on unpaved roads in forests. The adaptability doesn’t stop there, as it can also be configured for very low ride heights, allowing easy transport of construction vehicles on low-loaders.

SMOOTHING OUT THE EDGES: For a long time, we were known for our highquality square-axle beams, but the Airlight II-R signals our successful switch to round-axle beams that build on the stability of their predecessors. We have accomplished this thanks to stateof-the-art laser processing, which can both roughen and harden the material on contact surfaces, creating an incredibly strong grip. As well as this, incorporating robust clamped coupling components inspired by the development of our ECO Air modular chassis adds further stability to the Airlight II-R’s performance in the

most challenging applications.

THE BOTTOM LINE: A good axle and suspension system will save you money, but a great one pays for itself at the same time. The innovative, lightweight design of the Airlight II-R lowers fuel consumption whilst offering greater efficiency with higher payloads. This allows you to carry and transport more for less, which means more revenue at lower costs. The Airlight II-R is the new benchmark for axle and suspension systems moving forward and the feedback from our customers, who have continued to praise the Airlight II-R for its usable load and quality, is a testament to our decades of experience in developing innovative running gear technology.

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MOBILE ROBOTS

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THE COLD LOGIC OF USING MOBILE ROBOTS Here, Frazer Watson, UK – Ireland Country Manager at AMR designer and manufacturer iFollow, examines the productivity boosting benefits of using Autonomous Mobile Robots in coldstores. Coldstores are playing an increasingly crucial role for grocery retailers, food producers and third party logistics operators. The move to reduce waste of temperature sensitive products together with an increasing consumer demand for frozen food – not just ready meals and convenience food but also for preprepared vegetables – are driving the UK cold chain logistics market to reach a projected value of approximately £18 billion by 2026. In addition to Fruit and Vegetables other key UK cold chain logistics end user segments include Bakery & Confectionary, Dairy & Frozen Desserts as well as Meat, Fish and Sea Food. Drugs & Pharmaceuticals is another important cold chain area – and one that has risen to particular prominence during the roll out of the Covid vaccine. Operators in all of these sectors are seeking larger cold store floor areas to scale up operations to meet the increased demands. They also need greater flexibility within the buildings to handle not only changes in consumer demand but also a greater variety of products in a broader range of temperatures –from chilled to frozen. And, of course, solutions need to offer efficiency while boosting productivity.

AMRS FOR A COLD CLIMATE Robots are a great solution to help meet these challenges particularly if, like iFollow AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots), they can operate at temperatures from -25°C to +40°C without degradation of battery life. The temperatures of the key electronic components in these AMRs are regulated by an iFollow-developed servo system, which ensures the absence of condensation – even when moving from a

Frazer Watson, UK-Ireland Country Manager, AMR.

very cold environment to a temperate space. This is one part of a rare combination of abilities that give iFollow’s AMRs a unique advantage in coldstores – the other being the ability to carry two roll cages at once, which means more product can be moved more quickly in a cold area, while also ensuring that coldstore doors remain closed for a greater proportion of a day. This is particularly relevant in the fast moving world of grocery logistics where minimising time spent in coldstores as well as the number of times coldstore doors have to be opened will reduce costs. Importantly, AMRs can be used to alleviate the difficult aspects of working in the extreme environment of a coldstore, where people are limited not only in terms of the amount of time they can work in the facility, but also in their productivity. Working in cold temperatures reduces performance and slows reactions. There is also the

hazard of condensation, ice, and freezing surfaces that increase the risk of slipping. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), operators need to keep individuals warm by providing suitable protective clothing, heated rest facilities, task rotation etc. For work in chillers around 0oC suitable clothing and normal breaks are usually sufficient. For work in blast freezers operating down to -30oC no personal protective equipment (PPE) will be sufficient and breaks at ambient temperature or in warming rooms will be needed. Wrapped up in thermal coldstore gear, including headwear, makes it harder for workers to be aware of warehouse truck traffic in the confined area around them. Thick thermal wear will also limit their ability to perform tasks, and if physical activity increases then perspiration can become problematic in a coldstore. Other coldstore hazards for people include rapid opening and closing doors, which are a commonly used to minimise temperature loss but can close quickly on a hesitant worker pushing a roll cage. The risk of accidental lock-ins also needs to be considered. All of this can also impact significantly in terms of psychological stress experienced by a worker in a coldstore.

