Why push air when you have a load to pull? The Volvo FH Aero increases your energy efficiency thanks to its aerodynamic cab. Designed to reduce your fuel costs, extend your range and minimise your environmental footprint. The Camera Monitoring System replaces side mirrors, opens your visual field, and further streamlines the cab. Your efficiency. Extended.
Contact your Volvo Trucks local dealer or visit volvotrucks.co.uk
COMMENT
Moving on
As we move into the second half of 2024 the political landscape in which our industry operates has changed once again, with a new Labour Government sweeping to power in Westminster – meaning that the Conservatives, who have been calling the shots for 14 years now, have been sent packing.
What that means for the Transport and Logistics sector is yet to be seen, but we can only hope the new Government grasps the importance of this industry to the economy, and realises that it needs supported if it is to prosper.
Groups like Logistics UK work hard on our behalf to lobby government to get a better deal for the industry, and raise awareness of just how important to the economy logistics are.
Trade thrives when borders and customs procedures are as frictionless as possible, but since Brexit (that wonderful idea of Conservative leader David Cameron) there have been extra complications – and extra costs – to trade and the process of moving freight from one jurisdiction to another.
Here in Northern Ireland we need the support of the NI Executive, making sure they understand how vital this industry is –and that it needs support.
There is also fresh hope that a new Labour government may make doing business between the UK, Ireland and the EU easier – although we have nothing yet to substantiate this hope.
What those in power – whether in Stormont or Westminster – must grasp is how Northern Ireland is in this unique position bordering the UK, Republic of Ireland (and EU), and finding the best ways to capitalize on this.
The other areas of the UK, and the Republic, all have up to date government plans and strategies focusing on Transport as an industry, and looking at ways to help it survive and prosper.
The NI Executive needs to come up with similar support plans and, possibly with the help (and funding) from a new Government in Westminster this might be a step or two closer.
Austin Lynch Editor
Email: austin@4squaremedia.net
(NI) Ltd
Email: pamela@4squaremedia.net
Web: www.exportandfreight.com
NEWS
Ports overwhelmed with illegal vapes
DAF – 75 years of trucks from Eindhoven
New venture for local business MST
Three new directors appointed to BIFA Board
Page 4
Page 6
Page 8
Page 47
Bridgestone Tyres Drives Premium Performance at the Olympics Page 92
REGULARS
John Martin, RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland Page 16-17
Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade & Devolved Policy, Logistics UK Page 24
Court Reports Page 46
Export and Freight Awards 2024 Page 55-58
SPECIAL FEATURES
Learning to drive with TTS Page 18-21
TST – Tomorrow’s Service Today Page 32-43
Dennison Trailers celebrate 60 years
Scania adventure in Norway
Export and Freight Golf Masters 2024
VAN AND PICK UP
Page 26-28
Page 48-52
Page 64-87
Ford Pro highlight EV advantages to SMEs Page
SHIPPING
Email: helen@4squaremedia.net
Beggs
Logistics industry warned that UK ports overwhelmed with llegal vapes
The UK’s freight terminals, airports and seaports have become the unexpected frontline in the battle against the illegal vaping surge.
Major London airports, as well as the Ports of Dover and Manchester, are being targeted and used as supply routes by the capital’s unscrupulous retailers furthering the UK’s illegal vaping epidemic. These regions are the top three local authorities for the highest number of illegal vaping devices seized in 2023, accounting for 42% of the UK’s total. In 2023, over one and a half million illegal vapes were seized in the UK, enough for three to be sold every minute according to the 2024 Illegal Vaping Report.
This report analyses the latest Freedom of Information request from 152 local authorities, obtained by Vape Club, and follows the Vape Retailer and Distributor Licensing framework launch to engage the government and authorities in developing methods to stop the vaping black market.
Kent, home to the Port of Dover, was the local authority with the highest number of illegal vapes seized, with over a quarter of a million confiscated in 2023.
Heathrow Airport’s local authority, Hillingdon, seized almost a quarter of a million illegal vapes last year. The London Borough ranked second in the UK for the number of illegal vapes seized in 2023.
Manchester Airport saw 158,434 illegal vapes seized. This comes in as Greater Manchester made up almost a quarter (22%) of the UK’s total number of illegal vapes seized in 2023. Bury New Road in Salford, also known as ‘Counterfeit Street’, is a hub for illegal products in the UK.
The findings raise concerns about the potentially dangerous illegal vapes entering the UK at its borders. The issue has been growing since the turn of the decade, since
which 4.18 million illegal vapes have been seized. Between 2020 and 2023, the number of illegal vapes seized increased 19 times.
With the UK Government recently proposing a disposable vape ban, experts argue this opens more doors for the illegal vape black market. Figures show more support is needed for trading standards and local authorities to keep up with the scale of the issue.
Dan Marchant, Director of the UK’s largest vaping and vape pod retailer, Vape Club, says:
“The unregulated illegal vape trade mirrors the issues once prevalent in the cigarette black market, including youth usage, potentially dangerous products, and unregulated retail sales.
“The best deterrent for any crime is the likelihood of being caught and right now that is incredibly low, and rogue retailers are taking full advantage of this. We have to create an environment where there is much more chance of being caught.
Logistics Sector primed for future growth
A new report published in June by Logistics UK lays out the opportunity which the sector, that operates at the heart of all UK economic activity, has to drive recovery. The business group’s annual Logistics Report outlines how the industry - which generates annual revenues of £1.3 trillion and contributes £185 billion to the UK’s GVA performance - is cautiously optimistic for 2024 and beyond, and identifies the areas where the sector can help accelerate the economy.
38% of respondents to Logistics UK’s Industry Survey are anticipating economic improvement for 2024, compared with 2023, but as Logistics UK Chief Executive David Wells OBE explains, this year has been one of consolidation rather than turning the corner to growth:
David Wells OBE said, “It is clear that our industry is still operating in challenging conditions, but the report paints a picture of a sector which is consolidating and taking steps to prepare so it can exploit the opportunities that will present themselves when the overall economy improves. The £185 billion GVA contribution which our sector made in 2022 (the latest official figures available) is in line with the 2021 figure of £160.2 billion when other factors are taken into account, so it is too soon to say the economy is returning to growth.
“Contributing £185 billion to the UK economy when the sector has been dealing with
global geopolitical volatility, new trade processes, a financial recession and pressures on the supply chain caused by changing climate conditions is a great achievement. It demonstrates the sector’s resourcefulness and adaptability to keep the UK trading and satisfy the demands of businesses and consumers alike.”
The report also contains the latest Logistics UK Business Performance Index, which reveals overall business confidence and levels of investment remain steady and consistent with 2023. In particular, the sector is reporting extremely positive sentiment regarding the adoption of new technology, reflecting the importance of continued innovation in the sector.
“Our sector is often at the forefront of adopting new technologies as they apply to transport,” Wells continued, “with new solutions aiding businesses to phase out repetitive tasks or tackle access restrictions imposed for clean air zones. Logistics
is constantly innovating to be ready for the next challenge, and it is encouraging to see how readily our sector embraces the challenges we face.”
Logistics remains one of the UK’s most significant employers: in March 2023 there were 214,160 logistics businesses operating in the UK, employing around 8% of the nation’s workforce. However, according to the Logistics Report the types of jobs are changing as automation and technology continue to improve, and the statistics show there has been a sectoral shift, with managerial and directorial roles in purchasing, transport and distribution seeing notable increases.
David Wells continued; “With appropriate investment, policy changes and the right partnerships with government, it is predicted that the sector could provide a boost of up to £7.9 billion per year to the UK’s GDP in productivity gains by 2030.”
The Logistics Report provides a
comprehensive benchmark for the industry, reflecting on the past year and identifying future trends and sentiment within the sector. It combines the latest official statistics, insight from industry experts and the findings of Logistics UK’s Industry Survey which canvassed 500 of its members to gauge industry sentiment - details and summary of the report can be found here: www.logistics.org.uk/researchhub/reports/logistics-report
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 seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, 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.
DAF: 75 YEARS OF TRUCKS FROM EINDHOVEN
This year, DAF Trucks is celebrating 75 years of truck-building – a milestone in a long line of highlights driven by innovation, revolutionary technologies and smart design.
These same building blocks form the basis for the newest generation of DAF trucks that, like their predecessors, have set the benchmark with regard to efficiency, safety and driver comfort. The foundations for DAF were laid in 1928 when the company was known in Eindhoven as ‘Van Doorne’s Machine Factory’. When brothers Hub and Wim introduced trailers to the market in the early 1930s, the first contours of DAF as we know it started to become visible. Unlike other vehicles on the market, the chassis was not rivetted but welded, making them a lot lighter than usual, and they were an enormous success. The machine factory switched its focus and became Van Doorne’s Aanhangwagenfabriek or DAF for short.
THE FIRST TRUCK
DAF began to shift quickly through the gears when the demand for transport grew rapidly during the rebuilding of Europe. A production line for trailers and semi-trailers was set up and definite plans were made for the construction of a truck factory. In 1949, the A30 was launched. A 3-tonne truck aimed primarily at the domestic market. The grill featured seven characteristic chrome stripes.
PART OF THE SCENERY
A few months later, the first model was rolled out of the factory and it was quickly followed by the A50 (5-tonne) and the A60 (6-tonne) for heavy-duty work. The number of models increased rapidly, including vehicles with
a special chassis for tipper and garbage trucks and a series of military vehicles. Within a short space of time, DAF had developed into a truck brand that would become an unmistakable part of the scenery. At the time, all of the trucks were rolled off the line as a chassis with engine and grill. The building of cabs was still in the hands of body builders. This all changed in 1953 when DAF began to manufacture its own cabs DAF also began developing and building its own (diesel) engines. DAF would become the first to add a turbo compressor to its trucks’ power source for extra horsepower and greater efficiency.
TRENDSETTER
In 1970, DAF launched the F1600 –F2200 series. The vehicles featured a tilt cab, making DAF one of the first to introduce it. The advantages of the tilt cab were huge. It made it easier for mechanics to carry out
maintenance, and better and faster too, and offered the driver a much quieter work space because the engine was encased in the cab..
In the 1980s, DAF gave long distance transport and heavy transport a new impulse with the introduction of the DAF 95, which could also be fitted with an extra high roof for unrivalled driver comfort: the SpaceCab. It was even followed by a Super SpaceCab, the ultimate in space and luxury. For regional and national transport, DAF introduced the DAF 65/75/85.
NUMBER ONE IN SUSTAINABILITY
In the following years, this series of vehicles – and their successors, the CF and XF – made a name for themselves in Europe and also became increasingly popular further afield. The same applied to the new LF series, which was launched around the turn of the century and was aimed at regional and local distribution.
NEW GENERATION DAF
During these years, the European Union had been drawing up new regulations for the weights and dimensions of trucks. When these came into force at the end of 2020, DAF was the first truck manufacturer to be ready to work with them. This made the New Generation DAF trucks that were launched in 2021 as revolutionary as the famous DO, 2600, 2800 and XF had been in their time. The New Generation DAF trucks offer considerably more space to the driver, are significantly more efficient, thanks to their streamlined design, and with their extremely low windscreen belt lines and intelligent camera systems are built to maximise safety on the road. DAF’s XF, XG and XG+ for heavy-duty work and long distance transport and the XD series (for national and regional distribution) won the ‘International Truck of the Year Award’ twice in a row. The XD and XF are also available with a fully electric powertrain and have a range of up to 500 emissionfree kilometres on a single charge.
READY FOR THE FUTURE
DAF is fully prepared for the future. Not only thanks to its new generation of vehicles but also because the company continues to work hard on innovative transport solutions. For instance, DAF is developing zero-emission hydrogen engines that emit nothing but water vapor. At the same time, DAF’s parent company, PACCAR, is conducting tests with ultra-clean fuel cell technology and forging ahead with the development of electric powertrains.
The Efficiency Champions
MST Transport embarks on new business venture
A Moira based Transport company with a history of hauling steel has recently embarked on a new business venture selling almost-new trucks.
MST (Michael Scott Taylor)
Transport was established just 28 years ago but boss Michael has been working in the transport industry since 1988.
The business started out, as many in the haulage industry, with one man and one truck, with Michael driving a truck working for Armstrong Steel.
Working for several years with Armstrong Steel, Michael added a couple of lorries and the business started to grow.
Michael explains that at that point they were 100% doing work for Armstrong Steel and TATA Steel, and the business grew to a point they had seven trucks on the road.
“Then Armstrong Steel pulled out of Northern Ireland, and we were concerned about what would happen next but actually the phone started ringing. A lot of people we had been dealing with over the years supported, and things started going again for us” said Michael. They also did all the deliveries in Northern Ireland for Gwynedd Shipping. Then after a 19 year
relationship with MST, Gwynedd went into administration in Jan 2024 and, for a short time at least, MST were back to square one again.
Fortunately, with the good contacts Michael made over his years in the business and, with MST’s reputation standing them in good stead. They are steadily recovering from the blow of losing the Gwynedd Shipping contact and
are steadily growing the business again, continuing to do a lot of steel work throughout Ireland
With 16-17 trucks on the road and their own workshops MST operate a mixture of flat beds and curtainsiders and have 32 staff on the payroll including drivers, technicians and those who work in the office.
MST is primarily a family business and Michael along
Law Distribution put DAF LF Electric through its paces
Law Distribution has hailed the strong performance of a 19-tonne DAF LF Electric after it put the zero-emission curtainsider through its paces in, and around, Liverpool.
The family-run business, headquartered in Haydock, is a member of the Palletline network, and worked the DAF 4x2 hard in a two-week trial that saw it making daytime deliveries and collections of palletised goods. The vehicles were supplied by Asset Alliance Group
John Law, Managing Director at Law Distribution, says: “We have held off a little when it comes to electric as, like many operators, we were uncertain about how best to integrate the technology into our operations. However, when Asset Alliance Group offered the DAF LF Electric, a model that we are familiar with, we jumped at the chance.
“My drivers loved it as it’s very smooth to drive, there’s minimal vibration and it’s quiet, which is ideal for urban work in city centres. Decarbonising our fleet is a hugely important aim, and while we’re at the beginning of that journey, the electric DAF
exceeded our expectations as a work tool.”
Law Distribution charged the LF’s battery overnight via a three-phase power circuit at its depot, which the business also uses to charge its electric forklifts.
with his wife have their two sons working in the business.
“Darrell is our Operations Manager, and Ashley works alongside the garage team, responsible for maintaining the fleet of vehicles and trailers.” continues Michael.
The truck sales part of the business came about through Michael’s relationship with WS Transportation in the UK and, from purchasing nearly new trucks for his own fleet from Smith Bros.
“Smith Bros were thinking of opening up a place in Northern Ireland to sell second- hand trucks, and they said to me – ‘you know the hauliers and the spec of our trucks’, so I thought I would give it a go.”
“We are a local agent for Smith Bros here in Northern Ireland. They are the exclusive direct retailer for all pre-owned WS Transportation and A.W. Jenkinson trucks.
Michael said business has been ‘nice and steady’ so far and their stock consists of Scania trucks between one and two years old. “It’s all good fresh stock, which can be hard to get hold of, and we are finding there is a market here for these type of vehicles” continues Michael.
Richard Worthington, Business Development Manager for Northern Region at Asset Alliance Group, facilitated the trial.
Asset Alliance Group, which is already a leader in the supply of electric buses and coaches, will be conducting electric truck trials throughout this year, supporting customers’ green journeys.
Rob Gwynn, who was recruited earlier this year as Strategic Development Manager at Asset Alliance Group as part of this ambition, says: “We were really pleased to offer Law Distribution a trial of the DAF LF Electric truck. The feedback has been encouraging and the ease at which the vehicle fitted into their operation demonstrates that in the right application, electric works and works very well.
“We look forward to supporting Law Distribution on their decarbonisation journey, as part of our emerging strategy to work with all our customers, advising on the right alternative fuel and associated infrastructure for their specific needs.”
Law Distribution has also recently added five Mercedes-Benz Actros 2548 BigSpace tractor units on contract hire from Asset Alliance Group. The renewals maintain its fleet at close to 50, with three-quarters of those assets having been supplied by the commercial vehicle specialist.
BREDAGH GAC
• AT&T are proud to support Bredagh GAC U15.
• The team travelled to Mayo in June to participate in the All-Ireland Féile at the Connacht Centre of Excellence, where they faced the best teams in Ireland in their age category.
• The boys were crowned Féile na nÓg Division 1 Shield Winners 2024.
• Well done to the team and management from all of us at AT&T!
RIDGEWAY ROVERS
• AT&T are proud to sponsor Ridgeway Rovers FC U11 boys’ soccer team their new home and away kits.
• We wish them the best of luck in the upcoming Foyle Cup tournament in July as they compete with over 650 teams from all over the world.
AT&T Rentals are proud to have been able to support both teams. As a company we value the importance of sport within the community for the health and development of our children, we have been delighted to lend our support.
Renault Trucks steps up its action by electrifying its in-house logistics
As a key player in the decarbonisation of transport, Renault Trucks is pressing ahead with its initiatives by electrifying its in-house logistics flows.
The first stage of this project involves the electrification of axle transport between its Lyon and Bourg-en-Bresse plants. The 450,000 km 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.
“Applying here at Renault Trucks the solutions we offer our customers.” This is how Renault Trucks could sum up its approach to the electrification of logistics, which has been up and running for a few days now.
Thanks to the launch of the electric 44-tonne truck, which marks a real step forward in inter-regional and mid- distance e-distribution, the French manufacturer has decided to switch to Renault Trucks E-Tech
T 4×2 tractors for the supply of goods to the Bourg-en-Bresse plant.
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-enBresse 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
Radius appoints all Island Head of Group Operations
Radius Vehicle Solutions (RVS), the only all-island provider of car and van leasing services has appointed Natasha Ramsay as its new Head of Group Operations across both Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, to drive the company on through the industry’s biggest gear shift in history.
As a key division of the global Radius Group, Radius is Ireland’s premier fleet and connectivity partner, serving over 60,000 customers across seven specialised business units and through Ireland’s largest fuel card network, DCI, which it owns and operates. Its comprehensive vehicle solutions business, RVS offers a convenient one-stop shop for fleet management services throughout the entire island of Ireland, with a fleet of 4,000 vehicles currently in operation. Natasha is paving the way for woman into senior roles. As a seasoned Operations Executive with over 24 years of experience within the Motor Industry, Natasha has proven success in driving Operations, Client Services and Customer Excellence and building and developing agile team across operational and sales functions. Natasha joins RVS with a Master’s in Business Management, having previously held multiple senior and executive positions and is adept in executing change management with a blend of practical skills and expertise. As the motoring industry navigates through its most profound change, RVS continues to adapt and evolve to remain market leaders and making strategic appointments such as Natasha Ramsay.
With Government setting ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions, the imperative shift towards sustainable technologies becomes non-negotiable, an area where RVS remains steadfast in propelling solutions through its leasing and fleet management services. Vehicle manufacturers are intensifying their efforts in producing electric vehicles and continuing their research and development to explore alternative sustainable technologies like hydrogen fuel cells and biofuels. It is important for RVS to maintain a leading edge and stay abreast of these developments, with access to the latest vehicle models, technological innovations, and market insights that are instrumental in our transition towards a greener future.
Paul McGuire, Managing Director of Radius Vehicle Solutions said: “Our industry is experiencing the biggest shift in its history with decarbonisation, electrification, digital connectivity and shifting attitudes towards sustainability all more prevalent than ever before. To be at the forefront of these changes we need all our people in RVS to have an enthusiastic and have a progressive outlook on the industry and that is exactly what we have with Natasha. We are thrilled
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.
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.
“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.
Natasha Ramsay.
to have Natasha join our team and lead from the front as Head of Group Operations. Natasha has a wealth of knowledge in the motoring industry and will be crucial as we drive RVS into its next stage of growth, cementing our place as market leaders.”
Natasha Ramsay said: “I have always been passionate about the motor industry. Now as we are experiencing the most transformative phase that the industry has gone through, it is an extremely exciting time for me to be joining RVS at this juncture. Through our flexible approach and our comprehensive suite of service offerings, RVS distinguishes itself with a forward-looking ethos that resonates deeply with my own aspirations. Our commitment to supporting customers and facilitating their journey towards fleet optimisation and sustainable mobility is a mission we all embrace as a team. I am grateful to be part of the Radius team, as we embark on this transformative journey collectively, navigating the evolving landscape of the industry.”
UNPACKING THE VERSATILITY OF THE LAND ROVER DEFENDER
Following the extended test drive featured in Export & Freight magazine’s May issue, with Charles Hurst we are excited to delve deeper into the specifications and capabilities of the Land Rover Defender models available. From the compact Defender 90 to the spacious Defender 130, each variant offers unique attributes catering to a variety of needs and preferences.
MODEL HIGHLIGHTS AND SPECIFICATIONS
The Land Rover Defender stands as the epitome of rugged elegance and relentless capability. Available at Charles Hurst, this all-terrain hero is engineered to conquer the most challenging conditions with extreme performance and durability. Whether navigating urban landscapes or embarking on off-road adventures, the Defender’s robust design and cutting-edge technology ensure an unparalleled driving experience.
DEFENDER 90
The Defender 90 is the most compact model in the lineup, but do not let its size fool you. This three-door version is designed for agility and performance both on and off the road. With a shorter wheelbase, it excels in maneuverability, making it ideal for urban environments and tight trails. Inside, the Defender 90 offers seating for up to six passengers with the optional front jump seat. Despite its smaller stature, it does not compromise on luxury or technology, featuring the latest Meridian sound system, and advanced driver assistance features.
DEFENDER 110
The Defender 110 strikes a balance between space and performance, offering five doors and a more extended wheelbase compared to the Defender 90. This model provides seating for up to seven passengers, thanks to the optional third-row seats. The increased cabin space enhances comfort for all occupants, making it perfect for family adventures and long-distance travel. Additionally, the Defender 110 boasts a larger cargo area, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats, providing substantial storage capacity. Like the Defender 90, it comes equipped with cutting-edge technologies and safety features, ensuring every journey is both enjoyable and secure.
EACH MODEL IN THE DEFENDER RANGE IS POWERED BY A ROBUST SELECTION OF ENGINES, INCLUDING THE EFFICIENT YET POWERFUL D250 AND D300 DIESEL OPTIONS.
