FORWARDER magazine issue 79

FACILITATING UK-INDIA TRADE

BLURRING THE LINES

How freight forwarders close the gap with digital disruptors

KERRY UNLOCKS ASIAN MARKETS

for UK businesses

FREIGHT’S AGE OF A.I. has already begun

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WELCOME TO FORWARDER...

THE TEAM

WORD FROM MEET THE TEAM

Welcome to issue 79 of FORWARDER. Our cover stars this month are Kerry Logistics, and we have two excellent features in the magazine with content from them as industry experts: Kerry Logistics unlocks Asian markets for UK businesses & Facilitating seamless UK-India trade amidst growing export opportunities.

We hope to see you at our next networking event on 5 October, with , in Heathrow.

Tim, Designer, FORWARDER magazine

CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF craig@freightsolutions.com

WILL CONTRIBUTING EDITOR editor@forwardermagazine.com

PAUL MEDIA /EVENTS MANAGER paul@forwardermagazine.com

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TONY SALES EXECUTIVE tony@forwardermagazine.com

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OMAR SALES EXECUTIVE omar@freightsolutions.com

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TIM DESIGN & PRODUCTION tim@forwardermagazine.com

MOHIT DIGITAL & SOCIAL mohit@freightsolutions.com

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THE SECTIONS

AIR FREIGHT

If it flies and it's freight, we'll feature it.

SEA FREIGHT

If it floats and it's fr... you get the idea.

ROAD FREIGHT

By far the largest share of cargo transport in the USA.

RAIL & INTERMODAL

The second stalwart; road's right-hand man.

PROJECT CARGO

Oversized, heavy, high-value or mission-critical stuff.

PORTS & HUBS

Gateways to the wider world.

TECH & DIGITISATION

From data to drones. Welcome to the future.

EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

From promo to expo, don't risk FOMO.

CUSTOMS & SECURITY

If only COVID had been subject to this...

INDUSTRY SERVICES

Everything from freight forwarding to insurance.

CRISIS RESPONSE

The latest emergency, from money to monkeypox.

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING

Growing, perfecting, and certifiying your business.

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

The other way to grow your company.

MEDIA & MARKETING

This is a vital industry. Let's shout about it!

GIVING BACK

Environment. Fundraising. Charity. The feel-good stuff.

MAGMA AVIATION INAUGURATES ITS FIRST REGULAR FLIGHTS INTO CHINA

Air cargo solutions company Magma Aviation has added its first regular scheduled flights to China to its roster

The carrier, which is a subsidiary of air cargo charter giant Chapman Freeborn, said the company’s China operations ‘address a growing demand and broaden its access to customers in the APAC region.’ Taking place three to four times per week on a B747-400F, the routing is a return journey between Liège Airport (LGG) and Nanchang Changbei International Airport (KHN).

Magma Aviation plans to add additional capacity in the APAC region throughout 2023 to further support customer requirements.

Scheduled flights to and from China are an important milestone for Magma Aviation; an accomplishment that would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our great team, and our parent company, Chapman Freeborn. We also hugely appreciate the ongoing support of our partners and clients. We continue to look to increase our presence in this important and dynamic air cargo market.

Conor Brannigan, CEO, Magma Aviation

Magma Aviation is delighted to serve more customers by starting our first regular flights into China. By opening China, Magma Aviation now operates 29 dedicated flights per week on behalf of our customers across the USA, Africa, Asia and Europe.

Paul Hoatson, head of network planning & alliances, Magma Aviation

Magma Aviation was launched in 2010 and commercially markets dedicated wide-body cargo aircraft capacity, contracted on an exclusive basis from third-party airlines. They manage a fleet of Boeing 747-400F aircraft and offer a range of regular flying and ad hoc capacity to freight forwarders, logistics providers, and charter brokers.

Magma Aviation is a Chapman Freeborn company and part of the Avia Solutions Group family, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, with a fleet of 173 aircraft. The group also provides a range of aviation services, including MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), pilot and crew training, ground handling, as well as a variety of associated services. Supported by 11,500 highly skilled aviation professionals, the group operates in 68 countries worldwide.

ETIHAD CARGO LAUNCHES

A.I. -POWERED SOLUTIONS TO TRANSFORM AIRFREIGHT OPERATIONS & OPTIMISE CARGO CAPACITY

Etihad Cargo has implemented innovative, AI-powered solutions to transform airfreight operations and boost flight cargo capacity

Following successful trials of Speedcargo's Amplifi, Cargo Eye and Assemble products, the carrier will initially launch the solutions in Singapore and will be expanding their use across Etihad Cargo's global network in the coming months.

Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has launched an innovative artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solution to transform airfreight operations and boost cargo capacity on flights. Deployment of state-of-the-art AI tools is the latest step in Etihad Cargo's digitalisation journey and will enable the carrier to improve cargo volumes by optimising capacity on every flight across the carrier's network.

In 2021, Etihad Cargo entered into a landmark proof-of-concept agreement with leading logistics technology solutions provider, Speedcargo Technologies, becoming one of only a few global carriers to leverage the Singapore-based provider's AI products to maximise cargo capacity on flights. Following successful trials of Speedcargo's AI solutions, Etihad Cargo has rolled out three AI-powered products — Amplifi, Cargo Eye and Assemble — to boost efficiency, digitise and standardise cargo handling across Etihad Cargo's network, and enhance service levels for the carrier's customers and partners.

Etihad Cargo uses Amplifi to optimise cargo loads on each flight. The technology dynamically calculates free and usable capacity based on booked cargo, aircraft type and cargo offer. Utilising the systemgenerated ULD level load plans, Etihad Cargo will maximise the cargo carried on its flights and significantly reduce the risk of overbookings.

Cargo Eye is a scalable, modular system that captures cargo dimensions and volume data. Powered by Microsoft's IOT Edge solutions and Speedcargo's proprietary algorithms, Cargo Eye allows Etihad Cargo to digitise cargo as it enters the carrier's ground handling stations, enabling the real-time sharing of cargo information for load planning, build-up planning and forward operations. Etihad Cargo will deploy Assemble across the carrier's network of ground handling stations to facilitate the digital planning and build-up of ULDs using the load plans generated by Amplifi. Offering a user-friendly solution, Amplifi provides ground handling partners with build-up plans that provide step-by-step instructions for optimally built ULDs that conform to safety regulations.

Since embarking on its digitalisation strategy in 2018, Etihad Cargo has developed, trialled and launched new technologies and solutions to provide customers and partners with an improved service offering. The recently completed trials of Speedcargo's AI-powered solutions have demonstrated it is possible to improve cargo capacity utilisation across Etihad Cargo's fleet and standardise cargo acceptance and buildup processes to improve the consistency and quality of cargo handling at stations within Etihad Cargo's network.

Martin Drew, Senior VP – Global Sales & Cargo, Etihad Cargo

Trials of the AI-powered, end-to-end cargo handling solutions were carried out in Singapore, where this technology has been deployed and is already utilised by Etihad Cargo's ground handling partners. The carrier has also launched a pilot programme to implement these solutions in Frankfurt and is actively collaborating with ground handling partners across Etihad Cargos' expansive global network, with a view to rolling this cargo-maximising technology out to more stations in the coming months.

AIR FREIGHT COVER FEATURE

In the post-BREXIT landscape, UK exporters are actively seeking new markets to expand their businesses and, although traditionally viewed as an import market, China has emerged as a lucrative opportunity for UK enterprises.

China is now the UK's fourth largest trading partner, accounting for 6.5 percent of total UK trade in the full year 2022 [source: Department for Business and Trade].

In the same period, UK exports to China reached GBP37.6 billion, showcasing a notable increase of 37.7 percent (GBP10.3 billion) in current prices compared to the previous year. These numbers demonstrate the growth and untapped potential that UK businesses can access by exporting to China [source: Office for National Statistics].

Global logistics provider Kerry Logistics has recently introduced a weekly freighter service to Ezhou, China, with a specific focus on supporting UK businesses. This service has been designed to provide reliable and cost-effective solutions that unlock access to Asian markets, allowing UK enterprises to explore new avenues for growth and expansion.

The new service connects at Kerry’s hub in Leige, departing on Saturdays and arriving in Ezhou on Sunday.

ABOUT KERRY LOGISTICS

Kerry Logistics is the master brand of Kerry Logistics Network Limited, an Asia-based, global 3PL with a highly diversified business portfolio and an extensive coverage in Asia. We offer a broad range of supply chain solutions from integrated logistics, international freight forwarding (air, ocean, road, rail and multimodal), e-commerce and express to industrial project logistics and infrastructure investment.

With a global presence across 58 countries and territories, Kerry Logistics Network has established a solid foothold in half of the world’s emerging markets. Our diverse infrastructure, extensive coverage in international gateways and local expertise span across

Ezhou's strategic location serves as a gateway to key areas in China, made accessible by Kerry’s overnight road feeder service to Tianjin, Beijing, and Shanghai, ensuring delivery on Monday.

Kerry Logistics has an extensive network in mainland China, serving 16 gateways with 17 logistics facilities and 67 service locations, to ensure streamlined logistics operations throughout the region.

One of the major advantages of Kerry's Ezhou service is its regional receiving points across the UK, which allows cargo to be consolidated from multiple regional locations, to offer flexibility and convenience to UK businesses. This new regular and dependable schedule allows UK businesses of all sizes to access Asian markets at competitive rates.

David Mallinson, UK Airfreight Director, Kerry Logistics

The Liege-Ezhou service is tailored to accommodate various cargo types, including general cargo and out-of-gauge shipments, all of which are handled efficiently and delivered promptly by Kerry.

With this latest China service, Kerry aims to bring UK businesses access to new markets in Asia and maximise their export potential.

To find out more about the service contact: contact.uk@kerrylogistics.com

the Mainland of China, India, Southeast Asia, the CIS, Middle East, LATAM and other locations. Kerry Logistics Network generated a revenue of over HK$86.6 billion in 2022 and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock Code 0636.HK) and a constituent of the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Benchmark Index.

KERRY LOGISTICS UNLOCKS ASIAN MARKETS FOR UK BUSINESSES

AIR CARGO ANALYSIS REVEALS BIG VARIATIONS BEHIND Q1 DECLINES

In-depth examination by WorldACD of global demand and pricing figures in the first quarter of 2023 highlights markets, lanes and product types still recording gains or deviating significantly from the worldwide average, plus other underlying trends

In-depth analysis of global air freight demand and pricing figures in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023 reveals some big variations behind the overall declines, with some markets, lanes and product types still recording gains and others deviating significantly from the worldwide average, according to WorldACD Market Data.

As the air cargo data specialist reported earlier this month, worldwide air cargo chargeable weight flown in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023 ended up -11% below that of the equivalent period last year (Q1 2022). But a deep-dive into WorldACD’s data reveals that behind those figures there is a tremendous amount of variation globally, depending on factors such as origin point or region, product type, shipment weight, and whether cargo was flown via freighter or passenger belly capacity.

Big drops ex-Asia Pacific and North America

For example, the overall tonnage performance of the different main origin regions ranges from a +1% year-on-year (YoY) rise in air cargo volumes originating from Africa and from Central & South America (C&S America) to a decline of -18% from North America and a -16% drop from Asia Pacific, with Europe at -5% and Middle East & South Asia (MESA) closer to the average at -8%.

Breaking down those origin figures further reveals that the -16% drop from Asia Pacific includes a -24% decline in intra-Asia traffic and a -21% fall in traffic to North America, and more-modest declines to Europe (-10%) and Africa (-9%), YoY, despite a capacity rise of +7% ex-Asia Pacific. But that total -16% figure also hides a +30% rise in traffic ex-Asia Pacific to C&S America and a +9% rise to MESA.

Meanwhile, the -18% drop from North America comes despite a capacity rise of +9% and includes a -29% decline to Asia Pacific markets, compared with Q1 2022.

Smaller shipments keep growing

Also highly revealing is an examination of the demand profiles of different shipment weight bands, which highlights a continuing trend towards smaller shipments, correlated with the ongoing growth of e-commerce. Analysis by WorldACD reveals that shipments up to 1000 kgs increased by +3%, YoY, whereas those in the 1000-5000 kgs bracket decreased by -5% and the total tonnage of shipments greater than 5000 kgs decreased very significantly in Q1, by -18%.

Live Animals recorded the biggest growth (+10%), with moremodest gains for Valuables (+3%), Perishables (+2%) – including Fruit & Vegetables (+3%), Fish & Seafood (+2%) and Flowers (+1%) – and Pharma/Temp products (+1%). However, there were modest declines on certain other product types including Dangerous Goods (-5%), Human Remains (-4%), Vulnerables/High-Tech (-3%), and Meat products (-2%) that meant demand for special products as a whole remained flat at 0% in Q1, YoY.

From a carrier perspective, the overall decline in global demand was shared relatively evenly in terms of airlines’ regional geographic bases, although airlines from MESA (-8%) and the Americas (-8%) did best, and airlines from Africa experienced the greatest drop in cargo (-17%), with carriers from Asia Pacific (-12%) and Europe (-14%) performing slightly below the global average.

Perishables market stable

Zooming in on the relatively stable Perishables markets, where total worldwide overall volumes were up by +2%, we can see some significantly different performances among the top origin countries and between different Perishables categories.

For example, while Fruits and Vegetables ex-US Pacific states were down -20%, YoY, demand from Egypt rose by +35%. And although Fish & Seafood tonnages from Norway were down -6%, they rose by +3% from Chile and +27% from the UK. And shipments of Flowers from Ecuador rose by +10% whereas demand from Colombia was more or less stable (+1%) and increased by around +3% from Kenya.

Variability among products

Examining the results on a product or verticals level, there is also considerable variation. Continuing a long-term trend towards a growing importance of special products, General Cargo experienced the biggest decline, falling -16%, YoY, whereas the various special products categories saw either a much more modest decline or growth in some verticals.

