Export & Freight Sep- Oct 24

The Future of Construction

Strong, reliable and built on an award-winning platform, The New Generation DAF XDC and XFC are specifically designed to meet the tough demands of the construction and off-road market. With their robust design, classleading field of vision and smart safety features, these vehicles are ready to take on any challenge.

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COMMENT

Job well done

A few weeks ago almost 600 of you who work in this industry joined us at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Belfast for our 21st annual Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards night.

On the night we presented 21 awards - including two special recognition awards for service to this industry – to retiring CLdN Managing Director Alistair Eagles, and our own Garfield Harrison.

It was a wonderful evening of celebration and recognition - and is a timely break in the busy year to stop for a moment and say ‘well done’ to not just those who took home awards on the night but to all the finalists in each category - and also to those nominated.

The whole awards process - from nomination to receiving an award - is a hugely positive thing for both the employers who enter their businesses, and the employees they nominate for the various awards.

The very act of deciding to take part in the awards process is a sign not only of pride in what you do, and a recognition of the hard work being done every day - but also a recognition that you appreciate the job your staff are doing and want to publicity put them forward to be recognised by their peers for their efforts.

The awards night itself is also a great evening for the Transport and Logistics industry – a night to network with others in the industry, a chance to make some new contacts – and possibly do a deal or two, and many companies simply use it as a chance to treat their staff to well-deserved (and long overdue) ‘night out’.

Whatever the reason you enter the awards, or attend each year - thank you.. It wouldn’t be the same without you. Well done to all

Austin Lynch Editor

Email: austin@4squaremedia.net

Email: pamela@4squaremedia.net

Web: www.exportandfreight.com

Email: helen@4squaremedia.net

NEWS

now at www.exportandfreight.com Helen Beggs Chief Operating Officer, Austin Lynch Editor, Golda Burrows General Sales Manager, Pamela McGookin, General Manager, Joel Byers Production Manager, Rachel Clarke Accounts Administration

SEPT-OCT 2024

Trans-Bridge Freight take delivery of first Carrier Transicold Vector e Cool

Freeburn launch fresh new brand identity

DAF appoints Louis Jones to head up EV capability

Megawatt charging now a reality

HSE Drive Danger Out campaign

REGULARS

John Martin, RHA Policy Lead for Northern Ireland

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Page 12

Page 15

Page 23

Page 26-27

Page 14 Court reports

Page 22

Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade & Devolved Policy, Logistics UK Page 32

SPECIAL FEATURES

In the Austrian Alpes with MAN

Export and Freight Awards

Briggs open new training facility

Page 18-21

Page 47-94

Page 96-103

Special Focus on Allied Fleet Services Page 107-117

IAA

VAN AND PICK UP

SHIPPING

Irish Maritime Industry Remains Resilient Despite Global Challenges Page 124

Continental Tyres Sets New UK Fleet Benchmark with First Volvo Trucks

Volvo Trucks has supplied eight vehicles to Continental Tyres – four FM 460 6x2 tractor units and four FM 380 6x2 rigids – featuring an array of optional extras prioritising driver safety, comfort and overall operational performance.

Supplied by Rory Kelly, Transport Solutions Executive at Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East, the trucks represent the first Volvos to join Continental’s UK fleet and will be used to set a new standard within the customer’s business going forward with regard to vehicle specification.

Simon Sumner, Transport Operations Manager, Continental Tyres, says: “Though we’ve not run Volvos on the fleet before, we were already aware of their reputation. We really wanted to set a new benchmark with this latest fleet refresh and concluded that Volvo would be the best choice.

“The key aims were to take the driving experience to a new level versus the trucks these replaced and to make sure we were not just meeting but exceeding the industry standard in terms of safety in line with Continental’s mantra. With Volvo’s help, we’ve created a specification that delivers on both fronts.”

All eight vehicles – decked out in Continental’s distinctive livery –share many similarities, including a heated and suspended driver’s seat. The trucks all feature a Drive++ package too, which includes an adjustable steering wheel, dual armrests on both driver and

passenger seats, and electrically controlled air conditioning with a carbon filter and sun, mist, and air quality sensors.

Drivers can make use of a Volvo Media package with navigation, adding a chrome surrounded 12-inch dynamic instrument cluster, a secondary colour display and DAB radio.

Volvo’s one person Living+ package sees additional storage space, a cab parking heater and a bottle holder included on all eight trucks, while the rigids also feature a 28-litre fridge.

“The nature of our work does place a physical demand on our drivers beyond just operating the vehicles themselves,” adds Sumner. “That is a key reason why we’ve taken great care to build a specification that

maximises their comfort and creates a better working environment.”

Safety is also central to the vehicles’ build, with all eight models equipped with Driver Alert Support and Side Collision Avoidance Support systems, as well as Forward Collision Warning with advanced emergency braking and Lane Departure Warning functionality. These additions are complemented by Visibility+ packages, adding rain-sensing windscreen wipers and LED headlights that adjust automatically according to ambient light conditions to grant drivers a clear view of their surroundings.

Despite their similarities, the vehicles do deploy different powertrains –though both utilise Euro VI Step E engines the tractor units generate 460 hp and a peak torque of 2,300

Nm compared to the rigids’ 380 hp and 1,800 Nm. All are equipped with Volvo’s I-Shift automated gearbox, which constantly evaluates information such as speed, weight, road grade and torque demand to perfectly time each gear shift.

The rigids are mounted with bespoke bodywork built by Bevan Motor Bodies, including specially designed load restraints and nonslip flooring to protect products during transit and boost safety during loading and unloading. These additional design features also increase the bodies’ structural integrity and will deliver longterm benefits in terms of damage reduction and asset uptime.

All eight trucks are covered by a five-year Volvo Gold Contract which delivers full cost control, worry-free ownership, and maximum uptime.

“Our drivers are already singing these trucks’ praises, and the service we’ve received from Volvo to date has been superb on all fronts too,” concludes Sumner. “Rory’s expertise immediately set us at ease and installed a great level of confidence in Volvo as a whole.”

Seven of the new trucks will operate from Continental’s Distribution Centre in Rugby, while one of the Volvo FM rigids will be based in Wigan. Each clocking up to 120,000km annually, the vehicles will be tasked with delivering Continental’s product range to its customers, supporting the business’ Conti360 fleet network, and also collecting used tyres to bring them back to the customer’s Retreading Plant in Ivybridge.

RHA urges government to work with industry as customs processes delayed

The Government has announced that new arrangements for parcels and freight movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland due to take effect on 30 September have been pushed back.

HMRC says businesses should be fully prepared for them by 31 March 2025 and will update with detailed timelines

John Martin, RHA Northern Ireland Policy

Lead said this is a welcome move after much RHA lobbying and called on the Government to use this time to work with the industry on solutions that work on the ground.

“We have led engagement with the Government on the increased pressure these new requirements would place onto an already stretched GB-NI supply chain.

“The extra cost, administration and delays are already forcing some suppliers to reconsider the viability of continuing to supply Northern Ireland.

“We urge the Government to engage with hauliers and use the time wisely to ensure whatever is proposed can be delivered by the logistics sector.”

The RHA led a delegation to meet a number of parliamentarians last week including the Chair of the Northern Ireland Select Committee to discuss ongoing concerns about trade arrangements. Meanwhile, the RHA has called on the Government to work with industry on systems to ease movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland as the Trader Support Service (TSS) is extended.

John Martin said: “Our members remain concerned about the impact of

increased bureaucracy as the current TSS system requires additional resources to populate the various data fields.

“This comes at a significant cost to hauliers and creates time delays leading to inefficiencies and ultimately a reduction in trade.

“Engagement with the operators who move goods between GB and NI is crucial in the design and operation of any system if we’re to improve the situation for businesses.

“We stand ready to work with decisionmakers at all levels to get clarity and address the concerns shared by our members and many within our industry.”

Trans- Bridge Freight takes delivery of first Carrier Transicold Vector eCool unit

Pharmaceutical and healthcare distributor Trans-Bridge Freight Services has taken delivery of its first Carrier Transicold Vector® eCool unit.

Trans-Bridge Freight purchased the unit to maximise fleet efficiency and sustainability for its temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals deliveries between mainland United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. Carrier Transicold is a part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.

The new Vector eCool is mounted to a 13.6-metre Gray & Adams trailer with a Carrier Transicold Vector HE 19 refrigeration unit. The combination allows Trans-Bridge Freight Services to predominantly power the system using electricity harnessed from the kinetic energy generated by the trailer axle and brakes, with the option to use the unit’s diesel engine in case of emergency.

“Since welcoming our first Carrier unit in 2015, we’ve been consistently impressed with its performance and reliability, so bringing the advanced technology of the Vector eCool into the fleet was the next logical step,” said Brian Anderton, Director at Trans-Bridge Freight Services. “Even the most minute temperature change can have a significant impact on the products we transport, so set point control is vital. Bad weather regularly means our trailers can be stuck in the port or on the ferry for much

longer than anticipated, so having the ability to revert to diesel power if required gives us extra peace of mind – this combination makes the Vector eCool the ideal product for our needs.”

Carrier Transicold’s Vector eCool system was the industry’s first fully autonomous electric refrigeration system, producing no direct carbon dioxide (CO2) or particulate emissions. The Vector eCool is also PIEKcompliant, which combined with its emissions performance, makes it the ultimate solution for tightening inner city and urban regulations, while creating a more harmonious working environment for drivers. The trailers can be plugged into the electrical grid when parked and are fully charged in two hours using a

standard five pin, three-phase standby plug.

“The Vector eCool is an ideal fit for customers like Trans-Bridge Freight that need to transport temperature-sensitive cargo,” said Geoff Fearnley-Hill, National Key Account Manager at Carrier Transicold UK. “The battery system ensures the Vector HE 19 operates with the same level of performance as the standard setup, but having the hybrid option in this case highlights the sheer flexibility it can provide operators.”

The Vector HE 19 combines Carrier Transicold’s E-Drive technology with a multi-speed engine design that includes a fully hermetic scroll compressor and copper pipework, helping to deliver unparalleled levels of refrigerant containment. The system offers annual F Gas containment rates in excess of 95%, compared to rates typically lower than 85% for traditional diesel units reliant on mechanically belt driven open drive compressor technology. This plays a significant part in reducing overall carbon emissions, contributing to Carrier’s goal of helping customers avoid more than one gigaton of GHG emissions by 2030.

The Vector eCool-mounted trailer will be based at the customer’s headquarters in Manchester, where it will be used to collect orders from TransBridge Freight Services’ pharmaceutical customers for delivery to the business’ Antrim facility in Northern Ireland, via the Scottish port of Cairnryan, clocking up to 90,000 miles annually.

MAN and E.ON working together to expand Europe’s public charging network

E.ON and MAN Truck & Bus are jointly taking a decisive step forward in the expansion of the charging infrastructure for commercial vehicles in Germany and Europe.

As part of their new cooperation, the energy company and the commercial vehicle manufacturer will set up around 170 locations with around 400 stations for public charging of electric trucks across Europe.

E.ON and MAN are investing in the new charging stations, which will be built along the existing MAN service network and will also be able to charge commercial vehicles from other manufacturers. Around 125 sites are planned in Germany alone. This will create the largest nationwide public charging network for heavy commercial vehicles in the country to date. Additional sites are being built in Austria, the UK, Denmark, Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary.

“Europe has set itself the goal of reducing emissions from heavy commercial vehicles by 90

percent by 2040. Electric mobility is a central key to achieving this goal,” said Leonhard Birnbaum, CEO of E.ON. “We are investing heavily to give the infrastructure

for electric heavy goods transport a decisive boost and to set the course for sustainable logistics and green supply chains. Nearly all major manufacturers are

now focusing their development efforts on electric mobility. For the final breakthrough, we need a high-performance charging infrastructure that is designed on a European scale. We are delighted to be leading the way together with MAN.”

Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus, adds: “For the mobility transition to be successful, we need around 50,000 charging points for heavy commercial vehicles in Europe by 2030. As a manufacturer of electric trucks, we are of course making our contribution to this. I am delighted that E.ON is now a strong partner for the electrification of our service locations. We are thus laying another foundation stone for a public charging network. However, we still urgently need the support of policymakers to build this network on a large scale.”

New Schmitz Cargobull Trailers for chemical specialist WM Cyril McGuinness

WM Cyril McGuinness has taken its first new Schmitz Cargobull trailers, adding three Manchester-built S.CS FIXED ROOF curtainsiders to its fleet after being very impressed by the manufacturer’s first-class levels of service.

Cyril McGuinness, owner of the Rush, County Dublinbased haulier, was so impressed by the response to his enquiry and the subsequent knowledge demonstrated by Schmitz Cargobull Regional Sales Manager Philip Keenan at their first meeting, he increased his order from two to three trailers on the spot.

“I knew right there and then that I wanted to do business with Schmitz Cargobull. However, the competitive pricing of the trailers and the short production lead time offered at Manchester sealed the deal,” says McGuinness.

“The level of service throughout the process was fantastic, and if any issues arose, we were kept informed. Ultimately, we received the trailers that we wanted, on time, and with no messing about.”

The haulier specialises in hazardous waste transportation mainly in Ireland, complementing this with

general haulage services in the Greater Dublin area. “It means we need flexibility with our trailers, as we can be heavy going one way but light on the return journey,” explains McGuinness.

Meeting these requirements, each S.CS FIXED ROOF semitrailer has a straight front wall for free side loading and tarpaulin tensioning, a DIN EN 12642

Code XL load securing side curtain with standard anti-theft protection and a Schmitz Cargobull aluminium roof, which allows a side loading height of 2,700mm.

McGuinness also opted for additional 7,100kg heavy-duty flooring on the trailers, internal lighting to assist with loading and LED taillights. The trailers feature load securing lashing eyes down

both sides of the side raves with roof straps – essential due to the nature of the firm’s work with many customers requiring chemical loads to be secured internally from the top of the trailer for safety.

Each unit has Schmitz Cargobull’s TrailerConnect® telematics as standard, which provides 24/7 monitoring of the trailer’s exact location.

Another attraction of the UK-spec trailers was that at 4.1m tall they are a better option for deliveries to many of the firm’s chemical customers, who often have gantries at their sites that taller equipment could strike.

“The environmental impact is also important to me, and these trailers will fit snug against the cabs reducing drag and making sure we’re not pushing air when we don’t need to be,” says McGuinness.

Setting up in 1991 as an ownerdriver, McGuinness has grown his business to ten trucks, ten drivers and two office staff.

Renault Trucks celebrates the arrival of E-Tech T tractor units at ZEHID Partner Day

Bringing together key stakeholders from three consortia selected for funding under the UK Government’s £200 million Zero Emission Heavy Goods Vehicles and Infrastructure Demonstration (ZEHID) programme, as well as from the Department for Transport and Innovate UK.

As part of the ZEHID programme, which is funded by the Department for Transport in partnership with Innovate UK to accelerate the update of zero emission HGVs, Renault Trucks is supplying 40 – 44 tonne tractor units from its fully electric E-Tech T range to eFREIGHT 2030 consortium led by Voltempo and Project Electric Freightway consortium led by Gridserve. Battery electric HGVs will also play a part in the ZEN Freight consortium, now led by Dynamon. Attendees at the ZEHID Partner Day, including leading fleet operators, had the opportunity to connect with Renault Trucks’ team of electromobility experts, who are providing ongoing support throughout the demonstration phase of the projects.

Following a comprehensive introduction to

the E-Tech T inside the venue’s state of the art studios, participants were among the first to get behind the wheel and experience firsthand the superior comfort, driveability and quiet operation of the new E-Tech tractor units during a Ride & Drive test session.

Roger Clarke, Head of Electromobility & Customer Advanced Solutions at Renault Trucks UK and Ireland said: “We are delighted to be

working with the ZEHID consortia to fast track the transition to zero emission HGVs in the UK.

The arrival of the E-Tech T tractor units marks a significant milestone and we are delighted to share this achievement with our ZEHID Partners.

The collaborative efforts of everyone involved in ZEHID, eFREIGHT 2030, Project Electric Freightway and ZEN Freight project are crucial in driving this transformative initiative and we look forward to seeing zero emission E-Tech T tractor units in real world applications for operators across both consortiums imminently.”

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “Our roads are undergoing a technological revolution, and I’m delighted that Renault Trucks is coming along on the journey.

“Greening our transport network is a key priority for this Government, which is why our demonstrator programme aims to scale up zero emission HGVs and install the right infrastructure to decarbonise road freight. This is an excellent example of industry and government collaborating to reach net zero.”

Renault Trucks marked the arrival of its first E-Tech T tractor units by hosting a ZEHID Partner Day held in July at Kinetic Studios in Corby, Northamptonshire.

LOWERING CARBON EMISSIONS WITH TEXACO HVO

HVO a great solution to lower emissions in transport sector

As Texaco distributors since 1962, WR Kennedy & Co have supplied Northern Ireland’s transport sector from the outset, from its beginnings supplying fuels and lubricants to the road haulage sector, to expanding its presence in the industry to servicing harbours and airports.

With the transport sector contributing over 20 per cent of all Northern Ireland’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, there is mounting pressure for the industry to decarbonise, both externally, via legislative changes, and internally, with ESG strategies increasingly bringing businesses’ environmental commitments to the forefront of their operations.

In this context of an evolving regulatory landscape, coupled with corporate sustainability goals, WR Kennedy believe that Texaco HVO is the best here and now solution for businesses seeking to immediately lower their carbon emissions. 100% renewable and sustainable, it allows for an immediate reduction of up to 90% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to regular diesel. As a drop-in replacement for use in for existing

diesel engines, with a wide range of OEM approvals, it can be used immediately, without requiring any modifications to plant or fleet. Furthermore, as Texaco HVO is fully compatible and mixable at any percentage with traditional diesel, it can be dropped in to current fuel supplies. This makes Texaco HVO a low-risk solution, allowing fleets to transition to a low-carbon future rapidly, while assisting businesses in achieving their emissions targets without any disruption to operations.

While Texaco HVO currently carries a moderate premium over regular diesel, as demand and supply increase, this disparity is anticipated to decrease significantly. In the short-term, much of the premium that HVO currently stands at will be offset by an average decrease of 10% in fleets’ AdBlue consumption when

compared to running on regular diesel.

As a drop-in solution negating the need for capital expenditure or investment, Texaco HVO offers the most commercially viable route towards decarbonisation, without disruption or delay.

The latest customer to trial Texaco HVO in the local transport market is P&O. A spokesperson for P&O commented, “P&O Ferries are trialling HVO in our tugmasters to review any impact on vehicle performance and the efficiency of our port turnaround times. This is part of our sustainability journey to look at various options and solutions to decarbonise our operations - including Larne Port – and we look forward to seeing the results.”

Since 2023, WR Kennedy & Co have facilitated trials of Texaco HVO for businesses across Northern Ireland, spanning a multitude of industries, including transport, construction, manufacturing, and food production.

To organise a trial of Texaco HVO for your plant or fleet, please get in touch with WR Kennedy & Co today on 02825656616.

A PARTNER FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

W.R. Kennedy & Company are leaders in wholesale fuels and lubricants supply throughout Northern Ireland.

WHAT MAKES US LEADERS?

Founded in Ballymena in 1962, and located in the Pennybridge area, we distribute premium Texaco home heating oil, and commercial fuels along with automotive, agricultural and industrial lubricants across the province.

W.R. Kennedy’s roots are firmly based in the local communities we serve, and this means we understand the need for a complete and reliable service across our region.

That’s because we take time to understand our customers and their commercial needs, and then, working with them we work to build long-term partnerships that deliver on the needs of their communities and their commercial success.

FREEBURN TRANSPORT

LAUNCHES A FRESH BRAND IDENTITY

Freeburn Transport, headquartered in County Tyrone, and who operates across the UK, Ireland and Europe to bring transport solutions for their clients, has refreshed their brand identity in line with their strategic growth plans.

Reflecting the growth and evolution of Freeburn Transport as a trusted transport partner, the brand refresh elevates the focus on the company’s strength and stability, which includes a new logo, a simpler more distinctive brand identity, referring to themselves as Freeburn going forward. The refreshed Freeburn

logo and streamlined brand style convey the continuing evolution and growth of the business.

Freeburn are based in Moy, County Tyrone with distribution and depots in Portadown, Heysham in England and Newhouse in Scotland.

Chris Freeburn, Managing Director at Freeburn, commented: “Our refreshed brand identity reflects our focussed and strategic growth plan. We are excited to continue to provide trusted transport solutions for our clients across the UK, Ireland and beyond.”

The newly launched website can be found at www.freeburntransport.com

Freeburn are also actively recruiting for several Class 1 driver positions across Heysham, Mallusk and Moy. For further information please email recruitment@freeburntransport.com

Chris Freeburn, Managing Director.

Pictured L-R: Andy Orr (Business Development Manager), Scott Sawyers (Transport Operations Manager), Chris Freeburn (Managing Director), George Lee (Commercial Manager) and Stephen Crooks (Irish Customer Services Manager).

John Martin

RHA

Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

CARGO CRIME ON THE INCREASE: RHA URGES VIGILANCE

As cargo crime rates rise, the RHA is urging drivers and operators, including those from Northern Ireland working in Great Britain, to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour. Freight crime is not just damaging businesses—it’s impacting the health, safety, and wellbeing of drivers and making it harder for firms to recruit and retain staff.

Last month saw a surge in crimes targeting HGVs, particularly involving fuel and cargo theft. Hauliers parking outside secure truck stops are frequently targeted by criminals who attack drivers, damage vehicles, and steal valuable cargo.

Despite being highly organised, freight crime often flies under the radar. This makes it essential for all commercial vehicle drivers, including those from NI, to report anything suspicious to the police and the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS). Acting promptly can help stop these sophisticated criminal networks in their tracks.

The NaVCIS, a national police unit hosted by Hampshire Constabulary, supports law enforcement in investigating vehicle crime and providing specialist analysis and advice. They report that £500 million worth of goods, including high-value items like mobile phones and laptops, have been stolen from HGVs, often sold online within hours of the theft. These crimes aren’t opportunistic – they are highly coordinated. Gangs often patrol truck stops, targeting multiple vehicles in one night. These criminals have become more sophisticated, forcing operators to invest in expensive countermeasures like

metal-plated truck security curtains. Last year, there were over 5,300 incidents of freight crime, with £68 million worth of goods stolen. The average loss per reported incident was £13,252, though the retail value of the stolen goods was even higher. Cargo crime is spiking due to a combination of economic pressures and inadequate security infrastructure. As the cost-of-living crisis continues, demand for basic groceries has surged, making them a prime target for theft. In 2023, food and beverages accounted for 21% of stolen goods, up from 17% in 2022. This increase is driven by rising inflation, which has eroded consumer spending power and fuelled a thriving black market.

Groceries are often easier to steal than highervalue items because they are less likely to be equipped with tracking devices or anti-theft technology. Additionally, the lack of secure parking across the UK contributes to the problem. Only two parking facilities in the UK have ‘secure’ accreditation, forcing many drivers to park in vulnerable locations like lay-bys or service stations, where a large proportion of thefts occur. Cambridgeshire Police recently reported a 380% increase in cargo crime, with nearly half of these incidents occurring in lay-bys.

The RHA has long highlighted the need for tougher sentencing, more secure truck stops, and better crime recording. At present, freight crime is categorised as “theft from a motor vehicle,” the same as if a pair of sunglasses were stolen from a car’s glovebox. This carries a maximum sentence of seven years, which does not reflect the seriousness of the crime. We are calling for freight crime to have its own specific offence, with tougher sentencing options in place to act as a deterrent.

Freight crime presents a low risk but offers high rewards for organised criminal gangs. Hauliers, especially those from Northern Ireland who frequently travel on GB routes, can find themselves particularly vulnerable when forced to park in unsecured areas. Unfamiliar territory, combined with a lack of secure parking options, increases the risk of being targeted by these sophisticated criminals. The RHA has made it clear: the UK Government needs to act now.

The impact of freight crime is enormous, not only on businesses but on the people behind the wheel. It is not a victimless crime. We stand ready to work with the Government to address this issue and demand tougher actions to tackle it.

For hauliers, it is crucial to ensure your insurance cover is up to date. You aren’t just insuring the goods you carry or store but protecting your business against the liability you may face under your terms and conditions.

If you have experienced cargo theft recently, please get in touch with your RHA representative. By working together, we can help combat this growing threat.

DAF Trucks appoints Louis Jones to lead EV capability

DAF Trucks has appointed Louis Jones to the role of EV & Connected Services Director.

Louis joins a growing EV department at DAF’s head-office in Haddenham.

Following a two-year, senior EV role with Scania (Great Britain), Jones assumes responsibility for the development of DAF’s EV programme encompassing sales, aftersales, DAF Dealer network EV strategy and charging infrastructure roll-out. He also heads-up PACCAR Connect, the revised connected services offering from DAF, supplied as standard on all New Generation DAF vehicles.

Twenty-nine year old Louis Jones boasts an impressive CV including stints at two of the industry’s leading manufacturers. His time with Scania saw him responsible for ‘business readiness’ of EV products across the dealer network, including the electrification of the company’s internal fleet of cars and vans, and development of Scania’s charging proposition. His time with Scania also saw the

development of key relationships with highprofile industry initiatives such as ZEHID.