DEFENDER 130
For those requiring the upmost space and versatility, the Defender 130 is the ultimate choice. This model extends the body length to accommodate up to eight passengers across three rows of seating, without sacrificing any of the off-road prowess that the Defender name is known for. The Defender 130 is ideal for larger families or groups who need ample room for both passengers and their gear. Whether you are heading out on a weekend camping trip or navigating rugged terrain, the Defender 130 delivers unmatched comfort and capability.
Each model in the Defender range is powered by a robust selection of engines, including the efficient yet powerful D250 and D300 diesel options. The vehicle also features advanced four-wheel-drive systems and various Terrain Response modes, enabling them to tackle any driving condition with ease.
Explore the full range of Defender models at Charles Hurst Land Rover and discover why this iconic vehicle continues to set the standard for all-terrain excellence. Visit us today to experience the Defender firsthand and find the perfect model to suit your adventurous spirit.
FOR DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS AND TO SCHEDULE A TEST DRIVE, VISIT CHARLES HURST LAND ROVER.
Derry Bros showcase latest innovations at MultiModal 2024
Technology innovation took centre stage on Derry Bros Shipping & Customs Clearance’s stand when the company attended Multimodal, the UK’s leading supply chain conference and logistics exhibition in June.
On their stand, the company showcased its comprehensive range of managed freight and transport solutions, as well as launching some exciting updates to its digital customs clearance platform, Digicom.
“We are continually enhancing our cross-border solutions through the adoption of cutting-edge innovations, so we are excited to be revealing our latest developments at Multimodal,” explains Colin Robb, Operations Director at Derry Bros Shipping & Customs Clearance. The event provided an ideal stage to share their expertise to existing and potential
customers and partners, supporting smooth and efficient movement of goods across Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe.
Digicom has been developed to enable smart, efficient and legal customs clearance. The award-winning digital solution streamlines what was previously a multi-system process into a single, easy-to-use platform. As a result, it can save both time and money for haulage and freight businesses, while supporting effective cross-border trade. The new functionality, set to be introduced at Multimodal, will further enhance the capabilities of the
system for the UK and Republic of Ireland.
“The pan-European transport and logistics marketplace is evolving, with new and updated border legislation being implemented, so it is essential that we constantly adapt to keep pace with these changes and continue to deliver an industry-leading service. Our innovative Digicom platform is a core part of our growing customs clearance proposition, which is enabling our customers to streamline their processes and cut overheads,” added Robb.
Diamond Trucks acquires Border Trucks
Diamond Trucks, the Renault Trucks dealer which operates from two sites in Northern Ireland and Warrington, Cheshire, has announced its acquisition of Border Trucks, Carlisle, the Renault Trucks sales and service dealership for the area bordering Scotland and England.
Part of the Setanta Group, Dublin, Diamond Trucks has built a longstanding reputation for service excellence in Mallusk, Belfast, extending its presence across the water with the opening of Diamond Trucks Warrington in 2022. Under the group structure, Border Trucks will continue to operate as an independent business, with Stephen Whitehead remaining with the business as Director and Dealer Principal.
Commenting on the announcement, Harry Nash, Director, Diamond Trucks, says: “We continue to see significant value in the Renault Trucks brand and
product range, which is gaining market share and confidence across the industry. Border Trucks bring a wealth of experience especially in the construction sector having strong partnerships with many of the key suppliers in this area, and we look forward to working with Stephen and the team to further develop the Renault Trucks brand in the Border region.”
Stephen Whitehead adds: “Joining the Setanta Group under their Diamond Trucks umbrella will bring greater opportunities to Border Trucks in terms of access to new suppliers and customers as well as greater buying power.
Schmitz Cargobull deliver first
UK-built trailers to Tapfreight
Each S.CS FIXED ROOF semi-trailer has a straight front wall for free side loading and tarpaulin tensioning, an XL load securing side curtain with standard anti-theft protection and a Schmitz Cargobull aluminium roof which allows a side loading height of 3,100mm.
Leading trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull has recently delivered 11 trailers, built here in the UK, to Barnsley business Tapfreight. Tapfreight, a speciality chemical and pharmaceutical transport and warehousing company, has taken delivery of 11 new Schmitz Cargobull S.CS FIXED ROOF curtainsider semi-trailers.
The Barnsley-based business will pair the new trailers – built at Schmitz Cargobull’s production facility in Manchester – with its modern DAF and Mercedes-Benz tractor units to transport chemical goods and general freight across the UK.
Bob Milton, Director at Tapfreight, says: “These are the first trailers we have had from Schmitz Cargobull and we’ve been hugely impressed from start to finish. The price point was very
appealing and when I went to inspect the trailers, I was really struck by the build quality. Now we have physically taken delivery of the trailers that quality has been reinforced.”
Supplied by Aaron Howarth, Area Sales Manager East Midlands at Schmitz Cargobull, the new S.CS FIXED ROOF curtainsiders comply with DIN EN 12642 Code XL load security regulations and feature a bulkhead specific for the British market. They are built on Schmitz Cargobull’s fully galvanised MODULOS chassis which comes with a 10-year warranty against rust-through and have ROTOS axles covered by a 1,000,000km or six-year warranty, whichever comes first.
They are also fitted with Schmitz Cargobull’s TrailerConnect® telematics as standard, which provides 24/7 monitoring of the trailer’s exact location, plus other important data including tyre mileage, speed and axle load.
“The lead time was another plus point for us,” adds Milton. “And the level of service we have received has been first class. Aaron has been hugely helpful, and the whole Schmitz Cargobull team has been a pleasure to work with.”
Tapfreight has more than 30 years’ experience in the transport and warehousing of hazardous chemicals and temperature-controlled pharmaceuticals. The business has earned an outstanding reputation of quality and reliability in these highly regulated sectors, backed by ISO9001:2015, SQAS and an MHRA Wholesale Distributors licence.
Harry Nash –MD of Diamond Trucks.
Stephen Whitehead –Dealer Principal of Border Trucks.
EXPERIENCE CLEAR VISION, A FOCUSED MIND AND A SEAMLESS JOURNEY
At the Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group, we
offer a range
of Ophthalmology treatments and procedures within our Belfast, North West (Ballykelly) and Sligo hospitals.
Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine which deals with the diseases and surgery of the visual pathways, including the eye and surrounding areas. Our specialised Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons are available to examine, diagnose and treat any concerns you may have.
A consultation with a Kingsbridge Ophthalmologist includes a full medical history regarding your symptoms, individualised eye tests and discussion of results. Your consultant will discuss a care management plan with you, including further investigations and surgery if required.
If it is decided that surgery is the next step, then Kingsbridge Private Hospital can offer a comprehensive variety of specialised operations that will
suit not only those with a clinical need but also those who have cosmetic needs. Some of our operations available include:
TREATMENT FOR DRY EYES
Dry eyes is a common condition that occurs when your tears aren’t able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This tear instability leads to inflammation and damage of the eye’s surface. Dry eyes can feel uncomfortable and may cause your eyes to sting or feel irritated or painful. If you are experiencing prolonged signs and symptoms of dry eyes, don’t delay. Treatments can include lifestyle changes and eye drops to help control your symptoms.
EYELID SURGERY
Cosmetic eyelid surgery (also known as a blepharoplasty) involves removing excess skin or fat from around the eyes to give a more alert and youthful appearance. Eyelid surgery can also help to reduce swelling (puffiness) around the eyes first thing in the morning. Blepharoplasty is a type of surgery that our Ophthalmologists at Kingsbridge Private Hospital can perform on the upper eyelids to remove excess skin and fat from around the eyes. Sagging eyebrows or eyelids can also be corrected at the same time.
CATARACT SURGERY
Cataract Surgery is a common procedure used to treat cataracts and blurred vision affecting your daily eyesight and activities.
It is a simple operation to remove the cloudy lens inside your eye, replacing it with a clear artificial lens. As a result, the blurred vision will be reduced, and you will be able to see more clearly. Cataracts can be removed at any stage, so you don’t need to wait until your eyesight is badly affected to have this simple operation and to restore your clarity of sight.
The condition can develop in one or both eyes. If you have cataracts in both eyes, it is recommended that you have them removed one at a time, starting with the eye that is most severely affected.
CLEARER VISION WITH LASER PRECISION
We are delighted to be adding Laser Eye Surgery to our wide range of Ophthalmology services which will be launching in August within our Belfast locationKingsbridge Diagnostic and Treatment Centre.
This is an exciting addition to our Ophthalmology service led by a team of experts using the newest equipment on the market. This makes Kingsbridge Eye Clinic one of the leading Laser Eye Services across Ireland.
GOOD LUCK
Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group is delighted to be sponsoring “Truck of the Year” at the Export & Freight Transport & Logistics Awards 2024. We would like to wish all those shortlisted the very best of luck.
John Martin
RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.
DO YOU OPERATE AN HGV OF MORE THAN 12 TONNE GROSS WEIGHT IN LONDON?
Will you be ready for the introduction of the DVS Standard on the 28th October 2024?
If you operate a HGV with a maximum permissible gross weight exceeding 12 tonnes in London, you will need to comply with new Direct Vision Standard (DVS) Progressive Safe System (PSS) criteria from 28 October 2024 or face a £550 daily fine.
All lorries over 12 tonnes operating in the capital after 28 October 2024 must have equipment fitted that complies with the new DVS standard. The aim of the new DVS standard is to improve the “direct vision” of an HGV by installing the latest equipment that can detect if a collision with a road user such as a cyclist or pedestrian is imminent – this is so that the driver can then take corrective action.
To help operators understand what is required, an explainer was published in June by Transport for London’s technical advisers, Loughborough University, which sets out what a PSS-compliant Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) and Moving Off Information System (MOIS) should and shouldn’t do. This follows
concerns that the original technical specifications released by Transport for London (TfL) last year were confusing, which the explainer now addresses. General information from TfL about DVS can be found here: https://tfl.gov. uk/info-for/deliveries-in-london/deliveringsafely/direct-vision-in-heavy-goods-vehicles
With the explainer now in place, the RHA is lobbying TfL to extend the “grace period” before charges for non-compliance apply from an original three months to at least 12 months from 28 October 2024. This is to allow operators the time needed to source and install kit that complies with the new DVS standard. As a minimum, the BSIS system must detect pedestrians and cyclists in the detection area
that is 2.2m from the side of the vehicle and 9m rearwards of the front of the vehicle as shown in Figure 1 below. As Figure 1 shows, there is a 100mm wide gap between the side of the vehicle and the detection zone. Detection of pedestrians and cyclists should occur for vehicle speeds between 0 km/h and 30 km/h. When a pedestrian or cyclist is in the detection area, the system must inform the driver of their presence using an information signal.
a. This information signal is intended to activate in common situations where cyclists and pedestrians are in close proximity to the side of the vehicle e.g. a cyclist travelling parallel with the vehicle, or a pedestrian is standing next to vehicle when it is stationary. These situations are part of ‘normal driving’. The signal is intended to inform the driver that the person is there, so that they can choose not to make a turn or any other action that might create a collision risk.
b. To reduce distraction to the driver in these instances the information signal issued by the system must not use an audible alarm.
c. Typical display designs will utilise an area or icon which illuminates when there is pedestrian or cyclist in the area.
d. This display should be located in the cab in a manner which does not block any part of the direct vision that a driver has through the windscreen. The display should draw the attention of the driver to the side of the vehicle where the hazard is located or where it can be seen (e.g. in a mirror/monitor). The display should be located in the green zone shown in 2. In order to reduce the number of locations that a driver needs to view to gather information, the BSIS information and warning signals can be integrated in the CMS display. When a pedestrian or cyclist is in the detection area AND there is an imminent risk of collision, then the BSIS must WARN the driver.
a. An imminent collision is a collision that will happen in a few seconds if action is not taken. e.g. If a vehicle travelling parallel
John Martin
RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.
to a cyclist in the detection zone, makes a significant turn toward the cyclist, then a collision will quickly become imminent, and a warning will be required.
b. Other situations could also trigger a warning as long as they would result in a collision a very short time later without avoiding action by the driver. However, it is not mandatory that the system activates for every conceivable imminent collision, only that it activates for the clearly targeted situation where the vehicle turns toward the cyclist.
c. The system must not rely solely on the use of the left turn indicator as the method to show that a collision is imminent, as drivers sometimes do not use indicators.
d. The one example of a situation that does not constitute an imminent collision, is where a cyclist is travelling parallel with a vehicle. They can continue to do so for ever without colliding, even if they are very close, maybe less than 1m apart. In the most extreme example, a pedestrian can stand almost touching a stationary HGV and remain there all day without a collision occurring.
e. Simple measures of how close to the vehicle the pedestrian or cyclist is positioned are NOT enough to make a collision “imminent”.
This sort of situation is no longer ‘normal driving’, it is a time and safety critical situation, and these are rare. As such an urgent warning is needed:
f. This warning signal must be different to the information signal. It must provide a least two of the following warning types:
i. An audible (tonal) warning ii. A visual warning which can be in the same display location as the information signal as long as it is distinctly different to the information signal. E.g. flashing iii. A haptic (vibration) warning g. These requirements are a minimum. Note that audible warnings using the spoken word are not usually considered to be urgent warnings because the time taken to deliver and understand the spoken message is generally too long for a warning where action may be needed in less than 2 seconds from warning start. However, if applied in conjunction with an urgent tonal warning, they can provide context and understanding to the driver as to why the warning was issued. This article must be read in conjunction with
the Loughborough University’s explainer. We expect a decision on the final “grace period” to be made on 18 July. Meanwhile, the RHA encourages operators who service London to source compliant kit and make arrangements for it to be installed. Applications are also now being accepted by TfL for operators to apply for a new permit confirming that the operator has installed kit which complies with the new standard – see: https://tfl.gov.uk/ modes/driving/dvs-safety-permit-application/
The RHA has also produced an FAQ document to help operators navigate what they need to do to ensure they are compliant – see: https://www.rha.uk.net/Portals/0/Campaigns/ Direct-Vision-Standard-Progressive-SafeSystem-PSS-FAQ-September-2023-v1. pdf?ver=2023-09-13-110043-137
LEARNING TO FLYOR DRIVE AT LEAST…
BY AUSTIN LYNCH
Once you have completed the theory part of getting your LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) driving licence it’s time to get behind the wheel of a truck.
As everyone who goes for their Category C licence – for vehicles up to 32 tonnes - will already have a car licence, you can go out on the road straightaway to begin learning, provided you have a trained driving instructor accompanying you.
I reported to the Nutts Corner base of TTS (Transport Training Services) early on Monday morning to begin an intensive week of driver training where I met Colin, my instructor and another trainee driver who would go through the week of training with me.
Pairing up with another driver trainee makes sense not only for TTS but for the drivers, as you are learning not only when you are driving, but when you are watching the other trainee drive as well.
First, we got introduced to the truck we would be driving for the week – a Mercedes rigid with a gross weight of 28 tonnes. Before you even go near the controls, there is a lot to learn about truck you will be driving. Yes, a lot of the specifics will
have been covered in the theory you have studied but each truck will be different and you need to know as much as possible about your workhorse.
WALK-AROUND CHECK
Every driver does it every day, but there really is no better way to get to know the vehicle you are about to do a day’s work in than the going right around it as per your daily walk-around check. As logistics companies get more computerized, this may now be
done on a tablet, or via an app, but by whatever method it still needs to be done. You don’t quite have to kick the tyres, but you do have to check them, along with the windscreen, mirrors, bodywork, lights and everything else that will impact on how the vehicle will drive, how you see how, and how other road users see you.
Colin explained in detail what to look out for, explaining that this isn’t only an essential part of driving a truck – but it is also a question you will more than likely be asked as part of your CPC Module 4, more commonly known as ‘Show and Tell’.
To get your CPC card, this is another test which must be completed by the trainee driver.
BACKWARDS –THEN FORWARDS
When you first get behind the wheel, the first manoeuvre to learn is reversing. Obviously, an important task to master as not only will you be driving forward but no doubt when you get to your destination you may have to back into a loading bay, or park your vehicle in such a way that it doesn’t inconvenience other road users. Then comes the good part – driving this truck out on the open road! And the surprising thing is, as Colin points out, a truck of this size drives remarkably like a big car and is easier than you might imagine to manoeuvre and control – whether out on the open road, or when you get into an urban setting, both of which are the natural habitat of these type of trucks….
CITY SMART
The road to Belfast over the mountain from Nutts Corner is narrow and twisty, but is perfect to get the feel of how a vehicle you’ve never driven before behaves. In parts narrow with uphill sections, and then plenty of downhill it is a good training route all by itself. But when you have a fully qualified instructor beside you giving you tips and pointing out what you have to look out for, then it’s easy to see why this is the route taken by most new trainees towards Belfast. Sure, the heading towards Moira and then down the M1 might be more straightforward (although slower and quite a bit longer), the mountain road as I will call it could almost be described as a ‘baptism for fire’ for the novice truck/lorry driver. Anyone who remembers anything about learning to drive will know
the routine was always - Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre! Add in another check of your mirrors before you move, and you are getting an idea about just how important those big shiny things sticking out of each side of your vehicle really are. What you realize fairly quickly is that you are in a large vehicle, but
A truck driver is not concerned about what’s behind them –because they can’t possibly see what’s back there. What’s important, we learned, is what’s beside you, and in front of you. And by diligent and frequent use of your mirrors, and looking carefully out the windscreen you should be able to monitor
drivers are more aware than you might realize that this is a large vehicle with ‘L’ plates on it – and as such you can expect some professional courtesy from some –not all – other road users. But this is a two-way street, and as a large vehicle driver you must also show courtesy to your fellow motorist, and adjust your driving accordingly.
these two areas successfully. A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to drive a truck on a test track that had cameras instead of side mirrors, with screens inside showing you what’s beside and behind. But I am glad I am learning to drive on a truck with actual mirrors, and where you don’t rely on technology to check your
blind spot before moving off – but rather you bend you neck and make sure that almost invisible area right over your right shoulder is empty of people or objects. There are a number of test locations across the North for the LGV practical driving test, but TTS put a lot of their trainees through Boucher Road, and therefore their practice driving routes around Belfast tend to start and end close to here – as it will mirror the route of your test, when that comes along.
The week of driving training is fairly intense, and tiring when you consider each practice test route we undertake is the same as a mock test – 1 hour driving or 26 miles. And between me and my fellow trainee we did a number of these in a week of training.
SHOW AND TELL
In addition to taking the driving test, candidates must also do a 45 minute (approx.) Module 4 of the CPC test which is called ‘Show and Tell’.
For this, you attend the DVA test centre, and without driving the truck you are asked a number of questions by the examiner about the truck which aim to test your knowledge of a LGV, and your understanding of how it operates, and the knowledge you require to load and drive this vehicle safely and with consideration for other road users. My part 4 went well, and I passed this but unfortunately I wasn’t so lucky with the practical driving test – failing at my first attempt almost before it had even started when I hit a cone during the reverse manoeuvre. But going through the test itself is good learning experience in itself… TO BE CONTINUED
Austin Lynch, Editor, Export & Freight.
LEARNING TO DRIVE – PART 1
When I joined the team at Export and Freight, little did I realize that not only would I be writing about trucks and transport & logistics companies, but the job also involves the opportunity to drive the newest and most up to date heavy goods vehicles on the road – and then review them for the magazine.
In my previous career as a journalist I did plenty of test drives – but most of these were on cars, and possibly a few vans. But that was no problem as I have a driving licence for a car. However, to legally get behind the wheel of a truck, I need a HGV licence.
PAPERWORK
Like applying for anything, there is a certain amount of necessary paperwork to do, and in this case that involves applying for a provisional licence to allow you to complete driver training. As all HGV drivers will know, you need to have a medical examination – and an eye test – before sending off your application. And then once you receive your provisional it’s time to start learning
as there are three theory tests to complete!
For years now, anyone applying for any sort of driving licence has had to take a driver theory test, but this wasn’t about when I passed my driving test – so this was a whole new experience for me.
Module 1 LGV (Large Goods Vehicle)
Theory Test consists of 100 multiple choice questions and mixes Highway Code with more specific questions relating to working as the driver of a large goods vehicle.
Like all three tests, the LGV theory test is completed in one of a number of DVA testing centres across the North under very strict test conditions. If you haven’t been for a theory test recently prepare to be searched, turn off and lock away all smart devices – and even surrender your tissues! There are various online study aids out there – and I recommend using them, as there is a lot to learn. From different weight categories, to rules governing use of a tachograph, drivers hours and breaks and all the things a driver must be aware of before setting out to deliver a truck load of goods.
With a high pass mark of 85/100 you really need to know your stuff to get over this first hurdle along the road to becoming a professional driver. And while I may have fallen at the first, I picked myself up and got over this obstacle at the second time of asking. You also have to complete Module 1 Hazard Perception, which tests how a driver anticipates developing hazards while driving, and this test is also taken in one of the DVA test centres, and can be taken on the same day as the theory if you are feeling brave.
If you want to use your licence professionally there is a third test you must complete - Module 2 Case Study. This test consists of seven case studies with a number of multiple choice questions based on these – 50 questions in total. Again, the aim is to test your knowledge and reaction to certain circumstances that a driver may face in the course of his or her work.
Despite getting a few sticky ones about first aid, I passed this which allowed me to proceed to the next stage – driver training!
MONTGOMERY TRANSPORT GROUP “FOCUSED ON OUR CUSTOMERS, DRIVEN BY OUR PEOPLE”
The origins of the Montgomery Transport Group dates back to 1970 when it was established with just a single tractor unit and was the first Ballyvesey Holdings company. Its first depot was opened in Leyland, with a two berth caravan in the corner of another hauliers yard.
Fast forward to the end of the 90s when the Northern Ireland based business started, the turnover of Montgomery Transport Group was around £60million with 400+ employees. Having celebrated its 50th anniversary, it has grown to become one of the largest privately owned transport companies in the UK, operating from multiple sites, with a fleet of over 250 trucks and 1500+ trailers. Today it operates in seven different areas –including transport, distribution and freight management - and over the next few months, Export & Freight will be highlighting each, starting with its Customs Brokerage service.
CUSTOMS BROKERAGE TEAM OFFERS TAILORED SERVICE
Providing a wide range of customs services to its broader customer base, its Customs Brokerage team of in-house experts are
always on hand to explain and de-mystify the often-complex world of customs regulations, so you can rest assured that, whatever your needs, you will have the right guidance and support throughout the entire process so you don’t have to worry about changes in customs regulations and legislation, tricky procedures, documentation, and communicating with government bodies. Such has been the steady success of the Customs Brokerage Service that it has grown from being an in-house support function to a standalone business unit, offering a range of services for custom clearance regardless of if the Montgomery Transport Group is physically transporting the goods or not; it is a service in its own market and another business that strengthens the group’s offering.