AIR FREIGHT ANALYSIS

Freighters lose market share

Unsurprisingly, given the recent pandemic and market dynamics, there was also a strong difference between the relative performance of those operating all-cargo aircraft versus passenger belly capacity, consistent with the progressive return of passenger aircraft to the market as part of post-Covid recovery.

But more dramatically, while Dubai-London volumes were down by -24%, Hong Kong-Dubai tonnages rose by +38%, YoY, although average rates on that lane fell by -28% – consistent with a rise in capacity from the Far East to the Middle East, due in part to the war in Ukraine and some post-Covid reopening of Asian markets.

Pharma deep-dive

Last but by not least, WorldACD has done an extra-deep analysis of the dynamics of the Pharma/Temp market to reveal some highly noteworthy trend developments, particularly by splitting the Pharma/Temp category into two subcategories: shipments requiring Active cooling versus those using Passive cooling or temperature-control methods. Active cooling represents 10.6% of the total Pharma/Temp volume in Q1 of 2023, versus 10.3% last year.

Freighter operators experienced the largest decline (-19%) in traffic volumes compared with last year, while airlines with only passenger aircraft performed best (-2%). Airlines operating both passenger and freighter aircraft fell somewhere in the middle, recording a -11% drop in tonnages.

Key trade lanes differ

A selection of some key lanes highlights that many lanes experienced weight and rate trends that are significantly different from the worldwide average of -11% and -31%, respectively. For example, Frankfurt-Seoul recorded a -13% decline in volumes, but a +9% rise in average yields, with Milan-Hong Kong seeing a much smaller volume decline (-1%) but also achieved a rise (+4%) in average rates.

The Pharma/Temp category as a whole – which accounts for around 4.1% of total worldwide flown air cargo and includes Pharma and other temperature-controlled non-perishables products – saw a worldwide rise in Q1 of almost +1% (+0.7%), YoY, partly thanks to a significant rise (+4.5%) in shipments requiring Active temperature control or cooling. In contrast, shipment volumes using Passive temperature control grew just +0.3% during this period, on a global basis.

This analysis becomes even more interesting when we examine specific lanes or origin and destination markets. WorldACD’s analysis reveals that the top 10 origins for shipments using Active cooling technology in 2023 Q1 were: USA, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, Belgium, Ireland, India, and Austria. Among these, the four largest countries (USA, Germany, Switzerland, Italy) account for 56% of Active worldwide volumes.

Continuing strong growth in major markets

Within this group, shipments using Active cooling are growing by more than 10%, YoY, from the following origins: France (+113%), Belgium (+65%), Italy (+17%), Germany (+14%), Netherlands (+14%). Among the top 10, there were declines ex-USA (-9%), Austria (-8%) and ex-India (-5%).

In terms of destination markets, WorldACD has identified the top 10 destinations for Active cooling in Q1 2023 as: USA, China, Brazil, Japan, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, Taiwan, Belgium, South Korea, with the four largest destinations (USA, China, Brazil, Japan) accounting for 54% of worldwide volume in Active cooling.

Among this group, shipments flown using Active cooling grew by more than 10%, YoY, to the following destinations: Taiwan (+81%), USA (+44%), and Japan (+13%), with double-digit declines to China (-39%), Australia (-29%), South Korea (-18%), Brazil (-17%), and Belgium (-15%).

Region to region, the two largest regional markets (Europe to North America and Europe to Asia Pacific) account for 55% of worldwide volume in Active cooling, with double-digit YoY growth on Europe to North America (+45%), North America to MESA (+22%) and Europe to MESA (+15%).

But analysing specific origin and destination markets also reveals significant growth in certain parts of the Passive Pharma/Temp market, which still makes up almost 90% of Pharma/Temp shipments. For example, there was double-digit percentage growth from top origin markets including Italy (+45%), Ireland (+16%), India (+13%), the Netherlands (+13%) and Switzerland (+12%). And Passive Pharma/Temp shipments continued to rise to key Asia Pacific destination markets such as Taiwan (+34%), China (+20%), South Korea (+13%) and Australia (+8%), plus also to Brazil (+6%).

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OUTLOOK BULLISH FOR PEAK SEASON SURGE

DESPITE DECLINING CARGO VOLUMES, SAYS AFA’S BRANDON FRIED

AfA’s Executive Director says consumers are spending and passengers queuing up to fly, but the sector must remedy labor and infrastructure issues to facilitate growth

The air cargo industry should expect a strong Q4 peak season despite lower Q1 volumes as airlines respond to surging passenger demand, said Brandon Fried, Executive Director, Airforwarders Association (AfA).

According to World ACD, global air cargo chargeable weight flown in Q1 2023 was down 11 percent compared with a year earlier, but Fried attributes recent lower volumes to post-Covid normalization rather than decline.

We’re coming down from the lofty volumes seen during the pandemic, which we all know were not sustainable long term, but we’re not crashing, we’re normalizing, said Fried, speaking on The Loadstar’s Big Air Cargo Debate podcast. We need to be bullish in the second half; consumers are still out there spending and passengers are flying.

Regionally, overall tonnage in Q1 dropped by 16 percent for Asia Pacific and 18 percent for North America.

Some economists predict a fully-fledged US recession later this year, but Fried remains optimistic for the return of higher cargo volumes in line with end-of-year peak season.

Current freight rates are artificially lower than supply and demand would dictate because airlines are operating more aircraft than necessary in anticipation of an uptick, he said, and to accommodate swathes of passengers waiting to fly.

This will benefit freight forwarders in the long run because airlines want to tailor pricing to attract business. It also indicates a departure away from the traditional freighters we saw during the pandemic, and we can expect some of the older freighters to be phased out. Now’s the time for freight forwarders to really show their creative strength because they have to anticipate what’s coming around the corner.

Fried urged the same fighting spirit to contend with ongoing labor shortages and union negotiations, which have been casting a shadow over US supply chains and impacting global trade flows.

It’s time for the freight forwarders to be the creative logistical problem solvers that we are – we’ve got to be ready for a challenging future.

Looking ahead to 2024, air and ocean freight demand are set to improve, he concluded.

We have a new baseline, and we need to stop comparing to before the pandemic. It’s a new world, we’re seeing a new geopolitical order: the war in Ukraine, rising labor costs, Chinese manufacturers moving out of China to elsewhere in Asia, South America, Mexico. Manufacturers are diversifying, and we can expect to see regionalizing of supply chains in the US and globally. A different political structure will have a significant impact on supply chains.

Import cargo volume at the major US container ports is climbing back from a nearly three-year low in February but is expected to remain well below last year’s levels heading into this fall, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

Consumers are still spending and retail sales are expected to increase this year, but we’re not seeing the explosive demand we saw the past two years. Congestion at the ports has largely gone away as import levels have fallen, but other supply chain challenges remain, ranging from trucker shortages to getting empty containers back to terminals. We were pleased by recent reports of progress related to the West Coast port labor negotiations but will continue to monitor the situation closely until there is a new agreement ratified by both parties. With economic uncertainty continuing, the impact on trade is clear.

Jonathan Gold, Vice President for Supply Chain & Customs Policy, NRF

Year-over-year import volumes have been on the decline at most ports since late last year and declining exports out of China highlight the slowdown in demand for consumer goods. Our forecast now projects a larger decline in imports in the first half of this year than we forecast last month. Our view is that imports will remain below recent levels until inflation rates and inventory surpluses are reduced.

Ben Hackett , Founder, Hackett

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 1.62 million TwentyFoot Equivalent Units – one 20-foot container or its equivalent – in March, the latest month for which final numbers are available. That was up 5% from February – which saw the lowest levels since May 2020 – but down 30.6% year over year.

SEA FREIGHT

Ports have not yet reported April numbers, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 1.73 million TEU, down 23.4% year over year. May is forecast at 1.83 million TEU, down 23.5% from last year’s 2.4 million TEU, the all-time record for the number of containers imported during a single month. June is forecast at 1.9 million TEU, down 15.9%; July at 2.01 million TEU, down 7.9%; August at 2.04 million TEU, down 9.9%, and September at 1.96 million TEU, down 3.4%. The large yearover-year declines are skewed by unusually high volumes last year.

The first half of 2023 – previously forecast at 10.8 million TEU – is now forecast at 10.4 million TEU, down 22.8% from the first half of 2022. Global Port Tracker has not yet forecast the full year, but the third quarter is expected to total 6 million TEU, down 7.2% from the same time last year, and the first nine months of the year would total 16.5 million TEU, down 17.8% year over year. Imports for all of 2022 totaled 25.5 million TEU, down 1.2% from the annual record of 25.8 million TEU set in 2021.

Global Port Tracker, which is produced for NRF by Hackett Associates, provides historical data and forecasts for the U.S. ports of Los Angeles/ Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Port of Virginia, Charleston, Savannah, Port Everglades, Miami and Jacksonville on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. The report is free to NRF retail members, and subscription information is available at NRF.com/PortTracker or by calling (202) 783-7971. Subscription information for non-members can be found at www.globalporttracker.com.

As the leading authority and voice for the retail industry, NRF analyzes economic conditions affecting the industry through reports such as Global Port Tracker.

US IMPORTS EXPECTED TO REMAIN BELOW 2022 MOST OF THIS YEAR

WORLD SHIPPING COUNCIL RELEASES CONTAINERS LOST AT SEA REPORT ���� UPDATE

The World Shipping Council (WSC) has released its annual report on containers lost at sea, revealing positive developments in container safety within the international liner shipping industry. The report covers the year 2022, showing that 661 containers were lost overboard during the year.

The reduction in containers lost at sea in 2022 is positive news, but there is no time for complacency. Every container lost at sea will always be one too many and we will continue with our efforts to make the sea a safer place to work, and to protect the environment and cargo by reducing the number of containers lost at sea.

John Butler, President & CEO of the WSC

Proper packing, stowage and securing of containers, and reporting of correct weight are key to the safety of a container ship, its crew, and its cargo, to shore-based workers, and to the environment. The responsibility for container safety is shared across the supply chain, and every day liner carriers work with their partners to prevent incidents and ensure safe container transport.

The WSC Containers Lost at Sea Report – 2023 Update reports that in 2022, 661 containers were lost at sea. This represents less than one thousandth of 1% (0.00026%) of the 250 million containers currently shipped each year, with cargo transported valued at more than $7 trillion. Reviewing the results of the total fifteen-year period surveyed (2008-2022), on average 1,566 containers were lost at sea each year.

Continued focus on improving safety

The liner shipping industry works continuously to further enhance container safety, partnering with governments and other stakeholders to reduce the number of containers lost at sea.

To this end, WSC, several member lines and a range of maritime stakeholder started the MARIN Top Tier project in 2021. The research undertaken has already delivered concrete data on the causes of containers overboard and how to prevent further incidents. This includes training materials to raise awareness of the risk of various kinds of parametric rolling, as well as tools such as videos and calculators to help prevent and, if necessary, manage such dangerous situations.

TopTier research is currently taking place into container and lashing gear strength, stowage planning and optimization, guidelines for vessel operations, and voyage planning. More results are to come in the form of industry best practices, updated safety standards, and recommendations as the project enters its third and final year. TopTier will continue reporting on progress and to share insights on a regular basis on its website, through the IMO and in other forums.

On the regulatory side, there has been progress on two key regulatory efforts for container safety that WSC is engaged in at the IMO. The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 105) approved a revision of IMO’s guidelines for container inspection programs, among other clarifying that it applies to all cargo, adding guidance from the CTU Code, as well as inspections for visible pest contamination.

WSC has also for many years been advocating mandatory reporting of containers lost at sea, and have contributed in the IMO CCC 8, to the development of a system for mandatory reporting of containers lost at sea. The proposal will be considered by MSC 107 in May-June this year. If approved, the system can be adopted at MSC 108 next spring, making international mandatory reporting requirements for containers lost as sea effective as of 2026.

OCEAN FREIGHT RELIABILITY RISES CLOSE TO PRE-PANDEMIC LEVELS

There were noticeable improvements across all metrics of schedule reliability and average delay on a global, carrier, carrier alliance, and trade lane level in 2023-Q1. This continues a trend that we saw for most of 2022 as well, with the metrics now closer to the pre-pandemic levels than to the below-par service levels of the pandemic-impacted years.

On a global level, schedule reliability increased to 58.3%, which was a 3.4 percentage point (PP) increase Q/Q, and a 24.9 PP improvement Y/Y. In similar vein, the average delay for ALL vessel arrivals improved to 1.70 days, dropping by -2.88 days Y/Y, while the average delay for LATE vessel arrivals improved to 5.23 days, a notable -2.43 day improvement Y/Y.

As for the top-14 shipping lines (shown in Figure 1), all of them recorded double-digit Y/Y improvements, with 4 of them recording improvements of over 30 PP. Maersk was the most reliable carrier in 2023-Q1 with schedule reliability of 63.6%, with MSC the only other carrier with schedule reliability higher than 60%. 11 of the 12 remaining shipping lines were within 50%-60%, with Yang Ming the only exception with schedule reliability of 49.9%.

The three carrier alliances also recorded sharp Y/Y improvements in schedule reliability, although only 2M and Ocean Alliance outperformed the industry on the East/West alliance trades, but that too by under 2 PP. THE Alliance on the other hand underperformed the industry by a significant -12.1 PP.

All of the six major East/West trades recorded double-digit Y/Y improvements in schedule reliability, although all of them underperformed compared to the global industry average.