PICKING RATHER THAN PUSHING Using AMRs for transporting roll cages, pallets or other storage units allows workers to remain at the pick locations, where they are more productive, rather than pushing roll cages across a coldstore floor. Crossing transport routes for warehouse trucks places people at greater risk of potential accidents – the results of which can be serious. At the pick face, a worker can pick items into multiple AMRs simultaneously. So potentially, on a single pick walk an operator attended by two AMRs could be assembling the orders for four different stores or customers. In practice, improvements in overall operational productivity of between 28% and 42.5% are routinely reported. AMRs provide a flexible transportation alternative to fixed conveyors that will require routine maintenance, and to costly coldstorestandard warehouse trucks that require drivers. The ability of an iFollow AMR to turn within its own footprint, combined with the operating software’s tight control of speeds and accelerations, both linear and angular, is a further advantage within the confined spaces of a coldstore. Installation does not require expensive and disruptive infrastructure, while the robots are built to cope with rough floors and at just 17cm high, do not raise any height issues. Productivity as well as health and safety improvements combined with potential reductions in the costs associated with enabling people to work in coldstores creates an attractive Return on Investment proposition. There is therefore a clear logic in letting AMRs carry the load in the coldstore.

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SHIPPING NEWS

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UK freight association seeks members’ views on container shipping market The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is surveying its entire membership to ascertain their views on the current practices undertaken by container shipping lines, as well as their opinions on the easements and exemptions provided to those lines under competition law. BIFA Director General, Robert Keen, says that over the last several months, the Secretariat has received many complaints from its members about significant changes within the maritime market, including high freight rates, surcharges, and new business practices by the lines, which limit

market access for forwarders. Keen states: “BIFA believes that after communication with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), it is clear that substantive evidence will be required for them to consider a review of the maritime supply chain, including shipping line

practices that may be distorting the operations of the free market to the detriment of international trade. “We will analyse and use the information and data obtained from the survey, which is only for BIFA corporate members, to support a submission to the CMA

on members’ behalf, with all responses being aggregated, and no data released that identifies an individual respondent. “Hopefully the results of the survey will deliver some objective evidence regarding the current state of the deep-sea container market.”

Stena Line’s Super-Ferries Complete €1million Makeover Stena Line’s two largest ferries, the Stena Hollandica and Stena Britannica, have completed a €1m refit to provide brand new onboard facilities. The North Sea vessels that sail twice daily between Harwich in the U.K. and Hoek van Holland in The Netherlands were in drydock in the EDR Shipyard in the historic Port of Antwerp to undergo their regular annual maintenance to keep them up to the company’s high standards. While there they also received some exciting new additions to the onboard services on offer for passengers. Duty Free sales on routes to the U.K. have been booming since Brexit, with onboard spend per passengers increasing by an enormous 118% in 2021. To cater for this huge demand Stena Line has added a new additional Duty Free shop to each vessel, extending the retail floorspace on both ships by a whopping 40%. Allowing the company to greatly increase not only the capacity of goods on sale, but also extend the range of products on sale by almost

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a third, meaning more Duty Free bargains on sale for its North Sea customers, who can save up to 50% off UK high street prices.

Pet Lovers Dog ownership has also been booming during the Pandemic and with more people than ever travelling with fury friends, pet lovers will be pleased to hear about a brand new option. For the first time ever on the North Sea, Stena Line are offering dogfriendly cabins. 15 of the vessel’s 500 cabins have been converted to allow passengers to travel together with their happy dogs. Dog-friendly cabins are suggestions that passengers have been requesting via the company’s satisfaction surveys, so they are pleased to be able to respond to their customers’ requests. Meanwhile, for those passengers that enjoy the wide selection of onboard facilities, the vessels two popular Barista Bars have received a new stylish Scandinavian look and feel, allowing customers to enjoy their journeys eating, drinking, and relaxing in luxury and comfort. Each of the vessels top of the range Captain’s Suites have also been refurbished to

maintain the high standards that Stena Line’s premium customers demand and expect. Erik Thulin, Trade Director for the North Sea said: “Our annual dry-docking programme is key to keeping our vessels ship-shape and continue looking so good. It also allows us to be flexible in responding to our customers’ demand, so we’ve taken the opportunity to extend our onboard Duty Free offer, to provide for more products and more bargains for our customers. “We are also pleased to offer our first ever dog-friendly cabins. We listened to our many customers who have requested this option and they can now have up to 3 dogs with them in each of our 15 dog-friendly cabins. We looking to forward to welcoming all our customers, including out four-legged friends back on newly refurbished vessels on the North Sea.”