Graduating from Lancaster University, Louis joined the financial services division of Mercedes-Benz where he spent time overseas, also in Fleet Management and as Executive Assistant to board level directors. He then moved to Mercedes-Benz Vans as Business

Improvement Manager and culminating as Project Manager for Electric Mobility.

“It is such an exciting time for the industry,” said Louis Jones, “and I am thrilled at the opportunity to join the market leader and its fantastic range of zero-emissions products. I’m already up-to-speed with the DAF product range, especially after a trip to Eindhoven in my first week,” he said, “and I’m looking forward to becoming reacquainted with some important industry initiatives with the DAF marque. I’m especially excited to be engaging with the biggest and best dealer network in the business. PACCAR Connect too, represents the future of fleet operations and a unique opportunity for customers to benefit from some tangible efficiencies. I’m delighted to be given the chance to develop the DAF capability in this space.”

DAF Trucks Business Planning Director, Gareth Halliwell, added, “We are absolutely delighted to have secured the services of such a high calibre individual in Louis, illustrating our ambition to be market leader for zero-emissions vehicles in the UK. Louis has a fantastic grasp of the commercial EV sector, boasting an extensive knowledge base and proven track record. This will be vital,” he said, “as we work in partnership with our dealer network to develop and drive forward our EV offering for operators”

Louis Jones.

THE FUTURE IS BEHIND YOU

The humble trailer is no longer the Cinderella of commercial vehicle transport equipment, according to trailer axle specialists at the SAF-Holland UK Ltd.

Trailer specification was often a secondary consideration for transport operators involved in the vehicle acquisition decision making process, with the main focus being on the high-tech tractor units. Trailer technology has come along in leaps and bounds in response to the transport industry’s need to squeeze every iota of efficiency from their fleets. The trailer is fast becoming more intelligent and therefore able to make a greater positive contribution to the cost-effectiveness of the semi-trailer combination.

Far from being just a metal chassis with sundry components attached, now fleet operators want a sum of integrated parts that together offer meaningful benefits: weight optimisation, enhanced handling characteristics through steering technology, tyre pressure monitoring, powered and energy

recovery axles, plus performance and maintenance data in real time.

Craig Lawton, SAF-HOLLAND UK’s Regional Sales Manager for Scotland and Ireland explains; “SAFHOLLAND has long been aware that in delivery and distribution, every kilo counts which is why they’ve worked consistently on developing payload-optimised axles like the INTRADISC plus INTEGRAL. The company’s latest development of the ten-spoke wheel end design and weight-relieved brake caliper together reduce the weight by 24kg on a triaxle trailer, which is not insignificant. But importantly, none of this weight saving is made at the expense of performance or longevity.

Canny operators are also seeing the benefits of fitting the SAF TIRE PILOT system to their SAF trailer axles. The system accurately

monitors tyre pressure continuously and maintains minimum pressure in the event of puncture damage. The system has been proven to reduce tyre wear and save fuel. It also means that spare wheels need not be carried, providing a further weight saving and thereby increasing efficiency.”

Fleet operators necessarily spend a lot of their time managing the whole-life costs of their commercial vehicles and in this respect, SAF axle-equipped trailers generally acquit themselves extremely well. SAF axles are very low maintenance by design and come with some of the longest warranties in the industry.

And the new SAF INTRA PC (Premium Coated), developed for semi-trailers operating in the harshest weather conditions, comes with a 10-year anti-corrosion

warranty on the additional coating. Craig Lawton goes on to say; “We are now seeing some fantastic technological developments that we know will both enhance vehicle efficiency and make life easier for transport operators. Our sister company in the UK, Axscend Ltd offers a system called TrailerMaster. Telematics that allows fleet managers to keep tabs on Brake Performance (EBPMS) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as well as Fleet Manager Connect which allows maintenance schedules all in real time. Powered trailer axles are with us now and which are making huge improvements to vehicle handling in difficult off-road driving conditions, and energy recovery systems for trailers are in production. The trailers we’re helping to build today are a far cry from the simple metal platforms of old.” For further information: www.saf-holland.co.uk email: craig.lawton@safholland. com tel: +44 1509 600 185

SAF CD INTRADISC

Plus Integral axles equipped with SAF Tire Pilot.

Proven, exemplary stopping power

Industry-leading warranty cover

The lightest disc brake combination on the market

Reduced maintenance required

Less time-consuming servicing compared with drums

Factory-approved workshop training support

Extended component life

Demonstrably lower whole life costs

To discover how SAF INTRADISC can satisfy your transport needs more effectively than any other drum or disc brake axle combination, simply drop us an email or give us a call.

MAN LEADING THE WAY WITH DIESEL, ELECTRIC AND HYDROGEN OPTIONS

Austrian Alps a perfect backdrop to experience MAN’s new Truck and Vans

BY AUSTIN LYNCH

As part of their preparation for this year’s IAA Transportation 2024, which took place in early September, MAN invited 200 journalists to Austria for a pre-press conference event at the start of July.

Held at the Gut Brandlhof hotel in Tyrol the focus of the event, which also the theme of MAN’s IAA trade fair appearance, was the ‘decarbonizing of road freight transport’. Journalists from right across Europe, including myself, had the opportunity to hear about MAN’s plans for decarbonisation, we were given a sneak preview of what we could expect to see from MAN at IAA, and we also had the opportunity to test drive a range of trucks and vans – both on the Alpine roads and on the test track attached to our hotel - powered by electric, hydrogen and state-of-the-art diesel so we could make direct comparisons between the various engine and fuel options offered by MAN. Undoubtedly, one of the star attractions

in Austria (apart from the breathtaking scenery) was the new MAN eTruck, which now offers a million configuration variants with its modular battery concept, numerous wheelbases, cabs, PTOs and industry equipment, and is already proving itself to be fit for the needs of all industries, body solutions and transport tasks.

Addressing the assembled journalists in Austria, Manuel Hiermeyer, Head of Corporate Communication with MAN said there were four steps to decarbonize transport; Products, Infrastructure, Renewables and TCO (total cost of ownership) for Customers, and MAN are working on all these steps right now. Talking specifically about the eTruck Mr

Hiermeyer said it was first introduced last October (2023) and had a modular battery concept – and that it has a daily range of 600-800km, provided the truck is charged once during the day during the driver’s break. The aim of the new eTruck is to reach a daily range of 1,000km. But talking specifically about charging, MAN stress that the mindset shouldn’t always be on returning the battery to 100 per cent charge, but instead charge to the level required for the truck to finish its daily work – which may need significantly less than 100%, and could speed up time spent at a charger –depending of course where the overnight stop for the truck and driver will be. With its modular concept, the eTruck

can be fitted with 3-6 battery packs, with the decision left to the customers to decide on the option best for them. Mr Hiermeyer also highlighted the need for ‘consulting services’ to help customers move from diesel to battery. MAN are in the process of significantly expanding their eTruck portfolio, and they believe going forward electric trucks with be capable of handling 90% of applications needed.

HYDROGEN

While investing heavily in their electric future, MAN also introduced the press to the hTGX, a hydrogen powered prototype, which was available for us to drive, or to

get a trip in around the Austrian test track. MAN are the first European manufacturer with an internal hydrogen engine, and they have already had a strong interest in the hydrogen truck, with MAN saying this is a strong add-on to their zero-emission offering.

The hTGX is classified as a zero emissions vehicle (ZEV), it is capable of the same payload as a diesel and ADR possible from 2025+.

The engine has 520hp/2500Nm max, and is a 16.8l in-line six cylinder with a 600km range (9kg/100km). It is equipped with 700bar type IV high-pressure tanks with 56kg storage capacity with a short refueling time – less than 15 minutes with 700 bar.

Austin Lynch, Editor, Export & Freight.

“BEV and e-mobility make up the ‘Lion’s share of what we are doing, with hydrogen aimed at ‘selected regions’. We will be treating hydrogen as an ‘add on’ where electric-charging infrastructure is not in place,” said Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus.

ELECTROMOBILITY

“Even though the transition to CO2-free freight transport is characterised by several drive technologies, our focus is clearly on electromobility as the main drive technology. The hydrogen combustion engine can be a useful addition for special applications, as can the fuel cell drive, which is currently still under development. In addition, the diesel drive will continue to play an important role throughout the entire transformation until it is completely replaced. That’s why we’ve made it significantly more efficient, economical and lower in CO2 with our new D30 engine. It is based on the common engine platform of the TRATON GROUP and is the tangible result of intensive cooperation between our development departments.

“In future, we will be producing combustion engine and electric trucks on the same production line in order to be able to react flexibly to the shift in demand towards electric trucks. However, for the drive revolution to succeed, the expansion of the charging infrastructure must be an absolute priority

for politicians, infrastructure operators and manufacturers,” continued Alexander Vlaskamp. By 2030, every second MAN truck registered in Europe should be batteryelectric. Recently, the charging infrastructure joint venture Milence, in which MAN is part of the TRATON GROUP alongside Daimler Truck and Volvo Trucks, opened one of the first large truck charging parks in the Port of Antwerp. A total of 1,700 charging points are to be created on the initiative of the manufacturers in the coming years. A total of 50,000 will be required by 2030 for the steadily increasing number of electric trucks. MAN is also working on the electrification of its own service network.

CHARGE AND GO

Previewed at the pre-press conference in Austria, MAN Truck & Bus unveiled the new MAN Charge&Go charging service for the first time at the IAA Transportation in Hanover. The service is aimed at users of electric trucks and, in the future, also electric coaches. The solution for public charging works across brands and is therefore also interesting for mixed fleets. MAN Charge&Go customers can use it to plan the charging of their vehicles, pay at the charging station and benefit from a collective bill at the end of the month. The charging network of MAN Charge&Go is

specially designed for commercial vehicles and is continuously being expanded to include suitable charging points. In order to ensure smooth battery charging, the charging points are tested according to a strict catalogue of criteria.

In conjunction with MAN SmartRoute, the customer receives intelligent route planning that displays suitable charging points for electric commercial vehicles along the route. This means that customers are offered a complete package, true to MAN’s motto: Simplifying business. The customer receives proven 360° advice, help with setting up the required depot charging infrastructure and, with MAN Charge&Go, the solution for public charging from a single source. The new MAN Charge&Go service will be launched in all relevant European countries from mid-2025.

POWERLION

The MAN Lion took a powerful leap into model year 2025 at the IAA Transportation 2024 - with even greater efficiency and driving comfort. The focus of the innovations is on reducing fuel consumption by up to 3.7 percent. The MAN engineers have achieved this primarily with the help of the new D30 PowerLion driveline and aerodynamic measures.

“Our new highly efficient PowerLion driveline with the new D30 engine and the new MAN

TipMatic 14 gearbox is the key to the profitability of our customers’ transport business. It is based on the common engine platform of the TRATON GROUP and is the tangible result of intensive cooperation between our development departments. Even though we see the electric drive as the main technology in road freight transport in the long term, diesel continues to play an important role on the way there. Every litre of fuel we save reduces CO2emissions and costs for transport companies. This, in turn, makes it easier for our customers to switch their fleets to zero-emission technologies,” saysFriedrich Baumann, Board Member for Sales & Customer Solutions, MANTruck & Bus SE.

STATE-OF-THE-ART SAFETY AND ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS

In addition to decarbonisation technologies, the test drives in the Alps focused on new assistance systems. While MAN has been producing pedestrian and cyclist detection for some time, the third generation of the advanced emergency braking system (EBA), and the turning aid for the protection of the most vulnerable road users has been in production for its truck series since the beginning of 2024.

At the test track, the EBA was demonstrated in a number of difference scenarios. We saw what would happen if a pedestrian (vulnerable road user) was to step into the path of one of the truck equipped with this technology as the truck was driving at 30kph - simulating an urban environment. Without the driver having any input, the truck applies the brakes and comes to a complete stop. We were also shown what happens if a slow moving / stationary vehicle comes into the path of the MAN truck travelling at 60kph. Without the driver reacting, the truck stops a safe distance from the stationary vehicle. (see video).

Drivers card had never been downloaded

An operator was convicted at Lisburn Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £500. The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers were involved in a goods vehicle operation in the Sprucefield area, when a 2-axle rigid vehicle was directed from the A1 carriageway to the Applegreen Services on the A1 where an inspection of his vehicle and tachograph records was carried out.

The analysis of the data identified the following issues. The tachograph vehicle unit was not calibrated in accordance with the regulations, a digital tachograph is required to be calibrated every two years - the previous calibration had expired November 2022. The tachograph Vehicle unit was not

downloaded as required every 90 days, the previous download was on the March 2021, 713 days prior, missing the deadline by 623 days. The driver’s digital driver’s card was not downloaded every 28 days as required, and there was no evidence that the card has ever been downloaded.

Two periods of driving without a driver’s card inserted were noted. The Goods Vehicle Test Certificate had expired on the December 2022 and the owner and user of the vehicle did not have appointment booked at the time of the stop. It was further noted that the vehicle was not on a goods vehicle operators’ licence at the time of the stop.

Vehicle wasn’t on vehicle’s operator licence

A Republic of Ireland Operator was convicted at Newry Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £1,000. The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers examined a 3-axle articulated lorry in combination with a 3-axle trailer. It was noted the vehicle was not specified on a valid goods vehicle operator’s licence.

On analysis of the driver’s digital smartcard, it was noted it had not been downloaded in 160 days, 132 days outside the

28 day limit. It was also noted the vehicle’s data had not been downloaded in 1551 days, 1461 days outside the 90-day limit.

On further analysis of the vehicle’s tachograph data, it was noted the vehicle had been driven on 5 occasions without a driver card. It was also noted the trailer did

not have a valid goods vehicle test certificate in place. The driver was also unable to provide proof of CPC qualification.

Megawatt charging Milestone for Electric Trucks with up to 3000 kW

For the first time ever, an electric truck publicly charged its batteries with over 1000 kilowatts and 1500 amps. This was enough to give the 40-tonne long-distance eTruck from MAN a driving range of around 400 kilometres in 30 minutes.

The charging premiere, which was attended by the Bavarian State Minister for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, Hubert Aiwanger, the Chairwoman of the German Council of Economic Experts, Prof Monika Schnitzer, and around 200 other guests from politics, the media, business and science, was part of the presentation of the results of the NEFTON research project launched in 2021. In the project, which is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, MAN Truck & Bus and the Technical University of Munich (TUM) as well as five other partners from science and industry analysed the system consisting of an all-

electric truck, charging station and grid connection and designed it for various application scenarios.

The focus is on the Megawatt

Charging System (MCS) for ultrafast charging of electric trucks during the driver’s break or when loading and unloading at the ramp.

“With NEFTON, we have succeeded in developing technologies to charge e-trucks within a very short time and with a power output of over 1000 kW. Our research focussed on practicality, costs and grid connection power. Together with our project partners, we have clearly demonstrated that electric trucks and megawatt charging are the perfect combination for the comprehensive decarbonisation of road freight transport. The technology is there, now we need to drive forward the expansion of the charging infrastructure in the market in close cooperation with politicians, the energy industry and vehicle manufacturers,” says Dr Frederik Zohm, Executive Board Member for Research and Development at MAN Truck & Bus.

DAF EXPANDS PLUG & PLAY FOR MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY

As part of its DAF Transport Efficiency philosophy, DAF Trucks has further enhanced the body builder friendliness of its New Generation DAF rigid trucks. The Dutch truck manufacturer has expanded its revolutionary Plug & Play programme, increased payloads by up to 160 kilogrammes and is offering new hole pattern options for its chassis rails.

DAF introduced its Plug & Play body builder programme last year, together with the introduction of its full suite of doubledriven tractors and rigids for off- and on-road applications. This Plug & Play programme was designed in close cooperation with 25 leading body builders in Europe, with the aim of optimising the specification, ordering and body-building processes for rigid trucks.

FIRST-TIME-RIGHT

The programme allows the customer, builder and dealer to jointly select prespecified and tailored plug-and-play body building options in DAF’s order system.

The underlying aim is to make the ‘marriage’ of a body with the DAF chassis as simple as possible. After mounting the body onto the chassis (using the factory-installed body mounting modules), the connectors are connected and the body is immediately ready for use.

To make this possible, DAF rigid trucks can leave the factory (on request) fully prepared for quick assembly and high quality, first-time-right integration of the superstructure and the vehicle

PLUG

& PLAY FOR ALL

DAF is also expanding its unique DAF Plug & Play programme to include a series of universal factory preparations for all other body builders outside of the 25 that are already participating. These plug & play options are available for the installation of five dedicated vehicle applications: hook lifts, cranes, tippers, mixers and skip loaders. Cornelis van der Lee, Director Rigid and Vocational Trucks at DAF Trucks: “These superstructures represent around 90% of the body market. Customers and dealers can now work together with almost any body builder to decide which universal ex-factory chassis

preparations are required for an ultra-quick installation of a superstructure. DAF can take care not only of the chassis configurations but also of the correct placement of the connectors. This enables instant communication between the superstructure and the Driver Information Panel on the dashboard and the switches in the cab. The result is much shorter lead times in the body building process, which in turn enhances the operational readiness of newly ordered New Generation DAF rigid trucks. DAF is leading the way in body-builder-friendliness.”

A further enhancement of the already industry-leading low kerb weight of DAF’s rigid trucks is provided by the newly designed, full aluminium Rear Underrun Protection (RUP) beam. Despite the fact that it is 28 kilogrammes lighter in weight, the RUP is even more robust than its steel predecessor.

NEW HOLE PATTERN

DAF chassis traditionally come with a 60-millimetre hole pattern. However, in order

to meet the specific requirements of builders, a 50-millimetre hole pattern along the entire chassis-length is now also available. Furthermore, the positioning of the pattern as a whole can be adjusted to meet the needs of a body builder, even when the holes must run all the way to rear end of the chassis.

EACH DAF IS BODYBUILDERFRIENDLY

Flexibility is part of the DNA of each and every DAF truck. The position of nearly all chassis components, as well as the Engine After treatment System, can be tailored to the needs of the truck owner or body builder.

The latter can also indicate which of the available DAF body attachment modules (BAM) need to be mounted ex-factory and at which precise location. A superstructure can then be quickly and efficiently mounted on the fully flat chassis, which reduces costs and ensures quick entry into service.

THE RIGHT PTO FOR EVERY APPLICATION

Bodies often need a power take-off. DAF offers no less than 68 different PTO options, ranging from clutch-independent, engine-driven power take-offs positioned at 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock to clutch-dependent gearbox PTOs. All of these power take-offs are available with either pump mounting or flange drive. DAF also offers the option of simultaneous operating up to three PTOs independently of each other.

LOWER TCO, HIGHER QUALITY

To ensure the highest possible reliability and quality of the entire vehicle (including the body structure) and the fastest possible operational readiness, DAF Trucks is committed to improving the body builder friendliness of its New Generation DAF rigid trucks on a continuous basis. Together with the improved payload capacities, the enhancements mean that the total cost of ownership (TCO) of each and every New Generation DAF rigid truck is without parallel.

DAF XF 480 FAW - Hooklift.

DAF XD 370 FA - Skiploader.

DAF - Range Shot - Rigid Trucks.

WORKERS ASKED TO HELP ‘DRIVE DANGER OUT’ OF THE WORKPLACE

Simple checks and taking more care when driving, or being in the vicinity of vehicles in the workplace can help reduce deaths and injury at work.

That is the message of a the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) Workplace Transport Safety Campaign called ‘Drive Danger Out’.

Since 2012, 36 workers have lost their lives in incidents involving workplace vehicles with more than 160 having been seriously injured.

‘Drive Danger Out’ was launched last year by HSENI to promote its ongoing inspection programme aimed at reducing the number of people killed or injured as a result of incidents involving workplace transport.

Speaking at the event in Parliament buildings at Stormont, Economy Minister Conor Murphy said he was very glad to be supporting this very important campaign and to endorse the Health and Safety Executive Workplace Transport Safety Campaign.

“The safety of workers is paramount. My department has adopted the Carnegie definition of a ‘good job’. It recognizes that a ‘good job is a safe job’ – one where workers are protected and are safe in their environment.

“Workplace injuries can have serious implications for the individual, the family, the employer and indeed for the Health and Social Care system

“Days lost due to ill health and injury also represents a cost for business. Employers, employees and government need to view worker safety as a goal to be achieved.

“The fact that so many industries are represented here today gives me confidence this is already very much the case, Minister Murphy said.

“Every year we see too many accidents involving falls from tailgates, curtainsiders incidents and individuals being struck by vehicles on sites.

These could be avoided by better awareness of the dangers involved, better vehicle maintenance and driver aids being operational.

“In the last ten years, 137 people have lost their lives at work right across the North.

Every single one of those deaths was preventable. That is why the Health and Safety Executive and their workplace transport safety campaign are so important.”

“HSENI provides advice, awareness creation and enforcement. This is a very effective campaign and I want to thank everyone involved in it” continued the Minister.

This campaign was launched September, 2023 and for the first time the whole organisation (HSENI) is getting behind this one campaign.

Workplace vehicles can include forklifts, dumpers and trucks of all sizes and incidents can occur in all manner of circumstances including –drivers reversing, drivers can’t see pedestrians, handbrake failures, tyres exploding, vehicles

Speaking at the press launch event in Stormont, Conor Murphy, Economy Minister.

parked on slopes rolling away and incidents involving vehicles on construction sites.

The campaign has three strands – Enforcement, ‘Drive Danger Out’ and awareness raising.

The enforcement strand involves proportionate enforcement – advice first, following by enforcement when necessary. The HSENI have made over 2,500 site visits and have been involved in 5,500 workplace interventions (this could be anything from an email upwards).

Strand Two – ‘Drive Danger Out’ is the campaign slogan, and by scanning the campaign QR code it takes you to the Landing page on the HSENI website, where employers can find practical and accessible information – but this is not just for employers.

And strand three of the campaign – awarenessraising – including the TV campaign, bus advertising and press and media adverts.

Louis Burns, HSENI Director said ‘The Holy Grail of this campaign would be long-lasting behavioural change. That’s what we want.”

So, are there less fatalities today in the workplace than in previous years? Yes, said Mr Burns, who said ‘we are seeing a reduction, and that in the past 12 months in Northern Ireland two people have been killed in the workplace’.

A series of specially commissioned videos involving local comedian Colin Geddis have also been made attempting to reach the 18-35 audience – using humor as the attention grabber. To date, these videos have had over 300,000 impressions.

HSENI Chief Executive Robert Kidd said,

“With this campaign we want everyone driving for work or who may be working around vehicles to stop and think about what they are doing. The Safe Site, Safe Vehicle and Safe Driver messages highlight the need to ensure that everything around you everything in your vehicle and all your actions are set to avoid incidents or accidents.

The campaign has been endorsed by a range of industry representative bodies, including Construction Employers Federation (CEF), the Confederation of British Industry Northern Ireland

(CBINI), Manufacturing NI, the Northern Ireland Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions Northern Ireland Committee (NIC-ICTU), Waste Industry Health and Safety and Health Forum NI (WISHNI), Ulster Farmers Union (UFU), Mineral Products Association Northern Ireland (MPANI), Utility Regulator and the NI Safety Group.

To support employers, advice and guidance along with inspection proformas detailing key aspects of workplace transport safety for each industry are available at: www.hseni.gov.uk/workplacetransport

L-R: Conor Murphy Economy Minister, Robert Kidd CEO HSENI, Louis Burns Deputy CEO HSENI.

MANFREIGHT CELEBRATES THE GRAND OPENING OF NEW CHILLED WAREHOUSE FACILITY

During September, Manfreight reached a significant milestone with the unveiling of their brand-new state-of-the-art warehousing facility, Project ARK, situated in the bustling heart of Belfast Harbour. The event was nothing short of a celebration, with family, friends, partners, and esteemed customers coming together to mark this momentous occasion. The highlight of the day was when Guest of Honour, Irene Slowey, officially inaugurated the facility by cutting the ribbon and opening its doors to the public.

Project ARK isn’t merely a new warehouse facility for Manfreight - it represents a significant leap towards a more sustainable future. At the celebratory event, guests had the opportunity to engage with various business partners who shared insights and offered demonstrations, underscoring the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and progress within the logistics sector.

The presence of esteemed partners such as Anna Breen from Stena Line, Stuart Gwynne from Powertech Refrigeration Ltd, Matthew Boutros from Derry Bros Shipping & Customs, Simon Murray from CameraMatics, and Chris Arthur from Dennison Commercials Ltd showcased the spirit of unity and shared goals that underpin the success of initiatives like Project ARK.

The opening of Manfreight’s new 50,000ft2 Chilled Warehouse Facility, Project ARK, marks a significant moment in the company’s journey towards sustainability and innovation.

With a focus on cutting-edge technology, eco-friendly practices, and collaborative partnerships,

By embracing sustainability, collaboration, and innovation, Manfreight is not only revolutionizing the logistics industry but also leading

the way towards a more environmentally conscious future.

With Project ARK, Manfreight has set a new standard for excellence in warehousing operations,

demonstrating that businesses can thrive while also making a positive impact on the planet. Cheers to a brighter, greener future with Manfreight and Project ARK!

Guest of Honour, Irene Slowey cutting the ribbon, officially opening the Project ARK Facility.