SEA FREIGHT COVER FEATURE

Kerry Logistics, a name synonymous with logistics and supply chain solutions into and out of Asia, continues to capitalise on its in-market knowledge and expertise across key markets

2023 sees Kerry increase its focus on supporting businesses that trade with India

With a rich history in supporting Indian exporters dating back to 1984, Kerry Indev is one of the leading and largest services providers in India offering fully integrated solutions all under one roof including Customs House Agent (CHA), Transport, IATA accreditation, Container Freight Station (CFS)/ Inland Container Depot (ICD) /Air Freight Station (AFS) Operations, International Freight Forwarding, 3PL, Free Trade Zone Warehousing, and Vessel Operations & Express Cargo.

About Kerry Indev

• Operates from 27 strategic Locations across India

• Manages 4.0 million square feet of warehouse space

• Holds 300,000 square feet of space in Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ)

• Comprises three CFS facilities / three ICD facilities/ one AFS facility

• Retains 500+ Trailer Vehicles for export-import (EXIM) and Domestic Movement

With an increased number of businesses switching their sourcing strategies to India, Kerry Indev is best positioned to support both importers and exporters as a total solution provider for all their requirements.

India's export market presents lucrative opportunities for UK businesses, thanks to its low manufacturing costs and diverse range of commodities and goods.

FACILITATING SEAMLESS UK-INDIA TRADE AMIDST GROWING EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES

Furthermore, the Indian government’s commitment to facilitating investment, fostering innovation, and building best in class manufacturing infrastructure through its national ‘Make in India’ programme, promises the sustained growth of India's market opportunities.

Some of the top commodities imported from India to the UK in 2022 were mineral fuels, oils, and distillation products with a value of USD2.4 billion, as well as electrical and electronic equipment, valued at USD1.63 billion [source: Department for Business and Trade].

As the market for Indian exports continues to expand, UK importers must be aware of the careful planning and preparation needed to navigate Indian Customs regulations and other logistical challenges.

UK importers should consider...

Interstate taxes

Moving goods within India incurs an 'Interstate Tax' when crossing state borders. Businesses must factor in this tax for seamless transportation across the country.

Ports of entry

Mumbai's Port of Nhava Sheva offers direct sea services to the UK. With the shortest published transit times starting at around 20 days, shipping from other areas will add on additional transit time depending on location and service used.

Delays & congestion

As India’s busiest container port, Mumbai often experiences long queues and congestion, leading to delays in the delivery of goods. Importers should account for this factor and plan accordingly to mitigate potential disruptions.

Import procedures & documentation

When importing from India, it is crucial to comply with import procedures by obtaining commodity codes, import licenses, and EORI numbers, and preparing Customs declarations. All of these must be prepared in advance and failure to do so can lead to delays or goods being held by UK Customs.

By partnering with a trusted 3PL, like Kerry Logistics and Kerry Indev, businesses can tap into the immense potential of the Indian market while effectively managing these logistical challenges. For further information email contact.uk@kerrylogistics.com or call 0161 873 8777.

DP WORLD LAUNCHES DIRECT FREIGHT SERVICE BETWEEN UAE & IRAQ

Purpose-built RORO vessels used to transport ‘unaccompanied’ trailers from Jebel Ali to Umm Qasr Port in Iraq

The freight solution cuts journey times, emissions and potential delays at borders compared to overland routes.

DP World, a leading provider of global supply chain solutions, today launched the first direct freight service between the UAE and Iraq to make the flow of goods between the two countries faster, safer and more efficient.

The service caters for what the industry calls ‘unaccompanied trailers’ -- trailers which can be transported by sea without the driver and truck cab travelling alongside them. Instead, the trailer is left at the quay side at the port by the driver and is then pulled on and off the ship alone.

This is the first service of its kind in the UAE and runs under the name of P&O Maritime Transports – a DP World company.

The service takes approximately 36 hours to travel between Jebel Ali Port in the UAE and Umm Qasr Port in southern Iraq. It offers a new route between the two countries for road trailers, alleviating challenges faced by customers using cross-border land transport, which can take up to 14 days.

Unaccompanied trailers are loaded on to roll-on, roll-off (RORO) freight vessels, leaving the driver and cab behind at the port. Once the trailer reaches Umm Qasr Port, an Iraqi truck can drive it to its final destination anywhere in the country. Once delivered, the empty trailer is then returned to Umm Qasr and shipped by to Jebel Ali.

Until now, goods transported by road from the UAE to Iraq must be transloaded – a time consuming exercise of transferring cargo from the original truck to a locally-licensed vehicle. It is also risky, exposing the cargo in terms of damage, contamination and security.

DP World’s unaccompanied trailer service allows cargo owners and logistics companies to load a UAE-plated trailer in their local warehouse, ship it securely to Iraq and get the same trailer back, without the cargo having to change hands along the route.

This is especially useful for transporting palletised or project cargo – large, heavy duty, or complex pieces of equipment, due to the greater payload capacity of road going trailers. Purpose-built RORO freight vessels allow customers greater flexibility in the planning and movement of over-dimensional packages on low-bed and heavy-axle trailers. This generates significant cost savings versus traditional break bulk operations, as the cargo loaded on board a trailer is available to be delivered directly on site in Iraq.

The launch of this new route is a step change in our service offering in the UAE. It is a great example of our customer-focused approach at DP World, using innovative and tailored solutions to enable the flow of goods. Iraq's economy is growing rapidly, but until now it relied on transit through its neighbours for its import and export needs. Our new direct service starts to address this, opening a new more efficient trade route for the country. On top of the time and efficiency benefits, our service will also offer significant sustainability benefits. By shipping the trailer alone to Iraq, we expect to remove thousands of trucks from the roads every year, helping our clients reduce their CO2 emissions.

Jesper Kristensen, Group Chief Operating Officer, DP World Marine Services

The first customer to use the route was the ADSO Group, a UAEbased logistics firm (www.adsodxb.com). Speaking about the maiden journey, Riaz Karmali, General Manager at ADSO, said: As one of the first P&O Maritime Transports customers to use the service, we are extremely pleased with such a transport solution for our freight industry. The new service is ground-breaking and delivers great logistical efficiencies across our operations. We benefit from cost-savings by reducing our time spent on the road and crossing borders. Plus, the service provides a more sustainable solution to us, and by extension to our customers. The reliability and expertise of DP World means we have full trust that our shipments are handled with the utmost care. We are optimistic our clients will greatly benefit from this service, and it will be a win-win solution for shippers, forwarders and receivers alike.

GROW YOUR FREIGHT FORWARDING OR NVOCC BUSINESS WITH DFA

Join over 5000 members with coverage of 192+ countries in a network of trusted partners and customers

Founded in 2020 by DP World, DFA is connecting freight forwarders and NVOCCs around the world. More than a membership, DFA provides the best online web-based tools, business opportunities and a comprehensive ERP system to enhance the growth of their members' businesses. As a forward-thinking and proactive player, DFA caters directly for the need to innovate in order to remain competitive and meet the evolving needs of customers across the industry. Demand for digital solutions has never been higher and will only keep growing. We are leveraging technology to create value for our customers and help drive growth.

Mike Bhaskaran, COO Logistics & Technology, DP World

Through networking, members can help each other understand the market and how to approach customers with more certainty. Membership offers the opportunity to increase sales online by using its Logistics Explorer rate management solution. With a dedicated Account Manager to promote their services even more, members can get access to cutting-edge webtools for digital logistics transformation. Payment protection for members offers peace of mind for transportation transactions between members, delivering industry leading compensation lead times. The alliance is the ultimate ecosystem of applications, sharpening logistics workflows featuring shipping schedules, point-to-point cargo tracking, online quotations, paperwork automation, smart booking management and much more.

GROW YOUR FORWARDING OR NVOCC BUSINESS WITH DFA

Part of Japan’s Nishitetsu Group, the ocean division of NNR Global Logistics UK (NNR) offers FCL and LCL services worldwide and has weathered the recent stormy conditions well. Its confidence in the future rests on good relationships, reliability and experience

2021 was the most challenging year I’ve seen in shipping, said Head of Ocean Development, Janette Page – not an insignificant statement, given that she has been in the business for 40 years.

Focusing on price alone is not a sustainable way to operate: you have to deliver what the customer needs to help provide some stability in such volatile times, Page went on. We actively seek solutions to meet deadlines, and we give our customers options when challenges strike, keeping them updated at every milestone. NNR’s vSMART blockchain application provides that visibility and complete transparency.

NNR customers also benefit from the company’s longstanding relationships with carriers, which afford NNR priority in moving cargo in a timely fashion even when capacity and equipment are scarce.

Uncertainty

Although freight rates continue to fall, new challenges have emerged from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical unrest combined with stagflation. All have resulted in a downturn in trade and a plethora of blank sailings being introduced.

Plus, Page observed: Customers have been wary of entering into fixed rate agreements this year because of the pricing volatility, and that can undermine stability in key markets.

The global economy, naturally, is affecting volumes as the cost-ofliving crisis bites. The reduction in freight rates will take time to filter through to consumers, who are tightening their belts.

Among the hurdles, she highlighted the complexity of securing space on vessels, as well as high freight rates.

As a result of these developments: We shifted away from our usual expectation of TEU growth, as our main focus was to protect and prioritise existing customers, guaranteeing them space on vessels.

Schedule integrity (or the lack thereof) has been a headache for supply chains and it has become necessary to consider overall carrier performance, including not just capacity and rates but also conditions at loading ports, equipment availability, and alternative gateways.

Looking ahead, the break-up of the alliance between MSC and Maersk in 2025 could result in a price war in the container shipping market. More capacity will be joining the global fleet in the near future on the back of the 'ordering frenzy' of 2020/21, Page pointed out.

This year, 89 new megamax vessels are set to be deployed, although some may well be deferred to 2024 in the face of falling demand – which will put key trade lanes under pressure to manage supply and demand. Some ports are already seeing a surfeit of empty containers stacking up.

NNR... DELIVERING THE GOODS

Despite the uncertainty affecting the supply chain, NNR’s ocean business has been growing. The company’s ocean volumes have traditionally relied on Far East westbound cargo; however, NNR has expanded into new markets during the last two years. It has developed well in the Middle East, following the opening of NNR Dubai in 2019, expanding its portfolio across the region. In terms of industry verticals, the company is developing its pharmaceuticals, automotive, and food industry support. Cross-trade activity also continues to grow.

We will continue to develop the pharma, food, and automotive verticals and grow our business, Page said. January and February of 2023 have been very good. We have a strong client base that recommends NNR to its industry peers because we have proved that we deliver on our promises, even in difficult times.

MOBILE PPL ANNOUNCES CARBON NEUTRAL CERT. & OUTLINES VISION FOR A GREENER FUTURE

Multi award-winning transport and logistics operator Mobile People Powered Logistics has announced that it has been certified as a Carbon Neutral Business under the UN’s internationally recognised calculation ISO 14064. This makes it, the directors believe, the only independent operator in the UK currently, and the first independent haulier and palletised delivery business in England and Wales, to achieve this goal.

The business, headquartered in Birmingham and with a distribution and logistics centre in Aylesbury, focusses on high-quality supply chain solutions for palletised freight distribution, haulage, warehousing and fulfilment. With a team of more than 120 people and 60 owned vehicles covering all key industrial regions within the UK mainland, the company handles over 300,000 shipments per annum through its shareholding in Pallet-Track, and its own haulage and distribution fleet.

The announcement comes at a time when businesses in the sector are under increasing pressure to address their environmental impact, whilst maintaining service levels and profit margins in a highly competitive market. For the past five years Mobile PPL has been operating under the ISO14001 environment management framework, which has dictated decision making on everything from machinery and equipment to warehousing and administration, to reduce emissions and stay within the criteria.

The company first started its journey to carbon neutrality in 2022 by understanding customer expectations and framing that against internal ambitions and motivations. The process was completed at the end of March 2023 through its partnership with Carbon Neutral Britain, a UK offsetting programme. This allows Mobile PPL to offset its environmental impact by investing in projects to remove Carbon Dioxide and Greenhouse Gases from the atmosphere.

Mobile PPL is using this milestone to cement its ambition to become a Zero Emissions business by 2037. Mobile PPL hopes that others in the industry will follow suit, thereby creating the necessary demand to accelerate research and investment in more sustainable technology for the haulage sector. Current technology does not allow any national haulage and distribution business to be Zero Emissions.

The Mobile PPL Environment Pledge

Each year, we will report our emissions data to show our progress and areas for improvement. We will dedicate time and resource to researching sustainable technologies and update our procurement process to make sustainability one of our key purchase motivators. We will lead the sector in being open and transparent about the environmental challenges the industry faces, and encourage our suppliers, partners and peers to join us.

The process of becoming Carbon Neutral has been a challenge, given the margins that we operate at, however we felt it was important to make a stance and let our actions do the talking. We wanted to fund this ourselves, not by dressing it up as a ‘green tax’ passed onto clients, in the hope that our position on this issue will motivate and inspire others to join us.

Matthew Marriott , Managing Director Mobile, PPL

NOW offering storage and warehouse services !

3.6 % haulage price rise pushes overall prices up, even with diesel costs falling

The most positive news from the Spring Budget was undoubtedly the freezing of fuel duty. It came as a welcome relief, as the industry had been urging the government to extend the cut for some time. It’s good to see the government responding to the needs of the logistics industry. The industry is at the heart of the economy, so minimising logistics costs can help prevent additional inflationary strains on both businesses and consumers. Many businesses would have liked increased investment in green energy, as the industry (like many others) is feeling the push to go greener. Pressures like these, combined with stubborn inflation, mean we could see significant rises in the future – and we’re already seeing haulage prices start to creep up.

Lyall Cresswell, CEO of Transport Exchange Group and Integra

The latest data from the TEG Road Transport Price Index has revealed that haulage and courier prices increased slightly from March to April. With haulage prices up 3.6% and courier prices up 2%, this follows the pattern of the last four years, except for the immediate aftermath of Covid-19. Year-on-year, haulage prices are actually 2% down, but courier prices are 3.6% higher, leaving the overall index slightly up on its April 2022 level. In the face of stubborn inflation, driver shortages and supply chain troubles, it seems falling diesel costs haven’t been enough to keep prices down.