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Artemis Technologies Adds Powerboat Capability to Simulator Artemis Technologies has unveiled a new powerboat simulation capability utilising its hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulator. This latest development from the green maritime innovator comes just as the company prepares to launch its revolutionary Artemis eFoiler propelled 11m workboat.

The development of the powerboat simulator was supported by the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CDMC), which was launched in March 2021 as part of the Prime Minister’s ten-point plan. Building on the vision set out in the Department for Transport’s Clean maritime plan 2019, the competition has allocated up to £23,259,000 match-funding to UK innovators to support the design and development of zero emission vessel technologies and greener ports through a series of technology trials and feasibility studies.

It is the first bespoke powerboat cabin to be added to the simulator, following years of development in high-performance yacht racing applications, including the America’s Cup and SailGP.

“Utilising our HIL simulator in this way allows us to accurately run the physics model of the workboat as it would be powered by the Artemis eFoiler. Effectively, we’ve created an electric zero emission foiling boat in the simulator, an incredibly powerful tool for engineering, for training and for control and system development. “It means we can test the human-

“The system is very much like an autopilot in an airplane. It facilitates safe operation for the pilot, reducing the amount of thinking that they have to do and allowing them to focus on key functionality, such as heading and speed control.” The workboat will have a cruising speed of 25 kts, a top speed of over 30 kts, and an impressive range of 60 NM at cruising speed.

The simulator has been fitted with a full-scale cabin housing an identical console and humanmachine-interface (HMI) to the 11m technology demonstrator and will provide a valuable engineering tool and pilot training aid, as the company develops a range of new zero emission flying vessels.

Artemis Technologies CEO Dr Iain Percy OBE said:“As a company, we’ve been heavily invested in simulation of marine craft for many years, with the focus very much on the professional racing side.

loop before real life testing.

machine-interface, flight control and slow speed manoeuvring systems in a range of real-life scenarios across a vast range of environments such as around wind farms or in docks, and various weather conditions. “Using this technology like this significantly streamlines the development and prototyping process, allowing us to bring our transformative zero emission vessels to market in a shorter time than would have been the case relying on traditional methods.

As a result, we can look forward to commencing sea trials of the workboat in the very near future.” Romain Ingouf, Technical Director, Artemis Technologies, added: “The simulator is a critical part of our development, and we have used it extensively during initial testing and validation of our flight control solutions for the 11m workboat. “It allows us to de-risk the solution progressively going from model-in-the-loop, all the way through to hardware-in-the-

Originally built for Artemis Racing when the team took part in the America’s Cup, the HIL simulator can be modified with cabin and cockpit variations according to the requirements of vessels to be tested, either by Artemis Technologies or external parties. The HIL simulator features a central six degrees of freedom platform similar to those used for flight and motorsport simulators, with a 4.5 metre high, 210-degree screen, which conveys images from three laser phosphor projectors.

Increase In Cruise Calls Brings Welcome Boost To Economy And Tourism Sector Belfast Harbour is expecting to welcome 130 cruise ships during the 2022 season, including 18 first time visitors. Cruise Belfast, the partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast which markets Belfast as a leading cruise ship destination, has announced that more than 50 different vessels from 33 cruise lines are booked to dock in the city throughout 2022, with up to 340,000 visitors expected to come ashore to experience Northern Ireland’s award-winning tourist attractions. The cruise season, which will run from April to November this year, will see 18 new ships calling to the shores of Belfast for the first time, including ‘Ambassador Ambience,’ from new British cruise line, Ambassador, and Princess Cruises calling with its ships Enchanted Princess & Island Princess. Michael Robinson, Belfast Harbour’s Port Director, said: “Following two challenging years for tourism, the team at Belfast Harbour is thrilled to have 130 cruise vessels booked for arrival at our Port in 2022. This busy cruise schedule signals an increase in customer