A Family Celebration - Josie Melarkey, Chris Slowey, Christina Slowey, Irene Slowey, Ann Adamson, Ryan Slowey, Finni Melarkey & Finn Slowey.

Partnerships – Chris Slowey pictured with Simon Murray (Cameramatics), Anna Breen (Stena Line), Stuart Gwynne (Powertech Refrigeration), Matt Boutros (Derry Bros Shipping & Customs) and Chris Arthur (Dennison Commercials).

Chris Slowey pictured with Ciaran McCusker (Finnebrogue), John Brady & Tony Demaine (Cranswick Country Foods).

Jim Price & Mark McCormick (Hilton Meats) enjoying the hospitality.

Chris Slowey (Right) pictured with Des Travers and Darragh Lowry (DPD Ireland).

Chris Slowey, Irene Campbell and Stephen Marshall (Manfreight) with Michael Kenny, Elizabeth Adair, Neale McCrossan and Rebeca Russell from Lakeland Diaries.

Jayne Currie and Nichola Mallon from Logistics UK enjoying the celebrations.

Chris Slowey pictured with his mum Irene Slowey (middle) and aunts Josie Melarkey (left) and Ann Adamson (right)

ROAD TANKERS

Nichola Mallon

Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK

WINDSOR FRAMEWORK DELAY FOR PARCELS MUST BE USED WISELY

The announcement that the next phase of the Windsor Framework is being delayed finally came less than two weeks before it was supposed to be introduced. It was expected that from 30 September, custom changes and new requirements for the movement of parcels from GB to Northern Ireland would be introduced but the government announced on 19 September that implementation is being delayed until 31 March 2025.

The movement of parcels and implementation of customs systems for goods moving to and from Northern Ireland is a complex issue, requiring many new processes to be put in place. Despite best efforts, it was practically impossible for logistics businesses to be ready to meet the 30 September deadline which is why Logistics UK pressed government for this delay. It is therefore heartening to see that the concerns of logistics businesses have been taken into account by the government. This announcement is welcome, but this time needs to be used wisely.

Implementing the changes as planned would have caused significant disruption to trade, and in the peak Christmas period. Several events including the pre-election period and General Election had a significant impact on the ability of government to advise industry in a timely manner which left businesses in an impossible situation. This delay is welcome but for it to be productive, we need to see a step change in the government’s approach.

Awareness of these changes, particularly for business to business parcels, remains low throughout the industry. While businesses in Northern Ireland tend to follow Windsor Framework developments more closely, the level of understanding and awareness particularly in GB is concerning. This has to be addressed by government.

Logistics UK has long been calling for the government to lead a high-profile awareness and readiness campaign across business and industry to ensure parcels continue to move smoothly. The feedback we have had from our members shows there is a critical need for government guidance to be written in plain English and tailored for each actor in the supply chain and now is the time to roll out such a campaign.

PARCELS VITAL FOR BUSINESSES

With the rise of online shopping, parcels

have become a part of everyday life for so many consumers but many businesses also rely on parcel deliveries. A range of sectors, from manufacturing to pharmaceutical to retail and more, rely on parcel deliveries for supplies of parts, specialist equipment, samples and supplies. They have all been operating under the parcel waiver and adjusting to new requirements takes time. Forging ahead with the 30 September deadline would have caused huge disruption to these supply chains and sectors. It is however important to remember that the delay to the implementation of the next phase is precisely that, a delay. The changes will happen, so traders and hauliers need to make sure their businesses are ready when they are implemented. The main changes are summarised below and detailed information can be found on the government’s official website: https://www. gov.uk/government/publications/moving-parcelsfrom-great-britain-to-northern-ireland-under-thewindsor-framework-from-30-september-2024

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

PARCEL MOVEMENTS

Business to business parcels destined for NI will be handled in line with the processes in place for freight. This means that either the sending or the receiving business will need to be authorised under the new UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) to use the “green lane” when moving goods that are not considered “at risk” of entering the EU. Businesses will need to provide the carrier moving the parcel with their UKIMS number when sending parcels from GB to NI, and companies can apply for authorisation for the UK Internal Market Scheme here – https:// www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-authorisationfor-the-uk-internal-market-scheme-if-youbring-goods-into-northern-ireland

It is important to remember that goods

that are moved between GB and NI but not within UKIMS cannot use the “green lane” and will have to follow the processes required for imports into the EU.

BUSINESS TO CONSUMER AND CONSUMER TO BUSINESS PARCEL MOVEMENTS

To use the “green lane” when moving consumer parcels from GB to NI, carriers need to join the UK Carrier Scheme (UKC) which opened for registration on 1 May 2024. To be part of this scheme, carriers will need to show they have processes in place to determine whether the goods they are transporting are being sent to a private individual, or a business.

Because it is the carriers who need to apply to join the UK Carrier Scheme, GB businesses sending parcels to consumers for personal use in NI do not need to be registered in any scheme. The same is true for consumers sending parcels to businesses, for example when returning items.

It is important to note that the UK Carrier Scheme cannot be used for moving business to business parcels. Carriers can find more information and apply for UKC authorisation here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-ifyou-can-apply-for-the-uk-carrier-scheme

CONCLUSION

Government and industry share mutual goals of smooth parcel movements between GB and NI and now the implementation date has been delayed, we urge the government to use the time wisely. While this additional time is welcomed, as is confirmation from government that the Trader Support Service will be extended to December 2025 with a new service procured from January 2026, the Windsor Framework is something we are all going to have to keep working at. At the core of that is the need for the UK government to improve its communication, work proactively to identify workable solutions and provide appropriate support to traders and hauliers moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

More information on the changes to parcel deliveries can be found on gov.uk - https://www. gov.uk/government/publications/moving-parcelsfrom-great-britain-to-northern-ireland-under-thewindsor-framework-from-30-september-2024

✔ Improve employee retention

✔ Boost productivity

✔ Enhance company reputation

✔ Ensure a healthy workforce

✔ Increase loyalty and so much more!

can the Kingsbridge Membership Club support your workforce?

✔ Preferential rates across treatment, diagnostics and surgery

✔ Health & wellbeing events led by healthcare specialists

✔ Online portal with specialised features including access to a GP referral

TAKING CARE OF YOUR WORKFORCE

Kingsbridge Membership Club, part of the Kingsbridge Healthcare Group is an exclusive corporate membership scheme that allows employers to reward their workforce with preferential rates on private healthcare services, and at no cost to the employer.

Registration to the Membership Club is easy, and once registered, members will have access to a range of benefits and resources from across the Kingsbridge Healthcare Group. These include:

- Preferential rates across GP, Physio, Bupa Health Screenings, diagnostics, self-pay treatment and surgeries

- Same day access to Minor Injuries Clinic

- Rapid access to referrals with an online ‘Request a Referral’ service

- Easy access to local specialists including GPs and Physios via an online portal

- ‘Wellbeing at Work’ resources, expert led talks and discounted training

The scheme compliments employees that have private medical insurance but is also available and hugely beneficial to those who don’t.

The Kingsbridge Healthcare Group is made up of the Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group which hosts 4 hospitals within the North and South of Ireland (Belfast, Ballykelly and Sligo), Kingsbridge Opticians and Hearing Care covering all ear and eyecare needs and Kingsbridge Training Academy, the first accredited centre of excellence in surgeryrelated educational provision in Northern Ireland by the Royal College of Surgeons of England. Visit kingsbridgehealthcaregroup. com for further information.

UPGRADING TO PLATINUM

Upgrading to the Platinum Membership is completely up to the employee. In doing so, they will gain access to additional benefits which include rapid access to unlimited GP appointments throughout the year for themselves and their family, alongside further discounts

Paul McGuigan, Warehouse Supervisor at McCulla Ireland and Melissa McGrillen, Healthcare Assistant.

Mairead Adams, Finance Assistant at McCulla Ireland and Melissa McGrillen, Healthcare Assistant.

and a dedicated booking service, as part of our Kingsbridge GP subscription.

Members will also be able to avail of several FREE annual health checks including a Health MOT worth £200, flu vaccine and an eye test. The platinum membership is available to individuals at £50 per month and families at £95* per month.

View our Online Brochure for further information at kingsbridgemembershipbrochure.com

If you would like to find out how you can avail of health and wellbeing support for your employees, email membership@ kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com today.

SUPPORTING YOUR EMPLOYEES HEALTH & WELLBEING AT WORK

Supporting the health and wellbeing of employees doesn’t just take place when healthcare treatment or a service is required. As an important aspect of the Kingsbridge Membership Club we aim to continually be

able to provide workforces with regular resources and events which can be held onsite to aid the promotion of health and wellbeing within the business as well.

WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS

We were delighted to welcome McCulla Ireland to the Kingsbridge Membership Club. To welcome our new members we organised their first onsite ‘Wellbeing at Work’ event at their headquarters during which staff were able to avail of a mini health check with a dedicated Nurse, physio discovery sessions with a specialist Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist and a GP led talk around mental health and stress awareness.

Oonagh Kelly, Corporate Development Manager said, “On the 11th September, we had the pleasure of onboarding McCulla Ireland to the Kingsbridge Membership Club. At Kingsbridge Healthcare Group we aim to deliver a unique and exclusive corporate healthcare membership scheme that is

tailored to the needs of all organisations, especially those in the Freight and Transport Industry. We recognise that empowering all McCulla employees to identify steps to improve their own general wellbeing is key to helping them take control of their own health. This can be done at different levels and stages, as not every employee is the same or has the same physical, mental, or emotional needs.

Our dedicated team held the first of many ‘wellbeing at work’ events at their Lisburn Headquarters, where we tackled topics such as high blood pressure, healthy eating and gut health, cancer awareness, menopause, male and female health checks as well as mental health and stress awareness talks. We look forward to helping McCulla Ireland take care of their workforce through offering benefits that complement employees that have private medical insurance and those who don’t.” Michael Hanna, HR & People Lead at McCulla Ireland said, “McCulla Ireland would like to thank Kingsbridge for their Health Check and Physio visit. Employee wellbeing and safety is at the forefront of everything we do and we look forward to working in partnership with Kingsbridge going forward on further wellbeing and health initiatives.”

We would also like to congratulate McCulla Ireland for winning ‘Trailer Fleet of the Year’ and ‘National & International Haulier of the Year’ at this year’s Export & Freight Awards Evening which took place on Thursday 12th September.

*T&C’s apply. Price is correct as of September 2024 and is subject to change. Family memberships consist of 2 adults and 2 children (0-23 years). Additional members can be added POA.

Dr Roger Brown, Private GP at Kingsbridge Private Hospital.

Brian Beattie, Operations Director at McCulla Ireland and Tom Johnston, Physiotherapist.

Andrew Simpson, HGV Driver at McCulla Ireland; Oonagh Kelly, Corporate Development Manager; Melissa McGrillen, Healthcare Assistant; Dr Roger Brown, Private GP; Michael Hanna, HR & People Lead at McCulla Ireland and Matthew Connolly, Corporate Membership Co-Ordinator.

The first stage of this project involves the electrification of axle transport between its Lyon and Bourg-en-Bresse plants. The 450,000km driven each year between the two production sites will be handled by Dupessey & Co and Transports Chazot using five 44 t Renault Truck E-Tech T electric vehicles.

Thanks to the launch of the electric 44-tonne truck, which marks a real step forward in interregional and mid- distance e-distribution, the French manufacturer has decided to switch to Renault Trucks E-Tech T 4x2 tractors for the supply of goods to the Bourg-en-Bresse plant. In practical terms, two partner hauliers have been chosen to carry out this task over the next six years, namely the Dupessey&Co group and Transports Chazot.

Five electric trucks, each loaded with 22 tonnes of equipment, will make two round trips a day (360 km) to deliver the axles, manufactured at the Lyon site, to the Bourg-en-Bresse plant, where the heavy duty trucks are assembled. Depending on the flow of goods, the number of deliveries can be increased, with up to seven trucks on the road in a single day. The trucks will require an interim charge of 45-50 minutes once a day at the Lyon site, where a charging station has been set up specifically for this purpose. The vehicles will also be charged every evening at the depots of the two hauliers.

This electrification of logistics will allow 440,000 kilometres to be driven by e-vehicles, saving 375 tonnes of CO2 every year.

LOW CARBON MOBILITY SOLUTIONS

The manufacturer has set out to be a model for industry players and its customers, by applying the low-carbon mobility solutions it offers them to its own operations.

Before electrifying its logistics flows between Lyon and Bourg-en-Bresse, the feasibility of the project needed to be studied. For

this, the Renault Trucks teams used the same software as its customers, namely the Range Simulator. This calculates where, when and for how long charging is required, based on four main parameters: use of the truck, its load and equipment, the outside temperature and the topography.

Once this diagnosis has been completed, the required positioning of the charging facilities is established so as to ensure optimum use.

As a result, two 360 KW terminals (each with 2 charge points) have been installed at the Saint-Priest site to manage the interim charges for the various trucks in optimal conditions.

“We’ve worked long and hard to electrify this first logistics route, having chosen axles between Lyon and Bourg-en-Bresse because this is a flow that is emblematic of Renault Trucks’ business, with very high operational constraints, particularly in terms of output and precision.

The launch of this project is a further illustration of our expertise in decarbonising mobility”, explained Bruno Blin, President of Renault Trucks. Our target for 2030 is to electrify our logistics on a huge scale, with all flows between our production sites using electric vehicles.”

Renault Trucks is currently working on the electrification of around a dozen other logistics flows, due to be operational in the months and years to come, in particular thanks to a system of relay vehicles that will enable electric trucks to be used over increasingly long distances.

BOURG-EN-BRESSE PLANT TO PRODUCE E-TECH T & C FOR RENAULT TRUCKS

Series production of the Renault Trucks heavy duty electric trucks has just begun at the Bourg-en-Bresse plant. The site has been assembling the brand’s trucks for 60 years and is now set to produce the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C.

Dedicated to regional distribution and urban construction, these vehicles are the latest addition to the manufacturer’s all-electric range, which is the widest on the European market, ranging from 650 kg (e-cargo bikes) to 44 t.

The Renault Trucks plant in Bourg-en-Bresse, which has been running since 1964, will now also be assembling the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C.

These 44-t trucks, designed for regional distribution and urban construction respectively, are the latest additions to the French manufacturer’s all-electric range, which is the widest in Europe and now covers and decarbonises virtually all urban and regional applications.

ADAPTING THE INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES

To accommodate the manufacture of these 44 tonne electric trucks, Renault Trucks has invested in transforming and adapting its industrial facilities, as well as building the skills of its employees. The manufacturer is drawing on four years’ experience of manufacturing medium-tonnage electric trucks at its Blainvillesur-Orne plant and applying

the same precepts and best practices at Bourg-en-Bresse.

The Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C are assembled on the same line as their Diesel equivalents, after which they are transferred to a dedicated 5,200 m2 area – the Renault Trucks E-Tech Factory. Here, qualified operators and technicians carry out the technical operations specific to electrification, namely assembly of the Electric Drive Unit (EDU) and installation of the transmission and batteries. The electric vehicles then return to the series production

process, with performance tests and track trials to guarantee their reliability and quality.

DECARBONISING NEW BUSINESS ACTIVITIES

Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C cover virtually all urban construction and regional distribution applications. Whether transporting goods, materials or industrial waste, for example, the vehicles can be adapted to any body style thanks to three types of power take-off (PTO): electric, electromechanical

or on the gearbox, opening up the possibility of decarbonising new areas of urban and regional activity. With a gross combination weight of up to 44 tonnes, Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C are available in 4x2 and 6x2 tractor versions, with a long cab and a wheelbase of 3,900mm. In rigid configuration, they are available in 4x2, 6x2 and 8x4 tridem, short or longcab, with a choice of eleven wheelbases, ranging from 3,900 to 6,700 mm.

Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C can be equipped with two or three electric motors developing a combined power of up to 490 kW (= 660 hp).

To meet customers’ needs in terms of range and activity, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T and C can be fitted with four to six lithium-ion battery packs providing between 390 and 540 kWh of power.

The batteries can be recharged by alternating current (AC) up to 43 kW, or by direct current (DC) up to 250 kW. These trucks will be able to travel up to 300 km on a full charge and up to 500 km with an intermediate fast charge (250 kW) lasting one hour (for a vehicle fitted with 6 battery packs).

The battery cells and modules are supplied by Samsung SDI and assembled in Ghent, Belgium, at a plant owned by the Volvo Group, of which Renault Trucks is itself part.

£6 MILLION INVESTMENT SEES NEW MERCEDES-BENZ DEALERSHIP LAUNCH IN DUNGANNON

A £6 million state-of-the-art dealership for Northern Ireland’s only Mercedes-Benz Van & Truck dealer, is set to open in the first week of October in Dungannon creating an additional 20 jobs for the local area.

Group CEO, Pauline McKeating announced the plan for the dealership earlier this year following continued growth and having taken majority ownership of the business in 2023 from well-known Northern Irish entrepreneur, Neil McKibbin, who continues in his role as Chairman. Pauline held the Finance Director position for many years at the MBNI Group before progressing to CEO and is now the majority shareholder in the Group, which includes Mercedes Benz Northern Ireland (MBNI) Truck & Van, RentaMerc, and Rossetts Commercials, based in the south of England. Last year, saw MBNI Holdings named as one of the top 100 businesses in Northern Ireland for the first time, with a turnover of £90.6 million as well as employing over 300 people across the Group. “It’s hard to believe after what feels like years of artist impressions, drawings, planning and many meetings that we are about to open our doors. I know I’m biased, but I’m absolutely delighted with the final product. We’ve a few snags to complete, and the team and I can’t wait to open our doors and welcome our customers to this state-of-the-art facility,” said Pauline McKeating. MBNI’s investment in the Dungannon area will see the Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van dealer relocate from their current premises in The Bush to a multi-acre site located just off the M1 Motorway adjacent to the current M1 service area in Dungannon. The dealership will expand its current offering to include three 18m drive-through truck maintenance bays and nine light vehicle maintenance bays, including a tachograph rolling road; and for the first time, MBNI will offer an aftersales service for Mercedes-Benz passenger car customers. The site will also include an extensive parts store, new electric vehicle infrastructure, and a new office for MBNI’s rental division, RentaMerc. Talking about the decision to invest in the site in Dungannon, Pauline McKeating, said, “From a business perspective, we have been fortunate to have had a spurt in growth over the last couple of years and we were at the stage where we wanted to take the next step and invest in a new site in Dungannon. We had originally planned to start the process of looking for a new site prior to the pandemic, however plans were delayed. “As we enter quarter four of 2024, we have

now finished that process with a much larger, better placed site than what we had originally envisaged, knowing full well that we will be able to meet our customers’ needs.

“Within our industry, the speed of change, particularly in relation to electric vehicles, and away from traditional internal combustion engines, that infrastructure is extremely important – we cannot sell electric vehicles if we don’t have the infrastructure to support them.

“Northern Ireland lags behind the rest of the UK with regards to infrastructure and investment; for example, GB has grants available for customers to purchase electric vehicles, which are just not available in Northern Ireland. By increasing our charging points, and add to that the benefit of the new electric charging hub being built adjacent to our new site in Dungannon, we are hoping that this will help attract customers to start their electric journey.”

Pauline McKeating, Group CEO and Martin Mahon, Dungannon Depot Manager, MBNI.

Mark Elliott, the previous Depot Manager for Dungannon, who has been instrumental in delivering this project has handed over the reins of the new site to Martin Mahon, who rejoined the business in July 2023. Martin stated, “This is an exciting time for the business, and the staff and I are very much

looking forward to operating from our new home and continuing to provide an exceptional service from these first-class facilities. This multi-million-pound investment is a testament to our brand, our customer service and helps in cementing our place in the Dungannon area, giving us an opportunity to expand our reach throughout Northern Ireland.”

Truck & Van

Construction began early in January 2024, and MBNI has been recruiting for several positions throughout the year. This includes commercial vehicle technicians, service advisors, parts advisors, and administrative staff. You can find out more information about these roles by visiting: mbtvni.co.uk/careers.

Dungannon Facility Opens October 2024. Visit our new Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van aftersales facility, showcasing our state of the art facilities and equipment, designed to provide excellence in customer service.

COUNTRY FEEL TO OPENING OF MBNI NEW DUNGANNON SITE

A large crowd of would-be cowboy and cowgirls gathered just outside Dungannon on Thursday night, September 26 for the Grand Opening of Mercedes Benz Northern Ireland (MBNI) new facility.

The evening was a special Country and Western themed launch night with cowboy hat, jeans and check shirts and everyone entered into the spirit of the evening – if the number wearing cowboy hats was anything to go by. It was a night of food, entertainment,

country music and celebration as MBNI kicked off an exciting new chapter with the completion of their new £6 million stateof-the-art dealership for Northern Ireland’s only Mercedes-Benz Van & Truck dealer The site is set to open in the first week of October in Dungannon.

Amber Newman, CEMCOR, Colim Surphlis, Kieran Devine & Gordon Spence, L.W Surphlis.

Jonathan Cleary, Craig Russell, Donan Cleary & Sean Cleary, Cleary Contracting.

Janine Hunter, Gayle Wilson, Mallaghan’s.

Phillip Shiells & Bryan O’Hare, O’Reilly’s Wholesale. Bobby Donaldson & Luke Surphlis, L.W Surphlis.

Robert Walker, MBNI Truck & Van, Brian Reid, Deli Lites and Brian McManus, Surefreight.

Vincent Waddell, Surefreight, Tom Banfield, MBNI Truck & Van and Barry Slingsby, MBNI Truck & Van.

Kevin Henderson Junior & Kevin Henderson Senior, Cleary Contracting.

Pauline McKeating, Group CEO.

SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES: BEHIND SOME OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Drawing on over 40 years of experience, SWS are the ‘go-to’ supplier for many quality workshop facilities.

The fitting-out of a workshop is not something that is purchased on a weekly, monthly – or even annual basis. It’s an investment for now, and for the future. And like any other investment – careful consideration will have been given to it before commitment. Is it safe? Will there be the return that’s looked for? Is the provider a ‘high performer’ with a solid track record? All very sound questions. And they all need asking – particularly when the fitout of a workshop is under consideration. SWS are uniquely placed to give solid, honest answers to all these questions. And many more that could be asked. Providing the complete fit-out package from an initial site-appraisal, through installation

and onto the training, maintenance and certification – they have the experience, the expertise and the product to ensure there’s that healthy return on investment that’s looked for.

Drawing on a selection of quality providers in the industry, including Stertil Koni, VL Test Systems, Samoa and Majorlift provides an assurance that if it’s the best that’s looked for – SWS can provide.

SUN SHINES ON DENNISON COMMERCIALS RIDE & DRIVE EVENT

On a warm and sunny September morning, Dennison Commercials hosted their open day at the Ballyclare depot for the Volvo Trucks Aero Ride & Drive Event. This exclusive event provided invited guests with the unique opportunity to test drive some of the latest heavy-duty Volvo Trucks models, offering a hands-on experience that showcased the performance and capabilities of these impressive vehicles.

At the event, attendees had the chance to test drive a range of Volvo Trucks models, each designed to meet specific industry needs and deliver exceptional performance. The line-up included:

FH16 780 Aero

FH500 Aero I-Save

FH Electric Aero

FM420 Tipper

FL320 Mixer

FM 18T Curtainsider

The Volvo Trucks Aero Ride & Drive Event was held on a day blessed with sunny weather, creating the perfect backdrop for guests to fully appreciate the performance and features of these cutting-edge vehicles. Attendees were able to experience first-hand the power, comfort, and efficiency that Volvo Trucks are known for, making for an unforgettable test drive experience. The test drive reports from attendees were overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the smooth handling, powerful engine

performance, and innovative features of the Volvo Trucks models. The FH16 780 Aero, with its impressive horsepower and advanced aerodynamics, stood out as a favourite among drivers looking for maximum performance.

The FH500 Aero I-Save model, known for its fuel efficiency and eco-friendly design, garnered praise for its reliability and costeffectiveness. The FH Electric Aero showcased

Volvo Trucks’ commitment to sustainability, offering a zero-emission solution without compromising on power or efficiency.

The FM420 Tipper and FL320 Mixer models impressed with their versatility and durability, making them ideal choices for a wide range of applications. The FM 18T Curtainsider, with its spacious and well-designed interior, provided a comfortable and efficient driving experience for those in the transportation industry.

All in attendance agreed Dennison Commercials Volvo Trucks Aero Ride & Drive Event was a resounding success, providing guests with an unparalleled opportunity to test drive some of the most advanced heavy-duty trucks on the market. The positive test drive reports and feedback from attendees reaffirm Volvo Trucks’ reputation for excellence in performance, innovation, and sustainability.

Meta Description: Get an inside look at Dennison Commercials Volvo Trucks Aero Ride & Drive Event, where invited guests had the opportunity to test drive the latest heavy-duty models. Experience the power and performance first-hand!

Colin Donnelly, Damian Kerin and Cormac McDonnell.

FH 500 Aero I-Save.

FM 420 Tipper.

FH 500 Aero.

FH16 780 Aero.

Joe Roddy, Network Sales Director for Volvo Trucks UK, Gary Lyons of Lyons European & New Truck Area Sales Executive, William Mackie.