“We provide a streamlined one-stop-shop service, wherein goods can be transported,
cleared with customs, and managed throughout their movement,” says Montgomery Freight Management’s Managing Director Rachael Forshaw. “This expedites goods movements and alleviates the problems that come from working with 3rd parties. Managing everything in-house gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on what matters most: your products and your customers.”
It is clear that Imports and Exports are the Montgomery Customs Brokerage team’s passion. “Almost every customs clearance is different, both when importing and exporting goods, and our team have completed tens of thousands of these clearances.
“Our customs agents undergo a thorough and in-depth training programme to ensure they are doing more than entering information provided. They truly understand the how and the why. Our tailored customs software allows us to not only complete entries faster, but also with high- level accuracy and detail. This means that your goods move through Customs and the ports faster, further expediting the process. Much of which is a result of our ongoing relationships with individuals not only in the industry, but also within government bodies and customs regulatory authorities.”
It’s a highly proactive team, too. Take the recent HMRC’s decision to swap its Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system on 31 March 2023, to a Customs Declaration Service (CDS), a system founded on world-leading technology to serve as the UK’s single customs platform.
Montgomery’s Customs Brokerage team anticipated the changes well ahead of the switch-over. They were completing GB import declarations via CDS for more than a year earlier and they took the necessary steps to ensure customers were ready to
make the change well in advance.
CDS has been developed over a number of years in consultation with the border industry and provides a more secure and stable platform that has the capacity and capability to grow in line with the government’s ambitious trade plans. The move to one system for all imports and exports also deliver savings for the taxpayer.
“Customers are our priority. This means that integrity and accuracy are of upmost importance to us. We have one of the best teams in the industry and pride ourselves in getting every clearance right the first time, ensuring that all your goods are claimed correctly, down to the last package, gram, and penny.”
To that end, Montgomery Group’s
Customs Brokerage website https:// montgomerytransportgroup.com deals with some of the more common areas they are asked about to help you understand the processes and regulatory compliance, such as the Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number which is a registration for parties who trade internationally and exchange information with Customs authorities.
Commodity Codes is another subject covered on the website. Where EORI numbers identify companies, commodity codes are used to identify products to customs and other regulatory authorities. Commodity codes primarily ensure declaration of the correct goods and products. Also explained on the website are Incoterms,
which help facilitate International Trade by Clarifying who is responsible for transportation and insurance costs. They provide standardised and agreed reference points regarding transfer of ownership, transfer of risk, insurance, mode of transport and cross-border taxes between a Buyer and a Seller in a Sales/Shipping Contract.
OFFERING CUSTOMERS
PEACE OF MIND
There is no doubt, that by allowing Montgomery Transport Group to manage all your needs in-house, whether it be customs, transport, freight management or distribution - gives you peace of mind and will enable you to focus on what matters most - your products and your customers.
WIDE RANGE OF CUSTOMS SERVICES CUSTOMS BROKERAGE
Montgomery Transport Group provides a wide range of customs services to its broader customer base.
With a team of in-house experts on hand to explain and de-mystify the often-complex world of customs regulations you can rest assured that, whatever your needs, we are on hand to offer guidance and support throughout the process.
Nichola Mallon
Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK
NORTHERN IRELAND UNIQUELY POSITIONED FOR GROWTH
With the appointment of a new government in Westminster, and the new Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaking to the Taoiseach on day one and coming to Northern Ireland on day two in the job, there is real hope that a reset in relationships across these islands, and between the UK and the EU, will create a policy environment in which the logistics sector can thrive and drive economic growth.
Logistics sits at the heart of all economic activity across these islands and plays a vital role in growth and economic development. Without logistics, there is no trade. Logistics enabled Northern Ireland to export goods to the value of £19.56 billion in 2022. The contribution the sector already makes to the success of our economy cannot be understated but we also know significantly more opportunities could be forthcoming if our industry can realise its full potential, and that will be achieved by harnessing the power from prioritising the growth of logistics as a sector. This will require partnership working between the new Labour government in Westminster, the NI Executive, the Irish government and wider EU. In its new report “Logistics: underpinning Northern Ireland’s economy”, Logistics UK explains why this partnership approach is essential by highlighting the significance of the sector to the Northern Irish economy and identifying five key areas where it believes the NI Executive must focus attention to drive sustainable growth: unlocking investment through public-private partnerships; innovative and integrated infrastructure; a fair transition to a green economy, addressing the skills challenge, and growing trade by building on easements under the Windsor Framework and maximising Northern Ireland’s unique selling point and market access to Great Britain and the EU. Public-private partnership to boost productivity and sustainable growth
Strategic partnerships between the NI Executive and logistics businesses would play a significant role in future economic development, by unlocking investment and enabling the sector to maximise the benefit it delivers. Across these islands governments, in recognising the critical role of the sector, have developed strategies to support the logistics industry. The Irish government launched the Road Haulage Strategy 2022-2031. In Westminster the government adopted the Future of Freight Plan. Scotland has a Rail Freight Strategy and Logistics UK is currently working with the Welsh government to co-design
the new Freight and Logistics Plan for Wales. We need the same support in Northern Ireland and the industry stands ready to work in partnership with the NI Executive to co-design a NI Logistics Strategy covering infrastructure, planning, innovation, decarbonisation, skills and trade.
Innovative and integrated infrastructure
Our new report emphasises the importance of interconnected infrastructure to utilise different transport modes efficiently, including a strong and realistic role for rail freight as part of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review. It also identifies key infrastructure priorities for Northern Ireland including the delivery of York Street Interchange; upgrade of the A1; delivery of the Newry Southern Relief Road and crucially delivery of the A5 to improve road safety and connectivity and competitiveness in the West.
A fair transition to a green economy
The report stresses how a fair transition to net zero is key to ensuring Northern Ireland maximises the impact of a thriving logistics sector. The logistics sector is committed to playing its part to help achieve net zero and recognises its responsibilities to facilitate this shift, but genuine decarbonisation must be a fair transition underpinned by an agreed roadmap to phase-out fossil fuels, based on the availability of affordable fuel, technology, infrastructure investment, regulatory reform and tax incentives. Skills partnerships to support a thriving sector
The logistics industry is packed with interesting, well-paid jobs which underpin the whole economy, but attracting new, skilled recruits to the logistics sector must be a team effort. Logistics UK is pressing the NI Executive and education providers to ensure young people and those looking for a new career have an accurate impression of the opportunities offered in the sector, and the range of the critical and fulfilling careers on offer. Careers in logistics must be backed by reform to the curriculum, to skills funding and the Apprenticeship Levy in particular. The long running and unacceptable situation in Northern Ireland, where businesses
pay into the Apprenticeship Levy but cannot draw funding down, must come to an end. Mitigating the added costs faced by businesses in Northern Ireland
Logistics UK also wants to see the further streamlining of Great Britain–Northern Ireland trade including measures to address the added transport costs resulting from Northern Ireland’s geographical location. Logistics businesses importing to and exporting from Northern Ireland face the additional cost of crossing the Irish Sea, compared to those working within Great Britain, and now is not the time to remove business rates relief, particularly Freight Transport Relief, which helps alleviate these costs.
Building on easements under the Windsor Framework Trade thrives when borders and customs procedures are as frictionless as possible, processes are industry friendly, and transport connectivity is efficient. However, logistics businesses are having to adapt to significant changes in trading from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, including managing the additional complexity and costs of the post-Brexit environment.
Partnership working between the UK and EU to build on easements and make trade more efficient under the Windsor Framework is crucial. Regulatory divergence remains a challenge under the Framework and early and robust mechanisms need to be put in place to assess and manage the impact of potential divergence on Northern Ireland businesses and consumers. One initiative that would significantly reduce, if not remove, the administrative and cost burdens faced by logistics businesses trading Great Britain to Northern Ireland is a comprehensive sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement and Logistics UK welcomes the new Labour government’s commitment to seek a Veterinary Agreement with the EU.
Maximising Northern Ireland’s position Northern Ireland’s unique position, offering frictionless market access to Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland and the wider EU, means it is ideally placed to capitalise on the business opportunities which its location provides. However, this will require the Northern Ireland Executive to work in partnership with the UK government and EU to promote Northern Ireland as a unique destination to investors around the world, through initiatives such as the appointment of economic and trade envoys. Logistics UK will continue to campaign for such measures for the logistics sector to drive growth and help the sector realise its full potential to grow Northern Ireland’s economy. Download a copy of “Logistics: underpinning Northern Ireland’s economy”/ https://tinyurl.com/mrmcvtj3
DENNISON TRAILERS CELEBRATE 60th ANNIVERSARY IN STYLE
60 Years in Business is a massive milestone for Naas Company Dennison Trailers. Guests from all sectors of the transport and logistics industry were entertained at the Maudlins Cross Plant.
CEO Aidan Kinsella along with family members George, James and David Dennison hosted a tour of the Dennison Trailers Facility, the organisation’s metal fabrication plant and many vintage trucks displayed at the event, before guests enjoyed a fabulous lunch in the marquee.
David Dennison addressing some of the guests about the history since 1964.
Ricky Wilson shaking Vincy Waddells hand after he bought the 70000th Dennison Trailer at auction with all proceeds going to charity.
Barry Hughes Carna Transport with George Dennison.
John Davis GTS at the Dennison 60th.
George Dennison receiving a gift from Colman O’Neill, Dennison Chairman.
James Dennison UK Managing Director addressing the guests.
Meredith Hall, Megalift, David Dennison and Eamonn McAteer, McAteer Recycling viewing steel cutting at Mettech.
Joe Donnelly, Mettech showing Richie O’Flynn of South Coast transport and Tony Boylan some cut parts .
Dennison CEO Aidan Kinsella welcoming guests.
Ricky Wilson going through the charities to benefit from the auction of the 70000th Trailer.
George Dennison,with German customers Werner Krichbaum, Dieter Kastel, Sales Manager Germany, Ingo Ludkte and David Dennison.
George Dennison shares a moment with Northern Sales Rep, Robert Cromie.
Walter Watson, Barry Hughes, George Dennison and Ricky Wilson.
Michael Pettigrew, Dennison Commercials.
Gerard Magee, HMT with George Dennison Junior and James Dennison at Dennison 60th. Cormac Leonard at the 60th celebrations.
John Browne, Dennison fastparts manager UK & Ireland with Alfie Brophy and John O’Callaghan, Drom Transport.
DENNISON’S CELEBRATE 60 YEARS AS A FORWARD-THINKING, INNOVATIVE COMPANY
“We have added and launched a new double-deck curtain to our product range”, James Dennison noted at the 60th celebrations of the company In Naas recently.
While the celebrations over two days with customers and employees past and present were to mark a key milestone in the company’s history, the message was also very clear that Dennison Trailers is a forward-looking company constantly working in partnership with customers on market trends and looking at new innovative ideas and that new products are part of the future.
“This has never been any different”, David Dennison, the company’s innovation director commented in his opening remarks about the last 60 years.
“In the 60 years since Jim and George started out, it has been a story of entrepreneurship, economic volatility, business success and setbacks, reinvention, and renewed success. It is a story of a change from a small start-up business mindset of the 1960’s and 1970’s to an innovative scale manufacturer today. And yet, what has remained unchanged throughout those years, and key to the continued success of our company, is the DNA of Dennison. A bold vision driven by a spirit of entrepreneurship and passion for engineering excellence.”
This entrepreneurship led to the two Dennison brothers building their first trailer in 1964 at the ages of 24 and 17, respectively. David recounted the story of how the first trailer came about.
“At that time, a UK company Crossroads was selling trailers into Northern Ireland. George
and Jim visited them with a view to buying some units but could not agree on prices. They thought building the trailer was not that difficult and decided to build their own. They duly acquired an axle out of a secondhand AEC truck from John Walsh for £50 and a secondhand Scammell coupling from JA Potter the local Leyland and Scammel agent. The coupling cost 10 shillings and £5 for parts to refurbish it. That first trailer was built in the old paper mill in Ballyclare and sold to Thomas Gallagher in Londonderry in 1965. It can be seen here today in the vintage hall in Naas.”
Success followed quickly and by 1969, they had new premises and had set up in Naas also. At the time, the trailers for the south of Ireland had to be sent as kits as this was the time that protectionism was still the order of international trade.
The company left family ownership for a period in the late 1970’s after a sale to Crane Fruehauf, the biggest trailer manufacturer in the world at the time. Never one to stand still, George Dennison then turned his hand to building a truck at the age of 29. Overall, he built 250 trucks before he closed the truck operation in 1981 and then he started back at his passion which is semi-trailers. Since 1981, restarting in Naas on a 3-acre site, the company has grown to be a scale operation today operating from five sites between Naas and Lancaster and current manufacturing activity covers over 21 acres. The Lancaster operation was set up 35 years ago in 1989.
Like all trailer manufacturers today, the company uses 3D software for the design and to assist with stress analysis of existing and
new products. This was not always the case and while describing the development of the sliding skeletal trailer, David Dennison stated “In the 1990’s the product development process was still very manual with little changed from the 1960’s. The design process was undertaken by experimental development on the shop floor, then drafted up afterwards. In 1997, Robert (George’s brother), Martin Costello who is the company’s Chief Engineer today and the team set out with the aim to reduce the slider’s weight by 500kgs. All the calculations were done manually as PCs were only taking off at the time and their use was not widespread.”
Just as developments in the design process have changed with the times, not one to stand still the company have invested heavily over the last 5 years building a new 17 bay curtainsider factory in Lancaster and in 2017 purchased its main sheet metal supplier Mettech. Since then, it has doubled the production space and installed two 12kwh fibre lasers and a storage system to feed the laser machines. A key decision in the purchase of the lasers was that it significantly reduced the carbon footprint of the existing operations and reduced electricity usage by over 50%. These investments were needed given the extensive product range including skeletal trailers, Curtainsiders, Flat trailers and a range of trailers for mainland Europe. This includes the link trailer that forms part of a 25.25m vehicle combination.
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Schmitz Cargobull strengthens market position by acquiring a majority stake in Atlantis Global System
Schmitz Cargobull AG has acquired a majority stake in Atlantis Global System (AGS), the leading Spanish manufacturer of telematics solutions for monitoring and maintaining the cold chain. With its innovative telematics solutions, AGS is represented in most of the 50 largest companies for the transport of temperature-controlled goods in Spain.
With this acquisition, Schmitz Cargobull, Europe’s largest manufacturer of semi-trailers, will continue increasing its leadership for the most modern telematics system for refrigerated semi-trailers together with AGS. A system that fulfils the highest requirements in refrigerated transport and along the entire cold chain.
The AGS telematics system for real-time refrigeration data will be available with immediate effect for all Schmitz Cargobull refrigerated semi-trailers produced at the Zaragoza plant. The data from the TrailerConnect® telematics system, which Schmitz Cargobull integrates as standard in all its semi-trailers, will also be made
available on the AGS telematics platform. On customer request, the telematics data from the AGS system will be available within the Schmitz Cargobull TrailerConnect® portal.
Atlantis Global System, AGS, will remain an independent cold chain specialist within the Schmitz Cargobull Group and will continue to operate independently in the market to ensure the best service for customers.
Founder Rafael del Pino, who will continue as CEO of AGS, explains: “The partnership with Schmitz Cargobull is an important step to strengthen and further develop the solutions developed by AGS in Spain. It offers a great opportunity to promote
new products and further develop advanced fleet management solutions.”
Schmitz Cargobull’s refrigerated semi-trailers already have the best global connection on the market and, in combination with the technology developed by AGS, it will also allow the semitrailer to be integrated into the customer’s logistic system. An improved overview of the entire cold chain sets it apart from the competition.
Schmitz Cargobull set important milestones in the financial year 2023/24: The opening of the new plant in Zaragoza; the strategic alliance with the Austrian manufacturer for lightweight trailers Berger; the opening of new locations in Georgia and Kazakhstan; and the successful entry into the US market with Schmitz Cargobull’s transport refrigeration units are some of the milestones that contribute to the group’s growth. These developments are now complemented by the majority shareholding in AGS. It underlines the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence and global expansion, consolidating its position as a global player in the transport sector.
Farrall’s Group sign up for vehicle trials with HVS
Hydrogen Vehicle Systems (HVS) has entered into a strategic collaboration with Edwin C Farrall Transport Ltd (Farrall’s Group) to explore the integration of Hydrogen Fuel Cell HGVs into their fleet
Farrall’s Group is a thirdgeneration family transportation company based in the northwest, and with a clear focus on delivering a sustainable road map of carbon emission reduction and management, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with HVS to commit to zero emission commercial vehicle trials. Managing Director at Farrall’s Group, Matthew Farrall, said, “Our team is continually looking at ways to reduce and improve our environmental emissions output. We all have a responsibility to look after our environment and as a family we are extremely conscious we must set a responsible example for all to follow. Our partnership with HVS allows us to explore the benefits of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and helps us to deliver a greener running fleet to improve our impact on local communities.”
The MOA outlines the partnership’s
objective to provide the Farrall’s Group with HVS hydrogen fuel cell HGVs when these groundbreaking zero-emission vehicles become available for trial in late 2025. The sharing of vehicle data, TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) modelling, route planning, infrastructure
support and performance optimisation are just some of the benefits of the MOA partnership.
As John McLeister, Chief Commercial Officer for HVS explains, “Here at HVS, our focus is on collaborating with transport
and logistics providers to help them achieve their net zero targets. We are closely aligned to the climate aims of the Farrall family and are looking forward to supporting them on their net-zero journey. Our close cooperation with the hydrogen supply chain will ensure that our vehicles offer a highly competitive TCO by supporting with the most appropriate hydrogen infrastructure for the organisation, and providing a zero-emission fuel cell vehicle that offers heavier payloads, longer range, and faster refuelling compared to battery electric alternatives.”
HVS aims to revolutionise the heavy-duty commercial vehicle industry. Their state-of-the-art powertrain solution, designed as a native Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) from the ground up, promises superior efficiency, outstanding performance, and a reduced environmental impact.
Matthew Farrall and John McLeister.
DISC OR DRUM 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.
Brake shoes can be changed without removing the wheel.
Low-cost spares and lower whole life cost.
Greasing of camshaft and slack adjuster required.
Excellent brake efficiency and longevity of friction material.
Enclosed brake with components giving greater environmental resilience.
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.
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:
BPW disc and drum brakes both benefit from the BPW ECO hubFormula 1 principle.
TST GROUP’S EXPANSION: A TESTAMENT TO RESILIENCE AND SUCCESS
Representing an investment of over £5.5m by TST Group, the delivery of 15 new Volvo trucks, supplied by Dennison Commercials in addition to 10 artics and 10 rigids from Mercedes Truck & Van NI, signifies the remarkable success and growth the Ballymena-based logistics company is experiencing in 2024.This expansion also includes the recent addition of 50 new SDC trailers, expanding TST Group’s already extensive fleet.
With headquarters in Ballymena and operations across the UK and Ireland, TST Group has rapidly evolved since its establishment in 2012. This family-owned and operated business has weathered numerous challenges to emerge stronger and more focused, delivering firstclass service to its loyal and expanding customer base.
MODEST BEGINNINGS TO LEADING OPERATOR
From modest beginnings, TST Group has grown to encompass TST Transport, TST Logistics, TST Express, and now TST Customs, employing nearly 400 staff, operating over 200 lorries,
managing close to 500 trailers, and offering over 1.5 million square feet of warehousing.
At the helm of TST Group is Managing Director Maire-Claire Reid, one of the founding
members along with her brother John, father Liam, and uncle Shaun. The leadership team boasts over 35 years of industry experience, prioritising customer service and demonstrating a commitment to longstanding client relationships.
“What started as a crazy idea around a kitchen table has grown into what you see here today,” Maire Claire shared, reflecting on the company’s journey from the boardroom of TST Group, located in the former Michelin Factory - now named the John Reid Logistics Park, in memory of her brother John. TST officially began in 2011 with significant contracts from
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local companies like Creagh Concrete and River Ridge. “2011 to 2015 was a battle,” Maire Claire admitted, with the company operating 15-20 trucks during this period. By 2015, TST started securing blue-chip clients, thanks to growing brand recognition and their reputation for service excellence.
BUOYED BY IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY
The company faced a profound loss when John Reid tragically passed away in 2015. Despite this, the Reid family’s resilience led them to continue growing the business as a tribute to John’s memory. TST Group remains family-owned,
allowing for swift decisionmaking and high accountability.
“If the phone rings at 11 pm, you answer it, and you be grateful that it is ringing,” Maire Claire noted, emphasising their commitment to customer service.
THE START OF THE GROWTH TRAJECTORY
From 2016 onwards, TST experienced rapid growth, including significant investment. In 2018, TST relocated to the former Michelin factory, leading to a lucrative five-year contract with Aldi. This expansion necessitated more trucks and trailers, opening further opportunities.
The COVID-19 pandemic proved advantageous for TST, with increased demand from booming clients like Aldi and a surge in online ordering. “We just kept going during COVID,” Maire Claire said, appreciating their continuity during the challenging period.
Mid-East Antrim Council has supported TST, including their collaboration with McBurney Group to establish a Driver Academy.
In 2021, TST acquired Birminghambased Warley Carriers, a wellestablished next day express service that specialised in groupage, which had several lucrative contracts delivering car parts for some of the biggest names in the business
including Honda, Audi, Nissan, VW and Porsche. Liam moved to Birmingham to run this business and ensure a smooth transition to the TST Group - within a year they were able to more than double turnover. TST are finding there is a different world of opportunities in Birmingham and in the English market. Warley Carriers is now known as TST Express.
This year, TST secured a warehousing contract with CocaCola, further establishing their credibility. Through TST Customs, they can now clear their own freight, working with industry giants like Diageo and Bushmills.
Maire-Claire Reid, Managing Director, TST Group.
COMMITTED TO THEIR TEAM
TST boasts a low staff turnover, with many senior staff starting as lorry drivers. “Seeing our trucks on the road—that’s a feeling money can’t buy,” Maire Claire shared, highlighting the motivation and pride in their work.
EXPANDING HORIZONS
TST Group aims to be a total solution provider for haulage and
logistics, offering comprehensive services with full accountability.
“The proof is in the name, we are constantly striving for Tomorrow’s Service Today, with a better Today and Tomorrow in mind” Maire Claire stated, reflecting their customer-centric approach.
In the warehousing sector, Shaun Reid oversees operations, ensuring efficient management and client satisfaction. This division has seen substantial growth,
highlighted in recent articles showcasing TST’s commitment to expanding their warehousing and customs capabilities.