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confidence in travel and will be a welcome economic boost to the local tourism industry. “The team is also looking forward to welcoming 18 ships for their inaugural call to these shores, which will further enhance Belfast’s and the wider region’s reputation as a must-visit cruise destination. “Following the safe and successful resumption of cruise tourism last year, we continue to work with public health agencies and the cruise lines to implement safety protocols to ensure the wellbeing of all visitors and staff. As restrictions are eased, the team will review our procedures in line with government guidelines, with safety remaining our highest priority.” Mary Jo McCanny, Director of Visitor Servicing at Visit Belfast, added: “The tourism investment that brought an increasing number of international and first-time visitors here before Covid, placed Belfast in a really good position to

safely welcome cruise visitors back to Northern Ireland last summer. We expect to exceed our 2019 cruise passenger numbers this season, which is a testament to the quality of our visitor experiences, the strong working relationships Cruise Belfast has with global cruise operators and the warmth of the visitor services teams. “The partnership between Belfast Harbour and Visit Belfast and on-going support from Tourism NI enables us to provide both shoreside and on-board visitor information services, ensuring a first-class welcome is available to passengers as soon as they arrive in Belfast. “The Visitor Services team is looking forward to a busy cruise season welcoming visitors from around the world and we will continue to work with our tourism partners and cruise ground handlers in driving much needed business to visitor attractions and experience providers right across Northern Ireland and support the rebuilding of our tourism economy.”

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NEXT-GEN FORD RANGER RAPTOR REWRITES THE RULEBOOK FOR ULTIMATE OFF-ROAD PERFORMANCE The next-generation and next-level Ford Ranger Raptor has arrived. Built to dominate in the desert, master the mountains and rule everywhere in between, the second-generation Ranger Raptor raises the off-road performance bar as a pick-up built for true enthusiasts. Developed by Ford Performance, the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor is the ultimate performance derivative of the all-new Ford Ranger. With smarter technology controlling tougher, next‑generation hardware, Ranger Raptor blends raw power with mechanical and technical precision to create the most advanced Ranger ever. “We’ve really focused on delivering a genuine performance truck with the NextGen Ranger Raptor,” said Dave Burn, Ford Performance chief programme engineer for Ranger Raptor. “It’s significantly faster, looks incredible, is packed with new features, and it’s the toughest Ranger we’ve ever made.” European Ranger enthusiasts have special reason to celebrate as the all-new Ranger Raptor is the first model from the Next-Gen Ranger lineup to be launched in Europe, with customer deliveries starting in the final quarter of 2022. The Raptor’s imminent arrival in Europe is marked by an all-action stunt video, which shows the vehicle leaping from a cargo plane in order to arrive on time for its European launch.

MORE POWER TO PLAY The biggest news for performance fans is the introduction of an all-new twinturbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 petrol engine tuned by Ford Performance to produce a targeted 288PS and 491Nm of torque. The twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 engine

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boasts a compacted graphite-iron cylinder block, which is around 75 per cent stronger and up to 75 per cent stiffer than the iron used in traditional castings. Ford Performance ensured the engine delivers immediate response to throttle inputs, and a race-bred anti-lag system similar to that first seen on the Ford GT road car and Focus ST enables rapid delivery of boost on demand. The new anti-lag system, available in Baja mode, keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or through the gears when the driver steps back on the accelerator. In addition, the engine is programmed with an individual turbocharging boost profile for each of the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission’s gears, for optimised performance. “The 3.0-litre engine brings a different dynamic to the Ranger Raptor that will satisfy even the most hardcore performance enthusiast,” Burn said. “The acceleration and raw performance of the new powertrain leave you grinning from ear-to-ear.” Ranger Raptor’s new powertrain delivers effortless acceleration on gravel, dirt, mud and sand. To match this comprehensive performance, an electronically‑controlled active exhaust system amplifies the engine note in four selectable modes enabling Ranger Raptor to adapt its vocal character. Drivers can choose their preferred

engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel, or by selecting a drive mode that uses one of the following settings: Quiet - prioritises quietness over performance and sound to keep the peace with neighbours on early mornings Normal - intended for everyday use, this profile offers an exhaust note with presence while not being too loud for street use. This profile is applied by default to Normal, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl drive modes Sport - offers a louder and more dynamic note Baja - the most striking exhaust profile in both volume and note, in Baja mode the exhaust behaves more like a straight-through system; intended for off-road use only. The current 2.0-litre EcoBlue bi‑turbo diesel engine will continue to be available in the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor from 2023, with further details available closer to launch.

ALL-TERRAIN CONTROL For the first time, Ranger Raptor gets an advanced full-time four-wheel drive system with an all‑new electronically‑controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials – a valuable feature for hardcore off-road enthusiasts.