Kevin McGarry & Nicholas Thompson of Mannok & Damian Kerin.

Abby Taylor, Jeff Shaw from Ards & North Down Borough Council and Victoria Moffett

Set of 2 electric’s are FH Electric Aero & FM Electric Curtainsider.

FH 500 Aero.

(L-R): New Truck Area Sales Executive, Damian Kerin, Liam & William Connolly of Liam Connolly Roadfreight & Dennison Commercials Sales Director Rob Ireland.

Dennison Commercials Managing Director John Jenkins, Crystal & Chris from Bradford Transport.

UKWA visit to TST Group in Ballymena

UK Warehousing Association chief Clare Bottle has just reached stop No. 63 in her ‘Around the Warehouses in 80 Visits’ journey to showcase the work of this important sector, arriving in Ballymena to learn the story behind TST Group’s success.

What she discovered was an impressive warehousing business built up over the last 6 years in some part to reverse the fortunes of the local area after the closure of the former tyre factory.

Combined with its other UK sites, TST Group has 2m square ft. of warehousing space, providing employment opportunities, and serving a range of bluechip customers including Aldi, Coca-Cola and Diageo.

Supporting the visit were Logistics UK’s Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Nichola Mallon and Graham Whitehurst MBE – Chair Mid & East Antrim Manufacturing Task Force (MTF) as Managing Director, Maire Claire Reid hosted the tour around the facilities; detailing the top level services it provides through being a Platinum member of the PalletTrack network and achieving the highest BRCGSAA certification.

Nichola Mallon said: “Logistics UK is delighted to join our Freight Council Vice-Chair, MarieClare Reid, and the team at TST Group to celebrate UKWA’s Year of Warehousing Event. From logistics to customs to warehousing, the TST Group is growing from strength to strength which is fantastic to see for them as a family run business,

but also for Ballymena given the employment they are creating, and for the NI economy too”.

Graham Whitehurst MBE commented: “TST Group’s innovative approach and rapid growth are clear examples of how being customer-focused drives success. With people and the local community at the heart of the business, they’ve created an environment where both employees and customers thrive, which is vital for the future of warehousing, logistics and manufacturing in our region. TST Group are a valued member of the Mid and East Antrim Manufacturing Task Force, an industry group which brings

together key companies in the borough to work collaboratively to resolve common issues.”

Clare Bottle concluded: “TST Group is an excellent example of a warehousing operation that adds value to its local area and the family ethos reflects the strong sense of community here.”

Why 2024 is The Year of Warehousing

Warehousing remains one of the fastest growing, yet least understood sectors in the UK. This is partly because people rarely see what happens inside these often vast buildings where millions of products are processed every day. Accordingly,

DSV’s Nick Beauchamp appointed Vice Chair at BIFA

Nick Beauchamp, Director of Global Customs has been elected as the new Vice Chair at BIFA, The British International Freight Association.

Nick has been a member of the key Policy Group since 2019, providing an active role in significant discussions and connecting with the government during this period.

Nick has worked at DSV for 10 years, currently, Director of Global Customs engaged in the DSV digital transformation programme and maintains a wealth of experience within the sector. Previously he was Director of Customs and Security for the UK and Ireland in DSV. Nick’s background comprises the management of Customs compliance, security and procedures, liaising with colleagues and customers alike to ensure that there are no complications in the supply chain.

Customs and excise procedures can be quite complex, warehousing procedures, authority paperwork and export controls are just a few of the main areas of expertise for Nick, who was delighted to be appointed to the new role at BIFA. Nick commented, “I have been a member of BIFA for many years, liaising with industry members as the changes in customs and excise requirements evolve year on year. It is an honour to be part of the BIFA Customs Policy Group and I look forward to contributing alongside the BIFA members, HMRC and other government departments” The BIFA Customs Policy Group meets four

the essential work warehouses do has always been ‘behind the scenes’ and therefore to a large extent under-appreciated. However, as the role of warehousing becomes increasingly central to everyday lives, it’s time to turn the spotlight onto the million plus people who work in warehousing, all the great work they do and for the sector to be more widely recognised for its contribution to the economy and our national life.

UKWA CEO Clare Bottle (3rd from Left), TST Group Managing Director, Maire-Claire Reid (6th from Right), along with the rest of the team and guests.

times per year and comprises members of the secretariat, representatives from BIFA member companies and invited speakers from HMRC and other relevant government departments and organisations. Nick Beauchamp.

Cormac Leonard, AT&T; Adrian Currie, Dale Farm; and Fidelis Courtney, AT&T.

Joanne Harkin, Freightlink, Christine Poole and Rita McKavanagh of Stena Line.

Pamela McGookin of Export & Freight with Phil Rootham of Scania.

John Marks of Road Trucks Scania with Terry Maxwell of Maxwell Transport.

Garfield Harrison with Vincent Waddell of Surefreight.

Graham Neagus of Renault Trucks UK (centre) with a party from Henderson Group.

Pete Weir, Denver Suitters, Nathan Dickey, Philip Martin, with TTP, and Richard Rae of Rae Distribution.

Graham Thompson, Agnew Leasing; Stephen Shaw, Modern Tyres; Joe Roddy, Volvo; John Jenkins, Dennison; Pamela McGookin, Export & Freight and David McEwan, Agnew Leasing.

TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS INDUSTRY GATHER TO CELEBRATE ANNUAL EXPORT AND FREIGHT AWARDS

On Thursday, 12th September the Crowne Plaza in Belfast was once again the venue for the Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards. Celebrating their 21st year, this was another fantastic night where around 600 guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of a resilient, innovative and progressive industry.

Returning as host of the gala event was BBC’s News Correspondent Mark Simpson, and the event, which is now a permanent fixture in the calendar of so many involved in transport and logistics across these islands, once again recognized and celebrated the skills and achievements of the men and women who work day and daily in this industry.

Helen Beggs, Publisher of Export and Freight said, “Tonight, we are not just here to present awards; we’re here to recognize passion, perseverance, and progress. Each finalist exemplifies what it means to strive for greatness and to inspire others along their journey.

“As we reflect on the past year, we recognize the challenges we have faced as an industry. From new governments, navigating disruptions to adopting new technologies and finding sustainable solutions—our resilience and adaptability have been put to the test. However, these challenges have also created innovation and collaboration, pushing us

toward a brighter and more efficient future.

“We are at a crossroads in both our industry and the wider world. The current fragile international political landscape presents us with unique challenges and opportunities that shape how we think about our transportation systems.

“From discussions on infrastructure investment to the pressing need for sustainable practices, the decisions made today will have lasting implications for generations to come.

“Transportation is not just about moving goods and people; it is a critical player in the economic and social fabric of our nations. It connects communities, fosters trade, and enables the flow of ideas and innovation.

“Let us remember that collaboration is key! Together, as industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates, we can drive meaningful change and ensure that transportation continues to be not just a facilitator of movement but a catalyst for a brighter future.”

Joining Helen on stage, Editor Austin Lynch added, “Tonight is a celebration. We are here to recognize excellence and to congratulate both individuals and the organisations, who go above and beyond what is expected of them each and every day in this 24/7 – 365 days a year industry we all work in.”

Austin thanked all the judges for their time and expertise, thanked all the generous sponsors of the evening and the staff at the Crowne Plaza for once again proving to be a fantastic destination for the event.

On the night, the Transport Personality of the Year award went to retiring RHA Policy Lead John Martin. There was a special recognition award for CLdN’s Alistair Eagles, while there was a standing ovation for the last award of the evening – a special recognition award presented to Garfield Harrison, who retired last year from 4SM, who publish Export and Freight magazine, and who established these awards 21 years ago.

Emma Bannon, Louise Montgomery and Lisa Hartle, Cancer Fund for Children.

John Martin, RHA with Winner of Top Table Award, Charlene McGonagle, Henderson Wholesale and Austin Lynch, Export & Freight.

SAFETY AWARD AWARDS2024

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

MANNOK BUILD LTD

Investment in the safety and care of its people was a major factor in this year’s Safety Award going to Mannok Build.

With approximately 150 lorries plus the other mobile plant across their 11 divisions, this award was about people, how Mannok values them and looks after them, not just in work but outside in their private lives.

The judges were impressed with Mannok’s investment and use of its Health and Safety Information Hub, its accreditation to ISO 45001, and the excellent drivers’ handbook.

The fact that they have a nurse on site, which is understandable given the number of employees, and the vision it has set out for the company in terms of sustaining a safety culture, and embedding it as a core value of the company, also helped clinch the award for Mannok.

Mannok Health & Safety Manager, Gerry

Clancy, commented: “Ensuring the safety of everyone in our organisation is the most important thing we can do, and with that in mind, we have undertaken several safety initiatives in recent years. To have these recognised with this award is a brilliant achievement and a great reward for the efforts of everyone involved.”

Mannok Transport Manager, Damien McKenna, added: “We are delighted to have received this award in acknowledgment of all the work and investment that has gone into Health and Safety in the company in recent years and we’re very pleased to have this recognised by the industry.”

It was another tight category, but for this investment in and care for its people ensured the Safety Award belongs to Mannok Build.

Scania is a world-leading provider of transport solutions, including trucks and buses for heavy transport applications combined with an extensive product-related service offering. Scania offers vehicle financing, insurance, and rental services to enable our customers to focus on their core business.

As Scania’s longest-serving independent dealer, Road Trucks Limited has been serving Northern Ireland’s transport industry since the early 1980s.

As Scania’s Northern Ireland dealer, Road Trucks is committed to providing excellent customer service to make sure your commercial vehicles are where you need them to be - on the road. They cover Northern Ireland with bases in Larne and Omagh.

SPONSORED BY

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Gerry Clancy, Damien McKenna and Phil Rootham, Head of Presales Technical Engineering, Scania UK. WINNER

FINALISTS: DERRY GROUP IRELAND, PRM, SDC TRAILERS and MANNOK BUILD LTD.

www.cargobull.com/uk/products/

TRAILER FLEET OF THE YEAR

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

McCULLA (IRELAND)

With a current fleet of 235 trailers, McCulla (Ireland) has added 33 new refrigerated semi-trailers to its fleet in the past 12 months, representing an investment of £2million.

McCulla only purchase equipment from reputable suppliers that can bespoke design products to the company’s strict standards and that offer high quality products that stand the test of time.

Over the last couple of years McCulla has streamlined its fleet moving away from mixed brand fleet to primarily Schmitz Cargobull. In the last 12 months, the company has added 33 new S.KO Cool Smart refrigerated semi-trailers to their fleet at a cost of circa £2 million.

McCulla’s primary approach to fleet replacement planning is to engage in discussions with customers in advance to ensure that specifications are tailored for the needs of each contract.

When adding new trailers to the fleet, the main considerations are; quality, strength and durability of the trailer; load security; environmental standards of the trailer

and efficiency of the refrigeration unit.

The diversity of the McCulla trailer fleet means they can provide flexibility for any type of load and customer location, and the company can operate the most efficient, cost effective and/or environmentally effective type for the route.

McCulla is also investing in more ecofriendly fridge engines and is currently trialling a range of new innovations which aim to reduce reliance on diesel for fridge operations to further lower the carbon footprint of its temperature controlled trailer fleet.

The company has the newest, most fuel efficient ThermoKing refrigeration units which have two-way communication. Temperature set points can be started, stopped and changed and fault codes, locations and temperature status can be viewed remotely.

Schmitz Cargobull is Europe’s leading manufacturer of semi-trailers, truck bodies and trailers for temperaturecontrolled freight, general cargo and bulk goods. To further support the country’s ever growing haulage market Schmitz Cargobull Ireland was established four years ago.

This company provides a direct contact point for sourcing advanced smart trailers equipped with the company’s own refrigeration system unit and telematics system, leading to lower lifetime operating costs.

For the IAA 2024, Schmitz Cargobull is applying the motto “Delivering Performance” to showcase efficient transport solutions that customers can use to improve their fleet’s performance and optimise overall operating costs. And further bolstering the manufacturer’s presence in Ireland is a network of service partners, including depots in Dublin, Wexford, Cork and Belfast. This is part of a network of more than 1,700 service partners across 40 countries.

SPONSORED BY

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Ashley McCulla, Brian Beattie, McCulla (Ireland) and Steve Vincent, Head of Aftermarket, Schmitz Cargobull.

DRIVER OF THE YEAR AWARDS2024

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

STEPHEN McNULTY ARDBOE COLDSTORE

Ardboe Coldstore’s Stephen McNulty was voted ‘Driver of the Year’ following a hugely enjoyable but challenging day of practical driver tests at TTS Nutts Corner.

All eight finalists in the ‘Driver of the Year’ spent a day at Transport Training Services (TTS) Nutts Corner base where two professional judges put them through their paces through a series of challenges and manoeuvres. As always, the event was filmed, and a video of the drivers completing their driving challenges was shown before the winner was announced at the awards night. It was Stephen McNulty’s speed and accuracy that secured him this year’s award. The judges noted that ‘whilst not the closest to the barrier at the end, Stephen’s speed and accuracy in both

on-road and manoeuvering tests made them the clear winner by 24 points.

Congratulations to our driver, Steven McNulty, on winning ‘Driver of The Year’, with his evidently, exemplary driving skills which were put to the test on a course designed by judges, in which he created a 24 second time gap between first and second place,” commented a spokesperson for Ardboe Coldstore. There was double cause for celebration for the team at Ardboe Coldstore as they picked up another award on the night – being jointly awarded the ‘Chilled Operator of the Year’ award.

RSA Insurance is recognized as one of the leading insurance providers to the Transport and Logistics Sector and widely regarded as being part of the fabric of the industry.

With a long history of providing comprehensive tailored insurance solutions in this area, RSA are particularly proud to be associated with this award.

RSA NI team of highly experienced insurance professionals offer a blend of strong technical capability and local market knowledge to assist the transport and logistics sector.

RSA’s NI key priorities are to deliver profitable growth, enhance its technical expertise, drive operational efficiency and build its organizational capability in the province. A major emphasis is placed on delivering a world class service to its brokers and effective risk management and claims service to its customers.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Stephen McNulty, Ardboe Coldstore and Tim Graham, Managing Director, RSA NI.

FINALISTS: Don Teggart, Derry Group Ireland, Michael Wallace Jnr, Wallace Bros Haulage, Stephen McNulty, Ardboe Cold Stores, Tomasz Korylowski, Henderson Group, Ryan McNulty, Sloan Transport, Victoria Alfimovaite, Sloan Transport, Matthew Keane, Surefreight and Philip Aiken, Tullyniskey Transport.

DRUM OR DISC BRAKE, CHOOSE WISELY.

The BPW ECO disc offers a unique Offset Tappet Design ensuring that the forces and moments on the brake pad are perfectly balanced. However, the ECO drum brake has proven to be more resilient as it is better protected from the outside elements.

Ultimately, it depends on the conditions the brakes will be subjected to, and the workload encountered. There is no definitive answer when asking which brake setup to use, and opinions will always be divided.

BPW disc and drum brakes both benefit from the BPW ECO hubFormula 1 principle.

Enclosed brake with components giving greater environmental resilience.

Excellent brake efficiency and longevity of friction material.

Brake shoes can be changed without removing the wheel.

Low-cost spares and lower whole life cost.

Greasing of camshaft and slack adjuster required.

20kg heavier than disc.

Able to remove disc without removing the caliper.

Higher costs to replace modular parts.

No additional greasing required.

Less susceptible to brake fade at high temperatures.

Open brake with exposed components, protected by KTL coating.

For low weight conscious applications.

In the drum vs disc debate, only one thing is certain: no matter which brake setup you choose, it’s best to CHOOSE BPW.

Tel: +44 (0) 116 281 6100 info@bpw.co.uk www.bpw.co.uk

The brands of the BPW Group:

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

WINNER

SCOTT MORRISON DIAMOND TRUCKS

Diamond Truck’s Scott Morrison has been named as 2024 Export and Freight Transport and Logistics ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award winner.

In this category there were three finalists who were examined by the expert judges. The judges commented, ‘Scott was the clear winner taking the lead in all three stages of the competition, which included an online theory test, interview and vehicle inspection.

Scott was described as ‘one of Diamond Trucks’ standout team members’, and at Diamond Trucks all workshop staff have individual training plans created for their specific jobs.

Presenting the award to Scott, Glyn Davis, Sales Director for leading trailer component manufacturer BPW Limited said, “We at BPW believe that workshop skills are the key to the future of a healthy transport industry so we were delighted to give a prize of £750 of tools to the winner, and £75 to each of the finalists.”

Diamond Trucks were double award winners at this year’s awards, as they also picked up the ‘Workshop of the Year’ award.

BPW has an enviable worldwide reputation for producing quality engineered trailer running gears, body superstructures and a market leading telematics system. BPW first began producing axles and suspensions over 100 years ago and in that time, it has developed rapidly and now encompasses multiple companies, development sites, production facilities and aftermarket distributors across the globe. Its product portfolio today ranges from axles and suspension systems, brake technologies, landing legs, lighting systems, body superstructures to user-friendly telematics applications for trucks and trailers. Through this expanded portfolio BPW have now positioned themselves as a total system partner for vehicle manufacturers.

SPONSORED BY

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Scott Morrison, Diamond Trucks and Glyn Davies, Sales Director, BPW Limited.

FINALISTS: Scott Morrison, Diamond Trucks, Ben McGaw, Derry Group Ireland and Conor Arnold, Road Trucks Omagh.

The Volvo Aero range. Extended efficiency.

With extended cabs streamlined for energy efficiency, the Volvo Aero range is another leg on our journey towards zero emissions. Trucks designed to take you further and to make a difference to your bottom line. The Volvo Aero range is available with electric, gas or diesel powertrains and loaded with innovative features to maximise performance. Your efficiency. Extended.

Contact your local Volvo Trucks dealer or visit volvotrucks.co.uk

TRANSPORT MANAGER OF THE YEAR

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

PIVOTAL WINNER

BY

CHARLENE QUAYLE

Group Fleet Manager with Pivotal for just over three years

Charlene Quayle has won the 2024 Transport Manager of the Year at this year’s Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Award.

In a category with very high quality finalists, the judges were impressed by Charlene’s knowledge and experience in her field, and described her as ‘confident, knowledgeable and articulate in providing her evidence’ during her interview.

All the finalists were interviewed as part of the judging process to capture their knowledge and practical experience.

Each candidate was asked about their

experience as a Transport Manager, but also they were asked to describe their maintenance regime within their respective companies, and how they dealt with their duty of care within the transport department of their companies.

Through the carefully set questions, the interviews provided evidence which identified the technical and administrative considerations against legislative requirements.

Volvo Trucks is based on the core values of quality, safety and environmental care, with customer support provided by one of the longest established dealers in the UK and Ireland, Dennison Commercials.

Established in 1970, Dennisons is the Volvo Truck & Bus dealer in Northern Ireland.

Dennison’s is a family-run group of businesses that provide a wide range of products and services to the transport industry across Northern Ireland. Through their JCB dealership, they also offer a huge range of JCB machines, parts and service to the North of Ireland and Donegal.

Dennison Commercials has dealerpoints in Ballyclare, Coleraine, Dungannon and Newry providing unparalleled nationwide network coverage.

SPONSORED

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Charlene Quayle, Pivotal and Joe Roddy, Network Sales Director, UK & Ireland, Volvo Trucks.

FINALISTS: Charlene Quayle, Pivotal, Dominic Roncaglione, Morrow Contracts, Michelle Scott, TST, Damian McKenna, Mannok Build and Lorne Mulholland, Freeburn Transport.

Logistics UK Membership

With over 20,000 members, Logistics UK is one of the biggest trade associations in the UK, supporting, shaping and standing up for efficient logistics.

Logistics UK’s Membership is designed to unlock access to a range of information, support, products and services to ensure that you are connected to the industry, compliant with governing regulations and confident in the efficiency and success of your transport function.

Benefit from:

• Compliance support and advice from the Member Advice Centre.

• Weekly news and updates on crucial developments and compliance matters within the industry.

• Member-only access to online compliance and advice.

• Exclusive discounts on a range of products and services.

• A yearly copy of the Yearbook of Road Transport Law.

• Access to Freight Councils and working groups.

• Regular member briefings and webinars.

• The opportunity to feed back your opinions and concerns directly to regulators and government.

• And much more...

Logistics UK’s membership packages provide you with the tools to keep your operation safe, efficient and compliant. Also as a Logistics UK member, your best interests are championed when it comes to new transport policies and key issue.

ROAD TO NET ZERO CHAMPION

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

WINNER

RIVERRIDGE

RiverRidge’s clear, measureable and time focused targets for reducing environmental impacts, waste and carbon emissions were instrumental in the company winning this year’s ‘Road to Net Zero’ award.

RiverRidge recognises the need to include scope 3 emissions, and that their process of sustainability transition was carefully thought about -working with KPMG’s Sustainable Future team to help all RiverRidge stakeholders from senior management to customers and professional bodies and the company’s own workers.

The judges in the ‘Road to Net Zero’ category also felt it was clear the company’s sustainability plans and strategies are based on these extensive consultations and deliberations which fed into its corporate ESG Strategy.

Among their clear environmental targets

aiming to reduce carbon emissions, RiverRidge plan that 75% of vehicle fleet will be powered by renewables by 2035.

Of particular note is the company’s focus on biodiversity initiatives (including nature based solutions such as reed beds) alongside the more dominant focus on reducing carbon emissions. The installation of beehives is particularly important in terms of the ecological function of bees as key pollinators.

The company successfully combines technical (Solar, bio-methane generation) and non-technical (behavioural changes) initiatives along the road to net zero.

SPONSORED BY

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than 7 million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving goods.

With decarbonisation, the fallout from Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc.

Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services, such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend of the efficient movement of goods.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, RiverRidge Team and Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK.

FINALISTS: Translink, Henderson Group, McCulla (Ireland), RiverRidge, ENCIRC, Derry Group Ireland and Maxus.

INNOVATION EXCELLENCE

WINNER

SDC TRAILERS

Established in Toomebridge in 1978, SDC Trailers has grown to become the leading trailer manufacturer in the UK and Ireland with ISO 9001 accredited production facilities spanning over 600,000sq.ft in Toomebridge, Antrim, Mansfield and Southampton.

SDC has recently embarked on several significant innovative projects, focusing on enhancing their production capabilities, environmental responsibility and safety standards. These initiatives are part of a strategic investment totally £8.6 million across their Toome and Mansfield production facilities.

They have constructed a new ‘state of the art’ warehouse designed to optimize stock management. The new system employs advanced inventory control technologies, allowing for real-time tracking, and improved accuracy in stock levels. This innovation reduces lead times and

enhances their ability to meet customer demands swiftly and efficiently.

The judges said that SDC Trailers was a company which is ‘innovation and investment driven by customer demand to deliver efficiencies’.

SDC are very engaged with the Smart Manufacturing Innovation Hub and are working with others in the sector in a collaborative way.

SDC Trailers also demonstrated their continuous motivation to expand their influence in the marketplace through innovation and delivery of a service which best meets the needs of their customers.

From its offices in Belfast City Centre, Amet Insurance Solutions offers an efficient, costeffective service in a marketplace that is competitive and at times complex.

Hauliers help keep the economy moving, and we help to keep the hauliers on the road. From single vehicles to large fleets of vehicles, we can accommodate for own goods, hire & reward and/ or continental deliveries. We understand the needs of the industry and try to deliver options to best suit each company’s requirements.

Working closely with customers, brokers, underwriters and service providers to create a partnership approach, Amet Insurance Solutions write a variety of products covering commercial fleets, own goods/ light commercial fleets, coaches and heavy goods vehicles, in addition to employers, public and products liability and contractors all risks insurance. All its claims are handled locally by a highly experienced team of claims professionals who understand that when accidents occur it can be a stressful time and are therefore proactive in their approach to ensure they handle the claim as efficiently as possible to get customers back on their feet, and minimize any disruption it has caused to their business.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, John Quinn, SDC Trailers and Vincent McIvor, Amet Insurance Solutions Ltd.

TOP FLEET OF THE YEAR

WINNER

FREEBURN TRANSPORT

Freeburn Transport have been crowned the 2024 Top Fleet of the Year winners at this year’s Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards in Belfast.

The award recognised Freeburn’s efficient, well-maintained vehicles and sustainable operations.

In the words of the judging panel, Freeburn Transport is “a young, modern, well-led business which is striving to provide a great working environment for its employees and customers’.

Described as a ‘bright, young organisation, in touch with their customers and their local community, ‘they have a young fleet of very modern, safe fuel efficient vehicles, and they have adopted a vehicle maintenance software management system.

A chilled and ambient food distribution

company, Freeburn Transport operate a three year truck and five year trailer replacement policy, and produce lower emissions from efficient, wellmaintained vehicles with sustainable, eco-friendly operations

The use of live telematics, and detailed record keeping along with load route optimisation edged the Top Fleet award for Freeburn in a tightly contested category.

With an asset maintenance system allowing the company to carry out proactive preventive maintenance, Freeburn Transport have a fleet of safer vehicles with reduced downtime providing better fleet efficiency.

For Over 30 years AT&T

Rentals have been leading the way in the truck and trailer rental market in Northern Ireland.