TST Group’s dynamic sales team finds doors opening for them, driven by effective sales, marketing, and service strategies. The company’s success and dedication honour John’s memory, encapsulated by the motto “Tomorrow’s Service Today.”
Several TST fleet vehicles proudly
display “Go On John,” a nod to John’s motorsport nickname, symbolising his enduring legacy.
TST Group’s journey from a small family venture to a leading logistics provider exemplifies resilience, dedication, and growth. Their commitment to customer service and continuous expansion positions them as a key player in the industry, ensuring a lasting tribute to John Reid’s memory and a bright future for the company.
Liam Reid and Maire-Claire Reid founders of the John Reid Foundation in memory of their son and brother John.
DENNISON’S DELIGHTED TO SUPPLY NEW VOLVO FH500’S TO TST
Dennison Commercials Ltd are thrilled to have received an order for 15 New Volvo FH500 6x2 Globetrotter Tractor Units from TST Transport, a Haulage & Logistics firm based in County Antrim.
Dennison’s delivered the first two new FH500’s to TST’s Ballymena base at the start of July, and the trucks will be delivered in further batches of two until the order is complete over the early part of the summer.
This order has been in the pipeline since November, but with industry-wide delays, the new trucks are now becoming ready for delivery to the customer at the start of July, explained Conan Hughes, Sales Executive at Dennison Commercials in Ballyclare.
Lead times for trucks are now back to two-three months at present – from order to delivery confirms Conan,
which is great news for customers.
The new units have a leather interior and enhanced paint finish, with custom painting completed in Dennison Bodyshop. Additionally, the trucks were fitted with a Kelsa Lightbar and six high-performance LED Jumbo spot lamps.
“We are delighted to be supplying 15 new Volvo FH500 6x2 Globetrotters to TST, the new trucks will be maintained by our Coleraine depot with TST also taking a 60-month gold service contract, ensuring uptime is maximised”, comments Alan Heron (Coleraine Depot Manager, Dennison Commercials Ltd).
Dennison Commercials Ltd would like
to extend their sincere thanks to TST for choosing them as their supplier. They appreciate the opportunity to fulfil TST’s significant order of 15 new trucks.
Dennison Commercials is one of the longest established Volvo Truck & Bus dealerships in the UK & Ireland, founded in 1970 with over 50 years in operation.
Providing New, Used & Rental Volvo Trucks as well as a complete range of aftermarket services from four strategically located dealerpoints across N. Ireland including Ballyclare, Coleraine, Dungannon & Newry.
This ensures customers can avail of a convenient, reliable service wherever they are in the North.
Contact the team at Dennison’s today on 028 9335 2827 to find out more about the range of vehicles we offer.
The new Volvo FH Aero Truck Range is here, and it’s set to transform the way you drive. At Dennison Commercials, we bring you this state-of-the-art range designed for efficiency, performance and driver comfort.
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TST INVESTS IN NEW SDC CURTAINSIDER TRAILERS
TST have continued their growth and expansion with their latest order – 50 new curtainsider trailers ordered from leading trailer manufacturer SDC Trailers.
The trailers are 4.65 metres high, which is a tall curtainsider, supplied to TST in their own livery including the curtains and the rear doors.
Paul Bratton, SDC Group President said TST have been ‘very good to us’ and he said that the order of 50 curtainsiders is ‘a substantial order for SDC’.
SDC Trailers have three manufacturing plants - in Toomebridge, Northern Ireland, Mansfield and
Southampton in England.
Established in 1978 by Seamus McCloy in Bellaghy, SDC is now the UK and Ireland largest semitrailer manufacturer and will manufacture 5,500 trailers for the market during 2024, which is 30% of the dry freight semimarket. The company was sold in 2016 to CIMC, the largest trailer manufacturer in the world.
Paul explains that this substantial order is in the process of being completed and delivered to TST, and he further explains that the chassis
for the semi-trailers are traditionally manufactured in Toomebridge before being transported triplestacked to Mansfield where the body is manufactured and fitted to the trailer ready for collection.
Logistics companies like TST will often collect the trailer and take it – with a load – back across the Irish Sea to Ireland. ‘That’s why Seamus McCloy bought the Mansfield site, which is located in Nottinghamshire between the A1 and M1.
Paul explains that it is not just the sale of the trailer that is
important to SDC – and to its major customers like TST – but the after-sales support that a major company provides to its customers. “Supply of parts and warranties –that’s what we thrive on, and that is what puts us above the others” continued Paul Bratton. “Trailers get damaged backing into loading bays, and we have the parts and the facilities to get these repaired and limit any potential downtime as much as possible for our customers.
“TST are a very valued customer, and they deserve all the credit they get – hauling over the Irish Sea every day with Stena” said Paul Brattton.
TST GROUP WORK IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SIMPLICITY GROUP
Belfast-based fleet technology experts Simplicity Group are Ireland’s Premium Partner of Bridgestone-owned Webfleet telematics; a leader in advanced solutions & sustainable mobility.
Simplicity Group provide industry leading Fleet management solutions, proven to increase productivity, improve customer satisfaction, streamline operations and enhance efficiencies for fleet operators across UK and Ireland.
TST Group has partnered with Simplicity Group to support their business objectives and enhance customer service, a cornerstone of TST’s success. Focusing on three key areas— consolidating current systems and platforms, optimising productivity, and improving business reporting—TST Group implemented the Webfleet telematics system provided by Simplicity Group. Through seamless implementation, exceptional service, and efficient processes, Simplicity Group has enabled TST Group to achieve its goals and continue delivering outstanding service to its customers.
David Crangle Head of Fleet Sales & Account Management at Simplity Group, said, “Implementing Webfleet enabled TST to consolidate their telematics systems from multiple third-party and OEM providers into an integrated, streamlined solution. Initially focusing on enhancing tachograph compliance through our managed model, we also facilitated the successful rollout of driver incentive schemes and integrated support with their TMS. This comprehensive approach supports TST’s goals of continuous business improvement and operational efficiency.”
TST Group innovators in the Transport & Logistic sector are always looking for ways to drive optimum fleet performance such as the successful implementation of driver performance schemes. The systems have brought tangible results in fuel saving, CO2 emission reductions, more accurate ETAs, and more.
Managing Director Maire Clare had to say about working with Simplicity Group, “Our innovative approach to logistics and transport management has been made all the easier thanks to our work with Simplicity Group. They have consistently helped us implement the right system, integrating and centralising information from all our platforms. These advancements improve operational efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction, positioning our company as a forward-thinking leader in the logistics industry. Additionally, they have been instrumental in identifying and driving the efficiencies we need.”
Beyond TST, Simplicity has achieved significant successes for many other clients adopting similar approaches that have proved successful in improving overall business performance by utilising the latest Fleet Management technology. These successes include the reduction in insurance premiums, improved cash flows, & significant reduction in vehicle idling through
our training & strategies to support our clients. Managing Director Jamie Marsh has this to say “Our mission at Simplicity Group is to drive business performance through innovative and seamless telematics & fleet management solutions. We ensure our systems are not only best in class but also integrate effortlessly to support our customers’ goals and ambitions. We are committed to delivering exceptional service and helping our customers exceed their target performance.”
BENEFITS OF WEBFLEET TELEMATICS
Webfleet scales to accommodate fleets of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises. This emphasises Simplicity Group’s ability to cater to a wider range of clients in the UK and Ireland. There are huge benefits to using the Webfleet system. Among those are highlighted by Simplicity Group as the core components of fleet management: Safety, Compliance, Integration, Sustainability & Productivity.
Enhanced Customer Service:
Simplicity Group provides a team that sets the system up to incorporate the essential functions tailored to your business, ensuring everything is easily managed. An account manager is also assigned to your account and will conduct regular reviews to ensure you’re maximising the system’s potential.
Key features that the Webfleet system provides include:
Accurate ETAs: Real-time TRUCK SPECIFIC tracking allows for more accurate delivery estimates and better communication with customers.
Low bridge avoidance, live traffic & vehicles specific dimensions set by height, length, width and total weight.
Live tacho driving hours information to manage driver compliance and eliminate missed ETA’s due to incorrect breaks.
Proof of Service: Telematics provides a record of delivery times and routes taken, which can be used to resolve disputes and improve service reliability.
DRIVER PERFORMANCE AND SAFETY
Data from Webfleet systems can be used to create incentive programs for drivers who maintain high safety and efficiency standards, and also encourage them to help reduce fuel costs. They also monitor driving behaviours such as speeding, harsh braking, and idling which can all be managed to drive better fleet performance resulting in lower maintencance costs
The systems also tackle fuel wastage by
monitoring driver behaviour and offering coaching and tips on best practices, which lead to better fuel economy and vehicle efficiency. They also help Increase the number of jobs you can do with more effective route planning.
Compliance and Lower insurance premiums
Tachograph regulation- Remote download so no need to retrieve directly from the vehicle. Reduces impact of fines and penalties by documenting all required information
Minimised administrative hassle by keeping data in one central location
Makes inspections easier
EFFICIENCY & EFFECTIVENESSBOOSTING PRODUCTIVITY AND BRINGING DATA INTO ONE CENTRALLY LOCATED PLATFORM
Monitor and conduct vehicle checks remotely Speeds up decision-making through advanced GPS, maintenance data for proactive and full fleet visibility in one central location
Simplifies and streamlines operations with a cloud based platform integrating and incorporating data into one place
Data on vehicle performance and condition can predict maintenance needs, preventing breakdowns and extending vehicle lifespan.
SAFETY AND SECURE
Route planning ensures driving the safest route taking into account vehicle type and size
Accident Evidence: CCTV footage can provide clear evidence in the event of an accident, helping to determine fault and speeding up insurance claims.
Deterrence of Theft and Vandalism: Visible cameras act as a deterrent against theft, vandalism, and unauthorized use of vehicles. Recorded footage helps protect against fraudulent claims, reducing the risk of unwarranted payouts.
Better Incident Response: In the event of an incident, the combination of video evidence and location data allows for faster and more effective response and resolution.
WHY WORK WITH SIMPLICITY GROUP
At Simplicity Group, exceptional service and support are at the heart of our business. Our dedicated account managers work to help clients not only meet but exceed their goals. With extensive industry experience, Simplicity Group ensures that all essential information is centralised for easy access. Throughout the contract period, we provide comprehensive setup and support to ensure seamless integration with your existing processes and systems.
TST ENHANCES THEIR FLEET WITH NEW MERCEDES-BENZ ACTROS
TST Group has recently enhanced their fleet with the addition of a brand new Mercedes-Benz Actros 2530, continuing their commitment to excellence and operational efficiency.
Renowned for its power, fuel efficiency, and advanced technological features, the Actros 2530 is a standout in the commercial trucking industry.
This impressive vehicle is set to provide the TST Group with unparalleled performance, ensuring their logistics operations run smoothly and efficiently. The inclusion of the Actros 2530 aligns perfectly with the TST Group’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in their fleet.
The current delivery of 2x 2530L Actros M Cab is on back of 2023 deliveries of 10x 2553Ls Actros L Giga Space tractor units, 2x 2530L Actros M Cab Rigids and 4x 1824L Actros M Cab Rigids.
The Tractors are all supported by a full R&M package while the Rigids are supported by a 60 months ExtendPlus Warranty Package. All the vehicles incorporate the latest technology and driver safety packages including the industryleading Active Brake Assist 5 which includes
pedestrian recognition and mirror cam technology.
This latest acquisition is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between the TST Group and MBNI Truck & Van.
Over the years, MBNI has been proud to support the TST Group by providing premium vehicles and exceptional service. This partnership has allowed both companies to grow and thrive, achieving mutual success in the competitive transport and logistics sector.
TST and MBNI (Mercedes-Benz Northern Ireland) have built up a very
strong relationship over the past 9-10 years and Paul McCrory, Truck Sales Manager, MBNI Truck and Van, remembers the first meeting with Marie-Claire and TST when he delivered the fuel challenger demo back in 2014.
“Marie Claire was at that first meeting we had with them, and she has been there ever since, and we at MBNI have built a growing relationship with TST and are delighted to support Marie Claire in the growth of the business,” continued Paul.
“We at MBNI Truck & Van are honoured to be a trusted partner of the TST Group and
look forward to continuing our collaboration. Together, we aim to drive forward innovation and efficiency in the industry, setting new benchmarks for excellence.
“As the TST Group continues to expand and upgrade their fleet, we remain committed to offering them the best in automotive technology and support. The future looks bright, and we are excited to be a part of the TST Group’s ongoing journey to success.
MBNI and DTFS (Daimler Truck Financial Services) look forward to the continued growth and success of the TST Group” concluded Paul McCrory.
TST Group Add Another Mercedes-Benz To Their Fleet
TST Group has enhanced their fleet with a new Mercedes-Benz Actros 2530, reinforcing their commitment to excellence and operational efficiency. Renowned for its power, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology, the Actros 2530 ensures smooth and efficient logistics operations. This acquisition reflects TST Group’s high standards and strengthens the enduring partnership with MBNI Truck & Van. Together, we continue to drive innovation and set new benchmarks in the transport sector, supporting TST Group’s journey to continued success.
To find out more visit mbtvni.co.uk or call 028 9034 2411
CHARGED AND READY
BY RICHARD SIMPSON
MAN has electric trucks ready to go, but the infrastructure needs to catch up
The trucks are ready, but the infrastructure is not, was the message from the UK launch of MAN’s battery-electric eTGX 42-tonne 4x2 tractor.
David Watts, the newly-appointed electric vehicle consultant at MAN Truck & Bus in Swindon, said that successful introduction of electric trucks onto a fleet was 70 per cent dependent upon charging facilities, 20 per cent on the vehicle and 10 per cent on the driver, and charging a truck took five times as much current as charging a car.
“The MAN product is suitable for long-haul, but the UK’s charging infrastructure does not yet enable it,” he warned. “There are three ways to charge: back to base, base and destination, and intermediately.”
The first would be possible for all operators who could install a suitable charger at their yard, and the second for some operations where a charger was available at the destination or loading-point but the third would have to wait for suitable infrastructure. There was currently only one public truck charger in the UK. The truck itself was available with a variety of battery capacities: and these needed to be chosen with the tasks it was to undertake in mind. Four, five, or six battery packs could be specified: and by taking advantage of the twotonne allowance for a zero-emissions vehicle the payload of a four-pack eTGX actually exceeded that of the 40-tonne diesel equivalent. With each pack weighing 800 kg, there was an obvious pay-off between range (maximum possible with six packs being 800 km) and payload.
Product manager Ashlea Awbery pointed out that a truck driven ‘on the limiter’ for the maximum permitted working shift would cover 890 km, so the range was adequate for most transport tasks. Operators who wanted to fit equipment such as pumps on the chassis would likely opt for the five-battery option as it yielded useful chassisspace. Equipment could be driven either via a mechanical PTO directly from the centrally-
mounted power-unit, or from a 75 kW ePTO. The powertrain layout of the eTGX follows convention. The centrally-mounted motor (which also handles regenerative braking) drives a four-speed automated manual gearbox, and a 13.5-tonne capacity rear drive axle. The motor itself is available with outputs of 330 or 400 kW (equivalent to 450 or 544 hp). For light, rigid trucks, MAN also offers a driveline with three batteries, a 245 kW motor and a two-speed gearbox. Auxiliary power for air-brakes and airconditioning compressors comes directly from the main batteries, meaning they are quiet and efficient in operation, and the air-con can be operated while the truck is parked. Loss of battery performance in Winter conditions occurs across all vehicle types: the optimum temperature for the MAN’s batteries is 15 – 15 C. The MAN uses waste heat from the motor to warm the batteries (and the cab interior) when the truck is in operation. Mr Awbery emphasised that to obtain maximum performance in Winter it was best to pre-heat the cab and batteries while the truck was still tethered to the charger. Although there is no internal combustion engine, the truck still needs liquid cooling circuits and a radiator to cool the motor and work the air-con. Correct use of the regenerative braking system is vital to maximise range. The driveline can be set to freewheel when the accelerator is released, or to automatically begin regenerative braking: so-called ‘one-pedal driving’. In freewheeling mode depressing, the brake-pedal initiates regenerative braking, with the conventional friction brakes coming into play if more effort is demanded. In reality, regeneration handles most braking although the friction brakes are used to bring the vehicle to a precise halt. Driving the eTGX is easy. Press the accelerator
and away you go. The driveline is turbine smooth and almost silent, with torque on demand at a touch of the accelerator. This allows the driver to concentrate on anticipatory driving, preserving momentum, maximising regeneration and minimising use of the energysquandering friction brakes. A clear and simple TFT display screen is carried over from the diesel models, but with a meter showing battery state in place of the diesels’ rev-counter. The driver can blank everything except the speedo if necessary to avoid distraction.
Roger Turnbull, head of e-truck sales, said it was vital that operators took on the manufacturer’s consultation package as part of the acquisition process. His team would work with customers from pre-order, through the ordering process and after delivery of the truck. The trucks could handle most transport tasks but could not be just dropped in to replace diesels. The charging question is being addressed. MAN’s parent company Traton, with Daimler Truck and Volvo Group, has formed the Milence joint venture, to open 1700 dedicated truck and coach charging stations across Europe in the next five years. The UK’s first Milence stations will open in 2025-6.
Driving without a Tachograph Card
An operator was convicted at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £1000 for tachograph offences.
The conviction arose when DVA enforcement officers were conducting compliance checks in the Belfast Harbour Estate when a 3 axle Volvo articulated goods vehicle in combination with a 3 axle trailer was observed on Garmoyle Street. The vehicle was directed to the Belfast
weighbridge site for inspection. An inspection of the vehicle was carried out and analysis of the tachograph data indicated the vehicle was driven on six dates without a driver’s digital tachograph card inserted in the vehicle tachograph unit. It was noted that the driver’s digital tachograph card had not been downloaded by
the operator within the required timeframe, the download missed by 1228 days. It was noted that the vehicle digital tachograph unit had not been downloaded by the operator within the required timeframe, the download missed by 1884 days. Had the company carried out regular downloads of tachograph data as required it would have been apparent during analysis that the vehicle had been driven without a driver’s card inserted.
Multiple Tachograph and driving offences
A Republic of Ireland Operator was convicted at Newry Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £885 for a number of offences including failure to download tachograph data within the required time period.
The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement officers were conducting compliance checks in the vicinity of A1 dual carriageway.
A Scania heavy goods vehicle in combination with a curtainside trailer was directed for compliance checks at DVA weighbridge at Loughbrickland. The gross vehicle weight was noted to be 34000kgs, therefore requiring tachograph recording equipment to be installed, calibrated and used. On request the driver produced a digital driver tachograph card from the recording equipment. The driver was unable to provide evidence of his Certificate of Professional Competence / Driver Qualification Card (CPC/DQC).
As a professional driver, and a licensed operator the driver should be aware that he is required to carry evidence of his CPC/DQC with him whilst driving, failing to do so is an offence. The driver’s digital drivers’ card and the tachograph vehicle unit were downloaded, - the data was then analysed. When analysed it was established that the vehicle unit had not been previously downloaded by the operator and the driver card had not been downloaded in 628 days. Under the EU Regulations 581/2010 operators are required to carry out a download of their employee’s driver card every 28 days. A download of the vehicle unit is required to be downloaded every 90 days. Therefore, at the time of detection the driver card
deadline had been missed by 600 days. The vehicle unit shows an activation date of 12/05/2022, using a date calculator from date of activation to the date of encounter, it would therefore appear that the deadline had been missed by 462 days. Further analysis revealed four occasions when vehicle was driven without an appropriate driver’s card. The driver confirmed that he was the driver on the four occasions of driving without an appropriate driver card inserted. When the periods of driving without an appropriate driver card were added to the driving record, there were five additional offences (3x occasions of failing to take the appropriate break following 4.5 hours driving, 1x occasion
excess daily driving, 1x occasion failing to take the appropriate daily rest). Given that he drove on four occasions without an appropriate driver card inserted he therefore committed an offence. Furthermore, by driving without an appropriate driver card the driver also created a false entry or record on each occasion. As the vehicle in question was not registered in the UK and weighs 12000kgs or more, the vehicle is required to pay an HGV levy. On 15th November 2023, it was noted that there was no HGV levy paid on the vehicle which is an offence. A technical inspection of the vehicle identified a defective tyre with cord exposed on the Offside, 2nd Axle and a defective seatbelt.
Three new directors appointed to BIFA Board
The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has recently announced the election of Denise Hill, Ian Mallon and Chris Packwood to its Board of Directors. Their appointments reflect BIFA’s commitment to strengthening its Board with industry experts who bring a wealth of experience and insight to the association.
In April last year, Denise Hill joined BIFA’s secretariat as member engagement director to oversee and develop BIFA’s interaction with its membership in regards to the services it provides and how they are delivered. With her additional election to the BIFA Board, her strong background in commercial and relationship management will assist with the governance of the trade association’s work.
Ian Mallon, managing director of Neon Freight, joins the BIFA Board with over two decades of experience in the logistics and freight forwarding industry.
Under his leadership, Neon Freight has grown into a leading provider of international shipping solutions, known for its innovative approach and customer-centric services. Ian’s expertise in global logistics, coupled with his strategic vision, will be invaluable in helping BIFA’s
Board to help the trade association navigate the complexities of the modern freight industry and advocate for its members’ interests.
Chris Packwood, managing director of Geodis UK, brings a distinguished career in freight management and supply chain
solutions to the BIFA Board. With a deep understanding of both the operational and strategic aspects of the freight industry, Chris has been instrumental in driving Geodis UK’s growth and enhancing its service offerings. His comprehensive knowledge of
international trade and logistics will strengthen BIFA’s efforts to support its members through advocacy, training, and industry leadership.
Steve Parker, Chairman of BIFA, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Chris, Denise and Ian to our Board of Directors. Their extensive experience and leadership in the freight forwarding industry will be instrumental in guiding BIFA’s strategic direction and supporting our mission to represent and promote the interests of UK freight forwarders. Their appointments come at a pivotal time as we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the global trade environment.”
Their appointments underscore BIFA’s ongoing dedication to strengthening its leadership with seasoned professionals who can drive forward the association’s goals and objectives.
L-R: Ian Mallon, Denise Hill and Chris Packwood.
‘TAKE CHARGE’ POWERING AHEAD WITH SCANIA IN NORWAY
BY AUSTIN LYNCH
Scania’s ‘Take Charge’ tour bring BEVs to life in Norway
Scania recently invited 60 European trade journalists to experience its battery electric trucks for real on demanding Norwegian roads.