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“While Ranger Raptor was inspired by desert racers, it’s also a supremely capable overlanding vehicle. Out of the box we’ve created an off-road vehicle that you don’t need to modify to get you where you need to go and back again safely,” Burn said. Helping Next-Gen Ranger Raptor handle anything from smooth roads to mud and ruts, plus everything in between, are seven selectable drive modes, including the offroad oriented Baja mode, which configures the vehicle’s electronic systems for ultimate performance during high-speed off‑roading. “We really wanted Baja mode to be the ultimate expression of the high-speed off‑road capability,” Burn said. “It’s a feature at the core of what the Ranger Raptor customer expects.” Next-Gen Ranger Raptor also features Trail Control™, which is like cruise control for off‑roading. The driver simply selects a set speed below 20mph and the vehicle will manage its acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain.

TOUGH AND ATHLETIC Matching the enhanced capability of Ranger Raptor is an all-new look that builds on Next‑Gen Ranger’s bold, strong style. Flared wheel arches and C-clamp headlight designs

emphasise the pick‑up’s width, while bold F-O-R-D lettering on the grille and the tough separate bumper add more visual muscle. “Everything designed for the Ranger Raptor is there for a reason,” said Dave Dewitt, Ranger Raptor exterior design manager. “We’re communicating what Raptor can do just by the way it looks.” The matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights push Ranger Raptor’s lighting performance to new levels, featuring predictive curve lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling to deliver better visibility for Ranger Raptor drivers and other road users. The flared fenders cover muscular 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Raptor-exclusive performance all‑terrain tyres. Functional vents, aero features and tough, grippy cast-aluminium side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature styling link to the front, while the Precision Grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to avoid compromising the departure angle. Inside, the theme continues to emphasise Ranger Raptor’s off-road performance and

high‑energy nature. The cabin features allnew, jet fighter-inspired sports seats in the front and rear to increase comfort and offer more support during high-speed cornering. The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are mirrored by Ranger Raptor’s ambient lighting, which bathes the interior in an amber glow. A premium leather sports heated steering wheel with thumb swells, on-centre marking and cast-magnesium paddle shifters completes the sporty feel. Occupants will also benefit from the latest digital technology; the high‑tech cabin features a 12.4‑inch all-digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen boasting Ford’s new-generation SYNC 4A® connectivity and entertainment system4 that delivers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility at no extra cost. A 10-speaker B&O® sound system6 provides the soundtrack to your next adventure.

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AN ‘AWAY DAY’ WITH IVECO’S DRIVEAWAY RANGE Models from Iveco’s DriveAway range were put through their paces recently at the Millbrook testing ground in Bedfordshire, as Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone reports. Following on from the successful relaunch of the ready-built IVECO DRIVEAWAY programme for the Daily range in September 2020, more models have been added over the past year to cater for an even wider range of professionals. Aimed primarily to support IVECO’s Daily mission approach, the ready-to-roll line-up now includes variants that are based upon either the 3.5t GVW or the Daily 7t GVW. All DRIVEAWAY vehicles are built to the highly popular “Business” trimline which delivers an enhanced residual value. Standard features include manual air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights and electrically heated/ adjustable door mirrors – and they come with a comprehensive 3-year unlimited mileage warranty. Additionally, Crosswind Assist is offered as standard on high-sided

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Luton van, Box and Curtain-side vehicles. Crosswind Assist protects against unexpected lane-changes due to strong gusts of wind. When activated, the vehicle will automatically apply the brakes to the relevant side of the vehicle in order to keep it heading straight, within its lane and without the driver having to make corrective steering inputs.

LATEST DAILY EVOLUTION Meanwhile, IVECO presented the New Daily to its dealer network and the international press in a live digital event streamed on its IVECO Live Channel platform. The latest evolution of the Daily family of

light commercial vehicles breaks new ground, introducing new adaptive and intelligent solutions that take interaction and collaboration with the driver and owner to a new level, turning the vehicle into a true companion in business success. Thomas Hilse, IVECO Brand President, said: “With the New Daily we move to the next level and go smart. It offers a level of innovation with no equivalent on the market. It brings on board bestin-class comfort and safety, extraordinary flexibility and mission focus, together with a substantial TCO reduction and a constantly expanding portfolio of IVECO ON services. For us at IVECO, improvement

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is a never-ending process – when we reach one goal, we immediately start working on the next one. We never stop.” Davide Diana, IVECO Light Business Line Director, stated: “Every Daily generation has set new standards, and this has made of Daily ‘a Brand within the IVECO Brand’ with enduring success. Today, the Daily leads the European chassis cab sector and, with the Daily 7-ton version, the high-payload sub-segment. It is true to its sustainability vocation, being the point of reference in alternative-fuel LCVs.