AT&T Rentals offers to the market an impressive fleet of fresh vehicles from a range of manufactures for both immediate short and long term rental. AT&T have been appointed the official Service Partner for Chereau Refrigerated Products for NI.

AT&T Rentals offer a full range of rental & leasing services from short term to contract rentals, tailored to meet every business needs.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Freeburn Transport Team and Fidelis Courtney, Operations Director, AT&T Rentals.

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE

WINNER

TAYLORED WORKWEAR

Understanding and meeting client’s unique needs through open communication and personalized service is at the heart of what Taylored Workwear does every day.

Taylored Workwear believe that their customers are the cornerstone of their business. They consult with customers through multiple channels to ensure they continually improve their service. Taylored Workwear conduct regular feedback surveys to gather insights on their experiences and suggestions for improvement.

They also hold periodic review meetings with key clients to discuss their specific needs and any potential enhancements to their service offerings.

At Taylored Workwear, they understand that each customer is unique, and therefore they go above and beyond to tailor their services to meet their specific needs. Their

customer service is built on a foundation of personalised attention, rapid responsiveness, and unwavering commitment to quality.

The team, led by Shelly Taylor, takes the time to understand clients’ requirements and often anticipates their needs before they are expressed. They pride themselves on their flexibility and ability to deliver highquality products even under tight deadlines.

Garvan McCauley, Sales Director Ireland from award sponsor Close Asset Finance said, ‘Primarily serving the needs of the Transport Industry Taylored Workwear has numerous positive customer testimonies.

“Picking Volvo as just one, they said: “Our dealers are a demanding group and the feedback is unfailingly positive time and again.”

In a very closely fought category, Taylored Workwear emerged as the worthy winners of the Excellence in Customer Service award, and owner Shelly Taylor was delighted, and very surprised, to receive the award at the Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards at the Crowne Plaza.

Close Asset Finance is a leading provider of asset and invoice finance for SMEs and large businesses across Ireland, with flexible asset finance, invoice finance and asset based lending solutions.

Asset finance is a sustainable form of funding that can enable a business to purchase or refinance capital equipment such as commercial vehicles, print machinery or construction and plant, spreading the cost over an agreed period of time.

Often used as a strategic tool for business growth, asset finance is an important finance option for both SMEs and larger companies.

With offices in Belfast, Cork, Dublin and Galway, its team of specialists have extensive experience working with businesses in a variety of sectors. They offer a range of flexible asset finance funding options, including hire purchase, leasing and capital release, designed to help you purchase or refinance equipment.

Close Asset Finance can offer local and quick decision-making, alongside a personalized service with individually tailored packages and funding solutions that directly meet the needs of your business.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Shelly Taylor, Taylored Workwear and Garvan McCauley, Sales Director Ireland, Close Asset Finance.

SPONSORED

John Clyde, Samantha Finnegan and Nanci Gilliland, with McConaghy.

Hayley Magill and Michelle Irwin, of AbbeyAutoline with Karen Gamble of Willis.

Cara O’Kane and Linda Smyth, of RiverRidge.

Alan Armstrong of Armstrong Transport and Rab McCurdy of Wilson McCurdy.

Ian Green, GRN Services Group, and Michael Adair of Qargo.

Alan Abraham, Henderson Group,; Chris Arthur and Lorraine Drennan, Dennison Group; and Philip Mehaffey, Henderson Group.

Bosco McGonigle of Seabo Logistics with Robbie Niblock and Damien Devlin of CLDN.

Mark Simpson, Compère wth Transport Personality of the Year Winner, John Martin, Family and Rita McKavanagh, Stena Line.

ELECTRIC VAN OF THE YEAR

RENAULT TRUCKS MASTER 4 E-TECH

In what is a new category at this year’s awards the Renault Trucks Master 4 E-Tech was crowned the ‘Electric Van of the Year’

Once again a large panel of industry professionals gave their time and expertise to judge the finalists, but this year instead of the competition aiming to crown a ‘Van of the Year’, the award was looking for the best ‘electric’ van.

A panel of judges attended a special judging day organised by Transport Training Services (TTS) at their Nutts Corner base. During the enjoyable judging day, bathed in August sunshine, judges first were given a presentation about the finalists and then each judge had the opportunity to drive the vans on designated road course.

Largely on account of its completely new aerodynamic design, the Renault Trucks Master 4 E-Tech boasts a significant reduction in

energy consumption for the diesel versions, while this award winning electric version, available with either a 40kWh or 87kWh battery offer a WLTP range of over 410km. This van also stands out for its adaptability and numerous customisation options. The Renault Trucks Master E-Tech boasts exclusive equipment as standard including driverfacing dashboard, 10.1 inch secondary display with Apple Carplay and Android auto. New advanced driver systems (ADAS) enhance safety and driver comfort. Available features include adaptive cruise control and speed limiter, parking sensors with reversing camera, lane assist, blind spot warning and traffic sign recognition. With its reducing turning radius, the Renault Trucks Master offers optimum agility making it easier to manoeuvre in the tight spaces of city centres.

The Renault Trucks E Master impressed all the judges and together with a slick presentation, it was the unanimous winner.

SPONSORED BY

Crowne Plaza Belfast, where the forest meets the river. Set in a lush parkland setting, just 15 minutes from Belfast City Centre, Crowne Plaza Belfast is perfect for your romantic getaway or family break. With an on-site health club featuring a pool, spa & beauty treatments, choice of dining options and luxurious bedrooms, pamper yourself and enjoy your well-earned break.

Nestled in the heart of Lagan Valley Regional Park, Crowne Plaza have family packages and romantic breaks, for energetic stay-cations enjoying the great outdoors or a quiet stay to recharge, look no further than Crowne Plaza Belfast.

Electric charging points are also available within our car parking facilitates for our guests to avail of when staying with us. A warm welcome awaits you at Crowne Plaza Belfast.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Lisa Ferguson, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Grahame Neagus, Ruari Donnelly and George Crooks, Diamond Trucks, Renault.

Maxus eDeliver 7, Mercedes-Benz e-Sprinter and Renault Master 4 E-Tech.

WORKSHOP OF THE YEAR

DIAMOND TRUCKS

Diamond Trucks won the ‘Workshop of the Year’ award for their ‘well organized and professional workshop’.

Diamond Trucks operate a stateof-the-art 12-bay facility, purposebuilt for servicing and repairing heavy goods vehicles, along with a dedicated workshop for light goods vehicles.

The workshop is equipped with the latest MAHA test systems and serves as a digital tachograph center, boasting cutting-edge calibration equipment. The facility currently employs 16 skilled technicians, including apprentices, and operates two dedicated 24/7 breakdown vans available year-round. All workshop staff benefit from individual training plans, with technical training provided by Renault Trucks at their specialized facilities. Notably, Diamond Trucks already has two fully trained EV technicians on-site and plans to further expand its capabilities

in this rapidly growing area.

The judges praised Diamond Trucks as ‘a well organised and professional workshop giving equal focus to the operation of the workshop itself and a great attention to the back office and regulatory requirements. ‘A great reflection of the management and staff who work there’, the assessor commented.

Diamond Trucks had double cause for celebration at this year’s Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards as one of their apprentices Scott Morrison was named as ‘Apprentice of the Year’.

In addition to Diamond Trucks’ success, Renault Trucks celebrated a major achievement of their own as the Renault Trucks Master 4 e-Tech won the coveted ‘Electric Van of the Year’ award.

Transport Training Services (TTS) is a social enterprise focusing on apprenticeships and career development training specifically for the retail motor trade in Northern Ireland.

TTS deliver a range of accredited courses and bespoke training to develop talent for businesses and for motor industry professionals and provide industry-leading apprenticeships to support the automotive industry in securing its future workforce. Motor industry apprenticeships include light and heavy vehicle technician, body repair and paint technician, tyre technician and service advisor, parts advisor and vehicle sales programmes, as well as customer service, team leading and management.

As the training delivery arm of the registered charity, Transport Training Board for Northern Ireland, TTS has a genuine, longstanding interest in facilitating best practice and the highest levels of compliance for the motor trade sector.

TTS’s focus is on providing class-leading expertise, purpose-built facilities and modern teaching methods to deliver relevant skills for the 21st century.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Matthew Keys, Diamond Trucks, Renault, David Watts and Michael Strain, CEO, Transport Training Services

PERMANENT RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS FOR THE SUPPLY CHAIN, ACROSS THE UK & IRELAND

We specialise in recruiting across the following sectors:

Transport & Logistics

Freight & Customs

Distribution & Storage

Procurement & Supply Chain

CONGRATULATIONS TO DERRY GROUP WHO WON TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR IN ASSOCIATION WITH GRN SEARCH GROUP

Positively impacting industry by matching highly talented individuals with opportunity, accelerating careers and meeting business needs.

“ GRN Search has supported us with a number of key strategic roles across the business, linked to our growth in the Transport, Warehousing & Customs sectors. During this time, GRN Search has delivered excellent candidates across each of these areas, resulting in several high level appointments for our business.”

TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR

DERRY GROUP IRELAND

Derry Group Ireland currently employs over 300 staff throughout the island of Ireland to ensure that they can provide their customers with an exception service.

Their exceptional team will ensure that customer’s goods are protected throughout their journey - backed up through the 100% full traceability. Each department throughout Derry Group Ireland plays a vital role in ensuring that their customer receives the highest quality of service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Derry Group Ireland recognises the importance of providing a high quality of service to all our customers, and they have carefully crafted and invested

in their team to provide both short term and long-term solutions.

The company take the 4 Betters (The Wellbeing Workwell Model) to promote and protect the well-being of their staff. These include, Better Health and Wellbeing, Better Work, Better Specialist Support, Better Management whilst also incorporating Maslows Hierarchy of Needs.

Derry Group has demonstrated their remarkable integration of innovative solutions and outstanding service delivery. Their investment in an automated coldstore facility showcases a commitment to operational efficiency and sustainability. Their dedication to team development and their ability to tackle tough problems highlight their overall excellence and teamwork, the judges noted as they judged Derry Group the winners of ‘Top Team’ Award.

In an industry with rapidly growing skills shortages, you need a partner who knows the market inside out, and can access the talent you need.

Specialist supply chain recruitment consultancy GRN Search Group’s mission is to connect you to the professionals your business needs.

The working world is constantly evolving and the GRN Search Group is here to help you stay on top with a diverse and motivated workforce. It’s independent recruitment partners specialize in the supply of sector specific candidates to a wide range of businesses throughout the UK, Ireland and beyond.

Achieving success through people, its experts will guide you through the entire recruitment process with career advice and guidance on professional training, giving you the advantage in your search for Supply Chain jobs.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Trevor Corkin, Terence McCarville, Derry Group Ireland and Ian Green, Managing Director, GRN Search Group.

Our commitment to sustainability

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CHILLED OPERATOR OF THE YEAR

WINNERS

ARDBOE COLDSTORE

The judges were hugely impressed with the level of investment and innovation demonstrated by the finalists in the Chilled Operator category.

Judges said they were ‘blown away’ by the finalists and that the innovations and investment by Ardboe Coldstore convinced them that they should receive the award. They were recognized as delivering significant ‘step changes’ in added value services to their customers. Over the past 12 months, Ardboe have introduced a common warehousing system across all sites to ensure total visibility and tracking of customer stock across all sites. They are also using Smart App connect to all trailers to provide

live tracking. Their investment in new facilities provides enhanced added value services for ‘strategic’ customers.

Added value services offered by Chilled Operator winners Ardboe Coldstore include blast freezing, product tempering, maturation - from curd to mature cheddar, de-boxing, over-bagging/ re-sealing and dairy product grading.

“Winning this award represents our commitment to exceeding customer expectations with our temperature controlled warehousing and distribution services. It also acknowledges our dedication to implementing and developing customer relationships. As a business and as a family, we are so grateful to our amazing team of people whose efforts make an accolade like this so special,” Ardboe Coldstore said on their website.

SPONSORED BY

Thermo King Europe is one of the market leaders in transport refrigeration and together with its sister company Frigoblock it places high value on professionalism, innovation and best practice with a range of options to cover all eventualities.

Thermo King is represented in Northern Ireland by one of the best dealers in their network - Technical Transport Products (TTP).

TTP began life at a time when refrigerated transport in Northern Ireland was in its infancy, but as the need for transport refrigeration grew, and with the weight of Thermo King behind it, so did the company.

Today, an extensive workshop, and a fleet of fully equipped vehicles, offer 24/7 coverage, 365 days a year.

As a Thermo King dealer, TTP have successfully retained ‘Platinum’ status – the highest available within the global Thermo King network.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Ardboe Coldstore Team and Ronnie Meechan, Regional Director, Thermo King.

CHILLED OPERATOR OF THE YEAR

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

AWARDS2024

FINALISTS:

WINNERS

DERRY GROUP IRELAND

The level of investment and innovation demonstrated by the finalists in the Chilled Operator category the judges made this a very tight category

Judges said they were ‘blown away’ by the finalists, but said that they believed Derry Group Ireland deserved to receive the award such was the level of investment they have recently made in their business, and the level of innovation – which couple together to deliver significant ‘step changes’ in added value service to their customers.

The judges noted that in the Chilled Operator category, Derry Group add value to the service they offer providing end-toend managed logistics service to customers including ambient, chilled, frozen storage, distribution, pick operation, wrap and rebuilds with real time communications.

Innovations within Derry Group over the past 12 months include a first of its kind in Ireland - fully automated c. 90,000 square feet cold

storage facility with interlaced CO2 system, a state-of the-art ‘Taxi’ system redefines how goods are moved and stored allowing the facility to operate with unprecedented precision and efficiency. The also provide the highest storage density maintaining optimum throughput regardless of seasonal demand, and they make significant energy savings by eliminating lighting and minimising air exchange with rapid envelope doors.

A no human interaction - system eliminates the need for the entry of personnel enhancing safety and improving operational efficiency. 100% stock accuracy - precise pallet scanning at both inbound and outbound stages ensures 100% stock accuracy and traceability.

Derry Group provide an end-to-end managed logistics service to customers including ambient, chilled, frozen storage, distribution, pick operation, wrap and rebuilds with real time communications.

Derry Group said they were ‘very proud to be winners of Chilled Operator of the Year. These awards are an incredible recognition of our whole team’.

Thermo King Europe is one of the market leaders in transport refrigeration and together with its sister company Frigoblock it places high value on professionalism, innovation and best practice with a range of options to cover all eventualities.

Thermo King is represented in Northern Ireland by one of the best dealers in their network - Technical Transport Products (TTP).

TTP began life at a time when refrigerated transport in Northern Ireland was in its infancy, but as the need for transport refrigeration grew, and with the weight of Thermo King behind it, so did the company.

Today, an extensive workshop, and a fleet of fully equipped vehicles, offer 24/7 coverage, 365 days a year.

As a Thermo King dealer, TTP have successfully retained ‘Platinum’ status – the highest available within the global Thermo King network.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Mark Livingstone, Patrick Derry, Derry Group Ireland and Ronnie Meechan, Regional Director, Thermo King.

SPONSORED BY

FOOD DISTRIBUTION COMPANY OF THE YEAR

PRM GROUP

For over 35 years PRM has provided a route to market for leading chilled and frozen food brands across Ireland, Great Britain and Europe.

Founded by Philip and Lynne Morrow, the company has grown from strength to strength by identifying opportunities, embracing change and developing long lasting relationships.

Employing 250 people and based in state-of-the-art facilities on the Lissue Industrial Estate in Lisburn, the company’s dedicated warehousing team operate on a 24/7 basis, processing on average 300,000 cases of products a week from market leading brands, and preparing orders for customers across the retail, wholesale and food service sectors

Specialising in sales, distribution, haulage, logistics and production PRM Group have been creating powerful relationships between their suppliers, customers and their consumers. The company currently delivers an average of

15 million cases of chilled and frozen goods per annum, primarily into the Irish market.

Among the services they offer is-ex-factory collection across Ireland, GB and Europe; order assembly and preparation for dispatch and distribution to the customer, and haulage – PRM operate their own fleet of multi-temperature controlled vehicles.

Their fleet is ‘Euro 6’ compliant with ‘state of the art’ exhaust silencers, and in areas where Direct Vision standards are applicable, PRM ensure their vehicles are fully compliant with exterior cameras and sensors, exterior audible alert for turning and blind spot monitoring.

The judges noted that PRM offers an impressive, diverse range of services to customers, records excellent customer service levels and is strong is all aspects of compliance, colleague welfare and development – working to create a more environmentally sustainable future.

‘The company is setting itself up for future success, with plans for a further significant investment, as they move forward with confidence backed by a clear growth strategy,’ concluded the judges.

SPONSORED BY

In the thriving and growing world of commerce, where goods travel across vast distances through a complex web of logistics, one essential aspect often remains hidden in plain sight – haulage insurance.

Whether you are transporting coffee beans, or high-value technology hardware, protecting goods in transit is an investment in the continuity of your business and the assurance of peace of mind.

For comprehensive coverage of your transported goods, and the protection of your business, AbbeyAutoline can handle the intricacies on your behalf.

AbbeyAutoline offers a wide range of liability policies to cover all aspects of your business. Whether you require Public and Product liability, motor fleet commercial, freight liability and goods in transit, employers liability, environmental liability or specified driver (or any driver) cover, AbbeyAutoline offers haulage insurance policies that are flexible and customizable, allowing you to select the level of cover that suits your individual neefs.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Colin Davis, PRM Group and Ciaran McGurgan, Head of Haulage, AbbeyAutoline.

Be tt er f or th e en vi r onment .

Reduces CO2 emissions by up to 90%

We believe that there should be a greener and more environmentally friendly fuel option for your fleet. That’s why we’ve launched milesBIO HVO100. We’ve also added our unique miles multifunctional additive that both cleans and protects your engine and improves your fuel consumption by up to 2.3% and significantly reduces your CO2 emissions. Make a sustainable choice for both the planet and your business, and choose milesBIO HVO100.

We’re excited to take another step towards more sustainable mobility and want to help you do the same for your business. Email our experts today at hvo@circlekeurope.com or call 01-202886 to discuss how milesBIO HVO100 can help your business become more sustainable.

HAULIER OF THE YEAR

TULLYNISKEY TRANSPORT

Owner of Tullyniskey

Transport Neil Aiken was delighted that his business was named this year’s ‘Haulier of the Year’. The award is a testament to all their hard work and the excellence service they continue to provide to their growing customer base.

With nine trucks and 6 trailers, Tullyniskey Transport operate walking floor trailers and cater for a diverse and wide range of haulage needs across many sectors. They feel these walking floor trailers are more flexible than conventional

trailers, with capacity to handle both palletised and loose bulk cargo.

With values of reliability, fair and affordable costings, Tullyniskey Transport have built their business vison around customer needs and investment for ‘in house’ staff training. They are very proud to have been working with some of their customers since the formation of their business. And they are ready and willing to adapt to customers’ needs – recently purchasing a new steel tipper trailer in order to haul materials not suitable for walking floors. TASCC registered, and aiming to provide excellent customer service, Tullyniskey Transport mission statement is to grow year on year, continuing to establish an excellent reputation throughout the transport and logistics sector.

Circle K is Ireland’s leading forecourt and convenience retailer with 420 sites across the island of Ireland. We have revolutionised the forecourt and convenience retail space through our next generation fuel, our sustainably sourced coffee and a wide range of quality food options.

With 2,210 employees in Ireland, we also operate a large commercial fuels business with over 20 depots and two owned terminals across the country. Our customers are at the centre of everything that we do. We are committed to ensuring consistency of quality and service at every one of our sites and deliver the very best value to our customers.

With over 420 service stations across Ireland and Northern Ireland, Circle K has the largest branded Fuel Card network in Ireland. This gives customers great choice and opportunity to service their business needs anywhere in Ireland. It is our mission to ‘Make our customers’ lives a little easier every day’.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Neil Aiken, Tullyniskey Transport and Rory Dowd, Circle K.

GROW YOUR BUSINESS NOT YOUR WORKLOAD

THE TMS FOR NEXT GEN LOGISTICS HAS NOW ARRIVED IN IRELAND.

TRANSFORM OPERATIONS

Our innovative TMS is already revolutionising the haulage industry across the UK and mainland Europe, offering our clients huge opportunities to streamline operations and maximise profit margins by using powerful integrations for: Ferry • Telematics • Workshops • Human Resources• Fridge trailer • Email • And more.

LEVERAGE AI

All Qargo’s features are actionable and trackable through our secure cloud-based platform that offers smart AI capabilities to handle all your manual processes. For instance, Qargo’s AI:

• Populates your Order Creation Fields as soon as orders are dragged and dropped in.

• Auto-matches PODs to orders immediately with no need for human intervention.

Our partners are already using QARGO to transform their operations:

“Qargo delivers annual mileage savings of over 200,000 miles plus improves efficiencies in excess of 20 minutes per vehicle each day.”

Pete Holden, Anglia Freight

“We’re saving an hour on planning a day as we can alter manifests in moments, making the whole process so much more fluid and easy.”

Luke Ryan, Joda Freight

• Finds related orders and marries up prices from self-bills and purchase invoices. Count on us

“I can see how much revenue is being generated right there on my desktop instead of wasting time on lengthy export processes.”

Chris Welch, Welch’s Transport Partner with QARGO

To discover how QARGO can transform your operations in Ireland, contact Michael Adair on 07957 493 252 or michael.adair@qargo.com. Learn more about QARGO at qargo.com

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL HAULIER OF THE YEAR

FINALISTS:

McCULLA (IRELAND)

With a large and

fleet including

CNG trucks McCulla (Ireland) are well on their way to Net Zero.

McCulla (Ireland) currently has 125 vehicles and 235 trailers on its operator’s licence which includes 32 CNG trucks.

All their urban trailers have electric pallet trucks and tail lifts for delivery to restaurants and shops that do not have loading bays.

The newest addition to the fleet is 2x skeletal trailers used for a new container transportation service, whereby McCulla can now manage the supply of ambient, chilled and frozen food from end-to-end, from factories worldwide to the end seller. This includes arrangement of shipping, customs, container collection from ports, storage and all-Ireland retail and food services distribution.

Judges noted that McCulla were well on their way to ‘Net Zero’, providing a ‘sustainable transport offering to their customers’, and leading the way with their own bio-methane plant.

Customer testimonials attest to the excellent customer service provided by McCulla and this is a business that has invested heavily in technology – from onboard technology to software systems helping managing their fleet operations. McCulla also work hard to provide greater workforce flexibility, giving a better work/ life balance to their employees.

SPONSORED BY

Qargo’s mission is ‘to help our customers shape a more profitable and sustainable future, by empowering them to work smarter, faster and more efficiently.

Designed and built by a team of transport veterans and digital innovators, and inspired by countless years of real-life experience and research Qargo’s goal is to translate the real needs of transport companies into one easy-to-use solution, streamlining your workflow so you can focus on what really matters. Qargo provides you with Transport management software that shifts your business into a higher gear. Plan smarter, automate paperwork and maximize revenue – all from their one easy to use interface.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, McCulla (Ireland) Team and Michael Adair, Business Development Manager, Qargo.

PROUD SPONSORS OF LOGISTICS WAREHOUSING SPECIALIST AWARD.

LOGISTICS & WAREHOUSING SPECIALIST

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

AWARDS2024

FINALISTS: ARDBOE COLD STORE, TST TRANSPORT, ALLEN LOGISTICS (NI), DERRY GROUP IRELAND, McCULLA (IRELAND), PRM GROUP, SUREFREIGHT and UDS FREIGHT

TST GROUP

With a level of innovation and investment in added value services for customers described by judges as ‘exceptional’, TST Group were declared winners in the Logistics and Warehousing Specialist Award category –TST Group.

With 1 million square feet of warehousing in Ireland – and 1.5m square feet globally TST Group are experts in the warehousing business.

TST are can also offer Bonded Warehousing – giving them a critical advantage for customers enabling deferring excise duties and optimising financial benefits and providing seamless customs clearance services.

Bespoke in-house customer relationship management (CRM) and KPIs to track and analyse customer interactions, delivery times and service quality also set TST apart from the crowd and enable them to offer the highest quality service to their customers. Their investment in Bonded Warehousing provides dynamic inventory management and highly secure storage solutions for goods subject to excise duty.

TST’s Maire-Claire Reid accepted the award on the night on behalf of the TST team, and said she was delighted to receive the award,

“We will never stop praising our team for their hard work because it is that team work that leads to the success and recognition we receive from the industry and from our clients” a spokesperson for TST said after the awards.

MAN Truck & Bus is one of Europe’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers with an award winning range of trucks, buses and vans. Constantly developing, innovating and embracing a decarbonised future MAN seeks to address three coinciding challenges in the areas of e-mobility, digitalisation and automation.

As a commercial vehicle manufacturer, MAN believes it has a special responsibility to protect the climate with all powers at its disposal With its award winning, more efficient TGX, the recently released fully electric eTGX and the hydrogen powered truck (hTGX) in the pipeline MAN is embracing decarbonisation of freight transport, and shaping the change towards CO2 free transport.

MAN is represented in Northern Ireland by RK Trucks, with depots in Carryduff outside Belfast, and at Dungannon, just off the M1 motorway.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Maire-Claire Reid, TST Group and Simon Wood, Press & PR Manager, MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd.