ABOUT THE DATA

Supply chains in the spotlight

The haulage element of the TEG Road Transport Price Index went up in March 2023 – no surprise there as it has been low (still lower than this time last year) and has gone up in March every year so far following the post-peak doldrums. However, the courier element went down in March – the first time it has done this, showing signs of reducing inflation rates …but just prior to oil production being cut in April, which is likely to push this element of the index back up again.

Kirsten Tisdale, Director of Logistics Consultants Aricia Limited and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport

Recent analysis revealed that the UK economy is losing £12 billion a year to supply chain issues. When supply chain costs spiral, they affect businesses’ bottom lines, which is often reflected in price rises being passed onto customers. For example, even though haulage prices are 2% down, year-on-year, hauliers are having to charge 11% more than they did during the same period four years ago. Businesses can lessen the impact of supply chain issues through the kind of integrated digitisation Integra offers. With a quarter of the UK’s trucks running empty, digitisation can help hauliers looking to share truck space and create efficiencies.

The TEG Road Transport Price Index tracks changes in the pricing of road transport services, based on millions of aggregated and anonymised transactions between thousands of transport companies. Data is gathered from completed transactions on the TEG platforms, then aggregated and anonymised. PPM (price-per-mile) is calculated as the average of all completed orders, excluding 0 values. PPM = (sum order values) / (sum order miles). Sample size is circa 2m orders per annum, from circa 8,500 participants.

ROAD PRICES HIT APRIL RECORD AS DOUBLE-DIGIT INFLATION REMAINS

LACK OF GOVERNMENT FISCAL SUPPORT HAMPERING EV UPTAKE, SAYS LOGISTICS UK

If the logistics sector is to decarbonise effectively, in line with the government’s 2050 net zero deadline, more support will be needed to enable operators to do so, according to a new report by business group Logistics UK. The organisation’s Electric Vehicle Report 2023, released today – 11 May 2023 – demonstrates that factors including a lack of fiscal support and an inadequate public charging network are having a significant impact on the confidence of operators to invest in electric vehicles (EVs).

In 2022, EVs represented 0.9% of the UK’s van fleet, up from 0.3% in 2019. And while the majority of the businesses surveyed for the report – 62% – plan to have decarbonised their van fleets by 2030, significant barriers remain that prevent the uptake needed ahead of the deadlines.

The logistics sector is fully aware of its responsibilities to decarbonise and is keen to do so. However, with respondents reporting wide ranging costs to upgrade their energy supplies to depots – between £100,000 and over £1 million – a lack of meaningful scrappage schemes, acquisition costs on the rise and volatile energy prices, it is an uphill battle that cannot continue without increased support from government. Our industry operates on very narrow margins of around 1% and with significant inflationary pressures, increased wage bills and the rise in total road vehicle operating costs, logistics businesses need supportive fiscal measures to be able to upgrade their fleets and energy supplies without having to pass on increased costs to customers.

David Wells, Chief Executive, Logistics UK

With all respondents citing energy supply as their top priority, the business group is also calling for a fair and equitable approach to funding depot electricity connection. Mr Wells continues:

Significant frustration was expressed by our members who regularly use current public chargepoints, with respondents reporting difficulties in finding available EV chargepoint spaces and many encountering broken or inoperable chargers. With further issues surrounding the suitability of existing charging facilities for commercial vehicles, Logistics UK is calling for an EV charging and refuelling infrastructure roadmap to be prioritised. This must be designed in collaboration with operators, backed with clear guidance and incentives for local authorities. A significantly accelerated rollout of public charging infrastructure that is fully accessible to commercial vehicles, with clear milestones for minimum levels of suitable chargepoint provision across the country, must be an urgent priority for government if our industry is to meet its net zero priorities by 2050.

The cost and availability of new electric vehicles is also a concern for the logistics sector, with long order deadlines and no viable scrappage schemes putting heavy cost burdens on businesses, particularly SMEs.

The lifecycle of a vehicle is carefully worked into any logistics business’ budget, to ensure continuity while keeping costs down. Our members should not be expected simply to write off the cost of any vehicles they operate – which could run to thousands of pounds for every operator: a supportive scrappage scheme should be in place to ensure that logistics businesses can stay on the roads without incurring further, punitive costs.

Aztek Logistics praises Prince’s Trust help as it celebrates 20 years on the road

AHertfordshire logistics specialist is commending the hard work of its employees and loyalty of its customers for supporting it over two decades of trading.

Letchworth Garden City-based Aztek Logistics was founded in 2003 following a long-awaited dream for managing director, Stuart Charter, who was working as a white goods and TV installer for electronics retailer Mastercare, the distribution arm of Currys.

The logistics company’s first success came from the support of the Prince’s Trust which helped Stuart get his first vehicle on the road – a 7.5 tonne lorry – after he produced a long-term business plan for the 40-year-old charity.

Over the years, Aztek has continued to thrive, mostly recently achieving a £12 million turnover in 2022, with 2023 set to increase the firm’s turnover further.

The company’s industry accreditations have helped it achieve this milestone, including the BRCGS storage and distribution certification, Organic Food accreditation and FORS Gold accreditation – the

top accolade for safety and environmental best practice in the supply chain – which it has held for seven years.

Stuart Charter said: I started as one man with van and a dream. That one van became two vans and after my first year, I submitted my first accounts of £287,000, which I still have. The success at the start was all down to the help of the Prince’s Trust – they were great to deal with and boosting confidence, which is what you need when you’re a new business starting out. There was steep learning curve, and I learnt a lot from the Prince’s Trust, not least around entrepreneurial pitfalls and dealing with cashflow and finance through factoring, which got me through some leaner times in the early days.

The business is a member of the award-winning Pallet-Track network, which enables independent hauliers to work together to efficiently transport palletised goods around the UK.

Over the last three years, Aztek has invested not only in its expanding fleet to accommodate its new record-breaking double-digit growth volumes but also its warehouse facilities. Last year, the company opened its sixth warehouse, a new 20,000 sq. ft premises in Arlesey, which has increased its total warehousing capacity to 150,000 sq. ft.

Aztek has also boosted its fleet to 40 and manages over 30,000 pallet movements per month via its pallet network and haulage fleet.

I’m so proud of the team we have here at Aztek. There’s been a lot of growth in recent years and I’m also proud of our track record with retaining staff over our 20 years in business, said Stuart.

HUPAC SECURES MODAL SHIFT DESPITE ECONOMIC SLOWDOWN

The traffic volume of the Hupac Group stagnated at 1,104,000 road consignments in 2022. Nevertheless, Hupac achieved a satisfactory financial result. Transport policy support measures are necessary to stabilise combined transport in the current economic downturn.

Traffic development in 2022 below expectations

Last year, the Hupac Group carried 1,104,000 road consignments in combined road/rail and seaport hinterland transport, which corresponds to a slight decrease of 1.8% or 20,000 road consignments. Capacity bottlenecks in Germany in particular had a negative impact. After a strong first quarter with monthly growth rates in the high single digits, traffic slumped in April and June and again in the autumn due to intensive construction activity on the Rhine-Alpine corridor. At peak times, up to 20% of the ordered trains could not run for operational reasons. In the last quarter, an economic slowdown set in due to the unfavourable development of energy prices.

Overall, traffic on the high-volume north-south corridor decreased by 2.9% to 767,000 road consignments. Transalpine traffic through Switzerland declined by 2.1% to 585,000 shipments. In contrast, transit traffic through Austria developed positively with an increase of 9.7% to 44,000 shipments. The south-east and south-west corridors also developed positively with growth rates of 2.9% and 40.3% respectively.

Seaport hinterland traffic also continues to be subject to strong external influences. Keywords here are the global supply chain disruptions caused by COVID-19 with shutdowns in Asia and the uncertainties caused by the war in Ukraine. ERS Railways' maritime traffic from the North Sea ports declined by 3% to 184,000 road consignments.

The turnover of the Hupac Group decreased by 2.1% to CHF 668.5 million. With a net profit of CHF 7.6 million, Hupac nevertheless achieved a satisfactory annual result. Investments reached a high level of CHF 84.3 million as various projects could be resumed after the pandemic break.

Weak economy with ongoing capacity issues

Due to high energy costs, energy-intensive industries such as steel, chemicals and paper are particularly under pressure. Hans-Jörg Bertschi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hupac Ltd, explained at the annual media conference in Zurich that the base load of combined transport in Europe is falling with the decline in these rail-related transports. In addition, since January 2023, price increases for rail transport in Europe have been significantly higher than those for road transport. At the same time, as the industrial economy stagnates or declines, significant capacity is again available in road transport. This leads to a significant shift of transport from rail to road. In Hupac's transport network, this can be quantified as a minus of 10 to 15 percent for the period January to April 2023 compared to the same period of the previous year, depending on the transport segment.

The sum of negative factors such as the decline in traffic due to the economic situation, high rail costs, falling road freight rates and the chronic instability of the rail network represent a real risk of modal shift, says Bertschi. Although the volume of combined transport in Europe fell significantly in the first quarter, the quality and reliability of the international rail infrastructure has hardly improved. Too many trains are still canceled or delayed for days. If the reliability of the rail infrastructure and the quality of combined transport do not improve, we can expect a further shift back to the roads in the coming months.

Measures to stabilise the modal shift

Hupac keeps its transport network stable despite a decline in demand. Where necessary, operational concepts are being optimised and overcapacities reduced. Strict cost management in cooperation with its partners helps to overcome the crisis with lean structures and flexible production planning.

However, whether combined transport will be able to maintain its market position in the current situation and, if possible, expand it, depends above all on the transport policy framework. Hupac President Hans-Jörg Bertschi lists a number of measures that would strengthen the marketability of combined transport and secure the successes achieved so far:

• Quality management for shuttle trains in international Alpine transit: Introduction of a consistently effective operational management for international Alpine transit trains of combined transport on the Rhine-Alpine corridor under the management of the corridor's railway infrastructures - a measure that is particularly urgent in view of the forthcoming corridor renovations and construction work on the Rhine Valley Railway. Because of its importance for transport policy in this corridor, Switzerland would have a leading role in providing impetus. This would be done with the support of Italy, which urgently needs a functioning transalpine transport system to safeguard its economy and foreign trade

• Support for the competitiveness of combined transport: Temporarily suspend the annual reduction of subsidies for combined transport until the economic crisis is over. By adjusting the subsidy to the reduced transport volume in the first quarter of 2023, the loss of competitiveness of combined transport can be partially compensated

• Continuation of the Rolling Highway until 2028: The Rolling Highway is currently very well used due to the increase in road traffic. The continuation of the Rolling Highway service until 2028 is an appropriate measure to counteract the shift back to pure road transport

• Improving performance through digital transformation: A transparent flow of data along the entire combined transport service chain helps to ensure that capacity is better used and that individual partners can plan better. Existing open systems such as DX Intermodal's Data Hub must become the standard for all combined transport in Europe

Outlook: investments secure climate-friendly intermodal transport

Despite the current difficult situation, Hupac is maintaining its investments in terminals, IT systems and network expansion, thus securing the conditions for future growth. We welcome the positive decision of the Swiss Ministry of Transport to finance the major terminal Milano Smistamento, which Hupac will realise in a joint venture with Mercitalia Logistics by 2026, emphasises Michail Stahlhut, CEO of the Hupac Group. This new central gateway terminal in Milan will significantly accelerate the ongoing development of seaport hinterland traffic from the Italian ports to Switzerland and southern Germany.

Other Hupac terminal projects are already in the realisation phase, such as the Piacenza terminal to be completed by 2025, the extension of the Novara terminal by 2025 and the replacement investments in gantry cranes at the Busto Arsizio-Gallarate terminal.

In terms of network development, Hupac is focusing on the expansion of services from the Köln Nord terminal, the operation of which was taken over by the Hupac Group at the beginning of the year. The new Brwinów terminal near Warsaw is being developed as a hub for transports to/ from western and southern Europe. In the core market of transalpine transport through Switzerland, the focus is on the Benelux markets and the economic areas of north-eastern, central and southern Italy. In maritime transport, the Hupac Group pursues a long-term strategy based on its European network. While the northern ports are served by the subsidiary ERS Railways, Hupac Intermodal makes its network available for volumes from the Mediterranean ports.

We are convinced that our competitive, market-oriented combined transport products offer real added value for environmentally and climate-friendly logistics, says Stahlhut. Compared to pure road transport, the Hupac network saved around 1.5 million tonnes of CO2 in 2022, reduced energy consumption by 17 billion megajoules and took 21 million tonnes of goods off the roads. Says Stahlhut:

Our long-term corporate strategy is part of the answer to the major challenges facing society, such as climate protection, energy transition and sustainable economic development. We will continue to focus on this in the current year.

ÖBB & UKRSALISNYZJA: NEW CARGO CONNECTION TO UKRAINE

ÖBB Rail Cargo Group and Ukranian Railways offer intermodal TransFER Vienna-Kyiv

ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) is, in cooperation with the Ukrainian Railways, connecting Ukraine to its intermodal network with the new connection TransFER Vienna–Kyiv. As a leading rail logistics provider in Europe, RCG already offers a wide range of intermodal TransFER connections across the entire Eurasian continent. With the new connection between Kiev and Vienna with stops in Budapest and Lviv, the ÖBB freight subsidiary offers the first regular, high-frequency intermodal connection between Ukraine and the numerous hubs in Central Europe.

Freight transport by rail is relevant to supply and the system

Rail freight has proven its systemic relevance in maintaining supply security during the numerous international crises.