Having never been to Norway before, and keen to find out more about Scania’s BEV (Battery Electric Vehicles), I was only too happy to accept the invitation and take my first trip to Scandanavia.
After arriving at Oslo airport, a short transfer brought us to the luxurious Lily Country Club, Scania Norway’s base for a week of demonstrations and presentations highlighting Scania’s latest BEV vehicles and their capabilities.
Scania set up the event in conjunction with ASKO, Norway’s leading food distributor and a long-standing partner within sustainable transport solutions.
Part of the trip involved a visit to ASKO’s head office to see their fleet of BEV Scania’s, and to find out about the longstanding and dedicated work that ASKO have spent and keep spending in the name of sustainability.
Here, we discovered why ASKO has taken the decision to go electric – and how in practice this is working for them.
ASKO employs 3,800 staff and services 16,000 customers across Norway. They made the decision they are ‘going to be the best at being sustainable, and their journey to electric started in 2016, with their first double axle electric truck. In 2020, they started to build their fleet of 3 axle electric trucks, and their aim is – by 2026 – to have 100% electric distribution with a fleet of some 350 vehicles.
Norway is an ideal location to go to talk about, and experience electric vehicles because it is a country that has completely embraced the ‘drive to electric’. In 2023, over 80% of new cars sold across Norway were electric, and all of Norway’s electricity is generated from green sources – wind, solar and hydro – which makes them easily one of the greenest countries in Europe.
Scania had six battery electric trucks with different specifications available for the event, which were all made available to the visiting journalists. “The event we have here is actually Scania’s first full-scale test drive occasion for journalists with our latest BEVs”, says Fredrik Allard, Senior Vice President, and Head of E-mobility at Scania From our basecamp at the Lily Country Club, in Kløfta, just outside the Norwegian capital, we were taken on a unique test drive / ride along of 185km of public roads with Scania’s latest battery electric trucks. The route included hills, motorways, rural roads hugging one of Norway’s largest lakes and everything in between, all intending to show off the potential and capabilities of these shiny new electric vehicles.
As I am still in the process of getting my HGV licence I unfortunately wasn’t driving one of these vehicles, but my driver for the day was Jarrod, Scania UK’s Demo and Logistics co-ordinator, who was able to explain not only everything about the truck itself I was in (a Scania 40R A4X23NA) but the breathtaking route we took through rural Norway. To fully demonstrate the capabilities of these trucks, we were fully loaded (40 tonnes) and fully charged before our test drive, with the intention not only to show how capable these trucks are at doing their job – but how doing that job impacts on their battery life.
Austin Lynch, Editor, Export & Freight.
Scania has launched three new e-machines.
The EM C3-6, the company’s equivalent of its legendary V8. Coming in two power ratings – 400 and 450KW this powertrain is designed for maximum performance and suitable for high train weights.
The EM C-14 corresponds to a six-cylinder Scania Super has power ratings between 270-400KWs. It’s seen as the go-to choice for 40 tonne tractor and trailer combination on the autobahn.
And, thirdly, the EM C-12 – known as the ‘electric urban workhorse’. With two power combinations and physically shorter than its more powerful brothers, this is the perfect all-rounder for lighter operations.
The first two words that spring to mind when pulling off in this Scania BEV are ‘smooth’ and ‘quiet’ – not words you would traditionally associate with a truck of this size and power.
The first part of the trip was on motorway where the Scania BEV will spend a considerable amount of its life, and the advice for best economy is to pedal drive the truck up to cruising speed before engaging cruise control.
Once cruise is engaged, you can take your foot of the pedal and watch the miles (kilometres as we were in Norway) fly past in quiet comfort. And if you happen to have another truck in front, engage adaptive cruise which will lock you onto the vehicle in front to let another few miles pass by without fuss.
Disengage the cruise and you are able to coast along the motorway. Coasting in these electric trucks doesn’t deplete the battery so you are effectively driving for free - although you are not getting any regeneration either (I found out a lot more about battery regeneration later in our drive through Norway).
Leaving the motorway behind our route took us North towards the shores on one of Norway’s largest lakes – and the scenery just got better and better. The fact that the roads were relatively quiet, as Norway was just emerging from an extended public holiday, and that the sun was shining all helped make the experience even more enjoyable. I am sure Norway is beautiful in the rain too – but we see enough rain in this country so the sun was a nice and welcome addition to our drive.
As the road narrows, the electric Scania didn’t seem to notice, and our journey remained as smooth and comfortable as it had been on the motorway. As things got a bit twisty it was off the cruise and onto the pedals as the big Scania now had villages, roundabouts and normal twoway traffic to negotiate. And although we were only about 50kms or so into our Norwegian drive I was already starting to see a strong case for powering a vehicle such as this by electric.
Leaving the lake behind we travelled through onion country – a region of Norway that farms almost exclusively onions, and is the major area supplying the country with onions.
We were promised a hilly route, and we started to climb. The road climbed for several kilometres but nobody seemed to tell the truck that we
were climbing. And this is one of the major advantages – and selling points of a BEV. As the climb continued we didn’t lose power and we didn’t slow down. The truck actually was able to accelerate and left anything powered by a diesel engine in the wing mirrors.
At the top of the hill we stopped for a break for both the trucks and the drivers – and got to experience coffee from a Norwegian garage (pretty much the same as from an Irish garage to be fair).
The next section of the drive was a long
TURNING A CORNER – ELECTRIC FUTURE
The arguments for electric trucks are getting stronger and stronger with each new vehicle launched by the major manufacturers.
Scania would say the industry is going through ‘the shift – and that something needs to be done in this industry to make it more sustainable! But the industry must continue to be profitable, or the trucks will never leave the factory. And no matter how good the trucks are, without investment in public charging infrastructure across Europe the numbers simply don’t (and never will) add up. One major argument for electric being used in a commercial setting is that routes and journey are planned well ahead of time – something that doesn’t happen in the world of private cars. Transport companies and hauliers leave nothing to chance, and know often weeks ahead where a vehicle will be going on any given day – how far the journey is, and how long it will take it to get there.
That sort of planning doesn’t exist with cars. And that is why electric could work when powering commercial vehicles – be they trucks, or vans delivering goods to customers or end destinations. In the past few years huge amounts of money have been invested improving battery power, increasing and lengthening battery life and making batteries more efficient. But there needs to be somewhere down the highway/autobahn to charge these vehicles, and these chargers need to work!
The difference, for instance charging a truck battery from 0-100% can vary from approximately 11 hours (overnight) on a 40Kw charger - to just 1.3 hours with a 350kw charger. But where are these fast chargers, and what are the prospects of a network of them being introduced across the UK?
According to Fredrik Akkardm Senior
Vice –President and Head of E-mobility at Scania, ‘We are stuck on the concept of always filling from 10%-100% as we do with diesel. With battery-electric vehicles the mindset should be charge to the required range instead. If you have 120km to go to your home port charger, it would be unnecessary to charge for more than that distance with some small extra margin.”
And this point highlights again how electric could succeed in the commercial sector where it will probably fail in the domestic and private market.
When the lines start to blur between the work a diesel powered truck and a battery electric powered one can do – then you realize the case for electric trucks is strengthening. But they can produce all the shiny trucks in the world – if the most important people in the industry, the transport managers and truck company owners don’t see it as the way forward, then electric could run out of power quicker than a discharging battery!
downhill section on dual carriageway where the Scania got an opportunity to show off one of its major party tricks. By engaging the retarder, the truck goes into regeneration mode and on the section we were on the battery regenerated from 46% to 52% in a matter of minutes utilising the steep decent. That’s the equivalent of the diesel tank refilling itself when going down a hill.
While being driven around in this truck was a great experience I hope to actually get behind the wheel of one of these myself in the not too
distant future. And while my fellow journalists will no doubt be comparing this vehicle with its diesel equivalents, particularly the mighty V8 powered trucks – an engine which is held in such high esteem across the trucking industy. But from the captain’s chair on the right hand side of the cab – remember this is a left-hooker – Scania has certainly done its homework with regard to BEV, and they are working all the time, developing the batteries, and discovering the capabilities of these new additions to the Scania family.
SCHMITZ CARGOBULL - BUILDING QUALITY AND INNOVATION INTO EVERY TRAILER
BY AUSTIN LYNCH
Quality, efficiency and innovation are just a few of the benchmarks by which trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull base their hugely successful company on. Constantly innovating and developing their products to better meet their customer’s needs, the name of Schmitz Cargobull is renowned across the world as a leading light in the reefer trailer market.
Looking ahead to IAA 2024 in September, 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.
At the start of June, Schmitz Cargobull held a pre-IAA press conference at the box body
trailer production site in Vreden, at which new products were presented to trade journalists from across Europe and journalists, including myself, were given an extensive tour of their factory to see for ourselves the work that goes into producing each individual trailer.
And what people may not realise is that every trailer is made specifically to the customer’s specification – Schmitz Cargobull do not make trailers for stock! This, of course, means that each trailer will exactly meet the needs of the customer – and quality is built in to everything the German manufacturer does.
With its integrated portfolio of vehicles and services, Schmitz Cargobull offers its customers comprehensive full package solutions from a single source.
The product and service solutions presented guarantee the reliable transportation of goods and data, increase transport reliability and efficiency, and also improve vehicle availability and operating times. They support transparency within the supply chain and forward-looking transport planning, helping to increase the sustainability of road-based transport through high fuel efficiency.
At the site in Vreden we visited, around 2,000 employees produce refrigerated box body semitrailers for temperature-controlled transport and dry freight, as well as producing Schmitz Cargobull S.CU transport cooling units. The company current produce in the region of 21,300 trailers per year, we were told by Stefan Cramer, Vreden plant manager.
The plant in Vreden opened in 1969, and here Schmitz Cargobull’s 2,000 employees work to produce approximately 21,300 trailers a yearthat’s a new S.KO reefer trailer every 15 minutes, states Mr Cramer, Vreden Plant manager.
The site is currently receiving wide-scale investment to expand its capacities. The goal is to create a digital, automated factory with high quality standards and a diverse range of variants for maximum utilisation of capacity. A new assembly hall with automated production systems is being built over an area of 4,500 m2. This new assembly hall sits right beside the current production line, and construction is at a well advanced stage.
As a result of the factory expansion, Schmitz Cargobull will in future be able to produce up to 80 refrigerated vehicles a day in a two-shift model. Schmitz Cargobull is also investing in its “Cargobull Event Campus”, a venue for events and training located directly next to the company’s premises.
Around two kilometres from the box body semi-trailer production facilities, Schmitz Cargobull S.CU transport cooling units are produced at the Vreden-Gaxel site.
Cargobull Cool GmbH & Co. KG is a subsidiary of Schmitz Cargobull AG and was first founded in 2012. Its team of around 100 employees develop, test and produce conventional and electric transport cooling units, which are used in Schmitz Cargobull refrigerated vehicles. More than 20 percent of Schmitz Cargobull’s S.KO. COOL refrigerated vehicles are delivered with the Schmitz Cargobull S.CU transport cooling unit.
The purpose of the pre-IAA press conference was firstly to give the assembled press a glimpse into
how Schmitz Cargobull make their trailers, and the care and attention to detail that goes into each trailer – from the construction of the floors, to the precision with which the side panels are lined up to ensure every part fits perfectly. We also watched as the bodies were lowered onto the axles, and how the wiring is installed and checked numerous times to make sure each trailer is ready for operation as soon as it reaches the end of the busy production line. There were also a number of presentations from leading members of the company highlighting some of the innovative features
the company current offers customers – and previewing some of the exciting new products and innovations Schmitz Cargobull will bring to IAA in Hanover this September.
DIGITAL
SC want to help their customers with a ‘digital transformation, and are aiming to offer more solutions to help customers do business more efficiently.
A Digital brain is fitted into all trailers - this allows for enhanced security, real time tracking and monitoring, data collection and analysis.
Andreas Schmitz, CEO of Schmitz Cargobull on stage at the IAA pre-press conference at their Vreden Factory with members of his top management team.
All this info goes to the data centre – smart tech – and allows for what Schmitz Cargobull call ‘proactive monitoring’ – i.e. tell the customer what’s happening now, and if there is a problem, or an issue what can be done
Another feature is called ‘Predictive maintenance’ –this gives the customer all the info they need in ‘real time’ such as where is the load/ what is current temperature – is all well? This feature saves time, saves money and reduces the risk of something going wrong
New for IAA 2024 will be ‘Trailer Proactive Monitoring, a feature that will provide an electronic dashboard of information including vehicle status, all relevant docs stored, maintenance at a glance and visible KPIs – which all companies now need to keep track of to gauge their performance.
CARGOBULL PARTNERCONNECT
Working with partner organisations ‘Cargobull Partnerconnect’ works to ensure customer gets the best use/service from their trailer. Work with service partners to ensure best uptime possible (least downtime) – service, breakdown, parts availability (get all issues resolved as quickly as possible)
Customers – Service Partners – Schmitz Cargobull
SKO COOL CITY
The SKO City is a 9 metres long trailer, and is an alternative to rigid body (holds 27
euro pallets). Advantages of this short trailer include that the driver and tractor don’t need to wait while goods being unloaded, it’s equipped with a steering axle, has a 2.5 tonnes tail lift and auto lubricating axle.
Schmitz Cargobull are excited to be debuting the SKO Cool City at IAA this autumn.
CUSTOMER FOCUS
Company Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Andreas Schmitz told the assembled media that the customer is, and always has been, the focus of everything Schmitz Cargobull does, and explained that this is still a family business.
Mr Schmitz said the company has its challenges over the past few years, but that they have maintained a healthy cash position, and invested their profits back into the company.
Talking out costs, Mr Schmitz said the increase in costs from 2020-2022 has been 55%, compared with 8% increase in costs over the previous ten years.
“We’ve had to pass these costs on (to the customer), but we are attempting to
compensate our customers by making our products more efficient.”
“There is a huge pressure on our customers, but our challenge is to respond with products and services to help them” added Boris Billich, CSO of the company .
Mr Billich said that this factory in Vreden, Germany is the ‘home of the reefer’, and that every second reefer trailer in Europe is built here.
He explained Schmitz Cargobull have 50% market share of the refrigerated trailer market, 29% market share of curtainsider market, 20% market share dry freight trailer and 14% share for semi-tipping trailer.
Schmitz Cargobull operate plants in Germany, Spain, Lithuania, Slovakia, Turkey and UK…
www.cargobull.com
CATEGORIES ANNOUNCED EXPORT & FREIGHT TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS 2024
TRANSPORT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
This award will be presented to the applicant who demonstrates the highest levels of up-to-date knowledge, professionalism and ability in managing all aspects of a modern transport undertaking. More Information on application.
CHILLED OPERATOR OF THE YEAR
This award will be presented to the best Chilled Operator who presents an up-to-date modern fleet with a high-quality distribution service. More Information on application.
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL HAULIER OF THE YEAR
(OVER 20 VEHICLES)
This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with more than 20 vehicles specified on their operators licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. More Information on application.
LOGISTICS & WAREHOUSING SPECIALIST
This will be presented to a national organisation with bases in Ireland/UK and/or Europe offering a high level of international logistics service covering all aspects of the supply chain including haulage, warehousing, and distribution.
The winner will prove a total commitment to providing an excellent range of logistics services and exceptional levels of customer care.
DRIVER OF THE YEAR
This Award will be presented to the commercial vehicle driver who offers a high standard of driving skills, excellent driving record, immaculate vehicle and dress code and dedication to the trade. More Information on application.
TRANSPORT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR
This award will be presented to the individual whose personal achievement deserves industry recognition. More Information on application.
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
This will be awarded to an Apprentice, someone not certificated at Level 3 before Sept 2023, who has demonstrated skill and determination in the course of their training and working in a workshop. More Information on application.
NEW CATEGORY
ELECTRIC VAN OF THE YEAR
This new award invites all manufacturers to nominate one, 100% electric powered vehicle from their model range.
As the move to Net zero continues, the benefits of running electric vans increase, and more fleet operators are opting to run electric vans. The winner will be decided through practical driving and presentations. More information on application.
TRUCK OF THE YEAR
This award invites all truck manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range over 18 tonnes GVW which they see as the ultimate fleet truck for the UK and Ireland. The winner will be ascertained through practical driving and presentations. More Information on application.
TRAILER FLEET OF THE YEAR
This award will be presented to an operator whose trailer fleet consistently offers exceptional standards in every aspect of operation. More Information on application.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION COMPANY OF THE YEAR
This award will be presented to the ambient or chilled food distribution company who demonstrates high levels of excellence in all aspects of food distribution, storage and delivery. More Information on application.
TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR
This award is open to all companies and businesses in every sector of the logistics industry - from transport and logistics operators to exporters, warehousing experts, shipping companies and dealerships - and recognises teams within the organisation who by working together on a project, initiative or strategy have made a significant and positive contribution, perhaps by overcoming difficulties and challenges to do so. A team, by definition, could be made up by just two people, or a hundred; size is not important. What is important is that the team can demonstrate outstanding achievement or accomplishment in their area or field of expertise.
EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD
TOP FLEET OF THE YEAR
This will be presented to an outstanding fleet of vehicles based on appearance, quality, maintenance programmes, driver efficiency, skill and professionalism. More Information on application.
WORKSHOP OF THE YEAR
Judging for workshop of the year is open to any commercial workshop both private and public sector in Northern Ireland. More Information on application.
INNOVATION EXCELLENCE AWARD
The Innovation Excellence Award is open to all companies operating within the transport and logistics sector who have invested in innovative solutions to make their operations more efficient, profitable and successful. This can be any type of innovation from the latest equipment and facilities to cutting edge technology or environmental solutions. Any type of transport operation is invited to enter from shipping lines to hauliers, van fleet operators to own account fleets. The contender is invited to illustrate in the entry their innovative solutions for their business.
ROAD TO NET ZERO CHAMPION 2024
This will be open to all companies who pride themselves in the level of their customer service including Dealers, Service Agents, Equipment Suppliers, Hauliers, Shipping companies etc. Entrants should show how they have gone the extra mile to provide the highest level of excellence in their service to all customers and outline why their company deserves the accolade of the best Service Provider.
Customer testimonies, though not essential, are advised, as these will show examples of quality customer service. These will be totally confidential and shredded once the judging has taken place.
HAULIER OF THE YEAR
(UP TO 20 VEHICLES)
This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with 20 or less vehicles specified on their operator’s licence. More Information on application.
As the world is racing towards a net zero future, this category is open to all businesses, teams and individuals who have taken action, with demonstrable benefit to meet the commitments asked of us all to contribute to net zero.
Judges will be keen to see what planning and execution has taken place and evidence of the environmental and financial benefit to the business or our industry as a result.
SAFETY AWARD
Each company will need to demonstrate how they manage, control, and monitor the quality aspects of their respective companies and be able to describe roles, responsibilities, and methodologies for ensuring compliance with all regulatory bodies.
Review of the company’s strategy and controls currently employed, or to be developed and implemented by the company, to consistently deliver products and services that meet the requirements of the Safety Award.
*Read more at https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-24/
JUDGING 2024
The Criteria is available by going to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-24/ and clicking on the category you wish to enter. This will be a series of simple questions, which much be answered and submitted by entering companies with hi res images to illustrate your entry. These entries will then be shortlisted and finalists will be contacted. If a company is shortlisted, they will then be asked for supporting material or a site visit or Zoom Call will be organized.
HOW DO YOU ENTER?
Your entry will not be judged on presentation but on your answers to the criteria questions. You could be an individual, a company with less than 10 employees or a large national/ international outfit. You will be judged on merit, not size.
The judges are looking for excellence, outstanding qualities or contributions, unrivalled service and innovation, individuals and organisations who have gone the extra mile – so demonstrate all of that in the answers to your questions.
If you are asked to provide any additional information to support your entry once you are selected as a finalist, keep it as brief and to the point as possible. Feel free to send customer testimonies to support your entries. Entries should state the category they are entering. Entries must be made by emailing the answers to the questions stating the award category to helen@4squaremedia.net
Separate award entries to be emailed for each category entered.
Award entry enquiries can be made to Helen Beggs: helen@4squaremedia.net or M: 07779 713762
You can enter any number of categories but bear in mind, it is left to the judge’s opinion to reallocate any entry which may be more suitable to another category or an additional category. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. All entries are private & confidential. The winner will remain confidential until the event. Closing date for entries - 26th July
Volvo to launch hydrogen-powered trucks
Volvo Trucks is developing trucks with combustion engines that run on hydrogen.
On-road tests with trucks using hydrogen in combustion engines will begin in 2026, and the commercial launch is planned towards the end of this decade. Trucks that run on green hydrogen provide a significant step for Volvo to achieve its net zero goal and support customers in reaching their decarbonization targets.
Volvo will launch trucks with combustion engines that can run on green hydrogen. These trucks provide a significant step to decarbonize heavy transport.
Trucks that run on green hydrogen instead of fossil fuels provide one way to decarbonize transport. Hydrogen trucks will be especially suitable over longer distances and in regions where there is limited charging infrastructure, or time for, recharging of batteries.
Volvo will begin customer tests with trucks using hydrogen in combustion engines in 2026, and the trucks will be commercially available towards the end of this decade. Already, testing in labs and in vehicles is ongoing. The hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks will complement Volvo’s offering of other alternatives, such as battery electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks and trucks that run on renewable fuels, like biogas and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil).
“Trucks where the traditional internal combustion engine remains but runs on hydrogen will have the same performance and reliability as our diesel trucks, but with the added benefit of potentially net zero CO2 emissions well-to-wheel. They will be a valuable complement to our battery electric trucks, which have been on the market for several years,” says Jan Hjelmgren, Head of Product Management and Quality, Volvo Trucks.
Volvo trucks with combustion engines powered by green hydrogen have the potential to deliver net zero CO2 wellto-wheel when using renewable HVO as ignition fuel and are categorized as “Zero Emission Vehicles” (ZEV) under the agreed new EU CO2 emission standards.
“It’s clear that several kinds of technology are needed to decarbonize heavy transport. As a global truck manufacturer, we need to
support our customers by offering a variety of decarbonization solutions, and customers can choose their alternative based on transport assignment, available infrastructure and green energy prices,” says Jan Hjelmgren.
Volvo trucks with hydrogen-powered combustion engines will feature High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI), a technology where a small amount of ignition fuel is injected with high pressure to enable compression ignition before hydrogen is added. The advantages of this technology include higher energy efficiency with lower fuel consumption, and increased engine power.