WINNERS

SPONSORED BY

LOGISTICS & WAREHOUSING SPECIALIST

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

AWARDS2024

FINALISTS: ARDBOE COLD STORE, TST TRANSPORT, ALLEN LOGISTICS (NI), DERRY GROUP IRELAND, McCULLA (IRELAND), PRM GROUP, SUREFREIGHT and UDS FREIGHT

SPONSORED BY

PRM GROUP

With a level of innovation and investment in added value services for customers described by judges as ‘exceptional’ they decided that PRM Group should receive the Logistics and Warehousing Specialist Award for 2024.

For more than 35 years, PRM has been at the forefront of Ireland’s food industry and has been able to celebrate many successes and milestones throughout that time

PRM Group has 55,000 square feet of warehouse space in Lisburn plus additional 100,000 square feet in development – with a fleet of 50 plus vehicles on the road.

Employing 250 people the company’s

dedicated warehousing team operate on a 24/7 basis, processing on average 300,000 cases of products a week from market leading brands, and preparing orders for customers across the retail, wholesale and food service sectors.

Their unique business model serving both suppliers (acting as an extension of their business operations) and customers (delivering a wide range of products from portfolio of 35+ leading brands) is one of the keys to their success.

PRM Group provides an economical route to market for brands in Ireland - taking ownership of product at factory gate, and transporting to PRM distribution hub where break bulk and hold stock in market.

PRM had double cause for celebration at this year’s Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards as they also picked up the ‘Food Distribution Company of the Year’ award.

MAN Truck & Bus is one of Europe’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers with an award winning range of trucks, buses and vans. Constantly developing, innovating and embracing a decarbonised future MAN seeks to address three coinciding challenges in the areas of e-mobility, digitalisation and automation.

As a commercial vehicle manufacturer, MAN believes it has a special responsibility to protect the climate with all powers at its disposal

With its award winning, more efficient TGX, the recently released fully electric eTGX and the hydrogen powered truck (hTGX) in the pipeline MAN is embracing decarbonisation of freight transport, and shaping the change towards CO2 free transport.

MAN is represented in Northern Ireland by RK Trucks, with depots in Carryduff outside Belfast, and at Dungannon, just off the M1 motorway.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Colin Davis, PRM Group and Simon Wood, Press & PR Manager, MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd.

TRUCK OF THE YEAR

SCANIA SUPER 560S

With groundbreaking powertrain fuel savings of 8%, together with improved power, stamina and robustness, the Scania Super 13-litre engine not only delivers superior uptime and operational performance but is also ready to meet even the toughest emissions regulations, both today and tomorrow.

Judging for this year’s ‘Truck of the Year’ took place at Transport Training Services (TTS) Nutts Corner, and there a panel of industry experts first heard a presentation about each finalist from the manufacturer and then each judge had the opportunity to drive each truck on a short road course.

The 13-litre, six-cylinder Scania Super 560S came out on top in this year’s voting.

The new Super introduces Scania’s most advanced and efficient combustionengine powertrain ever built, and the new engine has industry leading emissions control with 8% fuel savingswhich customers using the vehicle verify.

Judges also heard about the new safety features this new truck has, and how the cab is more focused than ever on serving the needs of the driver.

On the drive, judges were impressed by the ‘S’ cab of the Scania Super, by the smooth transmission and the powerful 13-litre, 560 horsepower engine.

This truck sets a new standard for sustainable transport operations, and here in Northern Ireland Scania is backed up by local dealer Road Trucks Ltd. The consensus was that this truck was a worthy winner of the award.

Kingsbridge Private Hospital is a state of the art medical & surgical private hospital where your comfort & health are our priority

Kingsbridge Private Hospital is part of the Kingsbridge Healthcare Group, Northern Ireland’s largest private hospital group. In addition to locations in Belfast and Ballykelly, they also have a hospital in Sligo.

Kingsbridge offer the latest technological advancements in private healthcare across hundreds of specialties including orthopaedic, cataract, urology, and cosmetic surgery. They also offer dedicated clinics in prostate, sports injury, male and female health and GP services. Diagnostic services include MRI, CT and ultrasound.

Kingsbridge Belfast hospital also boasts a newly opened ICU which will allow cardiac surgery to be carried out, making us the first to provide a private facility of this kind, in Northern Ireland. At the heart of our ethos is the knowledge that a combination of clinical excellence, a calming environment and five-star hospitality creates a relaxing patient experience, resulting in a faster, more successful recovery.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, Phil Rootham, Scania, Fiona Dowds, Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group and John Marks, Road Trucks, Scania.

FINALISTS: Renault Trucks T. High 520 EVO3, Scania Super 560S and Mercedes-Benz Actros L 2553Ls.

Mervyn Ellwood, Sam Sloan, Victoria Alfimovaite and Ryan McNulty, Sloan Transport.

Linda Esler, McConaghy Refrigerated Distribution; Pamela Dennison, RHA; Bryan Riddell, Riddell Windows & Doors; and John Esler, McConaghy Refrigerated Distribution.

Tom Copping, Primoz Lakota, Gary Cadden, Michelin, and Dylan Marsden of Jenkins Group.

Jim Murphy, Modern Tyres Carnbane; Ryan Craig, Modern Tyres Duncrue; Steven Shaw, Modern Tyres Portadown; and Connor Byrne, Modern Tyres Enniskillen.

TRANSPORT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

JOHN MARTIN POLICY LEAD - NORTHERN IRELAND, RHA

Described as an individual who has had transport and logistics in his blood for well over four decades, this year’s Transport Personality of the Year Award went to John Martin, Policy Manager for Northern Ireland within the RHA.

John has had a wide and varied career holding positions including a motor vehicle technician, where he was awarded a number of awards including being placed 1st in the UK for his legal studies, placed 1st in NI in the Institute of Motor Industry Exams and being awarded the Charles Hurst special recognition award for his studies.

He has held a number of high profile positions including a vehicle and driving examiner, enforcement policy officer, DVA test centre manager, Chief Enforcement Officer for Road Transport. Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Operator Licensing at the DVA, Deputy Head of the Transport Regulation Unit and Head of the TRU dealing with licensing and compliance issues, hearings and public inquiries, a role perhaps not the most popular among some in the transport sector, but he did win over many in his dealings with people by his sense of justice and fairness. After over 30 years in the Civil Service John joined the RHA in a newly created role in the Road Haulage Association as their Policy Manager in Northern Ireland. One of the key tasks of this

role was boosting the profile of the Association in Northern Ireland, a role in which he reveled in and in the process increased membership and representation significantly in the region.

We asked John to cast his mind back over some of his most memorable achievements during his spell with the RHA and his response was “There are so many instances where we have been able to support operators some with maybe only one vehicle to those with several 100. There are several achievements worthy of note including being instrumental in ensuring NI International Hauliers were able to reclaim carbon tax refunds form numerous EU countries after Brexit, which for some of the larger international operators amounted to several hundred thousand £s per annum and running into millions of £s per annum for this group of NI hauliers. Others to numerous to mention include supporting 100’s of members with DVA, DVSA, TRU, Police and other regulatory bodies ensuring that justice is balanced, proportionate and within the legal framework..”

Despite the rumors that John is “retiring” he advises us that “retirement” is not on the horizon and he is looking forward to using his “skills, knowledge and experience” to continue supporting the road transport sector. Described as “a very well-respected figure with incredible industry and regulatory knowledge”. Leaving an industry that remains as resilient as ever, John Martin will be hard to replace in his role at the RHA.

SPONSORED BY

Stena Line is the largest ferry operator on the Irish Sea, offering the biggest fleet and the widest choice of routes between Ireland and Britain and is also committed to increasing strategic focus on sustainability and environmental improvements.

Stena Line recently celebrated an important milestone in its fleet investment programme with the keel laying of the first ‘NewMax’ vessel which will be deployed on the BelfastHeysham route. The ship has also been officially named ‘Stena Futura.’

The keel laying took place in China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in WeiHai, China. Stena Futura, the chosen name for the vessel, is one of two ‘NewMax’ hybrid vessels being built to run on methanol. The new vessels will significantly enhance freight capacity on the Belfast-Heysham route.

The keel-laying of the second ‘NewMax’ vessel is planned for this autumn, and it is due to come into service in early 2026.

L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, John Martin, Policy Lead - Northern Ireland, RHA and Rita McKavanagh, Stena Line.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

ALISTAIR EAGLES

MANAGING DIRECTOR CLDN RORO LTD

SERVICES TO INDUSTRY AWARD

The last award of the evening was the ‘Special Contribution to the Industry’ award.

In introducing this award, Mark Simpson said this award was going to an individual who has served this industry for almost a quarter of a century.

Up until his retirement at the end of last year, Garfield Harrison somehow managed to successfully balance his time between promoting and representing the best interests of the transport and logistics sector – and playing on the golf course where, he used to say, he did a lot of his business between the greens. Yes, he always had his business hat on.

But perhaps what a lot of people don’t know is that Garfield comes from what is probably Northern Ireland’s most famous cricketing family, and was recognised as one of the most successful of his four brothers, representing Ireland on the international stage where he scored almost 2,800 runs and took 140 wickets - as well as leading his local cricket team to many trophies and titles over the years.

As this award was kept secret from Garfield prior to the presentation, at this point in the evening a video was played to the room with a collection of photos of Garfield, to the theme track of BBC Cricket coverage.

Along with his business partner Helen Beggs, Garfield has been the driving force behind Export & Freight since 2002. Not only that, he was responsible for originating these annual awards 21 years ago – so it is very fitting that we tonight present this Award for Services to the Industry to…Garfield Harrison.

L-R: Helen Beggs, Export & Freight and Garfield Harrison.

L-R: Helen Beggs, Export & Freight, Alistair Eagles, Managing Director CLdN RoRo Ltd and Mark Simpson, Compère.

McCulla Ireland.

Rob Pogson, Anne Mooney, Linda Fulfod, Eoghan Rainey and Agnieszya Matczak, Belfast Harbour.

John Byrne, BPW; Glyn Davies, BPW; Fidelis Courtney, AT&T; Paddy McFadden, GM Commercials; Adam Montgomery, SP Commercials; and Darren Getty, BPW.

Mark Simpson, Compère.

Export & Freight - Ireland’s Transport Magazine would like to sincerely thank our sponsors for their tremendous support in making the Transport and Logistics Awards Gala Dinner such a success.

Significant changes ahead for trailer brake testing

The commercial vehicle industry faces significant changes in how trailer brakes are tested, with new regulations demanding more frequent and accurate testing procedures.

Traditionally, trailer brakes have been tested using a Roller Brake Test (RBT) during the annual MOT inspection. However, recent Driver and Vehicles Standards Agency (DVSA) updates have introduced more stringent requirements to enhance road safety and ensure consistent brake performance.

In the latest version of the DVSA’s Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, Section 5.3 underscores the critical importance of brake performance testing during safety inspections. Since January 1, 2023, the regulations now mandate that a trailer must undergo brake testing at least four times a year, with one test required during the MOT. Unless exempt, each RBT must be performed with the trailer fully laden, carrying at least 65% of its maximum weight capacity.

Looking ahead to April 2025, the testing landscape will change, whereby a roller brake test (RBT) or an Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS) will be the primary means for checking trailer brake performance. As the industry faces these changes, the question is: What will you choose?

As the industry moves toward stricter compliance requirements, fleet operators are now faced with a crucial decision that could significantly impact their operations. They must decide whether to continue with the traditional RBT or transition to a more state-of-the-art EBPMS. This choice is not just a matter of compliance; it is a strategic decision that could influence the overall efficiency, safety, and costeffectiveness of their fleet and operations.

ROLLER BRAKE TESTING:

On one hand, the RBT has long been the industry standard for brake performance testing, involving the individual testing of each wheel using drive rollers to turn the wheels before the brake is applied. However, this method comes with its own set of challenges. Under the new regulations, and the increased frequency of RBTs, means that not all fleet operators have easy access to roller brake testing centres and necessary loading equipment. To meet these demands, some operators have been forced to hire additional staff dedicated solely to loading and unloading trailers, adding considerable expense. These logistical challenges make RBT a time-intensive and potentially costly option for fleet operators.

can be generated on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis, with accuracy improving the longer the system is in use. Reports are easily accessible via a smartphone app or a telematics portal, allowing operators to identify potential braking issues well before scheduled maintenance. It’s important to remember that EBPMS cannot entirely replace an RBT. They are two different methods of determining brake performance, an RBT must still be performed during an annual MOT test.

EBPMS – A CUTTING-EDGE SOLUTION WITH PROVEN BENEFITS: On the other hand, an alternative to the traditional RBT is EBPMS, a solution that is supported by the DVSA. EBPMS monitors in-service braking performance and provides comprehensive reports. Providing there is sufficient data, these reports can be used during a safety inspection in place of an RBT. Sharing EBPMS data demonstrates compliance with the current DVSA requirements (set out in the DVSA Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness) and can reduce brake roller tests from four to one per year. Telematics offers an EBPMS solution that continuously monitors the brakes using data collected from the Electronic Braking System (EBS), combined with it’s telematics system to generate real-time data reports. These reports

BPW is at the forefront of these industry changes, with over 125 years of braking experience and more than four million braking systems on the road worldwide, they offer solutions that not only help fleet operators comply with the new regulations but also optimise their operations.

BPW idem Telematics provides a comprehensive EBPMS solution designed to meet the evolving needs of the commercial vehicle industry. Fleet managers can rely on BPW for expert guidance, state-of-the-art technology, and continuous support to navigate these regulatory changes with confidence.

WHAT WILL YOU CHOOSE? Ultimately, the choice is yours: continue with the time-intensive and potentially costly RBT approach or embrace the future with EBPMS. The stakes are high, and with the 2025 deadline fast approaching, the question remains—what will you choose?

Invar Group achieves four ISO standards

Invar Group, the leading independent software developer and integrator of advanced warehouse automation, announces that it has achieved UKAS accredited certification to four key ISO standards – 9001, 14001, 45001 and 27001.

By complying with these four internationally recognised standards, Invar can demonstrate to its customers, and potential customers, that it adheres to the highest standards in Quality Management Systems, Environmental Management Systems, Information Security Management Systems and Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.

Alex Moore, Integration Director

of Invar Group, says: “This achievement demonstrates our commitment to delivering reliable, safe, secure and environmentally sustainable services to our customers. We are now on a global register of accredited business, increasing the scope and reach of our operating potential. Compliance is a major concern for a growing number of businesses and conforming to these standards gives customers

the reassurances they need.”

Invar Group, headquartered in Cranfield UK, is focused on delivering complete turnkey warehouse automation solutions using advanced technologies such as industrial robotics, AMR goods-to-person solutions, pickto-light technology, sortation systems, as well as conventional warehouse automation.

As an independent integrator of

warehouse technologies Invar Group is well positioned to offer an unbiased approach to finding the optimum solution. The company has supplied systems to many of the world’s leading brands, such as: SuperDry, Pets at Home and ERIKS, to name but a few.

In March 2024, Invar was acquired by Wincanton, a leading supply chain partner. Find out more: www.wincanton.co.uk/news-andmedia/press-releases/wincantonacquires-invar-accelerate-roboticsand-automation-transformation

More information on Invar Group at: www.invargroup.com

ALTONA TRANSFORMATION COMPLETE AS NEW MULTI-PURPOSE TRAINING UNIT OPENS

Briggs Equipment recently held an Open Day event in Lisburn to celebrate the opening of their fantastic new building.

The large, state-of-the-art building at Altona had opened and become fully operational in the middle of April, but the well-attended public event at the end of August was the first chance for many customers and business partners to get a good look around the impressive new unit.

The £3.5 million investment houses one of Ireland’s premier operator and technical training centres, with three indoor and two outdoor spaces for practical training, and four modern rooms for classroom-based learning. The four spacious training rooms have been given the following names:

• Sammons – in recognition of Briggs’ parent company, Sammons Enterprises.

• Pantridge – in memory of cardiac consultant Frank Pantridge, who was born near Lisburn and invented the portable defibrillator.

• Musgrave – in honour of Lisburn-born businessman and philanthropist Henry Musgrave.

• Dunlop – in recognition of Hans Dunlop, who has been (and continues to be) integral to the success of Briggs Equipment in Ireland.

Other rooms include a kitchen, reception area and three generous offices, which will be occupied by the Training Academy and Technical Training teams.

At 23,000 square feet, the new unit offers superb storage space to display ‘silver and gold standard’ quality refurbished equipment, as well as new equipment ready for sale or contract rental. Some short-term hire equipment will also be accommodated. It is the first building in the Briggs portfolio to be fitted with solar panels, which will provide at least two thirds of the energy it requires. A thermostatically controlled heat recovery and air conditioning system has also been installed, along with energy-saving LED lighting inside and out. Passive infrared (PIR) sensors will ensure lights come on indoors only when required, while outdoor lights will automatically come on when it gets dark. Outside, a new road layout and surface has been laid down to ensure all vehicles can safely navigate between the upper and lower yards. This is particularly important as traffic

on the Altona site will increase significantly, including more deliveries and first-time visitors arriving for operator training. New drainage has been installed across the site and the large front yard has also been completely resurfaced with concrete – a significant upgrade on the previous space. The facility has been built and fitted out by MCS Building and Joinery Limited, who are long-term partners of Briggs Equipment in Ireland. MCS refitted the first unit in Altona prior to Briggs Equipment transferring their operations over from Mallusk in 2019. Ashley Lamont of Whittaker & Watt Architects produced the original designs for the fantastic new building.

OPEN DAY

‘It’s fantastic to see so many customers and guests here in Lisburn,” said Colin McNeely, Divisional Director for Briggs Equipment, as he welcomed everyone to the Open Day.

“I’d also like to thank Briggs Equipment UK – their ongoing support is invaluable.

Thanks to them for continuing to have faith and confidence in our management team here. We are continuing to grow this business in Northern Ireland, and it’s grown quite successfully over the past number of years.

“This event, and everything we do, is about customer focus and what we can offer our customers in terms of solutions. This isn’t about having a shiny new facility – it’s about catering for our customers. This is for our customers, and they are our focus – they come first!

“Hopefully you get a general feel for the place and a feel for what we are doing. Take a chance today to look around.”

So why did Briggs feel the time was right to build this training and storage facility?

Colin added: “Firstly, we had a need to train our own people. To differentiate ourselves from others, we want to have the best trained staff, to develop them and allow them to progress in the business.

“We also knew our customers needed training and the previous training area restricted us slightly in what we could offer. This business is built on long-standing relationships with customers. Now we can offer customers comprehensive training and support services.

“All in all, we’re very proud of this new additional facility. It’s bigger than the

original building we moved from in Mallusk and sustainability has been incorporated wherever possible. The aim is to use as little energy as possible through innovative technologies, including the heat recovery system and solar panels on the roof.”

2024 also saw Briggs Equipment take on title sponsorship of the North West 200, the iconic road racing extravaganza that sees well over 100,000 motorbike fans descend on the north coast every year. The multi-year agreement is a big commitment, but one the company has embraced.

“We want to support the local economy and give back to the community. We do this, in part, by sponsoring events,” said Colin.

“We sponsor the Lisburn Castlereagh Junior Football League and obviously our sponsorship of the North West 200 is very important to

us. The NW200 is such a major event for the regional economy, and we are delighted that it will carry our name for a number of years.

“This year’s Briggs Equipment NW200 was a huge success, and it helps that we already had a strong relationship with the organisers, which was built up over many years of working together.

“We also dedicate significant resources to our charity work, with Air Ambulance being our main charity partner for 2024. Hopefully we can continue that partnership for years to come.”

The future certainly looks bright for Briggs Equipment and Colin finished off by highlighting the enormous growth the company has already enjoyed.

“Briggs entered the marketplace here when they bought Barlow in 2012. They saw big potential, and with a great team, the business has grown and grown. From 35 employees at the start, we now have around 130.

“Could Briggs Equipment be a good fit for you and your company? Get in touch with our friendly team to see how we might be able to help you.”

JIBBI 1890 PRIMO

The AlmaCrawler JIBBI 1890 PRiMO is a fully electric, tracked telescopic boom lift with an 18-meter working height, a 250 kg basket capacity, and a unique self-levelling capability that the Italian company has proudly made their most distinctive feature – the bi-levelling technology that allows the machine to self-level up to 16° longitudinally and laterally.

It is specifically designed to eliminate job site obstacles and can safely be driven at height of up to 14m making it one of the most efficient types of booms on the market, and thanks to AlmaCrawler’s patented levelling technology, significantly enhancing safety and productivity at the same time. With a total weight of under 6000 kg for the lithium versions and 6300 kg for the lead-acid version, the JIBBI 1890 PRiMO is one of the lightest 18-meter boom lifts available in the access industry, allowing for best in category ground pressure and more applications than standard wheeled booms. Its two 7.5 kW 48V electric gear motors provide a maximum speed of up 3.6 km/h, and they are rated IP67 for protection against dust and water.

REVOLUTIONARY POWER UNIT WITH INFINITE AUTONOMY

One of the most important aspects when discussing electric

machinery is autonomy. But when you ask AlmCrawler what the autonomy of their PRiMO products is, the answer is: infinite!

The JIBBI 1890 PRiMO’s Power Unit is completely removable and replaceable, allowing for continuous operation. Just like swapping

out a battery in your run-of-themill electric tool, you can replace the Power Unit with a fresh one using a forklift or telehandler, eliminating downtime and massively improving the logistics of charging batteries. This innovative design effectively provides the PRiMO

products with infinite autonomy.

The interchangeable Power Units are automatically recognized when installed in the JIBBI 1890 PRiMO. With four Power Units available— Lead Acid 420Ah, Lithium 330Ah, Lithium 440Ah, and Lithium 660Ah—you can choose the most suitable option for the job at hand.

ENHANCED SAFETY AND EASE OF USE

The JIBBI 1890 PRiMO features a user-friendly industrystandard controller that enables operators to use it immediately, ensuring precise manoeuvrability even in tight spaces.

This precision enhances overall productivity, enabling tasks to be completed swiftly and efficiently. The controller includes a standard Anti-Entrapment System to protect operators from crushing accidents.

The JIBBI 1890 PRiMO also features an option for the Ultrasonic Anti-Collision System with sensors that detect terrain irregularities or obstacles. When

an obstacle is detected, the machine automatically stops and communicates with the operator through a small control panel, asking them to assess the situation and authorize the next movement. Additionally, the JIBBI 1890 PRiMO features as a standard the Automatic Tensioner System (ATS), a zero-maintenance track tensioning system directly connected to and controlled by the main hydraulic system.

BUILT FOR DURABILITY AND RELIABILITY

Designed with a focus on durability and reliability, the JIBBI 1890 PRiMO is built to withstand the harshest worksite conditions. Its tough outer-shell construction and use of advanced materials make it a testament to engineering excellence, ensuring minimal downtime and maximizing your return on investment.

As demand grows for versatile and efficient aerial work platforms, the AlmaCrawler JIBBI 1890 PRiMO stands out as a leader in the industry, combining innovative features with an ever more sustainable design to offer a glimpse into the future of construction and maintenance equipment.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE WITH AISLE MASTER

Space is valuable and time costs money - so if you can maximize your storage facilities and speed up handling procedures you can reap multiple benefits.

With the versatile Aisle Master, from the Irish material handling specialist Combilift, loads can be efficiently transported from the yard to indoor storage, significantly boosting productivity with its “truck to rack” capability.

Unlike other classic VNA trucks, the articulated Aisle Masters are robust, builtto-last and designed to work both indoors and outdoors. They do not require super flat floors to work on, and thanks to large rubber tyres, they can operate on semirough or less-than-perfect terrains.

Aisle Masters have lift capacities of up to 3,000 kg, an impressive lift height of up to 15m, and the ability to operate in aisle widths as narrow as 1.6m. These characteristics allow for

optimum pallet density in the warehouse: by narrowing your aisles and making use of your vertical (and free!) airspace, storage capacity can increase by up to 50% compared with the use of regular counterbalance or reach trucks.

In times of growth or expansion, optimising racking layouts according to the trucks’ abilities can avoid the need to extend current premises or relocate – both of which are costly, disruptive, and involve a great deal of

bureaucracy. “Improving and not moving” is also a much more sustainable course of action and accords with many companies’ wish to reduce their carbon footprint.

Combilift attributes its phenomenal success and growth in part to long-standing collaboration with dealerships and materials handling specialists. For example, a strong partnership with Briggs Equipment, now in its 20th year, has enabled it to consolidate its presence in a wide range of industries such as oil and gas, construction and warehousing. Briggs Equipment has supplied fleets of Aisle Masters and Combilift pedestrian stackers to numerous customers in the latter sector, who are now benefitting from much improved operations.

One of these is Nestlé, which added to its existing fleet when it took delivery of the 15,000th Combilift unit to be delivered to the UK in 2019. Five years on, this very striking silver Aisle Master continues to work at the company’s Suffolk site, ensuring space saving handling and storage of its food and confectionary products.

GAIN UP TO STORAGE WITH AISLE MASTER 50%

Aisle Master articulated forklifts are designed specifically for warehouses that require ease of movement through very narrow aisles.

With the ability to operate in very narrow aisles in the wareho use, as narrow as 1.6m, the Aisle Master maximises storage capacity, dramatically increase your storage capacity by up to 50%.