Not only Ukraine benefits from being included in the international network of ÖBB Rail Cargo Group. The whole of Europe must grow closer together as far as rail freight transport is concerned. This is an important step in the right direction, for the economy, countries and the environment.

Andreas Matthä , CEO, ÖBB

Ukraine is essential as a source market for European supply chains – especially in the area of raw materials and agricultural products. Through quality transport products, we want to ensure the country's integration into the European transport network to efficiently connect our producers as well as our receiving markets with European ports and logistics hubs.

Viacheslav Yeromin, Member of the Management Board, Ukrainian Railways

Supporting Ukraine

– keeping the economic engine running

ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) is intensively supporting Ukraine with transport and logistics services since March 2022. In the segment of agricultural products alone, more than 2 million tonnes have been exported – more than 100 trains per month and more than any other freight company in Europe.

Many advantages for customers

In cooperation with Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia/UZ), RCG thus connects Ukraine with the European Union and beyond. This brings many advantages for customers:

• Full access to RCG's maritime, continental and Eurasian connections

• Trucking service to any European destination

– starting from Budapest and Vienna

• Fixed schedule and attractive transit times

• Weekly departures in both directions

Traction in Europe on standard gauge will be provided by RCG from the Ukrainian border as a one-stop service. It will also handle additional logistical services such as terminal services, import and export customs and much more. On the broad gauge up to the Ukrainian/Hungarian border, the partner Ukrzaliznytsia will take over.

LIFEBOATS TO SINGAPORE FOR CRUISE INDUSTRY

The Polish division of 3p Logistics' projects team are pleased to report an interesting shipment they coordinated from Gdansk to Singapore.

The cargo included four large lifeboats which were made in Poland, measuring 11.5 (L) x 3.00 (W) x 3.50 (H) meters each. From Gdasnk, the lifeboats were collected by truck for onward delivery to Singapore by sea freight. 3p Logistics handled operations such as re-loading & securing the cargo using the appropriate containers.

The cargo is now sailing toward Asia for our satisfied customer!

Henry, a polar bear from the sunny shores of Australia, was transported by Hellmann to the frozen tundra of Canada, where he embarked on an epic journey to find a new home at a polar bear habitat

Henry, born in May 2013, holds a special place in Australian history as the first polar bear to be born in the country in over 30 years. After spending his first years of life with his mother Liya, Henry needed to find a new home where he could grow and thrive. As a leading logistics company, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics was entrusted with the important task of transporting Henry from Australia to Canada. The journey was long and complex, requiring meticulous planning and execution to ensure Henry’s safe and comfortable transportation.

Hellmann arranged for the necessary permits and paperwork, notified the relevant authorities, and carefully planned a series of flights that would take Henry across the globe from Australia to Canada. The journey involved several flights, with Henry accompanied by numerous professionals to ensure his safety. Thanks to the top tier solutions Hellmann provides, Henry’s flight time was reduced by an impressive 15 hours, providing a smooth and brisk ride for the polar bear.

During a stopover in his long journey, Henry started to feel hungry. The Hellmann employees who were taking care of him knew they had to act fast to keep the hungry polar bear happy and healthy. Without hesitation, they sprang into action and went to a nearby store to buy fresh seafood for Henry. They returned with food for the bear, and Henry happily devoured the delicious meal.

Hellmann arranged for the necessary permits and paperwork, notified the relevant authorities, and carefully planned a series of flights that would take Henry across the globe from Australia to Canada. The journey involved several flights, with Henry accompanied by numerous professionals to ensure his safety. Thanks to the top tier solutions Hellmann provides, Henry’s flight time was reduced by an impressive 15 hours, providing a smooth and brisk ride for the polar bear.

During a stopover in his long journey, Henry started to feel hungry. The Hellmann employees who were taking care of him knew they had to act fast to keep the hungry polar bear happy and healthy. Without hesitation, they sprang into action and went to a nearby store to buy fresh seafood for Henry. They returned with food for the bear, and Henry happily devoured the delicious meal.

Overall, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics is proud to be part of Henry’s epic journey to his new home. The employees involved in this transport went above and beyond their duties to ensure that Henry was as comfortable and safe as possible, and that makes all the difference.

Since its foundation in 1871, Hellmann has developed into one of the largest international logistics providers. With its high-performance products Airfreight, Seafreight, Road & Rail, and Contract Logistics, the right solution is always offered for the complex logistics requirements of the customers and rely on future-oriented digital services for maximum transparency and more efficient supply chains. Today, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics is represented by a Worldwide Network of 489 offices in 173 countries with more than 19,500 people. In 2022, the Hellmann Group achieved a turnover of EUR 5.0 billion with 13,949 employees.

Angely Escalona , Hellmann Worldwide Logistics

DEUGRO DELIVERED

280k FREIGHT TONNES

FOR THE LONG SON A1 OLEFINS PLANT PROJECT IN VIETNAM

On behalf of its client TPSK—a Consortium of TechnipFMC and SK Engineering & Construction—deugro moved 280,000 freight tonnes of petrochemical equipment from over 35 worldwide seaports and airports to the construction site on Long Son Island near Vũng Tàu, Vietnam.

Nearly 178,300 freight tonnes of the most critical oversized and heavy lift (OSHL) components were successfully delivered by 155 breakbulk shipments on 55 chartered heavy lift vessels. All shipments were executed in times of widespread and ever-changing restrictions on short notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and with skyrocketing freight rates and severely limited vessels and vessel space capacities.

The overall project encompassed over 1,400 breakbulk, container and air freight shipments—with nearly 37,000 packages and a total weight of almost 68,510 metric tonnes—from Singapore, Belgium, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, South Korea, Thailand, the UK and the USA to Phu My, Vietnam.

deugro Singapore, as the project control tower, worked closely with a total of 16 deugro country organizations around the globe to handle the extraordinary complexity of this project. More than 50 deugro experts were in daily contact with the client and all subcontractors, and worked together across the project supply chain to ensure safe delivery, smooth operations and efficient responses to a variety of challenges in a timely manner.

To ensure the safe ocean transportation of the huge cargo packages across more than 213,000 nautical miles, deugro and its partners produced bespoke method statements, transport arrangement drawings, detailed motion analyses, ballasting and mooring calculations, ramp arrangements, lifting and rigging calculations, as well as stowage and seafastening designs.

The 24 most challenging OSHL components—with single weights of up to 778 metric tonnes, lengths of nearly 100 meters, and a total volume of over 48,000 cubic meters—were delivered from Kuantan, Malaysia to Long Son, Vũng Tàu, Vietnam despite last-minute schedule changes during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and strict mandates.

To keep to the estimated project budget for the client in this difficult market situation, deugro secured at an early stage the required cargo space and contracted, in collaboration with its partner Roll Group, six semisubmersible multifunctional vessels specialized for heavy lift shipments.

The biggest challenge was the transport of a C3 tower with a length of 93 meters and a weight of 800 metric tonnes, including transport beams, from the fabrication yard to Kuantan Port. The six- kilometer journey took nearly 11 hours at a driving speed of a maximum of three kilometers per hour. It was among the largest cargo components ever handled at Kuantan Port.

Drastically increasing COVID-19 cases and the associated restrictions in Malaysia and Vietnam led to repeated and last-minute changes in the schedule. Flexibility, coordination and timely communication of deugro’s project team with the client, the project owner, the supplier and all partners were paramount to keeping the project on track. To ensure successful project execution within this challenging scenario, deugro’s project teams proactively provided daily status reports and were in permanent communication with the client, the project owner, local authorities and all partners. The outstanding cooperation between deugro, dteq, Roll Group, the client, the suppliers and Kuantan Port ensured that all difficult OSHL components were delivered safely and successfully on time and on budget.

Benjamin Mutti, Regional Director, deugro Singapore & Malaysia

In the collaboration with deugro, we experienced an overall good and fair approach throughout the project by the different involved parties, that we will also consider for future business.

Vincenzo Lagana , Project Director, Technip Energies

WFS & DSV EXTEND GROWING GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP WITH NEW EUROPEAN GATEWAY CONTRACT IN LIEGE

DSV has awarded Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) a longterm European Gateway cargo handling contract in Liege, Belgium, extending their growing global partnership

This latest agreement between the two companies reflects WFS’ diversifying role at the centre of the air logistics supply chain. WFS, a Member of the SATS Group and the world’s largest cargo handler, already provides air logistics services for DSV in Amsterdam and at Huntsville International Airport in Alabama. Further network collaboration is under review at other WFS stations globally.

WFS is resourcing and operating DSV’s hub facility in Liege, providing warehouse handling of cargo carried onboard DSV’s all-cargo charters and commercial freighter services by multiple airline partners used by DSV across the company’s extensive global charter network. Supported by WFS’ direct airside access and ramp services, the DSV Liege Gateway consolidates and deconsolidates cargo for all European DSV entities to and from the company’s 15 most used trade lanes, including Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Dubai, and New York JFK.

As well as general cargo, the hub will be developed for special cargoes, including pharmaceuticals and perishables, which WFS is already equipped to support. The Liege operation will complement the successful DSV Gateway hub in Luxembourg and sees WFS take responsibility for import and export cargoes utilising capacity booked by DSV through Liege and on flights connecting through other surrounding airports.

I am thrilled to announce our new strategic partnership with WFS. This collaboration supports DSV’s commitment to providing seamless, efficient, and sustainable logistics solutions, and it showcases our ability to foster strong relationships within the industry. With our own skilled warehousing staff working closely with our ground-handling partner, we will optimise the speed of handling, ensuring faster turnaround times and minimal delays for our customers. Together, DSV and WFS are committed to enhancing the customer experience through excellent service and by driving innovation within the airfreight and groundhandling sectors. We believe this partnership will pave the way for a more connected future in global logistics.

M o Siraj, VP Airfreight EU & Managing Director, DSV Air & Sea LUX

This long-term contract is a result of our successful partnership in Amsterdam and Huntsville, where DSV has teamed up with WFS for all-cargo handling. We are proud to have proven our credentials to meet DSV’s high service and operational standards. This relationship is strategically very important to WFS because it showcases the services and value we bring right to the centre of the air logistics supply chain. By partnering with WFS in Liege, DSV is benefitting from cost and time efficiencies at one of Europe’s biggest full freighter airports.

Bert Selis, VP Business Development, E-commerce, Express & Freight Forwarders EMEAA, WFS (based in Belgium)

In Liege WFS operates 25.000m² of warehouse space, split over 2 facilities, and handles approximately 200,000 tonnes of cargo annually. As well as DSV, WFS’ clients at the Belgian airport also include other fast-growing airlines and logistics companies such as Air China Cargo, Air Canada, China Eastern Airlines, Silk Way West, Cainiao, Rich Sale Logistics, TOLEAD, and Hongyuan.

WHY IS QUALITY MANAGEMENT SO IMPORTANT WHEN IT COMES TO WAREHOUSE SPACE?

We all know ISO9001 as a Standard that marks an organisation out as following Quality Management processes, but what are the tangible benefits for businesses involved in the warehouse space sector? What does accreditation to ISO9001 mean for businesses providing warehousing and, perhaps, more importantly, what benefits accrue for those seeking available space

ISO9001, derived and developed from BS5750, is increasingly a requirement and a real differentiator for businesses hoping to supply organisations big and small. Contrary to popular opinion the Standard is anything but a box-ticking exercise, especially in its 2015 reiteration. Indeed, part of its raison d’etre is precisely to prevent Quality Management from degenerating into a narrow administrative task.

The Standard places a process approach to delivering customer satisfaction and driving continuous improvement right at the heart of the organisation. It requires the company to examine, and importantly to keep examining, its whole operation, from Board-level strategies and policies down to the individual processes and procedures that govern or affect the delivery of quality in goods and services. The ‘context of the organisation’ – strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, both internally and as they affect external partners and stakeholders –forms the core of the approach, which is developed not prescriptively (those boxes to be ticked!) but by requiring the organisation to ask the right questions and to listen to and act on the answers, for example the feedback from customers and suppliers.

Of course, any reputable company has processes and procedures designed to assure quality performance. How far these are well understood, properly implemented, or developed in the light of changing internal strategies and external requirements can be more problematic. ISO9001:2015 provides a methodology to ensure that quality management is, and remains, fit for purpose, and is ‘owned’ not just by a QM team but by the whole organisation from the top down.

So, why is this important to an organisation, its customers, suppliers and wider stake holders? Our experience at Bis Henderson Space serves as a good example.

Two significant milestones were reached by Bis Henderson Space towards the end of last year. First, we were named as a supplier on the Crown Commercial Services Framework Agreement for Storage, Distribution, Kitting and Associated Services. This opens the way for us to bid on relevant contracts across the whole gamut of national government, local authorities and public sector agencies such as the health service, police, fire, education and including those offered by the devolved administrations.

One of the conditions of CCS recognition is that the company holds, or is at least working towards, accreditation under the ISO9001:2015 Quality Management standard, and we are delighted that this has also been achieved after nine months of hard work internally and with consultants. We believe this is a major step forward for our business, and for our customers and indeed for our suppliers.

What will this mean for Bis Henderson Space? Of course, it improves our ability to bid for and win contracts, especially with large public and private sector entities. Internally, it will drive continuous improvements in our processes and our ability to deliver our output, from major projects to individual pieces of correspondence, ‘right first time’, which will save time, money and stress.

Meanwhile we can spread our continuous improvement methodology deep into that supplier base, and perhaps encourage them to go on the ISO9001 journey themselves. Attaining and implementing the Standard does have costs, and involves some hard work, but the process is by no means as onerous as might be thought, and we believe the benefits are considerable.