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The New Daily enters the LCV market in a year where it is expected to rise to the highest level in history. Registrations have consistently grown over the last 3 quarters, with IVECO following the same trend.” The key trends in the commercial vehicle industry have driven the latest evolutionary push of the NewDaily. It builds on its core values of versatility, robustness, durability and performance, which have made it a favourite in its segment for more than 40 years. It introduces innovative, customer centred solutions that make it a supremely adaptive, interactive, collaborative and connected vehicle – the most innovative LCV in its generation and the customer’s smart companion. The New Daily anticipates customer demands

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in a commercial vehicle industry that is changing fast, with the Covid-19 pandemic having amplified and accelerated existing trends. The last-mile delivery sector has experienced a boom, as consumers dramatically increased their reliance on e-commerce and delivery services during lockdowns. This shift in shopping habits is expected to be permanent to some degree with the easing of restrictions – with a consequent growth in the demand for light commercial vehicles. Connectivity has become a necessity in every area of everyday life – personal and professional – and vehicles must meet this requirement. Sustainability and clean air have acquired even more urgency, leading to increasingly

challenging vehicle emissions standards. Public incentives are supporting the development of new infrastructure, with a consequent recovery in the construction sector, which is set to benefit significantly the Daily chassis-cab.

NEW TRUCK SALES

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NEW TRUCK SALES SOLD IN NORTHERN IRELAND

DAF XG+ 530 sold to Brian Close Transport by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

Hendrick Logistics UK Ltd, recently add the first two of a total order of 8 new tractor units, supplied by Diamond Trucks.

MAN 26.510 delivered to McBurney Group by RK Truck Centres Ltd.

MAN TGL curtainsiders delivered to IFS by RK Truck Centres Ltd.

DAF XF FTP 530 sold to BP McKeefry by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

2 x DAF XF530 sold to Jim Cubitt of Galdanagh Transport by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

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USED TRUCKS & VAN NORTHERN IRELAND MAN 3.140 TGE delivered to EB Gas by RK Truck Centres Ltd

DAF XG FTG 530 sold to Desmond Simpson & Sons Ltd, Cookstown by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

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McQuillan Envirocare’s new Mercedes-Benz Actros 2530L M-Cab with a Houston Coachworks body ready for delivery by MBNI Truck & Van.

MAN 26.640 GM delivered to Kelly European by RK Truck Centres Ltd.

2 x DAF LF 260 sold to Patterson Oils, Portadown by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

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WE ARE

HIRING ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Due to expansion, 4SM (NI) Limited are recruiting for a new Advertising Sales Executive. The successful candidate will become an integral part of our Company and will be responsible for generating sales across all of our titles. Duties will include:- Selling on-line and print advertising into magazine, digital, social media and events platforms. The successful Candidate must have:- Sales experience. - A proven track record of achieving sales targets and meeting deadlines. - Be a people person - Thrive in a team environment. In return you can expect a very competitive salary with bonus opportunities for exceeding targets. Please email your CV to - helen@4squaremedia.net Closing date for applications is Friday 29th April at 5pm.

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Kearns & Murtagh Ltd Tachograph and Road Speed limiter Specialists ARMAGH LTD

Specialists in Maintenance & Repairs Full Range of Spare Parts Available Approved Tachograph & Speed Limiter Centre Pre-PSV Test Lane Tel: 028 3752 3491 and 028 3752 6393 (stores) Fax: 028 3752 7878 Email: cbtarmagh@gmail.com

Specialising in Hino & Iveco Diagnostic Systems Unit 3a, Derryboy Road, Carnbane Business Park, Lisduff, Newry, Co. Down BT35 6QH T: 028 3026 5720 M: 07831 852014

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APPROVED TACHOGRAPH CENTRE Digital and Analogue Tachographs for All Makes of Trucks info@tbfthompson.com I www.tbfthompsondaf.com

TBF Thompson DAF Trucks 19 Michelin Road I Hydepark Industrial Estate I MALLUSK I BT36 4PT 2 Diviny Drive I Carn Industrial Estate I PORTADOWN I BT63 5WE 6 – 10 Killyvalley Road I GARVAGH I Coleraine I BT51 5JZ