Volvo Group has signed an agreement with Westport Fuel Systems to establish a joint venture utilizing HPDI technology. The joint venture is anticipated to become operational in the second quarter of 2024, following formal closing.
FACTS
Hydrogen-powered Volvo trucks will have an operational range comparable to many diesel trucks, depending on the type of transport
Due to the low CO2 emissions from hydrogen combustion, these trucks are categorized as “Zero Emission Vehicles” under the agreed new EU CO2 emission standards. Hydrogen combustion engines will also emit very small amounts of nitrogen oxides and particles. Hydrogen can also be used to power fuel cell electric trucks, where electricity is produced on board the truck. Fuel cell electric trucks do not emit any tailpipe emissions, only water vapor.
ONLINE COURSE LAUNCHES SKILLS FOR SAFER JOURNEYS INITIATIVE
Initiative aims to cut road traffic deaths by turning HGV drivers into Lifesavers
Road safety training organisation Driver First Assist has launched Skills for Safer Journeys –a new online training course which could dramatically improve safety for the millions of public and private sector employees who regularly drive for work, including HGV drivers.
With more deaths occurring from at-work road travel than in the workplace itself Driver First Assist believes its new initiative will give all drivers crucial skills to support at the scene of an on-road incident, regardless of the type of vehicle they drive.
The 90-minute online course – which can be completed in stages – teaches how to make critical decisions using the principals of dynamic risk assessment, safely park at the scene of an incident, gather crucial information for the emergency services, make the perfect 999 call, and provide first-aid assistance prior to the arrival of paramedics.
Mick Doe, Operations Director (Transport) for GXO Logistics, and one of the first to complete the course, says: “At GXO, the safety of colleagues is our number one priority and that doesn’t just stop within the workplace. It is crucial when driving to and from work that people recognise the dangers and have the skills to be able to make the right decisions to help save lives. This course taught me a huge amount and without doubt I’m safer on the roads because of it.”
Driver First Assist CEO David Higginbottom, explains: “Last year there were 1,633 fatalities from road collisions in Great Britain – the equivalent of more than three ‘superjumbos’ falling out of the sky. In too many cases, the victims didn’t die because of the collision; they died as the first people on scene didn’t know what to do.
“We want to help employers meet their health and safety obligations by giving drivers the skills they need to be safer on the road. Health and safety law does not end at the factory or warehouse gate; when someone drives for work the roads become an extension of the workplace, even if they are driving a personal vehicle for business purposes.”
Supporting the launch, Sir Keith Porter, Emeritus Professor of Traumatology at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, comments: “We know many patients die at the scene of road traffic collisions because of a failure to open an airway, or to arrest external haemorrhage.
“The Driver First Assist course will empower drivers to deliver life-saving skills, helping to
keep a patient alive in those valuable minutes before the ambulance arrives. This course also gives drivers the confidence to ensure they fully appreciate the importance of scene safety and good communication with the emergency services. The more first responders we have, the better. Could that be you?”
A World Health Organization report on road traffic injury prevention found that within highincome countries, 50 per cent of deaths from road traffic crashes occur within minutes of the incident occurring. It pointed out those who are present or who arrive first at the scene of a crash can play an important role in contacting the emergency services, securing the scene to prevent further incidents, and applying first aid. It found many deaths from airway obstruction or external haemorrhage could have been avoided by lay bystanders trained in first aid.
Death from a blocked airway typically occurs in about four minutes, whilst NHS England’s target time for an ambulance to arrive if the call is life threatening is eight minutes(4).
Skills for Safer Journeys has been developed by Driver First Assist as an affordable and effective solution for training drivers to assess road risks. Available at dfa-online.co.uk, it costs £47.50 (ex-VAT) per driver for lifetime access, with discounts for bulk purchases.
Driver First Assist has been established for more than a decade, delivering face-to-face first aid training to more than 10,000 HGV drivers as part of their Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) periodic training requirements. Since 2017, Driver First Assist has also been responsible for training all National Highways Traffic Officers in lifesaving first aid.
Neil Hincks appointed UK Head of International Key Accounts for MAN
MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of its new UK Head of International Key Accounts and Special Products, Neil Hincks.
Neil starts his new role on the 1st of June and is responsible for guiding and leading MAN UK’s Truck International Key Accounts and Special Products team. Neil has spent over a decade working within the MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd Direct Sales function. He succeeds Ian Mclean who is retiring.
Tracey Perry, Sales Director MAN Truck & Bus UK, Truck, Bus and Coach products, said: “I’m delighted to announce Neil’s new position within the MAN business. Over the last 14 years working at MAN Neil has helped shape the MAN Truck & Bus direct truck sales function and with his proven track record, his progression will continue to bring a wealth of valuable experience to the business.
“We all look forward to welcoming Neil into his new position and wish him every success.”
With over 25 years of truck sales experience Neil has extensive knowledge in the commercial
vehicle business, having worked for both Renault, between 1999 and 2004, and Mercedes-Benz, between 2004 and 2010, before joining MAN in 2010 as a Retail Sales Manager. In 2017 Neil joined the MAN Truck & Bus UK International Key Account function.
Commenting on his appointment, Neil Hincks, said: “MAN is widely known for its heritage, innovation,
Haulage
engineering and integrity. As we witness the introduction of electric vehicles and this exciting period of road transport transition, it’s my privilege to be asked to lead this fantastic company’s key account and special products division.
“As a vehicle manufacturer, with Truck products spanning the 7.5 to 250-tonne categories, MAN trucks offer customers a compelling range
of award-winning, cost-effective, business-focused and robust vehicles. In June we will showcase our eTruck in the UK which I know will be of huge interest to key account customers. We have some exciting times ahead.”
Neil replaces Ian Mclean who is retiring from the business after 28 years of service. Ian started his career at MAN Truck & Bus UK in 1996 as a Regional Sales Manager; in 2009 he became the Aftersales Director in the Midlands region and progressed through the company to become Head of Bus and Coach in 2013 and in 2014, taking on the responsibility of Head of Key Accounts and Special Products, a role he holds to this day.
Tracey added: “Naturally we would all like to thank Ian and wish him all the best in the future. Over the years Ian’s contribution has been huge and he will be missed by many, not only at MAN Truck & Bus UK but by customers and friends within the industry alike. Ian’s personality is infectious, his desire to succeed is commendable and over the years he has shown true dedication to the MAN Brand. I’ll personally miss working alongside Ian and the fun and success he has brought to the role and the MAN business.”
Neil Hincks.
McKINSTRY SKIP HIRE LEADING THE CHARGE TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY
Waste management company acquire the First Volvo Electric Skip Loader in Northern Ireland.
Waste Management company, McKinstry Skip Hire Ltd, has acquired the first Volvo Electric Skip Loader in Northern Ireland. This revolutionary vehicle, supplied by Dennison Commercials Ltd, represents a significant step forward in McKinstry’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.
The Electric Volvo FE, with four batteries has a range of up to 275km on a full charge, combining cutting-edge technology with environmental consciousness. With zero tailpipe emissions, reduced noise levels and enhanced safety features this vehicle offers a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective alternative to traditional diesel-powered vehicles.
McKinstry Skip Hire’s dedication to environmental stewardship is further demonstrated by their ‘Green Agenda’ initiatives. Notably, they recently installed 1,133 Solar Panels at McKinstry Biomass Ltd, located in Belfast Harbour installed by Solmatix, solidifying their position as Ireland’s largest biomass provider with a capacity of 0.5 MW.
McKinstry’s will be able to process over 100,000 tonnes of biomass annually, this investment underscores McKinstry’s mission to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace renewable energy solutions.
McKinstry’s Biomass Plant at Belfast Harbour mirrors Belfast Harbour’s commitment to developing a world-leading regional port using cutting edge technology and sustainable energy solutions.
Gary Hall from Belfast Harbour said, “As part of Belfast Harbour’s ambitious decarbonisation target of achieving Net-Zero Green House Gas emissions by 2030, we are already utilising 100% renewable electricity, adopting low carbon alternative fuels in our marine vessels, and electrifying our vehicle fleet and landside assets. Collaboration is key to achieving our goals and we congratulate the forward thinking and class-leading approach McKinstry has taken to embracing the local clean energy transition”. By choosing the Electric Volvo Skip Loader, McKinstry Skip Hire Ltd are setting a new
standard for the Waste Management industry, showcasing how businesses can thrive while prioritising environmental responsibility. This investment not only benefits McKinstry’s operations but also highlights their leadership in adopting innovative technologies that pave the way for a greener future.
“Volvo Trucks are at the forefront of the drive towards Net-Zero Emissions and we are delighted to be a part of that journey in supplying the first Volvo Electric Rigid Skip Loader in Northern Ireland.
We have worked closely with McKinstry Skip Hire Ltd for over 20 years now and we are proud to support their journey towards zero emissions. This new vehicle has been meticulously planned over the past 12 months to align with McKinstry’s unique business requirements, including extensive simulation testing across various routes.
I am equally encouraged for the future of zero emission vehicles following the news recently published by the Department of Infrastructure
(DFI). The DFI will bring forward amended legislation to increase the weight limit for N.I. hauliers to align with the changes introduced in G.B. in July 2023,” comments Rob Ireland (Sales Director, Dennison Commercials Ltd) Darren McKinstry, Managing Director, McKinstry Skip Hire, Ltd comments, “Purchasing the Volvo Electric Skip Loader was all part of our strategy in reducing our carbon footprint. Our Biomass Plant based in Belfast Harbour is operating entirely on green energy. Our offices, material handling processes and now this Skip Loader are all powered through renewable energy sources. We believe it is our duty as a responsible Waste Provider to ensure we drive a positive change towards a greener, more sustainable future”. Interested in exploring the benefits of Electric Heavy Vehicles? Contact our team at Dennison Commercials Ltd today to learn more and embark on your journey towards sustainable transportation solutions. Call us on 028 9335 2827
Rob Ireland, Gary Hall and Darren McKinstry.
SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES: CREATING FULLY COMPLIANT WORKSHOPS ACROSS THE COUNTRY
Working with workshops now for over 40 years, Search are uniquely placed to ensure facilities meet all current and future legislative requirements.
A fully equipped, compliant workshop is an integral part of keeping any fleet of commercial vehicles on the move –whether operating in logistics, construction, agriculture or any other sector, correctly carried out maintenance is essential.
Ensuring a workshop is fully compliant can often seem to be one of those tasks that there’s not enough time to do it in, let alone having someone to do it. And there’s another consideration here; one that’s easily overlooked. Quality staff are the backbone of a workshop, providing a
better environment to work in is one sure way of attracting and retaining good operatives. This is where Search can make the difference. From an initial site-appraisal, through a seamless fit-out with the minimum of disturbance and onto what is
probably the most critical part of any installation, the training, maintenance and certification. They’re the ‘secret sauce’ of the Search experience, giving workshop managers peace of mind that the installation meets all legislative requirements now and into the future while they do what they know best - keeping the shop running smoothly.
“Benefitting from their expertise and proficiency in fitting out our workshop to perfection”
We didn’t say that. One of our valued customers did. Wouldn’t you like the same for your workshop? THE UNIQUE SWS
Site appraisal | Installation | Training | Certification | Maintenance
The complete workshop fit-out package. All to the highest standard. Anywhere across Ireland.
LOUGH ERNE ONCE AGAIN HOSTS EXPORT & FREIGHT GOLF MASTERS
The 11th annual Export and Freight Golf Masters brought hundreds of golfers, and non-golfers, to the Fermanagh Lakelands for another couple of enjoyable days of golf and craic.
The first week of June is now synonymous in the transport and logistics sector with a trip to the Lakelands of Fermanagh where the Lough Erne Resort plays host to the Export and Freight Golf Masters.
The 2024 event had to contend with grey skies, and there was even rain on the Sponsors night on Wednesday, and early on Thursday morning, but it couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of all the participants, and most golfers managed to get round the course on Thursday dry.
Some of the sponsors and teams arrived on the Wednesday afternoon, and had the opportunity to squeeze in a round on the Faldo course before the proceedings kicked off down at the Golf Academy on Wednesday evening. Hosted by resident Golf Pro Damian Mooney and with Adrian Logan on the microphone, and entertaining the crowd, this was a fun evening of golf shots and prizes with a delicious buffet and drinks all thrown in for good measure. An early morning rain shower on Thursday
soon cleared and the golfers were up early to get breakfast in the Lough Erne Resort before heading for the clubhouse to get signed in and get out on the course.
The golf was competitive on what is a very challenging course – and conditions certainly didn’t help but from all reports at the 18th this was a hugely enjoyable day, made all the more of an occasion thanks to the fantastic sponsors who sponsored all the holes, including the Halfway House, and at the end of the course.
Non-golfers who attended the Lough Erne were treated to a day out to remember, firstly taking a trip of the ‘Lady of the Lake’ cruiser before heading into Enniskillen for the Gunpowder Gin Tour.
Once everyone had returned to the hotel, and got cleaned up, guests were treated to a Gala Awards dinner which brought a fitting end to a wonderful couple of days in Fermanagh.
The charity partner for the Export and Freight Golf Masters was Children’s Cancer Unit Charity, and on the night a total of £3,370.22 was
raised. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to this, your generosity will help sick children and their families across the North.
Also, a huge thanks to Barry and Darren from the Golf Club, and to the entire team at the Lough Erne Resort for what was a fantastic couple of days in one of the most luxurious and special locations in the country.
Daniel McClintock and Ciaran McGurgan, Abbey Autoline; Mark McConkey, AIB; and Conor Murphy, Abbey Autoline.
Nicola Walker, DFDS; Niall Kennedy, WR Kennedy; and Kim Swan, MD Aircoach.
Helen Beggs with Fionnuala O’Donovan of Circle K. Robert Steele and Conor Patton, with Cubo.
Raymond Stockdale and Aidan Kavanagh.
Ken Lough.
Andrew Frizzel and Jamie Marsh.
Stephen Shaw of Modern Tyres with Neil McKibben of MBNI.
Shay O’Neill and Ronan Mitchell of AIB.
Jane Hoare, Chief Exec of The Children’s Cancer Unity Charity and Pamela McGookin of Export & Freight.
Joel Eakin of Eakin Bros. with Austin Lynch of Export & Freight.
Kieran Campbell of SDC and Ciarán Murphy of Cameramatics.
Brian Beattie of MAN Trucks with Alan Rea and John Donnelly of RK Trucks.
Andy Atkins, Andrew Taylor and Michael Smith, Brooks Haulage.
Pamela McGookin of Export & Feight.
Brian McManus, Surefreight and David Bonnes, Road Trucks.
Alan Rea.
Aidan Kavanagh, Bob Herron and Brendan Rafferty, with Stockdale Transport.
Damian Mooney presents Ken Lough of Simplicity Group with one of the Awards.
Prizewinner Gareth Owen with Adrian Logan.
Prizewinner Conor Patton being presented with the a Bottle of Black Bush kindly donated by Kaizen, by Pamela McGookin and Austin Lynch of Export & Freight.
John O’Brien, RK Trucks; Brian Beattie, MAN; and Raymond Stockdale, J Stockdale & Son.
Rob Lockwood, Neil King, Paul Simpson and Tim Wayne, with Lockwood Transport.
Neil McKibben of MBNI with Garfield Harrison and Adrian Logan. Nicola Walker DFDS.
Marty Elliman and Golda Burrows with Gordon Best of MPANI.
Guest enjoying the evening.
Gareth Owen, John Marks and David Bonnes.
Gordon Best, Kieran Campbell and Brian McManus.
SCAN HERE FOR VIDEO
BROOKS
J STOCKDALE & SON LTD
LOCKWOOD HAULAGE
CAMERAMATICS 1
SIMPLICITY GROUP 1
SAYVALE
CIRCLE K
MAN/RK TRUCKS
SIMPLICITY GROUP 2
CUBO
Adrian McParland, John Joe Morgan, John Watson and Sean Hughes, of Circle K.
Mike Irvine, Cordovan; Jonny McKinney, Ping Group; Conor Patton, Cubo; and John McMeekin, Cubo.
Brian McManus, Surefreight; and Kieran Campbell, Pat Muldoon and Gavin Diamond of SDC.
Niall Worth, Gary Barnes, Ciarán Murphy and Robert Heavin, of Cameramatics.
Austin Lynch, Austin Currie, Malachy McClements and Eugene McClements., of Export&Freight magazine.
Marcus Ruddy, Kevin Lacey, Garath Comerford and Noel Lacey, of TSS.
Brendan Rafferty, Bob Herron, Raymond Stockdale and Aidan Kavanagh, of J Stockdale & Son.
Paul Cunningham, David Crangle, Jamie Marsh and Ken Lough, of Simplicity Group.
Mark Dowds, Oli Quantrill, Patrick Derry and Courtney Marsh, of Simplicity Group.
Steven Holbrook, Andrew Taylor, Andrew Atkins and Michael Smith, of Brooks Haulage.
Rob Lockwood, Paul Simpson, Neil King and Tim Wayne, of Lockwood Haulage.
Alan Rea and John O’Brien of RK Trucks; and Ray Cooper and Julian Brown of MAN Truck & Bus.
DIAMOND TRUCKS 1
DFDS
ROAD TRUCKS
TBF THOMPSON 2
TEAMS
DIAMOND TRUCKS 2
CLdN 1
THERMOKING
RAYMOND DOODY TRUCK PARTS
DENNISON TRAILERS
CLdN 2
TBF THOMPSON 1
STENA LINE
Patrick McFadden, John Purdy, Brian Lowry and Mark Skelton, of TBF Thompson.
Brian Garrity, Alister Lyttle, Raymond Doody and Jimmy McGirr, of Raymond Doody Truck Parts.
David Montgomery, McBurney Transport; Scott Campbell, Stena Line; Gordon Best, MPANI; & Tiarnan Rossiter, Stena Line.
Gareth Owen, David Bonnes, John Marks and Martin Hanley, of Road Trucks.
Barry McIlvenna, Mark Williamson, Diarmaid Bucke and Philip Martin, of TTP Thermoking.
Liam O’Neill, TBF Thompson; Michael Warnock, U-Form; John Chambers, W&J Chambers; Brian Anderson, River Ridge Recycling.
Alan Fitzsimmons; Nicola Walker and Con Oliver, DFDS; and Stephen Elder, Wincanton.
John McKinstry, Montgomery Transport; Adam Mason, Tony Doyle, Mulgrew Haulage; and Mark Montgomery, Montgomery Transport.
David Watts, Diamond Trucks; Daniel McIlroy and Sam McIlroy, RTU; & Aaron Lockhart, PJD Safety Supplies.
John Watson of Circle K with Helen Beggs of Export & Freight.
David Montgomery of MCBurney Transport with Philip Martin and Nathan Dickey of TTP Thermoking.
Bosco McGonigle, Seabo Logistics; David O’Flaherty and Adam Mason, with CLdN.
Richard Tweed, Kemek; Jason Hopps, Irish Salt; Gerard Lawlwss, Breedon; and Alwyn McCreanor, Irish Salt.
Simon Humphries and Colm McCluskey, DSV with David Crangle of Simplicity Group.
Jamie Gillen, Eoin Masterson, Peter Mills and Columb Shanks, with Allied Fleet.
Alan Goggin, Ciarán Murphy and Niall Worth, of Cameramatics.
Micky Kelly, Diamond Trucks; Patrick McFadden, TBF Thompson; and Kevin McGarry, Mannock.
Alan Fitzsimmons and Alastair Hamilton.
Eugene McClements, Malachy McClements with Austin Currie and Dominic McClements. of North West News Group.
William Mackie, Ronan Hughes and Damien Kerin, of Dennison Commercials.
Scott Campbell, Rita Marie Roden and Tiarnan Rossiter, with Stena.
INDIVIDUAL 1ST PLACE
INDIVIDUAL 2ND PLACE
INDIVIDUAL 3RD PLACE
1st Overall and Green Jacket - Darren McKeever presented with a Galvin Green waterproof jacket plus overnight stay at Lough Erne resort by Helen Beggs and Dominic McClements.
1st Overall - Close Brothers presented with Galvin Green Insula top
2nd Overall - Lockwood Haulage presented with Footjoy Superlite shoes
3rd Overall = AIB (83 pts) presented with Under Armour Polo shirts
Beat the Pro competition - Columb McCloskey with Austin Lynch Export & Freight.
Mark Skelton presented with a Sunderland of Scotland waterproof jacket from Dominic McClements, Export & Freight.
Darren McKeever collects the 3rd Individual Prize, a Sunderland of Scotland Gilet, for brother Declan McKeever from Dominic McClements, Export & Freight.
Longest Drive (Sponsored by RK Truck Centre Ltd) winner John McKinstry presented with £150 golf voucher by John Donnelly.
Nearest the Pin in two (Sponsored by DFDS) winner Peter Mills presented with a £150 golf voucher by Nicola Walker.
Nearest the Pin (Sponsored by SDC Parts and Service) winner Garvan McCauley presented with a £200 Golf voucher presented by Gavin Diamond.
Longest Drive (Sponsored by Circle K) winner Mark Ruddy presented with a Whiskey gift set and golf balls by John Watson.
Nearest the Pin (Sponsored by Bridgestone) winner Niall Worth presented with a £100 golf voucher plus golf goodies by Andrew Bushe and Catherine Cassidy Export & Freight.
Longest Drive (Sponsored by CLdN) winner Phillip Martin presented with a £200 golf voucher by Adam Mason CLdN and Catherine Cassidy Export & Freight.
Nearest the Pin in two (Sponsored by Abbey Autoline) winner Sean Hughes presented with a £250 Abbey Autoline insurance voucher presented by Ciaran McGurgan and Catherine Cassidy Export & Freight.
10TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN11TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN 12TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN
Nearest the Pin in Two (Sponsored by Aquarius) winner Steve Holbrook presented with a box of wine from Direct Wine Shipments by Mark Caplin
Nearest the Pin in Two (Sponsored by TSS) winner Gareth Owen presented with a Gunpowder Gin hamper by Noel Lacey, TSS and Golda Burrows, Export & Freight.
Nearest the Pin in Two (Sponsored by Road Trucks) winner Wayne Telford presented with a £150 golf voucher by John Graham
Nearest the Pin in Two (Sponsored by TBF Thompson DAF) winner Kieran Campbell presented with a £150 M&S vouchers and an umbrella presented by John Purdy
Cubo held their own competion on the 9th for an overnight stay and dinner for two at Finn Forest Bubble Dome. Neil McKibben collecting the prize from Cubo’s Conor Patton on behalf of the winner Peter McKeague.