For our customers we will be able to deliver better solutions faster, while giving them the assurance that our performance will be not just maintained but improved over time. For our space suppliers too, this is good news. Although many are themselves ISO9001-accredited, many others are not, but by working with an accredited organisation such as Bis Henderson Space they can gain access to opportunities that might not otherwise be open to them.

Meanwhile, Bis Henderson is not standing still – our next target, which we hope will be achieved in the next few months, is accreditation to the increasingly important ISO27001 Standard on cyber-security, while we ultimately aspire to extend ISO9001 accreditation across all the Bis Henderson business units.

Bis Henderson Space has many years’ experience in this market. We can help convert your short-term space requirements from a firefighting emergency to a considered tactical response as part of your wider warehousing/fulfilment strategy.

Steve Purvis, Managing Director, Bis Henderson Space

NEW FACILITY TARGETS HONG KONG TEMPERATURE-SENSITIVE E-COMMERCE

Hong Kong Air Cargo Industry Services Limited (Hacis), the value-added logistics arm of Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl), has opened a new climate-controlled facility – “Cool Zone” – to cater for the increasing volumes of perishable and temperature-sensitive e-commerce traffic transiting Hong Kong.

Hacis’ new Cool Zone – located within its E-commerce Fulfilment Centre – provides a total, climate-controlled handling solution for goods such as fresh fruit and chocolates, speeding up the handling process and avoiding the potential cost and delays of transferring goods to downtown facilities for processing, before delivery to the agent’s warehouse or the final customer. Using Hacis Cool Zone, cargo arriving in Hong Kong can easily be processed and delivered to local customers the same day.

Hacis Cool Zone offers a handling area with temperatures down to 15°C, so preserving product quality throughout the fulfilment process. The facility is equipped with storage racks, and work tables for pick and pack and labelling. Cool Zone can integrate with agents’ own IT systems to feed direct status updates and stock information.

Hacis is also able to provide storage for chilled, fresh and frozen commodities ranging from +25°C to -25°C.

The Cool Zone is directly linked to Hactl’s SuperTerminal 1 automated Box Storage System (BSS), enabling it to cater for loose cargo, while minimising transit times. Once cargo is transferred to the Cool Zone, staff perform all required processes such as pick and pack and labelling, before the cargo is loaded onto temperature-controlled customer vehicles waiting at the facility’s dedicated truck docks. Alternatively, individual orders can be delivered direct from the Cool Zone to the end-customer by courier.

The decision to open Hacis Cool Zone was driven by the growth in cool chain shipments arriving at Hong Kong International Airport, and destined for e-commerce customers, explains Hacis Executive Director Ringo Chan: The Hacis E-commerce Fulfilment Centre needed to support this expansion of temperature-sensitive e-commerce business to various local and overseas destinations, and having reliable and efficient chiller facilities was essential to ensure the preservation of these shipments in prime condition.

Early users of the facility have been importers of fruit, yoghurt, snowy mooncake and chocolates, with most traffic inbound from Asian counties. Typical shipments comprise 100 pieces weighing between 1 and 5 kilos each. We anticipate an increase in the amount of temperaturecontrolled cargo being handled as there is a growing demand for direct supply of products such as fruits from Japan and Korea, Ringo adds.

For time- and temperature-sensitive perishables, it is important to keep the cargo handling time as short as possible. Hacis Cool Zone will take no more than 7 hours from unloading the cargo from the aircraft, to finishing the fulfilment process. So, for example, if the shipment is off-loaded in the morning, it can be delivered to a local end-customer the same day. That probably won’t be possible if the consignee deals with the fulfilment process using a downtown facility.

Hacis Cool Zone offers charging on a per-item-per-service basis, or as a comprehensive tailored package. Concludes Ringo: Hacis Cool Zone is unique in providing a total one-stop-shop solution for temperaturesensitive commodities, with all processes carried out in controlled conditions. This supports the expansion of Online to Offline (O2O) e-commerce businesses to various local and overseas destinations.

The bespoke digital solution uses data and AI to improve Cardinal’s cargo insurance offering, bringing significant improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction

Digital cargo insurance innovator Breeze has partnered with logistics software provider Ceedbox and freight forwarding giant Cardinal Global Logistics (Cardinal) to develop an innovative solution that delivers seamless and instant all-risk cargo insurance, tackling the prevalent, global issue of underinsured freight.

Cardinal now uses Ceedbox’s advanced technology and Breeze’s cuttingedge APIs to automate and constantly optimise quote generation, policy binding, and claims processing, reducing the time and effort needed to provide accurate cargo insurance coverage.

In a fast-paced world, freight forwarders need to be agile and responsive to meet their customers’ expectations, which is why we are developing cargo insurance solutions for them. An estimated 70 percent of global trade is either un- or under-insured, and our partnership with Ceedbox and Cardinal to develop this new solution has set a new standard for freight forwarders to ensure their customers’ cargo is always protected.

Eyal Goldberg, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Breeze

Designed with Cardinal’s operators in mind, Ceedbox and Breeze’s solution automates the offering of insurance to Cardinal’s customers without the need to add or change anything to their operations.

This automation has minimised manual input and human error, leading to a significant reduction in discrepancies and insurance claim issues, enabling Cardinal to provide a more efficient and comprehensive service to their customers.

As part of the solution, all systems are connected efficiently, resulting in improved communication between departments and increased visibility of shipments and their insurance coverage.

When developing our solution, we engaged in a comprehensive study from the perspective of customers and operators, allowing us to gain a thorough understanding of the varied requirements of all participants in the supply chain.

Alex Grant , Founder & CEO, Ceedbox

Breeze and Ceedbox believe the key to innovation lies in ensuring that technology serves the user, rather than the user adapting to technology.

Ceedbox and Breeze have made it very easy for us to provide a holistic service to our customers, which includes offering cargo coverage for shipments handled by us. Moreover, they are supporting us to constantly improve the solution as we learn new things and as our business needs change.

Gareth

Sumner, Sales Director, Cardinal

Eyal Goldberg and Matthew Phillips, Chief Commercial Officer, Breeze, will be on hand to discuss the platform at Transport Logistic 2023, Munich, from the 9th to the 10th of May.

INSURTECH STARTUP BREEZE LAUNCHES AUTOMATED INSURANCE SOLUTION WITH

TECH & DIGITALISATION EXPERTS

A fragmented landscape of essential service providers means access to one central control tower that integrates and synthesises all of these is an essential component for informed decision making and future success, says Raft’s Lionel van der Walt

Technology is bringing the human back into freight forwarding and proving to be a catalyst for change management, forcing us to radically rethink the nature of work. And yet many in the industry are still failing to benefit from the opportunities driven by digital transformation, which go beyond simply adopting smart automation.

This can be for a number of reasons, including a fear that technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in particular, will replace roles, whether by eliminating specific jobs, or by stepping into the freight forwarder’s space.

The tech is only the beginning of a change process, which can enable our industry to go beyond transactional workflows and concentrate instead on the value ads that only humans can bring – expertise, relationship building, nuance, and creativity. This human know-how is augmented by the technology and especially AI applications, which automate timeconsuming tasks across the entire shipment lifecycle.

Revolutionary impact

Artificial intelligence is having a revolutionary impact on freight forwarding by completely transforming how forwarders work. It’s helping freight forwarders in various ways, such as:

Streamlined workflows and processes: AI automates a lot of cumbersome workflows and manual work that forwarders do, from manual data entry and document compliance to invoice processing and reconciliation. This frees up teams to refocus their time on more meaningful work like customer value-add activities or strategic initiatives. By automating manual work, forwarders have the ability to scale efficiently without increasing overhead costs.

Improved logistics planning: AI is helping forwarders to optimise their logistics planning by analysing data on shipping routes, transportation modes, and delivery schedules. This analysis can help to identify the most efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions for their clients.

Actionable visibility and analytics: AI can help to improve visibility across the supply chain, enabling air freight forwarders to track shipments in real time and provide up-to-date information to their clients. This can help to increase customer satisfaction and reduce the risk of delays or disruptions. Accessibility to real-time information has the additional benefit of ensuring better collaboration and transparent communications between teams – guaranteed to make life easier for forwarders.

Risk and performance management: AI can help to identify potential risks and hazards along shipping routes, such as adverse weather conditions, geopolitical events, or port congestion. This allows freight forwarders to plan alternative routes and avoid delays. AI can also help to analyse team and client performance, to identify operational bottlenecks so forwarders can resolve issues faster and act as a strategic lever for their businesses, working to improve things like cash flow or comply with shifting regulatory requirements, for example. In this way, AI is a crucial cost and efficiency lever that facilitates revenue growth.

The role of tech providers

Ultimately, AI is ushering in a new wave of smart logistics by helping freight forwarders to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.

Back in 2017, our co-founders created Raft, a company that was ‘AIfirst’ in supply chain. They felt like they’d caught the first wave. A new way of tackling an age-old problem with tools – machine learning – still in their infancy. Machine learning (often interchangeable with ‘AI’) back then was for innovations like self-driving cars, but it wasn’t really applied to traditional industries like supply chain management or freight forwarding.

Even in the rare cases that AI and supply chain were mentioned in the same breath, the value of AI was always discussed from a top-down point of view, like modelling complex supply chains using big data, instead of looking at operations from the ground-up. One of the main reasons for this oversight was simple: companies with operational know-how didn’t have machine learning engineers, and vice versa. Put another way, the venn diagram of companies with access to both profiles looked like a figure of eight.

Unlocking AI’s potential in forwarding

Raft’s founders saw an opportunity to empower freight forwarders with a smarter way to manage and control their shipments and finally break free from the shackles of tedious manual processes and workflows and focus on delivering unprecedented value to their shippers. Its platform extends beyond streamlining internal operations, however. Its integration partner ecosystem provides forwarders with the ability to gain a centralised view of all their operations, and the ability to automate processes across the entire lifecycle of a shipment, from payments to carbon emissions reporting, making it the ultimate supply chain control tower.

Powered by AI, Raft is able to offer a sharper, smarter, and more efficient way for forwarders to communicate, operate, and serve their shippers. Freight forwarder customers ultimately benefit as forwarders have more time to create the experience that shippers have grown to demand and expect.

AI has the potential to transform the freight forwarding industry by improving efficiency, visibility, and customer service, and reducing costs. The full potential of AI for the industry has not yet fully been realised. And with a constantly expanding and fragmented landscape of essential service providers, access to one central control tower that integrates and synthesises all of these together is an essential component for informed decision making and future success.

Lionel van der Walt , Chief Growth Officer, Raft, an AI-driven start-up that automates operations for freight forwarding

FREIGHT’S AGE OF A.I. HAS ALREADY BEGUN

SILK WAY WEST JOINS FORCES WITH CARGO.ONE TO SUPERCHARGE DIGITAL SALES ADOPTION

Silk Way West Airlines partners with customer-experience leader cargo.one to deliver the most rapid and user-friendly booking option for forwarders

cargo.one will equip the airline with best practices to boost digital booking adoption

cargo.one’s unrivaled innovations, such as cargo.one 360leap, provide the airline with the ability to delight forwarders and win more business

Silk Way West Airlines and cargo.one today announced a global partnership to bring the airline’s freighter capacity to the air cargo booking marketplace. By joining customer experience advocate cargo.one, favored by forwarders in all important markets globally, Silk Way West Airlines will expand its digital footprint and align with the highest standards for digital air cargo booking. The airline also gains the market experience and actionable support of cargo.one teams to accelerate digital sales adoption for its capacities.

Headquartered in Baku, at the heart of the Silk Road, Silk Way West Airlines is the largest cargo airline in the Caspian Sea region. The airline carries over 420,000 tonnes of freighter capacity annually, utilizing a fleet of 12 Boeing 747F aircraft with front-loading capabilities. Silk Way West Airlines is progressing an impressive strategy of expansion, in which maximizing its digital distribution to every relevant market plays a vital role. The strategic location of Baku as a hub helps Silk Way West Airlines to span over 40 key destinations across Europe, the CIS, the Middle East, Central and Eastern Asia, and the Americas. Silk Way West Airlines is unique in building an attractive digital offering for larger shipments, where the market is currently under-served. Freight forwarders have long been attracted to the airline’s connectivity, which cargo.one will now deliver to agents with digital speeds and greater convenience than ever before.

Our partnership with cargo.one is an important milestone in our ambitious digitalization journey. By bringing our capacity to cargo.one’s expansive customer base, we will both broaden our reach and enable many more forwarders to benefit from our services. cargo.one and Silk Way teams are collaborating very closely, and we are relying on their proven expertise to enhance our buying journeys and drive up our share of digital air cargo sales.

Wolfgang Meier, President, Silk Way West Airlines

For the many thousands of agents who are thriving with digital bookings on cargo.one, the addition of Silk Way West Airlines' capacity is fantastic news. Due to its keen awareness of the changing market, Silk Way West Airlines is now putting cargo.one, as the best-in-class digital enabler, at the center of its digital sales growth trajectory.

Moritz Claussen, Founder & Co-CEO, cargo.one

cargo.one’s more than 40 airline partners profit from its targeted innovations that enable forwarders in dozens of countries to book more easily and often. Silk Way West partners with cargo.one shortly after the launch of its revolutionary cargo.one pro and cargo.one protect solutions for instant and seamless agent-to-agent bookings. A transformed digital booking experience for all import and export shipments now makes cargo.one the air cargo one-stop-shop for many agents worldwide.

The Future of Digital Trade

The CNS suite of products is designed to provide users with the most efficient and robust technology, combined with a world-class support helpdesk.

Customs Declarations Management Software

Simple, intuitive, and easy to use cloud-based platform to submit CDS, CHIEF and UK transit declarations. Our technology allows users to submit declarations for CNS, Pentant and MCP ports, with CCS-UK integration on the roadmap.

Crossborder Management

Our suite of Cross-border Management products, BEEMS, has been developed to remove complexity and reduce paperwork, saving significant time and offering reassurance that movements are complying with relevant regulations.