028 9034 2001 028 3839 3300 028 2955 8353



Lisburn Tachograph Centre Analogue & Digital Tachographs

Calibration - Parts - Repairs

GERALD LYTTLE & SONS COMMERCIAL REPAIRS & TACHOGRAPH CENTRE

Trucks - Buses - Vans - Oil Tankers

ANALOGUE & DIGITAL TACHOGRAPHS for all Vehicles

TACHOGRAPHS TO SUIT ALL VEHICLES DIGITAL DOWNLOAD SOLUTIONS

Wabco, Haldex & Knorr-Bremse ABS & EBS

Please contact our office for more information T. 028 9264 1676 lisburntacho@btconnect.com www.lisburntachographcentre.com

Tel: 028 8675 1261 Fax: 028 8675 1882

RK Trucks Centre DIGITAL & ANALOGUE Approved Tachograph Calibration Centres at: Carryduff, Co. Down T. 028

9081 3600 F. 028 9081 4115

219 DRUM ROAD, COOKSTOWN BT80 9HR Email: alastairlyttle@btconnect.com

APPROVED ANALOGUE & DIGITAL TACHOGRAPH CENTRE

SERVING THE NORTHWEST FOR 99 YEARS.

Dungannon, Co. Tyrone T. 028

8772 2111 F. 028 8772 7393

www.rktrucks.com

48 Main Street, Claudy, Co. Londonderry BT47 4HR

Tel: 028 7133 8641

www.eakinbrosltd.co.uk EXPORT&FREIGHT

CLASSIFIEDS

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM

PALLETS WANTED Tel: 07778 853566

STANDARD 1000 x 1200

EURO

800 x 1200

PALLETS

COLLECTION AVAILABLE OR DROP OFF AT SPRUCEFIELD SITE. www.exportandfreight.com

Kieran Trehy Hydraulics HYDRAULIC PUMPS

• HYDRAULIC PUMPS FOR TIPPERS, CRANES, SKIP LOADERS, CAR RECOVERY UNITS • POWER TAKE OFF UNITS TO SUIT ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE GEAR BOXES - EVERY APPLICATION

We sell parts for

DAF • VOLVO • IVECO • MAN • RENAULT • MERCEDES • SCANIA Armagh 028 3752 5427

• TIPPER KITS FOR ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE TRACTORS Contact - Kieran Trehy at: Unit 2, Northern Cross, Business Park, Finglas, Dublin II

Newry 028 3083 4884

www.cmpireland.com

TEL: 003531 8644915 / 8443109

MAN | Genuine Parts

McCAUSLAND CAR PARK

MORE QUALITY MORE PERFORMANCE MORE VALUE LESS COST

AIRPORT PARKING • • • • • • •

valueline

For Business or Pleasure

Park for 1 day or more FREE coach to and from the Terminal Open 24 hours, 7 days a week FULL CAR CLEANING SERVICE We carry your luggage Discounts available on-line Our BEST PRICE GUARANTEED at www.mccausland.co.uk

see our website for special offers

The NEW valueline from MAN Genuine Parts, Now much more is less.

ITC

RK Trucks & ITC Edgar Road, Carryduff, Belfast, BT8 8NB RK Trucks Tel: 028 9081 3600 Fax: 028 9081 4115 ITC Tel: 028 9081 2186 Fax: 028 9081 7575

Tel: 028 9442 2022

www.rktrucks.com www.internationaltruckcomponents.com

www.mccausland.co.uk

Fax: 028 8772 7393 ITC Parts: 028 8772 2803 Fax: 028 8772 7393

Belfast International Airport

126 Tamnamore Road, Dungannon RK Trucks Tel: 028 8772 2111

EXPORT&FREIGHT

Your Parts Partner Belfast 028 90 781230

Portadown 028 38 362555

www.transportsupplies.co.uk

Order before 10am

to guarantee same day delivery provincewide

Transport Supplies now has over 12,000 product lines in stock from all the leading specialist brands. Plus there’s our fast delivery direct to you provincewide as well as free collection from our stores.

Quietly exceptional. The new Actros L. Enhanced acoustics and noise insulation offer the most relaxed driving and comfortable living, whilst fuel-saving drive programmes and sophisticated aerodynamics increase efficiency. The new Actros L redefines the premium class of Mercedes-Benz Trucks. Learn more at www.mercedes-benz-trucks.com

Export & Freight Apr-May 22

Articles inside

TTS Host Women in Wheels Initiative