Nearest the Pin (Sponsored by Simplicity Group) winner Darren McKeever presented by Jamie Marsh with Martin Elliman, Export & Freight.
Longest Drive (Sponsored by WR Kennedy) winner Nicola Walker presented with 300 litres of heating oil by Niall Kennedy
Nearest the Pin (Sponsored by Aircoach) winner Adrian McParland presented with a £100 golf voucher by Golda Burrows
Longest Drive (Sponsored by Dennison Trailers) winner Mark Willamson presented with a £200 voucher for the Pro Shop presented by Robert Cromie
Nearest the Pin in two (Sponsored by Stena) winner Mickey Kelly presented with sailing vouchers by Anna Breen
Nearest the Pin (Sponsored by Diamond Trucks) winner Columb McCluskey presented with a £150 voucher from the golf shop by Iain Latimer.
Winner of the Close Brothers Gross Prize presented by Garvan McCauley - John McKinstry.
Second Winner of the Close Brothers Gross Prize presented by Emma Blair - Niall Worth.
Best Dressed (Sponsored by Allied Fleet Services) winner Mark McConkey, AIB with Eoin Masterson, Allied Fleet Services.
Faldo Challenge winner Wayne Telford presented with a Footjoy Polo Shirt by Helen Beggs
Helen Beggs presents Noel Lacey with a bottle of gin for being a good sport on the night.
Albert Kirk and Adrian Logan.
2nd prize - Jimmy McGirr wins £100 cash presented by Pamela McGookin Export & Freight.
Putting competition - (Sponsored by Encom) Winner
Neil McKibbin presented with two Ulster Rugby halfway line corporate tickets for any European game.
Adrian Logan.
FORD PRO HIGHLIGHT EV ADVANTAGES TO SMES
A more productive and sustainable future could be just a key turn away if small and medium sized enterprises across Europe embrace EV (electric vehicle) adoption. However, charging remains an issue!
These are the key finding from a report commissioned by Ford Pro: The Economics of Commercial Van Usage Across Europe 2024, published by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr).
The Cebr report estimates that van-related businesses contributed €860 billion across the EU in 2023 (around €1 trillion including UK).
According to a survey of small businesses, EVs’ reduced cost of ownership means they could pay for themselves
within three years; supporting tech and services further support productivity, and non-EV users are looking to switch within five years.
Germany has highest EV share of new van registrations; UK has greatest growth in EV sales and France shows most potential for further electrification, based upon a Cebr analysis of factors such as energy costs, charging and low emissions zones.
Ford Pro is the #1 CV brand in Europe, offering a complete product and services ecosystem for customers of all types and sizes.
In June Ford Pro announced an integrated home charging solution for businesses.
To promote their electric offerings, Ford recently held a ‘Productivity Electrified’ event in Frankfurt and invited journalists and media professionals along to experience the world of EV vans.
In attendance was Export and Freight’s General Manager Pamela McGookin.
Pamela McGookin, General Manager, Export & Freight.
“It was a great experience to be attending the self-drive pro event in Frankfurt, where I had the opportunity to test drive the All-New AllElectric E-Transit Custom Van and E-Tourneo Custom from Ford Pro. It was such a thrill to be behind the wheel of these incredible vehicles and to really see the future of electric vans in action” commented Pamela.
Prior to the event Ford Pro asked all attending to name a fantasy business of their own, but none realised what exactly this was for. All soon became clear when delegates were sent out into the car park and told to find their van for the test drive.
“One of the highlights of the event was getting my van personalized with my fantasy business name, as per the previous brief. It was such a fun and unexpected touch that brought a lot of laughs”
This fun idea was cleverly used to highlight how these vehicles are so suited to the small businesses across the UK and Europe.
“We also had the chance to hear from a number of Ford executives, including Tim Slatter, Alan McCleave, Jeremy Gould, Simon Weedon, Brendan Lyne, and Mandy Dean. They provided us with an in-depth update on the current market and shared some exciting insights into the future of electric vans,” continued
Export and Freight’s GM Pamela McGookin.
The broader European commercial van landscape, comprised of 23 million SMEs, including owner operators, which account for 99 per cent of businesses in Europe. Initially, commercial electric vehicle adoption was believed to be led by larger businesses with fleet managers
and corporate sustainability goals.
Now, SMEs are increasingly adopting EVs as they recognise the significant business benefits.
A survey of more than 1,000 commercial van drivers found that these businesses are already realising significant energy cost savings and improving their productivity and operations with supporting technology. Even non-EV adopters are looking at switching within 5 years, although charging remains a concern.
“We have been helping small businesses to build the economies of Europe for almost 60 years –but the greatest opportunity to improve their uptime and productivity lies ahead,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe.
“Florists, plumbers, and bakers will play a leading role in taking EV adoption to the next level, and we will bring large fleet levels of charging, software and servicing support to these small businesses so they can electrify in the way that best makes sense for them.”
Ford Pro solutions help operators decide when and how to electrify and maximise the benefits to their business.
Brendan Lyne, Director, Commercial Vehicles, Ford Pro Europe.
Ford Pro’s offering includes a comprehensive line-up of EV and plug-in hybrid vans supported by productivity solutions such as vehicle and fleet management software, charging solutions, servicing and all-in-one financing. Last week, This increase is partly supported by significant growth in electric van availability. For example, Ford Pro has now produced or announced electrified versions of every model in its Transit family.
The E-Transit –Ford Pro’s first electric van in Europe – outsold its nearest competitor by more than five to one in 2023 to lead its segment with over 50 per cent market share.
Analysis of the total cost of operating electric vans compared to diesel or petrol equivalents found electric vehicles can make up for their higher initial purchase costs within a typical threeyear ownership timeframe.
Beyond financial benefits, the survey also found why SMEs are turning to EVs. Access to low emissions zones was the joint most common reason to switch (46.3 per cent), followed by concern for the environment (45 percent) and brand reputation (45 percent).
Charging time was the biggest concern for those who have not yet switched to EVs (38.1 per cent) with upfront purchase costs also an issue (37.7 per cent). Despite this, amongst those yet to switch, a majority (58.6 per cent) said that they were at least somewhat likely to choose an electric van over the next five years.
“This was great to be part of this Productivity Electrified event and to experience first-hand the innovation and technology that Ford Pro is being to the table. It will be interesting to see how this market develops over the coming years.”
ELECTRIC AVENUE - E-TRANSIT CUSTOM READY TO DELIVER
All-New, All-Electric E-Transit Custom Van Ready to Electrify Small Business Productivity
The all-new E-Transit Custom from Ford Pro has just launched across Europe, enabling small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to electrify the one-tonne vans that are crucial to their businesses and achieve new levels of productivity.
Developed from the ground up around innovative customerinspired solutions, E Transit Custom combines advanced electric vehicle technology with Ford Pro’s digital and physical platform of software and services to help businesses reduce cost of ownership, work more effectively, and simplify the transition to electric vehicles. To maximise productivity of vandependent businesses such as those worth around €1 trillion to the EU and UK economy in 2023, 2 the electric version of Europe’s top-selling one-tonne van offers innovative new features designed around the needs of SMEs. This starts in the cab with standard 5G connectivity 3 and clever features like the unique tilting steering wheel.
The efficient electric powertrain supports up to 337 km driving range 1 and two-year unlimited distance service intervals for enhanced cost of ownership. No-compromise load carrying
capability delivers payloads up to 1,011 kg, 4 a lower load floor with enhanced access, and class-leading towing capacity of 2,300 kg. 5
Already available to order, E-Transit Custom is now in production at Ford Otosan’s state-of-the-art Yeniköy Assembly Plant in Türkiye. The new model joins Ford Pro’s electric van range for Europe alongside the larger E-Transit, 6 which last year outsold its nearest competitor by over five to one to lead its segment, 7 and the E Transit Courier compact van scheduled for introduction in 2025.
OPTIMISED ELECTRIC POWERTRAIN
Every E-Transit Custom is fitted with a 64 kWh (useable) battery for a maximum driving range of up to 337 km. 1 E-Transit Custom is the first-ever electric vehicle to use vapour-injected heat pump technology to heat and cool the cabin, fitted as
standard to all vehicles. This new system is designed to deliver improved energy efficiency for optimum driving range. Regenerative braking enables one-pedal driving for more comfortable urban driving and improved efficiency. 8
Electric driving range is up to 337 km. 1 A full charge with an 11 kW Ford Pro Home Charger takes about 6.7 hours. 10 Customers can also charge from 10-80 per cent in about 39 minutes on a 125 kW DC charger; in lab testing, a 10-minute charge added 82 km of range. 10
E Transit Custom’s electric drivetrain delivers class-leading towing capacity of up to 2,300 kg, 5 meaning customers who tow heavier weights in lowemission zones could replace their diesel vehicles in roles that no other all-electric one-tonne van can fill.
Ford Pro anticipates that E-Transit Custom will deliver
lower operating costs compared to an equivalent diesel vehicle; for E-Transit, the reduction in servicing cost of ownership can be as much as 40 per cent. 12
Maintenance savings come from a two-year, unlimited distance service interval and an eightyear, 160,000 km warranty covers all high-voltage components for complete peace of mind.
For small businesses keen to electrify but with use cases not suited to full electrification, Ford Pro offers the Transit Custom PHEV, 15, 16 with pureelectric driving capability for city centres and petrol power for extended highway trips.
The new powertrain is similar to that used by the Ford Kuga PlugIn Hybrid 15, 17 – Europe’s topselling PHEV for the past three years 18 – and combines a 2.5litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with an 11.8 kWh (useable) battery to deliver 233 PS, a pureelectric driving range of up to 56 km and Pro Power Onboard. The first E-Transit Custom models are set to reach dealerships in selected markets later this summer, followed by all markets in the EU in 2025.
Bridgestone Tyres Drives Premium Performance at the Olympics
The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has recently announced the election of Denise Hill, Ian Mallon and Chris Packwood to its Board of Directors. Their appointments reflect BIFA’s commitment to strengthening its Board with industry experts who bring a wealth of experience and insight to the association.
“The Olympic and Paralympic Games are powerful platforms that unite and inspire people around the world through emotion and performance,” said Laurent Dartoux, Management Board Chair and Group President, Bridgestone Europe Middle East and Africa (BSEMEA).
“The objectives of the Olympic and Paralympic movements closely align with Bridgestone’s mission ‘Serving Society with Superior Quality’ and our vision to create a more sustainable world for future generations. Through our support for Paris 2024, we are promoting and demonstrating our shared values to our employees, our communities, and our customers.”
As the Official Tyre of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Bridgestone is helping keep the official Olympic and Paralympic fleet in motion. Bridgestone is providing a variety of its premium tyres for more than 1,000 of Toyota’s newly-provided vehicles.
DHL
Supply
This product offering includes the new Bridgestone Turanza 6 and the Bridgestone Alenza 001 tyres featuring the company’s advanced ENLITEN technology. ENLITEN is a combination of cutting-edge technologies and materials designed to optimize performance, durability, and/or sustainability characteristics. Through ENLITEN, Bridgestone will continue to design premium tires to fit the evolving performance needs of its customers and the future mobility ecosystem, particularly EVs.
Bridgestone is also providing its high-performing motorcycle tyres for more than 20 motorcycles used in support of Paris 2024 road course events. These provisions include tyre fitments for a prototype Kawasaki hydrogen motorcycle.
More than three dozen Bridgestoneowned Speedy and First Stop tyre and maintenance service centres will be on call during Games time to support all fleet tyres and passenger vehicles. These locations throughout the Paris 2024 venue
Chain rolls out
footprint will provide tyre checks and related automotive service for the nearly 3,000 cars operating at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Speedy will also provide glass-related services, including windshield repair and replacement. Road Safety Training
To promote road safety, Bridgestone created an e-learning education model as part of a training series for drivers. The training will be offered to the nearly 4,000 volunteer drivers before they get behind a wheel to pilot the Paris 2024 fleet. The module highlights the important role tyres play in vehicle safety and performance. It also offers tyre care tips for checking tread and maintaining proper inflation.
Bridgestone also will supply more than 600 bicycles for alternative options of non-motorized transportation. Bridgestone is partnering with Decathlon, an international sporting goods manufacturer based in France and Official Partner of Paris 2024, to make the bikes available across Paris 2024 venues and in the Olympic and Paralympic Village. The bicycles will be available to athletes, volunteers and staff for convenient and efficient transportation where car travel is not necessary. After Paris 2024 concludes, Bridgestone will partner with Ville de Paris to donate approximately 500 of the bikes locally to community organizations.
50 new biomethane trucks across Tesco Ireland network
As part of its ongoing partnership with DHL Supply Chain, Tesco Ireland has taken delivery of 50 stateof-the-art biomethane fuelled trucks which will operate across its country-wide distribution network.
The trucks will immediately replace 50 diesel units, cutting down tailpipe carbon emissions by up to 90%*. The biomethane fleet will be operated by DHL and used to transport produce to stores from Tesco’s distribution centres in Dublin.
The new biomethane trucks are being introduced as part of Tesco’s comprehensive strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance the environmental sustainability of its operations, while aligning with DHL’s own overarching strategy to reduce carbon emissions across its supply chains. The renewable fuel for the trucks will come from Irish and European anaerobic digestion plants, and the trucks will refuel at the newly opened BioCNG refuelling station operated by Flogas at nearby St Margaret’s in north Dublin. Each truck has a range capacity of 700 kms on a full tank of Biomethane Gas which allows the Tesco business to reach any of its 177 stores and return without refuelling. Each tractor will complete an average of 15 to 20 truckloads of store deliveries across the country each
week from Letterkenny to Kerry to Dublin. DHL Supply Chain’s David O’Neill said: “This is such an important project to demonstrate the role biomethane can play in Irish commercial transport and a significant step towards decarbonising Tesco’s fleet. Our partnership with Tesco shows what can be achieved through a shared commitment to sustainability and we’re looking forward to continuing this journey together. DHL is fundamentally decarbonising a significant proportion of the retail transport sector in Ireland, and this partnership with Tesco Ireland is a big part
of that story. This project is a great example of our Green Transport Policy, guiding the transition of 30% of our own fleet to a green alternative by the end of 2026, an important enabler in achieving our sustainability goals.”
Speaking about the switch to biomethane, Tesco Ireland Retail & Distribution Director Ger Counihan said: “Our network is one of the most sophisticated distribution networks in the country. More than 1,800 journeys are made from our distribution centres every week to our 177 stores. We have worked hard with DHL to prepare for the switch from diesel to biomethane trucks, and this move to cleaner energy will reduce the carbon emissions created by this fleet considerably.” Tesco Ireland, Head of Sustainability Andy McGregor said: “This is a significant moment in our journey towards decarbonising our business. Transitioning to biomethane from diesel will significantly reduce our transport emissions and is an important step towards reaching our goal of net zero emissions across scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 2050.”
BELFAST HARBOUR ANNUAL GOLF DAY 2024
Malone Golf Club was once again the fabulous venue for the annual Belfast Harbour Golf Day.
The teams enjoyed a great days golf followed by Dinner and Prize giving. The event honoured the late Paula McMillan, the hugely popular member of the Belfast Harbour team, who sadly passed away earlier this year, with a charity raffle in aid of Cancer Focus NI.
Heather Stevenson, Belfast Harbour; Callum Morgan, BRS; Emma McAuley, Interstate Hotels and Robert Fitzpatrick, The Odyssey Trust.
Colin McClements, Belfast Harbour; Michael Shiels, Eucon Shipping; Simon Clarke, SMS Towage and Michael Loughran Jr, Lissan Coal Company.
Michael Robinson, Belfast Harbour; Michael Loughran Snr, Lissan Coal Company; David O’Connor, Cefetra and Declan Freeman, Eucon.
Dominic O’Kane, Mediterranean Shipping Company; Andy Bradshaw, Aflac; Sean McCready, John Burke & Co Ltd and Grant McBurney, Carson McDowell
Chris McNally, H&W; Declan Duncan, Heyn Group; Garfield Harrison, 4 Square Media and David Thorburn, GAC.
Denis McCotter, WH Stephens; Patrick Brown, Tughans; Michael Powers, Scruttons and Ben Fraser, W&R Barnett
Nicola Walker, DFDS; Conleth Oliver, DFDS; Colin Tanner, TR Logistics and Damian Curran, Cemcor
Paddy Henry, CBRE; Gavin Clarke, Osborne King; John Adgey, McConnells and Tom Donnan, Lambert Smith Hampton.
Maurice Bullick, Belfast Harbour; John Patterson, Artemis Technologies; Geoff Sharpe, Danske Bank and Orlagh O’Neill, Carson McDowell.
Mark Doherty, Belfast Harbour; Paul Murray, GolfNow; Adam Bowbanks, AFLAC and Martin McDowell, Odyssey Trust.
Chris McNalley, H&W and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Michael Powers, Scruttons and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour .
David Thorburn, GAC and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
John Adgey, McConnells and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Tom Donnan, Lambert Smith Hampton and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Garfield Harrison and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Denis McCotter, WH Stephens; Patrick Brown, Tughans; Michael Powers, Scruttons; Ben Fraser, W&R Barnett and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Mark Doherty, Belfast Harbour; Adam Bowbanks, AFLAC; Martin McDowell, Odyssey Trust and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Denis McCotter, WH Stephens and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Michael Robinson Port Director, Belfast Harbour; Stephen White and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
Gavin Clarke, Osborne King; John Adgey, McConnells; Tom Donnan, Lambert Smith Hampton and Joe O’Neill CEO, Belfast Harbour.
ROAD TRANSPORT WORLD CONVERGES ON STONELEIGH
BY AUSTIN LYNCH
If you are involved in the world of trucks then chances are you were either at this year’s Road Transport Expo (RTX) at Stoneleigh during the first week of June – or you had a really good reason why you weren’t there.
During the course of a year there are numerous shows for industries like the logistics and freight industry, but it seems this year RTX was the show that most of the ‘big boys’ were heading to – and this resulted in an event well worth attending.
Export and Freight were there, in the form of myself and Pamela McGookin, and although we only
had the Tuesday at the show, it was a great opportunity to network with the major manufacturers, visit clients – old and new – and get a glimpse into what is quite literally ‘coming down the road’ in the next year or so in the truck and commercial vehicle world.
But, of course, this show is bigger than trucks and a host of other ancillary and connected
businesses – big and small – were in attendance with everything from fuel systems, to safety cameras, telematics and trailers to tyres and all sort of other new technology aiming to make this industry safer, more efficient and greener and more sustainable. Let’s call it future proofing everything that the industry already does!
Across the show, a number of the
major truck manufacturers had new electric tricks on their stands, but whether electric trucks and trailers are the future or not, the focus of this show was certainly on looking forward to a future where sustainability and the green agenda is at the forefront of all our minds – and everyone recognizes that the industry must change to ensure its future.
I enjoyed my first RTX and will definitely be returning in 2025 –hopefully with slightly more time to get around the huge show.
NEW DAF XB ELECTRIC DEBUTS AT RTX
Making its UK show debut at RTX is DAF’s new XB Electric 19-tonne GVW rigid.
This latest zero-emissions addition to the DAF Electric range is shown at RTX as a 19-tonne GVW rigid, with availability also at 12.0- and 16.0-tonnes GVW.
The 19.0-tonner is propelled by a 190kW e-motor via a 210kWh battery, while a larger 282kWh battery is also on offer. At 12.0- and 16-tonnes, the XB Electric features a 120kW e-motor. Depending on spec and application, ranges of up to 350km may be achieved. To minimise its environmental impact, DAF uses cobalt- and magnesiumfree, lithium iron (ferrous) phosphate high energy density ‘LFP’ battery packs.
The 19.0-tonner is propelled by a 190kW e-motor via a 210kWh battery, while a larger 282kWh battery is also on offer.
The new DAF XB range, also available with a range of efficient, conventional diesel-powered engines, supersedes the hugely popular LF range; designed and built in Britain at Leyland
Trucks and the UK’s best-selling truck of all time. Since its introduction in 2000, almost 239,000 LF vehicles have rolled off the production line and into service with operators.
The New DAF XB features a host of new features. Exterior updates include a new grille and slimline mirrors which contribute to improved direct vision, while on the inside the XB features the same eye-catching 12-inch digital display, the new steering wheel and the same soft-woven upholstery as other New Generation models.
For speed and ease of body installation, the XB chassis features a new hole grid pattern. To minimise its environmental impact, DAF uses cobalt- and magnesium-free, lithium iron (ferrous) phosphate high energy density ‘LFP’ battery packs.
Conventionally powered XB models feature the latest generation of PACCAR PX-5 (4.5 litre, with ratings of 170, 190 and 210 hp) and PX-7 (6.7-litre, with ratings of 230, 260, 290 and 310 hp) engines and available with the game changing PowerLine eight-speed automatic gearbox delivering optimal gear spread and steps. Powershifting without any torque interruption enables smooth shifts and quick throttle response, resulting in outstanding comfort and driveability. In addition, the transmission provides excellent low speed manoeuvrability thanks to the urge-to-move feature upon releasing the brake pedal.
Six- and nine-speed manual transmissions are also available for the DAF XB series, while fully automatic Allison gearboxes can be ordered for special applications.
The XB is available as a FA 4x2 rigid at 7.5-tonnes, 10-12-tonnes, 14-16-tonnes and 18-tonnes GVW. There is also an XBC at 18-tonnes GVW specifically designed for on/off road applications such as skiploader, tipper and mixer, plus a dedicated XB 16-tonne GVW sweeper chassis.
A lightweight and nimble 4x2 urban tractor completes the XB line-up.
5-STAR SHOWING FROM DAF TRUCKS AT RTX
New 44-tonne GCW DAF XD 450 delivers maximum 5-Star Direct Vision Standard safety rating.
DAF Trucks is handing an RTX show debut to a 5-star example of its DAF XD range – a 44-tonne GCW, XD 450 threeaxle tractor unit with Sleeper High Cab specified to deliver the maximum 5-Star Direct Vision
Standard (DVS) safety rating – illustrating the exceptional visibility offered by the New Generation XD ahead of the DVS mandate for 3-Star compliance in October this year.