CONTACT US TODAY

To find out how Aisle Master can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.

FREE WAREHOUSE DESIGN SERVICE

We provide a complete warehouse layout service including racking proposals and storage density calculations.

This free of charge service uses the latest design technology to visualise the capacity potential within your facility.

WORLD PREMIERES AND HUGE CROWDS - IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024 SETS NEW RECORDS

With 145 world premieres and record crowds visitors and exhibitors were delighted, and very satisfied with IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024.

The show is more international than ever, and clearly demonstrates the impressive innovation of products and services across the industry. From the many manufacturer press conferences, to the awards, and from test drives to some of the most hi-tech stands ever seen at a trade show, this was one amazing show to both attend, and to exhibit at.

Running from September 17-22 in Hannover, IAA TRANSPORTATION was a resounding success, captivating attendees and showcasing an industry setting new standards with investments and innovations. As the global leading platform for the commercial vehicle, logistics, and transport sectors, the event attracted nearly 1,700 exhibitors from 41 countries—a 21% increase compared to 2022. International participation reached a record-breaking 72%, with over 145 World and European premieres presented, proving that the future of mobility in this industry is already a reality. Visitor numbers reached approximately 145,000, marking round about 10 percent increase over 2022.

VDA President Hildegard Müller emphasized: “IAA TRANSPORTATION has powerfully demonstrated that our industry is actively

driving the shift toward climate-neutral solutions through investment and innovation. We have already developed and brought to market climate-neutral and digital solutions to address the industry’s various challenges.” At the same time, it became clear in Hannover: “The biggest obstacle to a swift, successful, and widespread adoption of climate-neutral drives is the necessary infrastructure—especially in terms of charging stations and forward-thinking grid expansion, as well as hydrogen refueling stations.

IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024 garnered exceptional media attention. Over 1,400 journalists from 52 countries attended to report on the latest developments and innovations at the event. Half of the journalists came from abroad. Exhibitors held over 80 press conferences, with the majority of coverage—76%—focused on international media outlets from 116 countries.

The number of trade visitors in leadership positions increased by over 30% compared to 2022. More than half of all trade visitors held executive positions, with more than threequarters being key decision-makers. Over 50% of trade visitors indicated plans to invest within the next six to twelve months, with more

than half attending IAA TRANSPORTATION specifically to make those investment decisions. With the successful execution of IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024, the industry has proven that it is ready to actively shape the transformation toward climate-neutral mobility. The event made it clear that the necessary technologies and solutions are already in place— now, the path for their widespread adoption must be paved. IAA TRANSPORTATION remains the central meeting point for the mobility and logistics industry and will continue to accompany the transformation in the future. The next IAA TRANSPORTATION will take place from September 15-20, 2026, in Hannover, with Press Day on Monday, September 14, 2026.

DAF presents a full suite of product innovations at the IAA 2024

DAF Trucks is setting new standards in fuel efficiency, safety and driver comfort with the launch of a full suite of innovations for its New Generation XD, XF, XG and XG+ trucks which it had on display at the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hanover.

In addition, DAF is demonstrating its environmental leadership with a full range of battery electric vehicles for city, regional and long distance haulage, supported by PACCAR charging stations and energy storage systems.

DAF Trucks has a prominent position at the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hanover and created an impressive display for its complete line-up of products and services to deliver operational success for its customers.

All New Generation DAF trucks benefit from outstanding aerodynamics, highly efficient drivelines and a range of advanced driver assistance systems, resulting in an impressive fuel efficiency improvement of up to 10%.

Now, an additional 3% gain can be realised through driveline and aerodynamic enhancements.

Optimised driveline efficiency is achieved through new engine valve timing, a dual drive coolant pump and a 2-cylinder clutched air compressor. Turbocharger and EGR systems have also been updated. New fuel injectors support excellent efficiency, reliability and durability. A new shifting strategy of the transmission and the engine optimisations result in 7% lower rpm at cruising speed (950 instead of 1,030), depending on the configuration.

Thanks to their excellent fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions, several New Generation DAF models meet the Maut Class 3 standards, potentially saving thousands of

euros annually in German road tax. To optimise the efficiency of the New Generation DAF models, the DAF Digital Vision camera system (replacing conventional mirrors), Predictive Cruise Control and low rolling resistance tyres become standard on 4x2 and 6x2 versions* to offer another 6% fuel efficiency gain.

All New Generation DAF trucks come with a 10-year PACCAR Connect subscription. This new online fleet management platform provides real-time information on the performance of the entire fleet, individual vehicles, as well as drivers, to optimise efficiency and returns. The platform also enables efficient over-the-air vehicle updates. A major benefit of PACCAR Connect is the

easy integration with existing logistic applications from third parties, setting a new standard in fleet management systems.

The power of safety

All New Generation DAF trucks lead the way in safety, thanks to a comprehensive range of Advanced Driver Assistant Systems (ADAS) which are delivered ex-factory. These include Advanced Emergency Braking System, Drive-off Assist, DAF Side & Turn Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Speed Limit Recognition. And to enhance safety performance, the Event Data Recorder records images and data when the AEBS brake warning is activated, while the new DAF Drowsiness Detection assesses the driver’s state of alertness.

MAN honoured with Truck Innovation Award 2025

The hydrogen combustion truck MAN hTGX has won the Truck Innovation Award 2025. Dr Frederik Zohm, Executive Board member for Research & Development at MAN Truck & Bus, accepted the prestigious award during the IAA Hanover press day.

Commercial vehicle manufacturer

MAN Truck & Bus will be the first European truck producer to set up a small series with hydrogen combustion.

“We are particularly pleased to receive the IToY

jury’s award. With the hydrogen combustion truck MAN hTGX, we are offering a useful addition to our battery-electric vehicles, thus rounding off our zero-emission product portfolio for special markets and heavyduty applications. By being classified as a

The power of comfort

The driveline updates result in even lower noise levels at cruising conditions. The new shifting strategy of the transmission enhances drivability thanks to an even smoother shifting performance.

DAF demonstrates environmental leadership Also in Hanover, DAF is demonstrating environmental leadership by displaying its full range of state-of-the-art XB, XD and XF Electric vehicles for city, regional and long haul applications. These innovative trucks feature highly efficient drivelines and modular battery packs for ‘zero emission’ ranges up to 500 kilometres on a single charge.

All DAF Electric trucks use LFP batteries (Lithium Ferro Phosphate) with a high energy density that are very advantageous in terms of useable effective capacity, thermal safety, battery lifetime and the number of charging cycles.

In addition to a series of first class electric vehicles, the complete service offering makes DAF the perfect partner for energy transition. This includes dedicated consulting services, as well as outstanding charging stations from PACCAR Power Solutions, which also offers energy storage systems. On display at the IAA was an overview of current and future sustainable driveline solutions. The efficient and reliable PACCAR MX engines are fully prepared to operate on HVO biodiesel, which reduces CO2 emissions by over 90% ‘well-to-wheel’. Versions that run on B100 Fame biodiesel will become available early next year.

DAF is leading the way in hydrogen technology, as DAF is currently developing a hydrogen combustion engine, which is expected to be ready for market launch in the coming years.

‘zero-emission vehicle’, the hTGX makes an important contribution to the decarbonisation of road freight transport,’ explains Dr Frederik Zohm, Executive Board member for Research & Development at MAN Truck & Bus.

World Premiere for the MAN eTGL at IAA 2024

MAN Truck & Bus presented the new MAN eTGL at the IAA 2024. The electrically powered 12-tonne truck rounds off the MAN electric truck portfolio for light distribution transport.

With a range of up to 235 kilometres, fast charging in around 30 minutes and a payload of up to 6,600 kilograms, depending on the body, it offers the ideal combination for quiet and locally CO2-free transport in urban goods logistics for food chains, retailers or the catering industry.

Together with the eTGS and eTGX, MAN now offers the entire total weight portfolio from twelve to 42 tonnes fully electrically with the new eTGL. Comparatively low range requirements, the option of depot charging at logistics locations and increasing noise and emission restrictions for combustion-powered trucks in city centres make urban distribution transport an important starting segment for the switch to electromobility.

‘With the new eTGL, MAN is becoming a true full-range provider in the field of electromobility. From night-time supermarket deliveries to heavy-duty long-distance transport, MAN offers transport companies zero-emission drives from a single source. The approximately 2000 orders and order enquiries for our eTGX and eTGS already show that our modular battery concept for individual deployment, body and range requirements meets the needs of our customers. With its high payload, short charging times and optimum range for urban logistics, the eTGL perfectly rounds off our eTruck portfolio,’ said Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus, at the presentation of the new lightweight electric distribution truck.

Schmitz Cargobull wins International Trailer Award 2025 in the Body category

Schmitz Cargobull has won the International Trailer Award 2025 for the Body category. Rounding off its package of wins, the brand also took home two second-place finishes in the categories of Chassis and Concept plus one third-place finish in the Safety category.

This is the second time that Europe’s leading trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull has won first place in the highly regarded International Trailer Awards, formerly known as the Trailer Innovation Award.

The fully electric S.KOe COOL refrigerated box body semitrailer won over the 14-strong jury of international experts in the Body category. With its new rail-compatible, high-volume S.CS MEGA curtainsider, Schmitz Cargobull managed to claim second place in the Chassis category. It also finished second in the Concept category with its aerodynamic S.CS X-TOUGH curtainsider with EcoFIX body. In the Safety category, the European market leader impressed with its TAPA-standard safety equipment for box body semitrailers, which won third place. Formerly known as the Trailer Innovation Award, the International Trailer Award is awarded by an international jury of specialists, currently made up of 14 journalists from trade publications across Europe, and is presented at the IAA TRANSPORTATION 2025

“Schmitz Cargobull has been investing in the research and development of sustainable, energy-efficient transport solutions for many years. We are therefore delighted that our fully electric S.KOe COOL refrigerated box body

semi-trailer has been recognised as a transport solution that can make a significant contribution to reducing the carbon footprint,” says Andreas Schmitz, Chairman of the Board of Schmitz Cargobull AG.

“For the S.KOe COOL, we use our module system, which gives us lots of configuration options: It can be equipped with our electric cooling unit, high-voltage battery and electric axle, or “battery only” solution, as well as with the new economically efficient concept of a diesel-powered cooling unit with an auxiliary electric drive for zero-emissions operation. The International Trailer Award 2025 for the S.KOe COOL is validation

for the entire team and their commitment to creating leading sustainable technology. At the same time, it also motivates us to keep offering our customers practical transport solutions that pay off.”

Schmitz Cargobull developed the type-approved fully electric S.KOe COOL refrigerated box body semitrailer with an electric cooling unit, integrated power electronics, high-voltage battery system and electric generator axle to series production maturity just last year. Schmitz Cargobull is offering a fully integrated one-stop solution with the S.KOe COOL. This is particularly important to the field of urban logistics as countless cities will be introducing “zero emission zones”

in 2025, affecting many routes in urban distribution transport. These trailers are therefore an economical and sustainable solution for emission-free refrigerated transport, without compromising the payload.

Schmitz Cargobull’s S.KO COOL refrigerated box body semi-trailers can be equipped with certified safety equipment that meets TAPA TSR1 standards (Transported Asset Protection Association Trucking Security Requirements). This smart, safe and innovative function enables users to automatically control the door locking system, increasing process and transport safety. This is only available in combination with the Schmitz Cargobull networked TrailerConnect® telematics solution.

PROVIDING A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR MOVING GOODS AND FREIGHT

What started out as Allied Fleet Services Ltd in 2017 developed into Allied Customs Services as the opportunity to provide a customs service to the existing customer base after Brexit became a necessity.

Based in Armagh, Allied Fleet Services (AFS) is owned and managed by Stephen McAneney, who explains that while Brexit may have been a huge problem for many, it was an opportunity too good to miss for them.

“When Brexit came along, we saw a gap in the market – in that there was a shortage of customs agents.”

“We decided to go in this direction, and it was a move that ‘catapulted the business, leading to us having a lot more work, and having to take on more staff to cope with the new found business. This led to AFS achieving an annual turnover of £4.5 million through its expertise and adaptability

in navigating new trade regulations.

“We did really well out of Brexit. Brexit posed several problems and we were solving problems for hauliers and freight

forwarders” continued AFS Managing Director Stephen McAneney.

Allied Fleet Services went looking for the solutions to these problems, avoiding any unnecessary hold-ups and ensuring goods could still move quickly and smoothly keeping the supply chain here in Northern Ireland, the UK and Europe moving.

“We aim to take the pain and the hassle out of moving goods”

“We work 363 days a year – taking off New Year and Christmas. Allied also offer round the clock support – if something happens in the supply chain (day or night), we will make sure your goods are not delayed, explains Stephen McAneney

“We offer a multi-million Brexit-saving solution, reducing the supply chain costs, in that we reduce the cost to the customer” continued Stephen.

Since Brexit, Allied Fleet Services grew its customer base substantially and acquired additional clients throughout the UK & Europe. Their aim is to be one of the most respected customs clearance agents committed to compliant and timely clearance of your cargo.

In 2022, AFS added to their services by opening a ‘freight forwarding’ division of the business. Offering a one-stop-shop that will reduce the time being spent with multiple parties, this means they can provide an endto-end service, giving you peace of mind that your customer is in the best hands possible. With over 50 years’ experience in

logistics and customs clearance, AFS’s capabilities are supported by a specialist workforce, who are highly experienced in customs & logistics procedures.

With 16 staff, AFS work to provide a fully balanced service for goods into Europe, providing the management service to look after their customer’s imports and exports

“We value all our clients and prioritise their needs – big or small. We strive to maintain a high level of efficiency; our services are rated second to none by our customers. We handle a wide range of goods, whether it is fresh produce, frozen stock to vehicles or furniture and promise an unbeatable experience.

Allied Fleet Services have just joined forces with two similar businesses in a move to take their operations ‘to the next level’.

AFS and Bolton-based Irish Freight Solutions (IFS) have sealed a partnership deal with SSO Logistics from Liverpool.

SSO has the unique proposition of Freeport status in the North West, which combined with Allied Custom Services will drastically reduce the import cost of goods.

“Our partnership with SSO Logisitics demonstrates our commitment to growth and service excellence. By combining our expertise with SSO’s strengths in warehousing and distribution, we’re poised to offer unparalleled logistics solutions across the UK and Europe” said Stephen.

“This investment marks a significant milestone for our business as we continue to strategically grow across the UK and Europe,” said Stephen McAneney.

Stephen McAneney, Allied Fleet Solutions and his team.

FREIGHT FORWARDING

At Allied we have one of the greatest transport networks which covers the entire UK, across the British Isles and into mainland Europe. Our trusted partners and forwarding network can take your consignments even further than that, making Allied a truly global freight forwarder. We will make sure that your freight gets where you need it to be, exactly when you need it to get there.

IMPORT & EXPORT

At Allied Customs we identify the correct Customs procedure and any licences or supplementary conditions that are required and submit the declaration via our software. We ensure that each shipment has the appropriate documents for the destination country. We provide all customers with copies of their customs documents. Clearances are made in one of the fastest turnaround times on the market, and we regularly audit this process to ensure compliance.

We provide a tailored solution to meet the needs of all businesses, no matter the size

Multi-Modal Transport: Seamless integration of sea, air, and road freight

Track and Trace: Real-time visibility of your shipments

Dedicated Account Manager: Personalised service and expert guidance

24/7 Customer Support: Responsive assistance whenever you need it

Allied Fleet Services is your one-stop logistics solution. Let's connect and optimise your supply chain today!

freight@allied-fs.co.uk

www.allied-fs.co.uk

IRISH FREIGHT SOLUTIONS (IFS) SUPPORT TAYLOR SWIFT’S CROKE PARK CONCERTS

When a leading global artist required the ‘swift’ and secure transfer of event equipment from sites in Scotland and the East Midlands to Dublin, Irish Freight Solutions (IFS) stepped up to the challenge.

With their expertise in handling complex logistics operations and their commitment to meeting strict deadlines, IFS proved to be the ideal partner for this high-profile project, none other than global singing superstar Taylor Swift.

As part of her ‘Eras’ tour, large quantities of staging equipment had to be moved quickly from concert locations in Scotland and England to Dublin’s Croke Park for her Irish concert on 30th June.

CHALLENGES

A project of this scale presented several unique challenges that required careful planning and execution, and obviously with such a high-profile client IFS wanted to make sure everything went exactly to schedule.

Three specific challenges that this project posed centred around the movement of the goods, and the timelines they had to meet. There were:

Temporary Export: All loads needed to be transferred from Great Britain to Ireland on ATA Carnets, as the goods were temporarily exported for use outside the UK.

Diverse Equipment: The project involved a mixture of flatbed, curtainsider, euroliner, and step-frame trailers, each

requiring specialized handling and transportation.

Strict Deadlines: Timed collections at hourly intervals were necessary to sequence equipment off-site, while sequenced timed deliveries had to coincide with on-site build, working around a strict local curfew at Dublin’s Croke Park stadium.

SOLUTION

Irish Freight Solutions deployed their expertise and resources to address each challenge effectively, developing a unique set of solutions to make sure the show could go on.

With regard to the ATA Carnet Management, Irish Freight Solutions’ experienced team handled the complexities of ATA Carnets, ensuring smooth temporary export of the equipment from Great Britain to Ireland.

IFS realised that they would have to employ a number of different, flexible transport options when transporting the staging equipment across the Irish Sea. By utilizing a combination of driver-accompanied and unaccompanied transport options, Irish Freight Solutions accommodated the diverse range of trailers required for the project while adhering to strict deadlines.

From the start it was obvious this was a unique job that would require

excellent and unparalleled levels of customer service. IFS’s dedicated customer service team managed the timed collections at hourly intervals, ensuring the equipment was sequenced off-site efficiently. Precision Delivery was also a key element of this entire project. Working closely with the on-site team, IFS coordinated sequenced timed deliveries to coincide with the on-site build, navigating the strict local curfew at the Croke Park.

RESULTS

Thanks to meticulous planning, and the highly experienced and professional team at Irish Freight Solutions, all 20 loads of event equipment were successfully transferred from Scotland and the East Midlands to Dublin’s Croke Park, meeting all deadlines and requirements in what was a flawless operation.

The use of ATA Carnets, managed by IFS, allowed for the smooth temporary export of goods from Great Britain to Ireland in what was a seamless temporary export procedure. By providing a mix of flatbed, curtainsider, and euroliner trailers, along with driver-accompanied and unaccompanied options, IFS demonstrated their ability to adapt to the specific needs

of the project and proved their ability to deliver a unique, customized transport solution.

As the saying goes, ‘the customer is always right’, so when a customer like Taylor Swift, and her team express their with IFS’s exceptional service, praising their ability to handle complex logistics challenges while meeting strict deadlines, the team at IFS know they it is another job well done ‘Look what you made me do’

Although they would have been totally unaware of it, thousands of Taylor Swift fans from Ireland, and around the world owe a debt of gratitude to Irish Freight Solutions for making sure the concert they attended in Dublin went ahead!

The successful execution of this high-profile project showcases Irish Freight Solutions’ expertise in managing complex logistics operations. By providing customized solutions, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to meeting strict deadlines, IFS has solidified its reputation as a reliable partner for even the most demanding logistics challenges. This Taylor Swift project demonstrates IFS’s ability to support the unique needs of the entertainment industry, ensuring the seamless transfer of event equipment across borders.

Allied Fleet Services has greatly benefited from partnering with Qargo TMS, particularly in terms of streamlining their operations and eliminating manual processes like using spreadsheets.

Here’s how Qargo has helped transform their workflow:

ELIMINATING SPREADSHEETS & AUTOMATING TASKS

Before implementing Qargo, Allied Fleet Services relied heavily on spreadsheets to manage various aspects of their transportation operations. This manual process was time-consuming, prone to errors, and made it difficult to have realtime visibility into fleet and order status. By adopting Qargo, Allied Fleet has eliminated the need for these spreadsheets, automating processes that were previously done manually, such as order creation, tracking, and reporting.

STREAMLINING OPERATIONS

Qargo has simplified Allied Fleet’s entire logistics management process. The platform enables them to create orders digitally and track every

step of the shipment lifecycle—from initial order creation to delivery and final invoicing. This real-time tracking not only increases visibility across the fleet but also enables more efficient communication between the dispatch team, drivers, and customers.

SEAMLESS ORDER MANAGEMENT & INVOICING

One of the most significant improvements for Allied Fleet Services has been the ability to manage orders seamlessly from start to finish. Qargo allows them to:

CREATE ORDERS QUICKLY AND EFFICIENTLY

Track shipments in real-time, giving them visibility at every stage of the delivery process. Generate invoices automatically

once the delivery is completed.

This entire process is handled within the platform, making it easy to send invoices directly to their accounting software without the need for manual data entry. This integration between order management and invoicing helps Allied Fleet avoid errors and delays, ensuring timely billing and payment.

LOOKING AHEAD

We are delighted that Allied Fleet Services has chosen to partner with Qargo. We look forward to continuing to support their growth and helping them achieve even greater efficiency in their operations over the coming years. By leveraging Qargo’s TMS, Allied Fleet Services is well-positioned to continue enhancing their operational efficiency, reducing costs, and delivering exceptional service to their customers.

Joeri De Turck (CTO), Sander De Wilde (Head of Engineering) and Adriaan Coppens (CEO).

THE GROWING DEMAND FOR OUTSOURCED CUSTOMS CLEARANCE CLERKS

As businesses grapple with increasingly complex trade regulations and customs protocols, the need for skilled customs clearance professionals has never been more urgent. Recent data from our operations reveals a significant shift in how companies are addressing these challenges, with 73% of our clients now employing more than one of our team members to support their operations.

This trend not only underscores the increasing demand for expert customs clearance clerks but also highlights the strategic role outsourcing plays in easing the burden on internal teams.

Many of our clients were facing significant difficulties retaining staff, resulting in high turnover rates that only compounded the challenges they faced. These shortages were placing enormous pressure on their remaining employees, leading to burnout and even higher turnover, creating a vicious cycle that was difficult to break. For businesses already navigating the uncertainties of post-Brexit trade and everchanging customs regulations, this compounded operational strain was unsustainable.

Our journey into outsourcing began from a place of necessity. As we

scaled our own operations to meet demand, we experienced difficulties associated with hiring, training, and retaining skilled staff. It became apparent that this was a long-term issue that required a sustainable solution. We had to find a way to stabilize our workforce and ensure we could continue to provide reliable, high-quality customs clearance services to our clients. This led to our organic move into creating a global team, a decision that not only stabilized our own operations but also enabled us to offer this muchneeded service to our clients.

Outsourcing has proven to be a game changer for many of the businesses we work with. It offers a flexible and costeffective solution to their labour shortages, allowing them to scale

their operations without the headache of recruitment, training, and ongoing management. By partnering with us, companies can access experienced customs clearance clerks trained to the highest standards. This has not only alleviated pressure on their existing teams but has also reduced employee turnover by ensuring that their staff are not overburdened. Setting up operations in a foreign country comes with legal, tax, and HR challenges that can be overwhelming, particularly for SMEs. We wanted to help these SMEs reap the benefits of a global workforce without having to deal with the administrative headaches. Our outsourcing model provides a streamlined solution, giving our clients the resources they need with local client management

without the associated red tape. In addition to alleviating staffing pressures, our clients benefit from wider working hours and bank holiday coverage, ensuring that their customs operations continue smoothly regardless of local holidays or staffing shortages. By leveraging outsourced customs clearance support, businesses can not only stabilize their workforce but also enhance their operational flexibility, making them more resilient in the face of external challenges We are proud to be supporting businesses across Ireland, Northern Ireland, and the UK with expert customs clearance professionals who help them navigate these turbulent times with confidence. For more information contact: info@customswise.ie

SSO LOGISTICS AGREES PARTNERSHIP DEAL WITH TWO IRISH FREIGHT EXPERTS

SSO Logistics has said a major partnership deal with two Irish Freight experts will enable them to ‘take the business to the next level.

St Helen’s based logistics specialist SSO Logistics has agreed a strategic partnership with Bolton-based Irish Freight Solutions (IFS) and Armagh-based Allied Fleet Services (AFS).

SSO already has a firm foothold in Ireland and CEO Peter Draper said the new – sevenfigure investment aligns with all three firms’ strategic growth plans for the territory.

Founded in 2019 by Bolton native James Wood, IFS has rapidly established itself as a key player in logistics services to Ireland, growing from a startup to achieve a turnover of £11 million in 2023.

AFS initially offered logistics solutions from its foundation in 2017 but following Brexit, it swiftly established itself as Ireland’s premier customs service provider, achieving an annual turnover of £4.5m through its expertise and adaptability in navigating new trade regulations.

Peter Draper, CEO of SSO Logistics, said: “This investment is about taking the business to the next level. We already move freight to Ireland and by sharing our contacts and business relationships, we can expand this even further.

“With IFS’ expertise in freight forwarding

and AFS’ knowledge of customs clearance, we can ensure an even smoother transit of freight into Ireland.

“When James knew I was looking for investors he jumped at it. One of the things which attracted him to us was our ability to send loads into Ireland – he’d done a lot of due diligence on us.