BEEMS Border Management products support businesses managing movements across borders on RORO pre-lodgement routes between the UK and EU, providing direct access to all the relevant customs systems.

CNS – Port Community System

HMRC-approved port community system that supports many of the largest maritime ports in the UK, enabling business and government stakeholders to securely and reliable exchange information and collaboratively manage cargo movements.

The system is fully approved by HMRC for imports, exports and transhipments at temporary storage locations, and provides users with real-time visibility of unit and cargo status as cargo moves through the port environment.

COCOONFMS ® WINS GOVERNMENT FUNDING TO HELP TRANSFORM UK FREIGHT INDUSTRY

A Birmingham-based business has been selected to help transform the future of the freight industry, as one of the first SMEs to win Government funding in a new scheme

Software solutions provider CocoonFMS® Ltd has been awarded a £129,000 grant from the Freight Innovation Fund which aims to help the freight industry become greener and more efficient, boosting connectivity, growth and jobs.

It is one of nine SMEs chosen to receive a share of the pot in the first round of investments, designed to accelerate the adoption of existing freight technologies and create more innovative methods of freight delivery around the country.

CocoonFMS® Ltd is developing a pioneering new cloud-based demurrage and detention visibility tool which provides freight forwarders and retailers with visibility for monitoring their imports and exports via realtime container location, up-to-date detention and demurrage costs, as well as carbon emissions.

It can be accessed from anywhere on any device, without the need for on-site IT resources and can be operational within a matter of days, or even hours.

Revolutionising the freight and logistics sector

The system will give businesses much better control over their logistics and costs using actionable data that will also help reduce bottlenecks in the network and enable them to reduce their carbon emissions through better planning.

We are absolutely over the moon to have been awarded government funding to further develop our pioneering work in this area. We’ve been working on our innovative logistics solutions for a long time and this will enable us to get it ready for the wider market a lot quicker.

The new system we are developing brings several of our platforms together into one single source of truth platform which has some really unique functions that will hugely help freight forwarders and other supply chain businesses understand and predict their costs. It will also help them redice their emissions through better planning and scheduling. For example, we know there’s a huge issue around containers being stuck at ports incurring huge costs and creating massive bottlenecks for the whole industry. We provide visibility over containers at all times, including notifications about when they will start incurring costs, so companies can action it appropriately. The logistics industry is still heavily reliant on reacting to notices after an event has happened, rather than predicting and planning the movement of freight. This really will revolutionise the logistics and freight sector.

James Blackman, managing partner, CocoonFMS® Ltd

The successful SMEs have been partnered with larger firms to further explore and develop the viability of their solutions in realworld conditions.

CocoonFMS® Ltd will now spend the next six months working closely with their partner, a leading logistics and freight company, Simarco Worldwide Logistics, to expand and fully test the system on a large scale.

Addressing long-standing issues in the sector Projects supported by the Freight Innovation Fund have to address three longstanding issues in the freight sector:

• A lack of large-scale cross-industry data collection and sharing between different transport modes

• Difficulties in intermodal transport with a need to improve how large consignments are broken up into smaller ones to reduce traffic and emissions

• Improvements in freight distribution in ports across different transport modes

Other winning projects include the use of drones to make deliveries between remote Scottish islands and lightweight electrically assisted delivery vehicles to transport goods in cities.

The funding is being delivered through Connected Places Catapult. Its CEO Nicola Yates said: The freight sector has an enormous opportunity to support jobs and growth across the UK which is why we are pleased to welcome the SMEs to the first round. Working with innovators and industry partners through our accelerator programme allows us to develop a pipeline of technology and new ideas that promise to tackle the freight sector’s emerging needs, ensuring that resilience, efficiency and carbon reduction are core to its future.

VIRGIN ATLANTIC CARGO INTRODUCES MYVS TO BOOK & TRACK SHIPMENTS ONLINE

Virgin Atlantic Cargo has launched myVS,an expansion of the airline’s digital platform, which enables its customers to quote, book, manage, and track their cargo shipments online, at any time.

Paving the way for an intuitive booking experience, the new online platform allows its customers to book and manage shipments anytime, anywhere, track shipments in real-time, explore and compare its flight schedules,and experience a simple, efficient, and user-friendly platform.

The successful implementation of myVS is part of the airline’s overall digitisation program, allowing it to offer an enhanced customer experience.

The platform gives customers more choice in how they choose to work and book with the airline to best suit their business requirements.

The new booking system will reinforce Virgin Atlantic Cargo’s already much-loved service, through its sales and customer service teams, allowing its customers multiple versatile and dynamic booking options. myVS will initially be launching in the UK and South Africa, with customers now able to easily sign up to book General, Pharma, and Fresh online. Further rollouts to the airline’s worldwide customers in the US and other regions will be coming soon.

24 APRIL 2023 | Source: VIRGIN ATLANTIC CARGO

THE LINES...

HOW FREIGHT FORWARDERS CLOSE THE GAP WITH DIGITAL DISRUPTORS

The hype surrounding digital freight forwarders and their ability to disrupt the industry with innovative technology is fading fast. In the past five years, digital freight forwarders stepped into the industry boldly making claims that they would shake things up. They said that the massive global shipping industry’s adoption of technology was way behind other industries, so ripe for a digital revolution. This attracted the attention of the shipping industry, shippers, established forwarders, and investors in particular.

Although it is fair to say that digital forwarders have introduced a modern, technology-first customer experience, it’s also true that established forwarders that have embraced technology are doing quite well, bringing expertise to the table that can’t be easily replaced simply with modern UI and UX alone.

What has made forwarding work all these years translates to distinct advantages that can’t be easily replicated by new, digital forwarder entrants. These advantages include:

• A network of global offices and industry partners that provide reliable local market knowledge and performance

• Long-standing relationships with carriers and other service providers enabling better rate negotiations and response

• In-depth hands-on experience and knowledge that can’t be learned overnight

This strong business foundation enables established forwarders that have embraced digitisation to protect their market share, compete against digital forwarders, and meet their customers’ requirements. In a world where consumers are ordering everything online, from dinner to groceries to toothpaste, manual processing simply doesn’t cut it anymore.

Competition from digital forwarders is just one aspect of what established freight forwarders must address in today’s already crowded logistics market. But there are lessons to be learned from the 'new digital kids on the block' that traditional forwarders can echo.

While digital forwarders were once an emerging class of technologyfirst logistics providers, the lines have completely blurred. Established forwarders are taking advantage of logistics technology platforms, such as the Magaya Digital Freight Portal for the transparency, control, and ease of use that customers today expect. Forwarders that modernise their business, from top to bottom, gain meaningful advantages for all stakeholders.

Accelerating digital transformation

For those established forwarders that have not fully ramped up their digital capabilities but understand the pressing need to accelerate this transformation, here are some logistics technology solutions to focus on. These applications will enable you to compete with digital-first forwarders, modernise your operations, improve speed and accuracy, and deliver an exceptional customer experience.

Self-service freight execution, front & centre

To compete with digital freight forwarders in the customer experience department, traditional forwarders can make it fast and easy for their shipper customers to access key freight execution tools on-demand, online any time of day.

Providing customers with the ability to execute transactions in real time on a customer-facing freight execution portal is the pathway to delivering a better customer experience.

Empowering a shipper with self-service capabilities gives them the ability to access always-on digital freight execution tools, which is a huge time saver. They no longer need to sit and wait hours, even days, for rate quotes to arrive in their email, or for the phone to ring. With this digital capability, established forwarders are not only meeting what digital forwarders are offering but likely exceeding them with the boots-on-theground knowledge shippers value, especially when there are exceptions.

Shippers quickly address exceptions and boost supply chain performance when they have immediate access to online tracking data, freight rates, schedules, and the ability to book cargo within minutes. This connected, on-demand experience delivers ease and convenience to enhance a shipper’s day-to-day freight management needs, all in one application.

More visibility, certainty, and access to digital supply chain data help shippers address challenging market and infrastructure conditions, reduce risk, and improve decision-making.

TECH & DIGITALISATION EXPERTS

For established forwarders, a customer-facing application provides a clear competitive edge that delivers critical value to customers.

Greater resilience

If there’s one thing the last few years have made abundantly clear, it’s that market and infrastructure disruption pose ongoing challenges for freight forwarders and their shipper customers. Even as some aspects of logistics return to near-normal, disruptions will likely never disappear — and the market won’t stop evolving. When a forwarder is equipped with logistics technology with accurate visibility to shipment milestones and timely status updates, they’re better able to support their customers in handling change and the exceptions that are bound to occur. It’s time to do away with endless phone calls and emails.

Scale on-demand

Flexibility is another key area of focus that came to light these last few years. It was quickly discovered that digital solutions make it possible for forwarders to scale key functions up or down on demand. For example, companies can quickly add new data sources when they’re plugged into a digital freight platform, as well as expand quote information and resources or integrate additional carriers into their current roster to provide more choices for customers.

Digital reporting

Maintaining visibility to many shipments, across multiple vendors, regions, and products is much easier when the information is systematised on a digital freight platform offering timely online reporting that’s customised to a shipper’s needs. There’s no need to spend hours accessing freight data on carrier websites and calling for updates when a platform dashboard delivers all the current shipment status data needed.

AI efficiency

It is becoming increasingly more common for artificial intelligence (AI) to be used in a variety of logistics applications presenting both challenges and important benefits for forwarders. One challenge is ensuring that the logistics data used in solutions is high-quality, relevant and accurate for it to be effective. The act of managing and analyzing this volume of logistics data can be time-consuming and complex which presents a hurdle in AI use and adoption.

Regardless, the potential efficiency that can be gained from AI is considerable. It can be a great time saver as it replaces cumbersome, repetitive manual processes that weigh down staff members with tedious work. By freeing up employees’ time, they’re able to focus on customers and address important logistics issues. This helps to enhance the overall customer experience. Additionally, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are available to provide 24/7 support, personalised recommendations, and faster responses to customers.

As the quality of the freight data being used in AI applications improves, AI-powered automation will increase and opportunities for innovation and growth will thrive over the next decade.

Digital transformation – the time is now!

While digital freight forwarders were once seen as disruptors in the industry, it is now clear that traditional freight forwarders who embrace logistics technology are more than capable of competing and winning on the same playing field, providing excellent service to their customers, improving productivity, reducing costs, and optimizing global supply chains.

The cloud-based Magaya Digital Freight Portal is designed to serve established forwarders in their digital transformation journey as they strive to digitise their end-to-end logistics operations. The clear goal is to increase efficiency, streamline workflows, deliver a great customer experience, and optimise shipper customers' global supply chains.

Martyn Verhaegen, Chief Technology Officer, Magaya Corporation

FOODORA AIMS TO GET DELIVERY WITHIN 30 MINS TO ALL THEIR CLIENTS

Founded in Munich, Germany and operating now in Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Hungary,Slovakia and the Czech Republic, foodora is a great success story in the expanding last mile delivery sector

The CEO of foodora's main European market, Sweden Hans Skruvfors is proud of the company’s rapid rise. The name foodora came from delivering Food to your Door.

Its 30 minute goal of achieving all deliveries within this time is core to its mission. In fact in 2019 we didn’t know how to define ourselves, says Skruvfors. Back in 2015 we were delivering pizzas to hangover students and what can be harder than that he comments. People want the food hot, get angry if the pizza is delivered upside down or the soda has spilled out. It’s not like delivering flowers or books. So if we can deliver pizza in 30 minutes we can deliver anything else he says.

Transport

It's been quite a journey since they started from 500 riders in Sweden to now over 6500 and during one month in Covid they recruited 1200. Unlike Some other delivery platforms like Uber Eats, foodora employs all its own staff. They use data extremely well to predict demand peaks and provision of teams to facilitate that. When you have over 6000 riders you have to have the back and operational team to support them. Skruvfors comments, we are very particular on our staffing. We cannot over staff because this would be cost prohibitive. We know for example in Stockholm at around 17.30 we will need 21 riders based on past uses. Of course if it rains or there are other changes, then demand could outstrip supply. When this happens, says Skruvfors, the rates may vary

to encourage customers to use the most local source. Super advanced demand prediction has been core to the company’s success.

Outside the human riders they have Doora, a robotic vehicle that delivers door to door. Labour is expensive in Sweden so this is definitely the future. In their central operation room, you can see the location of all the robot vehicles at any one time. They can even speak to a stranger if they try to tamper with the vehicle.

Drones are and will become an even bigger part of the company’s fleet. So someone living in a remote part of the country, that needs urgent prescriptions, and otherwise might be a long journey can successfully benefit from a drone delivery to the pharmacist to make the delivery.

They have 200 electric cars now, They are moving their vehicles to pure electric now. Then even recycle all their riders bags and clothing when they leave the company. One of the areas of expansion is for a more comprehensive delivery which is the Foodora Go brand. So if two b2b businesses want to exchange important contracts in an urgent manner, then this could be an example of this. A builder on a construction site might realise he is missing some materials or some nails. Rather than leave the site being able to use us for this service means productivity is not impacted says Skurvfors

The company is not operating in the UK because although it’s a huge market, it’s also saturated with suppliers. Even Just Eat has had to restructure. The company is seeing the Nordics as an opportunity to land grab and do so as quickly as possible. foodora doesn’t see other food delivery operators as competitors but Amazon, ie a complete e-commerce delivery system.

Education is still key, we still get used to getting in our cars for small things and overlook how effective it could be to use the service. This is still very apparent when the company launches into new cities.

foodora also uses influencers to spread the word and tell their story on social media. They can be highly effective and targeted too says Skurvfors

So if we have to deliver a fridge to a reindeer herder in North of Sweden in 30 minutes so be it…

9 MAY 2023 | Source: NEXXIOT

AI-POWERED LOGISTICS

...NEXXIOT INTRODUCES SCOPE AI FOR ENHANCING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

Digital supply chain innovator Nexxiot has released a new AI-enabled product to facilitate contextualized decisionmaking. Scope AI provides a conversational interface into Nexxiot's unique data on locations, status, conditions of cargo, and supply chain events like delays.