The breadth of options available within the DAF XD and XDC series of models means operators can specify a truck to their exacting needs, with the XD’s inherently good visibility meaning the crucial 3-star rating required from October can still be achieved. Furthermore, while the 5-star XD 450 on display is a 44-tonne GCW 6x2 tractor, it is also possible to specify the XDC 32-tonne GVW 8x4 tipper for maximum ground clearance and approach angle and still achieve the all-important 3-star rating. The maximum 5-Star rating is achieved with a DAF XD in Sleeper High Cab specification featuring a deep windscreen and ‘Vision Dash’, plus deep side windows to achieve an
impressively low ‘belt-line’. A large kerb-view window in the passenger door, combined with a folding ‘cinema-style’ passenger seat, offers an uninterrupted view of cyclists and other vulnerable road users, while the DAF Digital Vision System removes key blind-spots often experienced with conventional mirrors. A special protruding bumper design completes the features to deliver the maximum 5-star rating. DAF’s 5-Star DVS rating is available now, and ahead of the mandatory 3-Star rating in October
Other safety related features specified on this vehicle include an electro-pneumatic parking brake, red seat belts, air bag with seat belt pre-tensioners, and full LED exterior lighting.
TRIPLE UK PREMIERE FOR SCANIA AT RTX
Scania UK uses the recent Road Transport Expo (RTX) to give a trio of trucks their UK premiere.
With a large presence both inside and outside, Scania focussed its attendance on decarbonisation and celebrating its 60th anniversary in the UK.
Chris Newitt, Managing Director for Scania UK, said: “Road Transport Expo is an important UK show in our calendar. This is the only opportunity we get to promote our full range of vehicles, services and support to a mixture of customers and prospects, which is why we’ve taken an all-encompassing approach this year.
“Of course, it’s important to acknowledge our 60th anniversary. However, the pressures to decarbonise and make a positive change is growing in our industry.
“To be able to showcase that Scania UK and our people are here and willing to help any
business on their transitional journey is crucial.”
Decarbonisation is the core theme on the inside stand, with Scania showcasing its battery electric truck for regional operations for the first time in the UK.
Available in both rigid and tractor unit forms, this is the first vehicle to feature Scania’s new high-density Northvolt batteries built at its state-of-the-art battery assembly facility in Södertälje, Sweden.
The truck is powered by a trio of electric motors and a six-speed automatic gearbox, which produces either 400kW (536hp) or 450kW (603hp) of continuous power. While a total gross battery capacity of 624kWh – gives it a range of up to 350km at a gross vehicle weight of 40 tonnes, or 250km at 64 tonnes.
Also making its first appearance in the UK is Scania’s latest generation 13-litre biogas engine. Available in two power outputs: 410hp and 460hp, the vehicle on display uses thelatter, and is paired with the G25 gearbox and R756 rear axle used on the latest generation diesel SUPER powertrain. In testing, this combination has proven that operators could see up to a 5% fuel saving on long-haul operations.
It also features a new compressed gas tank option. With two large tanks installed behind the cab – it allows a total of 1,224 litres of compressed gas to be stored, culminating in the longest range ever offered by Scania in the UK. This truck is also debuting Smart Dash. This new central hub offers improved driver interaction with Scania’s digital ecosystem. Behind the wheel is a new 12.3” digital Driver
RTX DEBUT FOR RENAULT TRUCKS RIGHT HAND DRIVE E TECH T
Renault Trucks debuted the UK’s first right hand drive E-Tech T at the Road Transport Expo 2024.
The fully electric E-Tech T joins a line-up that spotlights Renault Trucks’ strategic commitment to decarbonising transport, including the latest E-Tech vehicles with zero tailpipe emissions from 3.1 to 44 tonne and HVO compatible diesel range.
The French manufacturer’s allelectric range is the widest in Europe that covers and decarbonises virtually all urban and regional applications.
The new E-Tech T 4x2 took pride of place on Renault Trucks stand at this year’s Road Transport Expo Designed to meet customers’ needs for productivity and performance, the 44 tonne E-Tech T runs on two E-Tech motors, with six 90 kWh battery packs to deliver 540 kWh of power.
The E-Tech T offers a range of up to 300km on a full charge and up to 500km with an intermediate fast charge (250 kW) of an hour. Designed for driver comfort inside and out, the high-spec’d cab features a host of optional extras, including 4-point air suspension with ride-height control system, as well as heated Comfort driver’s seat and ultimate leather steering wheel. Also on display was a day-cabbed E-Tech C 6x2 rigid, with 4,100mm wheelbase, operating at up to 26 tonnes. Its two E-Tech motors are powered by four 90 kWh battery packs delivering 360 kWh with peak torque of 530 Nm. Power take-off comes from the electric motor powered by the vehicle’s 600V electric network.
And completing the electric line-up from Renault Trucks’ van range, is a 3.1 tonne, L2H1 E-Tech Trafic Red Edition, the ideal work tool for SME trades and fleet businesses.
Powered by a new 90 kW (120 bhp) electric motor, it has 52 kWh batteries and a range of 297 km WLTP in the combined cycle: one of the best electric energy consumption figures on the market, with 18.7 kW/100kms, which helps to reduce the vehicle’s cost of ownership.
Designed for usability, the flexible E-Tech Trafic on stand offers a generous 1046kg payload, internal length of 2937mm, internal width 1662mm (1268mm arches) and internal height 1387mm.
Taking centre stage in Renault Trucks’ ICE line-up is a customised 13 litre T480 High 6x2 with Turbo Compound engine that delivers up to 10% fuel saving with associated CO2 reduction. Striking in ‘Red Bright Orange’ paint, the T High is spec’d to impress with colour matched door mirror shells, windscreen bay with two handles and two exterior vertical windscreen pillars, topped off with twin air horns. Prioritising aesthetics and driver comfort, the interior of the cab is bristling with optional extras including Ultimate leather steering wheel with red stitching heated and ventilated luxury driver’s seat, leather and fabric upholstery for a comfortable work and rest
environment. Power comes from the 6 cylinder in-line diesel engine that delivers maximum power of 360 kW from 1250 to 1600 rpm, and maximum torque of 2700 from 900 to 1250 rpm, which is mated to an Optidriver AT 2812 gearbox with automatic clutch. From the latest evolution of Renault Trucks’ efficient and manoeuvrable distribution range, a D26 Wide 6x2 rigid, with optional third steered rear fixed axle, joins the ICE vehicle display. The new design draws inspiration from both the manufacturer’s van range and heavy duty range, and also includes a host of new safety equipment to enhance the protection of both drivers and road users.
STENA LINE LAYS KEEL FOR FIRST OF NEW BELFAST-HEYSHAM SHIPS
Stena Line has reached an important milestone in its fleet investment programme with the keel laying of the first ‘NewMax’ vessel which will be deployed on the Belfast-Heysham route. The ship has also been officially named ‘Stena Futura.’
On Friday 28 June, the keel laying ceremony of the first of the two new ‘NewMax’ hybrid vessels 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.
A priority during the construction of the vessels will be to provide built-in technologies that can take advantage of both battery propulsion and shore power, where available. The ships will be futureproofed with a progressive propulsion configuration that will ultimately allow the vessels to be decarbonised.
Stena Line is currently working with port partners, Peel Ports and Belfast Harbour to secure the smooth introduction of the vessel as well the provision of shore infrastructure needed to provide additional electrical capacity to enable the future goal of powering the new ships by shore power.
“Keel laying marks a significant milestone in the construction of our new hybrid ships for the Belfast – Heysham route and we are
delighted to announce its name – Stena Futura. As demand for freight across the Irish Sea continues to grow, the increase in capacity will be universally welcomed by hauliers and exporters.” says Paul Grant, Trade Director Irish Sea, Stena Line.
“Stena Line is committed to taking responsibility and being part of the solution to climate change. Investing in new ships,
prepared to run on alternative fuels as well as electricity, is an important part of our strategy of moving towards new sustainable fuels and setting new industry standards.”
The keel-laying of the second of the two NewMax vessels is planned for this autumn and the name of that vessel has yet to be revealed and its due to come into service in early 2026.
DSG – YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER FOR CUSTOMS SOLUTIONS
Doyle Shipping Group (DSG) stands as a shining example of excellence in the realm of customs services, facilitating seamless cross-border trade and bolstering international commerce dynamics. In an era where the efficient flow of goods is pivotal for economic prosperity, DSG emerges as a trusted partner renowned for its unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive customs solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients.
At the heart of DSG’s operations lies a deep understanding of the importance of efficient customs clearance in facilitating smooth import and export operations for businesses worldwide. With dedicated clearance specialists stationed strategically across regional offices, DSG prides itself on offering a hasslefree process for managing consignments and navigating clients through the intricacies of the customs Automated Export Processing (AEP) system.
Central to DSG’s ethos is its unwavering dedication to ensuring compliance with ever-evolving regulatory frameworks. Armed with a team of seasoned experts well-versed in international trade regulations, the group remains at the forefront of regulatory changes, providing invaluable insights and
guidance to clients seeking to navigate the complex customs landscape seamlessly including:
- Brexit Support
- ENS (Safety & Security) declarations
- PBNs (Pre-Boarding Notifications)
- GMRs (Goods Movement Reference)
- Traces (CHED-P/VED Veterinary Health Certificates)
- T2L (Proof of InterEU import/export)
- NCTS (T1 Transit)
Moreover, DSG’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology underscores its dedication to efficiency and innovation. Through state-ofthe-art customs management systems, DSG empowers its clients with real-time visibility into their
cargo movements, facilitating timely decision-making and enhancing supply chain resilience. Beyond compliance and efficiency, DSG places a premium on security in an era marked by heightened geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats. By implementing robust security protocols and drawing on its vast experience, the group ensures the integrity of supply chains while mitigating potential risks effectively.
Furthermore, DSG’s unwavering focus on customer satisfaction sets it apart as a market leader in customs services. With a clientcentric approach underpinning its operations, the group strives to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by its clients, offering tailored solutions that drive value and
foster long-term partnerships.
The significance of efficient customs services extends far beyond the realm of trade facilitation; it serves as a catalyst for economic growth, driving competitiveness and fostering prosperity on a global scale. In this regard, DSG emerges as a pivotal player, championing the cause of seamless cross-border trade through its exemplary customs services.
As the global economy continues to evolve, the role of customs services in facilitating trade cannot be overstated. In this context, DSG’s steadfast commitment to excellence serves as a testament to its enduring legacy as a trusted partner in global trade dynamics.
Doyle Shipping Group’s customs services epitomise the pinnacle of excellence, combining regulatory expertise, technological innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. As businesses navigate the complexities of international trade, DSG remains a beacon of reliability and trust, underpinning its status as a leading provider of customs solutions in the global marketplace.
Streamlining Your Cargo Movement Across the Irish Sea
Looking for a faster, smoother passage for your cargo across the Irish Sea? Look no further than Larne Port. We offer unparalleled efficiency for businesses of all sizes,
Larne Port is so much more than a ferry port! It is already the port of choice for many project cargoes, particularly those associated with the offshore and renewables sector.
It has direct access to the sea via a short pilotage (<2 nm) and a well-marked, deep water channel, with no locks or height restrictions. With 50,000m2 of hard standing (26t sqm) that is immediately available for component storage and a reinforced berth capable of taking loads of 18T sqm, the port can accommodate a range of projects, including those that require lifting and storage of heavy lifts from jack-up ships. In addition to jacking up on the deep water berth’s firm sea bed, such vessels have been permitted, upon request, to berth perpendicularly to the quay, as well as carry out ship to ship transfers, in what are relatively sheltered waters, away from any passing commercial vessel traffic.…
There are a number of reasons Larne Port is used each day by so many; 24/7 Operations: We keep your goods moving around the clock, minimizing delays. Deep Water Access: Our port boasts unrestricted access for a wide range of vessels.
Strategic Location: Perfectly situated for swift connections to major road networks across Northern Ireland and beyond.
Expert Handling: Our experienced team ensures your cargo is loaded and unloaded with the utmost care.
Project Cargo Expertise: Larne Port is a leader in handling complex project cargo, equipped for heavy lifting and oversized loads.
A Gateway to History and Beauty:
Located in the heart of County Antrim, Larne offers a rich historical tapestry and stunning natural beauty. Explore medieval castles, visit the picturesque seaside town, or embark on a journey along the Causeway Coastal Route after a successful business transaction.
Larne Port also boasts a rich history that stretches back centuries, and tracing its history through the ages reveals some points of historical significance in terms of ships arriving to and departing from this island.
Some points of historical significance:
• Ancient Beginnings: References to Larne as a safe harbour date back to Roman times. In 204 AD, the Roman Emperor Severus documented a Roman galley seeking shelter in “Portus Saxa,” believed to be Larne Lough.
• Viking Legacy: The Vikings also left their mark on Larne. The area around the lough was known as Wulsrichfjord and later Olderfleet, and Viking settlements and artifacts have been unearthed.
• Emigrant Gateway: During the 18th and 19th centuries, Larne Port became a major steamer port for emigrants leaving Ireland for America. This period saw significant growth and development of the port facilities.
• Coal Hub: Coal imports were a major feature of Larne Port from the 17th century until the 1970s, reflecting its role in fueling industry and homes.
• Pioneering RoRo: Larne Port holds a unique place in history. In 1938, it became one of the first ports in the UK to utilize dedicated roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ramps for cars and lorries, predating Dover by over a decade. This innovation proved crucial during World War II and continues to be a core strength today. Larne is open for business and nothing is impossible. Our safety and our customers come first. Contact Larne Port today and discover how we can streamline your supply chain. Visit our website at HomePort of Larne or call us at +442828872100 to discuss your specific needs.
Whatever the project, we can handle it!
• Vessels up to 185m and a draft of 7.1m
• 4 Berths, capable of handling cargo
• All berths within a secure ISPS area
• Jacking up alongside permissible
• Quay loading up to 18 tonnes/sq m
• 20 acres of storage available on hard standing
• Warehousing and workshop on site
• Dual carriageway right to port entrance
• Wide load access
O’Dowd and Murphy visit Foyle Port
Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd and Economy Minister Conor Murphy visited Foyle Port at the start of July.
The Ministers met the new Foyle Port Chair as well as members of the Executive Team who run the port.
The Ministers had the opportunity to hear about Foyle Port’s plans to deliver long-term economic development and marine tourism in the region.
Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd said: “This was my first opportunity to visit Foyle Port and to hear about the role it plays supporting the infrastructure and economy of the region. Foyle Port is a key economic driver for this region having attracted significant inward investment. The Port plays a crucial role within our infrastructure and economy and facilitates the import of essential cargo to support a range of business sectors across the North-west. The visit was also an opportunity to learn more about the Port’s future plans as well as hearing about further opportunities
for collaboration and support for this unique cross-border asset and vital marine and global gateway.”
Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: “The team at Foyle Port are to be commended on their ambitious and exciting plans. The location has great potential to drive forward our all island economy. It provides a physical link between the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route which presents great potential to build upon the ongoing work to
develop stronger alignment and for visitors to access destinations right across the north. I was also very interested to hear more on the Port’s plans in assisting in our transition towards a net zero economy. Offshore renewable energy will have a key role to play in achieving net zero. I want to build on our previous success in renewables development and ensure that potential investors see the north as open for business.”
Ryan McCready, Chair, Foyle Port
on welcoming the Ministers to the Port, said: “This is a welcome and timely visit by the Ministers to see for themselves the Port’s unique location as a cross-border asset and marine gateway serving the north west region of the island of Ireland. Our proximity to sources of power, transport links, data connectivity and land capacity is shaping and accelerating the longterm development of the Port as a utility and trading platform.
“Our strategic priority to decarbonise the operations of the port is presenting significant opportunities within the digital economy, providing further support to the ever-growing offshore renewables sector and the enhancement of the cruise tourism facility at Greencastle in Co.Donegal. Foyle Port has huge potential as an economic driver for the north west region and now is the prime opportunity for the Ministers to work with us to invest in the Port’s infrastructure and our ambitious programme of development to help deliver good jobs and greater regional balance, whilst supporting the green economy and boosting productivity at the same time.”
Belfast Harbour made record £65m investment in major capital projects in 2023
Belfast Harbour’s expenditure on major capital projects reached record levels during 2023, with an investment of £65 million.
Belfast Harbour has also reported strong financial results for 2023, with annual turnover and operating profits both rising despite a challenging global trading environment.
As a Trust Port, Belfast Harbour is funded solely by the profits it makes and not from public funds. It invests all post-tax profits in improving the Port and wider Estate for the benefit of customers, tenants and the wider Region. In 2023, the strong financial results supported delivery of a record £65m investment in major capital and infrastructure projects at the Port and Harbour Estate, which will add significant economic and social value to the region. These projects include a state-ofthe-art temperature-controlled warehousing facility, the expansion of Belfast Harbour’s film studio offering and progressing muchneeded social and affordable housing.
This expenditure was part of a decade of transformational projects, totalling £374m.
Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour, said: “I am confident that we can reflect on 2023 as a year in which this organisation strongly evidenced its dedication to the
economy and wider society. Our landmark capital investment of £65 million demonstrates our ethos as a Trust Port. We strive to make this organisation the success it is, and we share that success, investing our profits in projects and partnerships that enable economic growth and create tangible social value.
Amid ongoing uncertainty in the global economy during the year, port trade remained steady, with total tonnage through Belfast Harbour reported at 23.9m tonnes, down just 2% on the previous year, in line with its expectations, despite the high inflationary environment. However, it was another record year for Roll-on Roll-off freight traffic, delivered by Belfast Harbour’s partner Stena Line. This rose 4% to 610,000 freight units during the year – surpassing the previous record performance from 2022 – while ferry passenger numbers remained steady at 1.7 million.
Cruise ships continued to provide a boost to the local economy, with Belfast Harbour welcoming a record 158 calls during 2023, as several international companies which had never previously called to Belfast added the
city to their itineraries. In total, 57 ships from 32 cruise lines brought 320,000 passengers and crew to the city and region. Cruise Tourism delivers an annual direct spend of c.£25 million to the local economy.
The year also saw major developments within the Harbour Estate. Construction continued on a new £9m temperature-controlled logistics warehousing facility located on West Bank Road. The 50,000 square foot facility, constructed to the highest standards of sustainability, is the first BREEAM ‘Excellent’ warehouse in NI, and will be occupied by leading logistics provider Manfreight Ltd.
Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive Officer of Belfast Harbour, said: “Despite a challenging economic backdrop, Belfast Harbour delivered another solid financial performance in 2023. This reflected the diversity of the business, the quality of our customers’ activities and the hard work of the Belfast Harbour team.
“We delivered on our promises by maintaining an essential service to everyone in the Region, through the safe, efficient and effective operation of the Port. We completed the 2023 aspects of our extensive range of investment projects on time and we made a real difference to our neighbours through community partnerships and funding.
Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd and Economy Minister Conor Murphy are pictured at Foyle Port with Ryan McCready, Port’s Chair and Brian McGrath, Chief Executive.
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DUBLIN PORT COMPANY PROVIDES UPDATE ON 3FM PROJECT
Dublin Port Company (DPC) recently gave an update on its 3FM Project. The changes proposed are a direct result of an extensive consultation process and a consideration of alternative options – a key requirement of the planning process.
The 3FM Project concerns the provision of new port capacity for unitised cargo on portowned lands on the Poolbeg Peninsula and includes the construction of a new bridge across the River Liffey as part of the Southern Port Access Route (SPAR). In addition, a new Maritime Village and enhanced public and community amenity will be provided along with 5.5km of cycle and pedestrian routes across the Poolbeg Peninsula.
Following detailed consultation some changes have been made. These include Area L, which is adjacent to the quayside, will now be used as a LoLo container storage facility. Area L had been designated for further development at a later date under Masterplan 2040. However, this proposal brings this plan forward.
A 1.2-acre portion of Area O will be made available to Dublin City Council to facilitate the provision of a District Heating Energy Centre adjacent to the Waste to Energy plant. This is the preferred location for Dublin City Council for the Energy Centre required to service the district heating scheme. The planning consent for the Energy Centre will not form part of the 3FM application and will be a matter for Dublin City Council in due course.
The remaining part of Area O lands will now be used as a Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) unaccompanied freight terminal, replacing the originally proposed container stacks with a ground level, single height freight trailer area. This non-containerised low level RoRo freight storage area will not involve any stacking of containers or trailers, nor will any gantry cranes be required.
The freight trailer terminal will be situated behind the existing large bund on the south of the Poolbeg Peninsula, and consequently be completely hidden from Sandymount Strand. Further planting of the bund will proceed as originally proposed, creating additional habitat along the coastal path area.
All trailers departing from Area O will use the new, purpose-built Southern Port Access Route (SPAR) for access to the Dublin Port Tunnel – as will all other HGV traffic on the Poolbeg Peninsula.
A new portion of lands at the eastern end of Area O will be allocated to the Nature Reserve (Irishtown Nature Park) and transferred by DPC
to Dublin City Council. This land represents a 2.7-acre extension to the Nature Reserve.
As a consequence of these changes, an additional area of land to the west of Area O will become a wildflower meadow [2.5 acres], creating a biodiversity gain. This will be directly adjacent to the new Port Park [3.7 acres].
In combination a total of 12.9 acres of Dublin Port Lands will be allocated to the proposed public park, wildflower meadow, existing coastal path and berm area which will be planted and the extension to the Irishtown Nature Reserve.
UPDATE ON NEW MARITIME VILLAGE
In addition to the changes proposed at Area O lands, Dublin Port Company is pleased to note that broad agreement has been reached on the design of a new Maritime Village for the Poolbeg Yacht Club, Stella Maris Rowing Club, the Ringsend Registered Fishermen and
Private Boatowners, the Irish Nautical Trust and other maritime interest groups in the area. This will be a significant community resource, providing modern facilities for a range of users with improved waterside access viewing opportunities, and a public plaza area.
The 3FM Project will also include the development of a new bridge across the River Liffey which will remove port and commercial traffic from surrounding roads.
An additional 3.7 acres will also be made available to Codling Wind Park for the on-shoring of off-shore renewable energy.
RAIL FREIGHT ACCESS
Dublin Port Company is also pleased to update that discussions are progressing well with Irish Rail with the intention of providing access for all port terminals to Rail. The SPAR will enable rapid road shunting of containers from the 3FM Project to these rail intermodal facilities.
Speaking at the announcement Barry O’Connell, Chief Executive, Dublin Port Company,: “The changes we’re announcing (today) are a powerful example of how genuine engagement in the consultation process can result in stronger and more sustainable planning. Large infrastructure projects such as 3FM are complex and challenging and the consultation process is essential in order to achieve the right balance between the interests of the many stakeholders they impact. I believe our revised plans do just that and I want to sincerely thank all of those who contributed to the process.
Please contact our office for more information T. 028 9264 1676 E. office@lisburntacho.com www.lisburntachographcentre.com
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