“Stephen clears all our deliveries through Ireland, which is vital for traceability. You need a letter of authority signed at every delivery point and without Stephen it doesn’t happen. This expertise is vital for us.”

James Wood, managing director of Irish Freight Solutions, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time. I have known SSO and Peter personally for several years and we have a synergistic approach to customer service. Although we operate in different areas in the logistics sector, our views and visions are aligned.

“When Peter discussed the opportunity to be a part of the SSO family it was a no-brainer.

“Being the freeport for the North West and having a full in-house customs team

means SSO can offer a one-stop solution for businesses across the UK, especially Merseyside and the North West.

“Our partnership with SSO Logistics demonstrates our commitment to growth and service excellence. By combining our expertise with SSO’s strengths in warehousing and distribution, we’re poised to offer unparalleled logistics solutions across the UK and mainland Europe.”

Stephen McAneney, managing director of Allied Fleet Services, said: “This investment marks a significant milestone for our business as we continue to strategically grow across the UK and Europe.

“Upon meeting Peter and the SSO team, we were impressed by their shared cultural values and ambitious growth plans. This alignment of goals and capabilities made the partnership too good to turn down.

“SSO has the unique proposition of freeport status in the North West, which combined with Allied Customs Services in Ireland will drastically reduce the import costs of goods. While both companies will operate independently, we will collaborate to further strengthen our positions as the go-to people in customs.”

James Wood (Irish Freight Services), Peter Draper (SSO Logistics) and Stephen McAneney (Allied Fleet Services) have agreed

Your One-Stop Solution for UK & European Distribution

Why Choose SSO?

Customs site No1 LCR Freeport

BRCGS warehouses

FORS Bronze accredited

State of the Art Haydock HQ

Modern Euro 6 Fleet

Pallet Track share holder member 24/7 operation

Integrated TMS & WMS systems

Tail lift and Home delivery service

Trust SSO Logistics to deliver safely, securely and on time, every time.

Contact us today

MAN TAKES THE TGE TO THE ‘NEXT LEVEL’

BY AUSTIN LYNCH

At their IAA pre-press conference in Austria in early July, MAN used the opportunity not only to showcase their extensive range of trucks but also to give the assembled European journalists the first drive in the MAN TGE Next level van.

Arriving at the test track beside the hotel in Tyrol, we were greeted to a line-up of new TGEs, and we were divided into pairs to take to the twisty Austrian alpine roads to put these vans through their paces.

I was paired with Ricardo from Madrid, and with a pre-planned route saved into the satnav, we were told to head off, but to be back in 45 minutes (or they might start to worry).

The MAN TGE is a great looking van, but also has one of the best cabins I have ever been in – and although I was never in a TGE before we were assured this is full of new technology, new features and a smart new luxurious interior. Due to receive an extensive functional and interior update with the 2025 model year, the MAN TGE (the “truck among vans”) is making the biggest technological leap in its history. The van from MAN Truck & Bus

is getting a completely new on-board network architecture.

A new generation of control units fulfils the higher cyber security requirements on the one hand, and significantly increases active and passive safety for drivers and other road users with the help of new driver assistance systems on the other.

The MAN TGE is thus better protected against digital

manipulation and unauthorised changes to the vehicle software and is also ideally equipped for future digital online services. Another advantage is the ability for overthe-air updates. This eliminates the need for workshop visits for software updates and continuously improves software stability.

The combination of new control units and new radar sensors and cameras has also made it

possible to significantly enhance the safety and driver assistance systems e.g. Blind Spot Warning and Drive Off Warning, which are new and are standard on all MAN TGEs over 3.5 tonnes.

MAN currently enjoy 3.2% of the commercial van marketwhich amounts to 26,600 sales in 2023 / up from 21,500 in 2022). And, upon experiencing this van for myself, you would expect this market share to increase in the years ahead.

We were told the TGE Next Level aims to ‘simplify driving’ and aims to make the driver feel at home –at work. The special copper coloured ‘Next Level’ edition is new to the market, and was exclusively revealed in Austria in July. The colour this van comes in is unique to MAN, and among a host of features the van is automatic transmission and has a 12 inch information screen among its extensive list of equipment and features.

The colour is very smart, and looks great clean but let’s hope it still looks good when it has done a few hard weeks work.

The optional assistance systems, Cruise Assist, Cruise Assist Plus and Turn Assist, are also new developments.

Every MAN TGE Next Level comes with; Fatigue Detection, Traffic Sign Information, Intelligent Speed Assist, Emergency Brake Assist1, Parking Assist1, Active Lane Guard System, Cruise Control and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. This raises the active safety of MAN vans to a new level.

Also new in the standard equipment of MAN TGE with N1 approval are the passenger airbag and an accident recording system - the latter records and stores critical, collision-related parameters and information shortly before, during and immediately after a collision. In this way, important data is available for accident investigations and analyses of the performance of safety equipment. The front passenger airbag is still available as an option for vehicles with N2 approval.

The TGE Next Level also comes with many new comfort features: a new dashboard with digital instrumentation and a large MAN Media Van touch display for controlling the vehicle functions and the infotainment system. The extensively revised vehicle electrics and electronics in combination with

the new driver’s workplace and the new and updated assistance systems raise the MAN TGE to a new level, which is why it was given the nickname “Next Level”. Under the bonnet, the MAN TGE is new and future-proof with the 2025 model year. However, its striking, dynamic exterior remains virtually unchanged. MAN Truck & Bus has therefore created a subtle eye-catcher with the TGE Next Level Edition, which sets visual accents. The edition is already available to order. It consists of the launch colour Pale Copper Metallic, mirror covers in Piano Black, a boomerang trim at the bumper in silver, a “Next” badge in the front grille and 17” alloy wheels in silver or optionally in black.

THE ULTRA-MODERN COCKPIT

The dashboard in the MAN TGE has been completely redesigned and now features a free-standing touch display in the centre. The new instrument cluster is fully digitalised as standard and offers the driver extensive options for customising displays and information. However, the most striking highlight of the new cockpit is the new MAN Media Van infotainment system, which is the modern control centre for controlling infotainment and vehicle functions. Three variants of the infotainment system are available: The standard MAN Media Van with 10.4” screen, MAN Media Van Navigation

with 10.4” screen (plus optional functions) and MAN Media Van Navigation Business with 12.9” screen (plus optional functions). Driving this van in the beautiful sunshine up some twisty Austrian roads, with the Alps as a spectacular backdrop, was an absolute pleasure. With automatic transmission, and a smooth and responsive powertrain this is a great van, and one of the most enjoyable commercial vehicles I have had the opportunity to drive. The MAN TGE is very well equipped, and new standard features that make driving the MAN TGE even more pleasant, safer and easier include Keyless Go, electronic parking brake and two USB-C ports. Furthermore, the TGE with automatic transmission no longer has the previous gear stick. An automatic gear lever on the steering wheel is now available for selecting the driving modes. This increases the available space in the cab, as does the new electronic parking brake, which is activated via a button in the cockpit.

Not only would I recommend the MAN TGE as a great choice for a van, I would also recommend taking it to the Austrian Alps for a spin. You won’t be disappointed.

RENAULT TRUCKS E-TECH TRAFIC RED EDITION –AN ELECTRIFYING DRIVE

BY PAMELA MCGOOKIN

Recently I had the pleasure of test driving the Renault Trucks E-Tech Trafic Electric Red EDITION, with thanks to Diamond Trucks, Mallusk.

Many Manufacturers are now adding fully electric versions into their already popular van ranges, and now the Trafic gets an e-version – the E-Tech.

For over a decade, Renault Trucks have been committed to the design, manufacture, and distribution of electric trucks of all sizes. Today, with Renault Trucks E-Tech Trafic, they are offering the customer the opportunity to not only make their business more environmentally friendly, but also to reduce operating costs, due to Renault Truck’s class-leading energy efficiency.

Reducing CO2 emissions is a priority, and many urban areas are introducing increasingly stringent environmental regulations, such as Low Emission Zones (LEZ). Renault Trucks E-Tech Trafic is the ideal commercial vehicle for emission-free, quiet transport. You can now

carry out your operations in urban areas without constraints, with a payload up to 1.16 tonnes and configurations adapted to your needs:

The Renault Trucks E-Tech Trafic has a range of up to 394km range in urban cycle / 297km range in real use condition (WLTP combined), and charging the battery is ‘fast and easy’ with the E-Tech Trafic able to charge at public stations, from 15% to 80% in 50 minutes (D/C charger)

For added peace of mind, and financial security 52 kWh batteries are covered with an 8 year warranty or 160,000km

Renault Trucks Red EDITION trim level is beyond the standards. It’s equipped with the latest technology, guaranteeing driving comfort to help tradespeople and professionals in their daily lives. These vehicles will bring you comfort, safety, and space to load all your

materials, making your work life easier.

The Renault Trucks Trafic Red EDITION is available in 4 configurations that will enable transportation of people, materials, and goods. You can adapt the configurations to a specific body to suit your operation, including PANEL VAN, CREW VAN and PLATFORM CAB, available in Diesel and –the E-TECH 100% electric.

To fit your needs, Renault Trucks offers two trim levels: the Red EDITION and Red EDITION Exclusive which has even more comfort, safety and driver desirability.

This fabulous vehicle is equipped with a range of features that enhance driving comfort and convenience, making it a top choice for those in need of a reliable and stylish van.

The Renault Trucks Trafic Red EDITION truly stands out when it comes to comfort and technology. The Red Edition includes such features and detailing as wireless smartphone charger, 8 inch multi-media display with

wireless smartphone replication, (wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and it also has upper front bumper, rear lights corners and lateral door rail painted. The Red EDITION Exclusive adds such extra features as automatic air-conditioning, keyless access, primary colour display and alloy wheels.. These are just a few of the features that make driving this van a pleasure. The attention to detail and focus on driver experience is evident in every aspect of this vehicle, and they take the Trafic to a new level of refinement and comfort while still retaining the ability to get the job done.

PERFORMANCE AND POWER:

One of the standout features of the Renault Trucks Trafic Red EDITION is its powerful performance. Despite being an electric vehicle, this van delivers impressive power when you need it most. The smooth drive and responsive handling make every journey a pleasure, while the air conditioning ensures that you stay comfortable even on the warmest of days.

NEW SAFETY FEATURES

The new Trafic is equipped with high levels of safety features including new driver assistance technologies and different systems to enhance driver and cargo safety. Safety features standard on all Red EDITION include: E-call emergency services, Cruise control & speed limiter, Driver Drowsiness Detection (DDD), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Alcolock Predisposal.

PROFESSIONAL APPLICATION

At the end of the day, the Renault Trucks Trafic is a van that has to work for a living. As such, it is an easy loading vehicle with its cubic modular structure the Trafic guarantees

the best load length (up to 4150mm) on the medium commercial vehicle market.

The Renault Trucks Trafic is ideal for professional trades people. Organise the interior of your commercial vehicle to suit business needs with the help of 270 degree rear panel doors, aluminium rear step protection, LED lighting in load area 12v rear socket, rear left door locking hatch and floor and lateral anchorages. Unique to Renault Trucks is the platform cab which allows a multitude of bodies to be fitted.

Renault Trucks Trafic meets professionals every need at all times, in any environment. Its dimensions ensure this – it is 5 metres in length so fits in a standard car park space. It is less than 2 metres high, so also fits in underground car parks – and has a small turning circle at 6.2 metres.

EXPERTISE AND TRUST:

With my experience in the automotive industry, I can confidently say that the Renault Trucks E-TECH Trafic Red EDITION is a top choice for anyone in need of a reliable and stylish electric van.

With its exclusive features, personalized options, and powerful performance, this vehicle offers everything you could possibly need for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

The Renault Trucks Trafic Red EDITION is a standout vehicle that excels in both style and performance. From its luxurious features to its powerful performance, this van has everything you need to make every journey a memorable one.

If you’re in the market for a reliable and stylish van which has the back up of a truck franchise offering out of hours servicing, look no further than the Renault Trucks Trafic Red EDITION.

Key Features of the Renault Trucks Trafic include:

EXTERIOR

Chrome grille

Half-painted front bumper

Body-coloured rail covers and light mounts

Foldable mirrors

Automatic LED low beams

Automatic windscreen wipers

SAFETY

Cruise control & speed limiter

Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) E-Call emergency services

Front driver & passenger airbags

Rear parking sensors

AEBS with pedestrian & cyclist detection

Drowsiness Driver Alert

Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA)

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

INTERIOR

Closed glove compartment

Wireless smartphone charger

Carbon fabric upholstery

Air-conditioning

Cruise control with downhill braking +speed limiter

Radio Display 8’ with wireless smartphone replication

Front and rear interior LED lighting

ALISTAIR EAGLESCOMING ASHORE

Having spent the past 34 years working in the Irish Sea ferry industry, Alistair Eagles has decided to stand down from his role as Managing Director of CLdN RoRo Ltd.

Although he admits he doesn’t know what’s next, Alistair says now is the perfect time for him to stand down, saying it’s time to’ re-evaluate and refocus his life and priorities’. Alistair announced his decision back in July in a post on his LinkedIn page, and it no doubt came as something of a surprise to many who have worked with Alistair over the past three and a half decades.

The ferry industry is very much a 24/7 business and one that Alistair admits can be ‘stressful enough’. “You live and breathe it --at nights and weekends, and I am really looking forward to kicking back for a while and not worrying about it.”

Talking about the company he is leaving, Alistair has nothing but good things to say about CLdN, who recently completed a takeover of Seatruck, the ferry company that Alistair helped set up in 1996.

‘I love my job – it’s the best job in the ferry industry and I am leaving a great company with a great team behind it. I want to see the company succeed, and the company is in a really good place – and going really well at the moment.”

“I have taken the company from nothing to where it is today, but life is short and it’s time to do something different” admits Alistair speaking to Export and Freight from their Heysham offices.

Gary Walker, COO of CLdN RoRo SA, will assume overall responsibility for all CLdN shipping operations (including as Managing

Director of CLdN RoRo Ltd) from the beginning of October. Gary is hugely experienced, and I wish him all the very best.

ORIGINS

A love of the outdoors and being close to the water may have inadvertently shaped the career path of Alistair Eagles leading him to a job working in Irish Sea Ferry industry for 34 years. Alistair officially leaves CLdN on 27th September and is planning to ‘take some time out’ and kick-back before decided on what comes next. But how did he end up in the ferry industry in the first place?

It was at Loughborough University where Alistair studied a four year course in Transport–a course which included a year of industrial experience. At university Alistair was into the great outdoors and loved white water kayaking – so he wanted to be near rivers and mountains,

and only applied to places near either.

He secured a year-long student placement with Merchant Ferries- who covered Heysham, Warrenpoint and Fleetwood at the time

After graduating from university he got a job with Merchant Ferries, in a commercial role where he got to know the Northern Irish customers from the get go.

In 1995 – Merchant Ferries took the decision to leave Warrenpoint and move to Dublin - and that left Warrenpoint with no RoRo service.

Seeing a gap in the market Alistair was part of the team of industry professionals and management who set up their own ferry company - and in April /May 1996 Seatruck was established with a single chartered vessel.

“We started out on a wing and a prayer. It was hand to mouth, seat of your pants stuff – which was all pretty exciting at the time.

“My background was on the commercial side and we hoped Seatruck would add some choice into the market.

Seatruck was founded on three principles: they were a freight-only ferry company; they believed that unaccompanied freight was most effective way of transporting freight, and their aim was to reduce road mileage by having crossing closer to where the freight is coming from / destined for.

Seatruck launched on a daily basis, six days a week using a single chartered RoRo ferry and the first crossing took place from

Warrenpoint to Heysham on 28th April, 1996. The 138 metre long vessel had 1,080 lane metres and 12 driver places.

From July 1996, sailing frequencies were increased to twice daily in each direction through the addition of a second chartered vessel.

In Autumn 1996, a third Ro-Ro berth opened at Heysham reducing congestion in the port which was also served by twice-daily ferry sailings to the Isle of Man, Dublin, Belfast and Warrenpoint. The new berth allowed Seatruck to modify its sailing times to be more attractive to hauliers.

In November 1998, with traffic levels on the Heysham – Warrenpoint route continuing to grow, Seatruck exercised their option to purchase one of the boats they had been leasing from Merchant Ferries at a cost of £2.8 million –much to the annoyance of their competitor.

Over the coming years Seatruck continued to grow and expanding, adding the Heysham to Dublin route in 2011, and ultimately building their own ships for their routes – four were built in Spain and four were built in Germany.

“Most of our growth came from 2007 onwards, with the new built ships a key to our growth and expansion. We got the right vessels at the right time”

“And from that standing start (back in 1996), today we have about 23/24% of the trade on the Irish Sea. We are the biggest mover of freight between GB and Dublin –and the Warrenpoint route where we started is still going strong”

“We have always prided ourselves on being

a ‘customer facing’ operator – enjoyed being the underdog and snapping at the heels of some of the big guys.

“That Seatruck Spirit is still there today – under our new owners – CLdN.”

GOLD WATCH

So why has Alistair decided that 2024 is time to stand down? “I’m 54 - the easiest thing in the world would be to do this job for another 10 years – get a gold watch and retire. I love my job – it’s the best job in the ferry industry, and the company is in a really good place.

“I just feel now is my time. I have taken company from nothing to where it is today. Life is short, and it’s time to do something different, comments Alistair Alistair says he is leaving a great company and that there is a great team working for CLdN, and that while he is stepping away, he will be watching how things go from ‘the sidelines’, and will be doing a few bits and pieces for the company after his exit.

“Me stepping aside allows the next generation to have a bit more freedom to find the next talent – new ideas. I have been Managing Director since 2008, and it’s time to get someone new in my seat. The company will benefit from a change at the top.

It was in November 2022 that leading European RoRo ferry operator CLdN completed the acquisition of Seatruck, and from then there was a period of integration, which Alistair says was

important for him to see completed – saying he wouldn’t want to leave any holes behind him. When Seatruck started in 1996, 70% of total fright on the Irish Sea was driver accompanied. Seatruck business model was the opposite of this, and today the industry has changed to the point that 72% of trade now crosses the Sea unaccompanied.

Seatruck always aimed to give the best service to freight customers, and thankfully they were a freight only company during COVID.

The company works on the belief that unaccompanied freight is the most efficient way to transport goods, with Alistair commenting a ship is ‘a really stupid place to put a driver’. And they also believe that for cost – and now the environment more miles on a ship means less miles on the road

NEXT

Looking back as he prepares to leave this industry Alistair doesn’t have any regrets, and says he is sad to be leaving behind a job that he has truly enjoyed.

“I feel proud for my small part in it the Seatruck/CLdN story. I will miss the market and the people. The Irish Transport industry is great – it’s fun – going to miss the ‘craic’.

“On a personal note, I would like to say a huge thank you everyone that has supported our business and myself personally over the years.”

“I am looking forward to kicking back and seeing what life holds for me next.”

Terminal tractors at Rosslare Europort fitted with camera telematics

A fleet of 20 terminal tractors have been fitted with an advanced multi-camera system to mitigate risk and improve safety at Rosslare Europort, the primary Irish port serving mainland Europe.

Port operator, Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail, has teamed up with Camera Telematics to develop and roll-out the camera solution as part of a major IT project to create an integrated smart port system.

“Following a comprehensive assessment to identify and better understand hazards associated with the port operation and on-site freight movements, we took the decision to adopt camera technology,” explains Glenn Carr, Director Commercial Business Units at Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail. “Camera Telematics was identified as the ideal service provider to deliver a sophisticated technology solution that enhances safety, reduces the risk of collisions and protects everyone working at the port.”

Camera Telematics was selected as Iarnród Eireann Irish Rail’s preferred technology partner, based on the company’s technical capabilities and proven experience installing multi-camera systems for fleets operating at seaports, airports and other logistics facilities. Rosslare Europort’s fleet of terminal tractors is used to load and unload both ro-ro (roll-on/roll-off) and con-ro (a hybrid of a ro-ro and a container ship) units

between vessels and storage terminal, handling 200,000 freight units annually.

The multi-camera system uses a 5-channel mobile digital video recorder (MDVR) to provide a four-camera solution that covers the front, off-side and near-side of the terminal tractor, along with a wireless magnetic device that can be located at the rear of the trailer. The near-side camera is fitted lower, over the wheel arch, to provide added visibility underneath the trailer and the trailer leg, with footage available to the driver in real-time via an in-cab monitor.

A charging cradle has also been fitted in the terminal tractor for the wireless magnetic camera. When the device is removed from the cradle, it starts recording and displays a live view on a second monitor located in the cab. All footage from each camera is automatically uploaded to Camera Telematics’ web-based Advanced Reporting and Viewing Software, so members of the Health & Safety and Operations teams can quickly access video and supporting data of any incident. The technology solution is already helping the

team of drivers to conduct their daily duties more safely by increasing their overall view around the terminal tractor and trailer. This improved visibility provides added protection and peace of mind to a wide range of people at the port, especially banksmen who work in close proximity to the terminal tractors. Meanwhile, the ability to download incident footage and supporting data is enabling Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail to undertake an investigation promptly and identify contributing factors.

By understanding exactly what has occurred, Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail is now able to target continuous improvement of control measures and operating procedures, while having the means to confirm liability and keep any claims costs to a minimum. With extensive construction work taking place at the port, Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail is also using the system to monitor traffic flows on-site and adjust freight movements based on real-world understanding of risk.

Irish Maritime Industry Remains Resilient Despite Global Challenges

The Irish maritime industry faced a series of global challenges in 2023, according to the Irish Marine Development Office which says prices rose sharply across large economies, suppressing consumption at home and abroad.

In addition, the global energy transition continued to alter the makeup of raw materials arriving at Irish ports. As a result, both container and bulk traffic through Irish ports declined in 2023. But the industry remains resilient, and is facilitating robust Irish domestic demand in what was a year of challenging economic conditions. The issues facing the Irish shipping market in 2023 can be understood under the themes of inflation and energy transition. Following a sharp rise in 2022, global inflation rates remained high in 2023. High inflation has suppressed demand for manufactured or consumer goods, such as those carried in containerised form, and this is evident in global seaborne trade volumes. W orld seaborne container trade grew by just 0.3% in 2023, which, excluding the impact of COVID19, is the slowest rate of growth since the financial crisis of 2008. LoLo traffic through Republic of Ireland ports declined by 5% in

2023, while RoRo traffic fell by 2%.

When converted, the volume of container traffic through Irish ports fell by approximately 3% in 2023.

In order to tackle these inflation rates, Central Banks in major economies swiftly raised interest rates which had the effect of slowing economic growth. Driven by these challenges, RoRo and LoLo volumes at Irish ports underperformed in 2023 relative to their long term trend, and underlying growth in both sectors is currently flat. That is not surprising, given the difficult economic environment within which Irish importers and exporters have traded in recent years, a period which includes COVID-19, Brexit, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and steep increases in energy prices. When these challenges are considered, the theme of unitised traffic at Irish ports becomes one of resilience. Both RoRo and LoLo traffic at Irish ports in 2023 is at almost exactly the level it was in 2019. In addition, Irish traders are

connected to a greater number of mainland European ports than ever before, as post-Brexit capacity has become more diverse. Given the challenges faced in the intervening years, that is a remarkable performance and testament to the durability and adaptability of the Irish ports and shipping networks. The decline in total Irish port tonnage in 2023 was also heavily influenced by dry bulk products, and this is indicative of the fact that as the Irish economy transitions away from fossil fuels, the composition of raw materials arriving at our ports will be reshaped. Dry bulk volumes, which are comprised of loose, non-containerised products for industrial or agricultural purposes, fell by 14% to its lowest total since 2010. The decline was driven in large part by two commodities: coal and fertiliser. As reported by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), 50% of Ireland’s electricity generation comes from pipelined

natural gas, with a further 37% from wind energy. However, the movement of fossil fuels through Irish ports is likely to be replaced by other traffic, such as wind turbines and infrastructure related to battery technology, and this will be captured in cargo modes other than dry bulk. Irish port infrastructure will need to adapt to these changes in Irish energy generation in the coming years.

Liam Lacey, Director of the IMDO, commented: “The IMTE is a collaborative effort that relies on the support and confidence of industry stakeholders including the ports, shipping operators, industry bodies and the Department of Transport. The maritime transport sector is a success due to the vitally important work these stakeholders do.

“Maritime transport is the lifeblood of Irish trade, responsible for 90% of all goods transported internationally. The sector underpins growth, efficiency and competitiveness in our economy and 2023 was another year of uninterrupted access to international markets through our ports and shipping services.

“The sector’s record of meeting and overcoming significant challenges instils confidence. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure that our maritime industry continues to serve the existing and future needs of the Irish economy.”

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Tel: 028 3752 3491 and 028 3752 6393 (stores) Fax: 028 3752 7878 Email: cbtarmagh@gmail.com

TACHOGRAPHS TO SUIT ALL VEHICLES

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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.

THE IRISH SEA’S LEADING FERRY COMPANY

Our network of 18 routes links key ports and road connections across northern Europe.

With more routes and sailings than any other ferry company on the Irish Sea, we offer the most convenient and reliable way to reach your destination.

At Stena Line, we’re committed to providing safe, comfortable and sustainable journeys.

7 ROuTES to Britain and France

12 VESSELS in operation

uP TO 38 daily departures