How Scope AI works

Scope AI extracts and presents key insights from the billions of data points generated every month by Nexxiot's Edge and Globehopper devices traveling on all major trade lanes between Europe, North America, and Asia. Nexxiot's commitment to creating an open ecosystem means Scope AI also works with data derived from any thirdparty gateway, sensor, or API.

An example of the Scope AI query process could be:

Show me all the containers containing electronics that are exposed to high levels of security risk right now. ... From these assets listed, which had their doors opened in Antwerp overnight?

Highlight the assets for which we could have avoided demurrage costs in the last ten days.

Nexxiot is always focused on delivering more value to our clients. Scope AI makes it possible for clients to gain immediate insights into the status of their transport assets based on real-time data from the fleet. We are determined to make our clients' lives easier by adding a simple, intuitive verbal interface to display the data generated by our sensors and gateways. We did this to offer asset intelligence and combine it with shipment intelligence in a way that's never been experienced before. We do this to better deliver on our mission to increase certainty and make clients' operations easier, safer, and cleaner. Ákos Maróy, Nexxiot’s Chief Data Officer

AERISTECH PARTNER ON £6.

3

MILLION GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR REVOLUTIONARY HYBRID POWERTRAIN PROJECT FOR LONDON BUSES

Aeristech Ltd, a leading innovator in high-performance electric motors and compressors, has announced that it is a partner on Project HEIDI which was awarded £6.3 million in government funding for a revolutionary hybrid powertrain project that will transform the future of public transport. The funding has been matched by the participants in the project to a total of £12.7 million and will be used to develop a fuel cell/battery hybrid powertrain for doubledecker buses that is cheaper than current options and uses cutting-edge electronics and energy recovery technologies.

Project HEIDI will also create and safeguard 498 jobs and save 5.9 million tonnes of CO2. Bramble, University of Bath, Equipmake, and Aeristech will work together to develop the project and retrofit Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Systems into London's iconic red buses. The collaboration will develop a high-value end-to-end electrified automotive supply chain in the UK.

At Aeristech, we are thrilled to be a part of Project HEIDI and contribute to the development of this world-leading hybrid powertrain for the iconic London buses. This project is not only a significant step towards achieving net zero emissions but also a great opportunity to increase awareness of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems in the UK while developing a sustainable and efficient public transport system. Buses are the ideal early adopters of hydrogen-fuelled powertrains as they return to depot, so there is no requirement for extensive distributed hydrogen refilling stations. We look forward to working with our partners to deliver cutting-edge oil-free compressors, which maximise the power density of the hydrogen fuel cells and recover exhaust energy.’

Duncan Kerr, CEO, Aeristech

Aeristech will design, develop, and deliver a 20kW turbo-expander air compressor that will recover heat and pressure with frictionless oil-free air bearing technology and a high-speed 90k rpm motor and controller.

The project is a significant step forward in achieving Net Zero emissions in the UK and will help develop a sustainable and efficient public transport system that benefits customers and the environment.

Interactive conference will give those working in logistics the chance to influence election manifestos amid ‘dire economic forecasts’ and continued issues with current trading arrangements

Trade Unlocked is being organised in partnership with the British Chamber of Commerce, International Chambers of Commerce and business leaders.

Businesses of all sizes, from all parts of the UK economy are invited to attend the conference for free with special help available for SMEs.

Trade Unlocked 2023, a one-day event at the Birmingham NEC on Tuesday the 20th June, will bring businesses of all sizes, from all parts of the economy together with decision makers and trade experts with invites also extended to high profile Government and Opposition figures.

The interactive conference will draw on the expertise and experience of all delegates to find solutions to the challenges of the current trading environment and opportunities for the decade ahead. Businesses can register for the event for free using the code: TU23Logistics

The evidence and recommendations from Trade Unlocked will be used to influence manifestos ahead of the next General Election.

Trade Unlocked has been announced after the IMF published their latest forecast showing that the UK economy will shrink by 0.3% this year, the worst prediction of all G7 nations. Similarly, the ONS confirmed UK goods exports are also trailing G7 competitors and the UK economy saw no growth last February. Latest estimates further suggest that growth is still badly impacted by unprecedented labour shortages.

EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

The event has been organised in partnership with the British Chambers of Commerce, the International Chambers of Commerce and other high profile business leaders with policy support from the UK Trade and Business Commission.

The next general election presents a chance to influence election manifestos and set a course to reverse economic stagnation with sustained economic growth. We simply cannot afford another decade of lost growth which could relegate the UK to being a second rate economy. UK business is much better than that, and this is a conference to influence, learn, innovate and trade more to raise economic output, productivity and living standards.

Jürgen Maier, Former Chief Executive, Siemens; Chair, Trade Unlocked 2023 Organising Committee

Too often trade policy is set without the input of, and sometimes even against the advice of, the people and organisations that trade every day. That is what Trade Unlocked will redress. I’m looking forward to having businesses, trade experts and leaders come together in one room to ensure our voices are represented at the very highest levels of decision-making.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General, British Chamber of Commerce (who also sits on the Trade Unlocked 2023 Organising Committee)

As our economy stagnates, policy makers are searching for solutions as they draft manifestos ahead of the next election. This is why we are bringing those on the frontline of logistics and other businesses together to send a clear message to those seeking power: reduce trade barriers, cut red tape, and give us access to skills.

Naomi Smith, Chief Executive, Best for Britain (which is organising Trade Unlocked 2023)

12 MAY 2023 | Source: BEST FOR BRITAIN

LOGISTICS LEADERS & OWNERS INVITED TO SHAPE FUTURE OF BRITISH TRADE AT MAJOR NEW

FORWARDER events MANCHESTER, UK 23 APRIL A RESOUNDING SUCCESS IN THE FREIGHT INDUSTRY

On April 23, the freight industry witnessed an extraordinary event that brought together 100 delegates from across the sector. The FORWARDER events Manchester, held at the stunning Castlefield Rooms, proved to be a memorable day of knowledge sharing, networking, and celebration.

The event kicked off with great enthusiasm, thanks to the remarkable hosting skills of Jamie Breese. With his engaging presence, Jamie succeeded in keeping the attendees captivated and entertained throughout the day. His ability to connect with the audience added an extra spark to the event, setting a positive tone for what was to come.

The choice of venue, the Castlefield Rooms, proved to be a masterstroke. Not only was it beautiful, but it also provided ample space to accommodate the event's various activities, which were spread across two rooms. The organisers' attention to detail ensured that every aspect of the venue, from the seating arrangements to the lighting, contributed to the overall experience of the attendees.

The event featured a diverse range of activities that catered to the interests and needs of the delegates. Mastermind sessions offered valuable insights and discussions on industry-related topics, allowing participants to exchange ideas and learn from each other's experiences.

The speed networking sessions provided a dynamic platform for forging new connections and fostering collaborations within the industry.

Of particular significance was the keynote speech delivered by Saul Resnick, an industry expert from DHL. With a focus on technology and sustainability, Saul's presentation shed light on the latest developments in the freight industry and their implications for the future. The audience was captivated by the thought-provoking discussion, gaining valuable insights and perspectives to apply in their own professional journeys.

Highlighting the event was the inspiring panel discussion titled "Women in Freight." This session provided a platform for prominent female figures in the industry to share their stories and insights. Chrissy Nichols of Atlantic Pacific, Alison Lindfield of Toll Group, Lesley Batchelor of Export Bootcamps, Jo Pick of Wincanton, Nicole Shaw of Streamline Shipping, and Laura Odell of DG International left a lasting impact with their powerful narratives. Their experiences and valuable advice resonated with the audience, empowering and motivating individuals to break barriers and excel in their careers.

The event's grand finale took place at Barca with Fr8 North, where attendees had the opportunity to unwind and network in a relaxed and informal setting. This enjoyable gathering allowed participants to forge new connections, exchange ideas, and establish valuable professional relationships that will undoubtedly shape the future of the freight industry.

In summary, the FORWARDER events Manchester was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on the freight industry. The event showcased the power of bringing professionals together in a collaborative and supportive environment. It provided a wealth of knowledge, networking opportunities, and inspiration for everyone involved. The organisers' meticulous planning, coupled with the impressive lineup of activities and speakers, ensured a memorable and impactful experience for all attendees.

As the curtains closed on this remarkable event, participants departed with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights and connections to propel their careers forward. The FORWARDER events Manchester will undoubtedly be remembered as a milestone in the freight industry, inspiring progress, and fostering collaboration among its passionate professionals.

Final word must again go to our amazing sponsors, Alison at Toll Group, Jake at Seetec Outsource and Paul at CDN Consular.

THE LAUNCH OF REUTERS EVENTS: SUPPLY CHAIN EUROPE ����

You know the feeling when you try to fix one problem, only for another to appear out of nowhere? Supply chain leaders are being pulled from one disruption to another: demand volatility, material shortage, and geopolitical uncertainty, to name a few.

At Supply Chain Europe 2023, Reuters Events will gather 400 senior supply chain, logistics and technology leaders from Europe’s top retailers, manufacturers and transportation providers to explore pivotal solutions to 2023’s key challenges.

To create a sustainable, resilient, and connected supply chain, these complex problems must be confronted and resolved. That's why I'm thrilled to announce the launch of Reuters Events: Supply Chain Europe 2023 (24-25th October, Brussels). Ideas alone won’t fix these challenges so the focus must be on implementing upgrades. Supply chain leaders have been given a mandate to drive pivotal change to enhance resilience in their organisations. If you’re serious about de-risking your supply chain, you can't afford to miss this opportunity.

Join these industry leading speakers to learn form the best

• Sandeep Desai, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Unilever Ice Cream

• Wilhelm Kerl, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Amer Sports

• Evan Norton, VP Operations and Supply Chain Eastern Europe, PepsiCo

• Marco Barreira, VP, Global Manufacturing, Bayer

• Anta Fassa, VP Group Purchasing Indirect Materials & Logistics, Electrolux

To de-risk your supply chain, you must transform your network to be:

1. Powered by data: Strengthen your data management capabilities to generate insights and visibility across your Supply Chain.

2. Transparent and sustainable: Implement pivotal processes and solutions to smash ESG targets and set an example to competitors.

3. Digitally agile: Invest in your digital infrastructure to drive accurate decision making and combat ongoing volatility.

4. Collaborative and connected: De-risk your operations by harmonizing strategies and realise the full potential of your organisation’s productivity.

Through in-depth case studies, interactive workshops and explorative networking opportunities, you will learn the facts and meet the partners that will help optimize your operations and de-risk your supply chain.

Our agenda will include crucial sessions including:

• Sustainability in logistics: A generational problem. An industry defining opportunity

• Reduce risk and improve customer service by upgrading your logistics planning and be prepared for anything

• Transparency and communication: how to implement the key features to logistical optimisation

• Removing warehouse bottlenecks: Combining innovation with common sense

• Exploring future logistics opportunities: Remote driving and autonomous vehicles

• Unlock significant reduction in your real estate emissions by enabling smarter warehouses

To read the full agenda and see the industry leading speakers we have joining us at Supply Chain Europe 2023, visit our website to download the event brochure.

Looking forward to seeing you in Brussels!

Sandeep Desai Chief Supply Chain Officer Unilever Ice Cream

Anta Fassa VP Group Purchasing Indirect Materials & Logistics Electrolux

Evan Norton Vice President Operations and Supply Chain Eastern Europe PepsiCo

Marco Barreira Vice President, Global Manufacturing Bayer

INDUSTRY LEADING SPEAKERS LEAD MULTIMODAL 2023 CONFERENCE WITH ADDITIONAL TRAINING SESSIONS ALSO AVAILABLE FOR ALL VISITORS

With registrations up 49% on last year, visitors to Multimodal 2023 are set to benefit from a cutting-edge line up of speakers during the free, three-day conference. In a new addition to the programme, attendees can also benefit from skills training and mentoring thanks to Google Digital Garage, which will deliver a broad range of digital and social media tactics to visitors.

Running across four theatres, the core conference theme focuses on sustainability, resilience, technology and people, and boasts a stella lineup of leading industry speakers. These include:

• Jon Gore, Head of Primary & Global Logistics, Tesco

• Sally Wright, Head of Delivery Transport Hub, Nestlé UK and Ireland

• John Lucy, Director, Liverpool Freeport

• Hizmy Hassen, Chief Digital & Supply Chain Officer, Apollo Tyres

• Christian Pryce, Chief Commercial Officer, Port of Dover

• Joep Kusters, Senior Vice President, Head of Europe, Coyote

Discussions and themes are built around the most pressing issues and relevant industry topics, covering:

• Peak Season Preview 2023

• Digitalisation of International Trade and Transport

• A Rail Retail Revolution

• Roadblocks to sustainable freight, and how to overcome them

• Cargo integrity

• The UK’s new approach to import controls – understanding the Target Operating Model

Multimodal brings together businesses, thought leaders and associations from across the supply chain industry from June 13th to 15th, with the most outstanding firms and individuals recognised at its glittering Awards ceremony.

The addition to this year’s conference is the Google Digital Garage, which offers a range of courses and learning for some of the most sought-after marketing skills, whether visitors are looking to grow their business, start a career, or just want to try something new.

The programme is made up of eight immersive 15-minute power sessions and 11 in-depth 45-minute sessions covering topics such as:

• Digital Marketing Strategy

• Boost Online Sales with a Google Business Profile

• Writing for social media

• Build Engaging Presentations

• Get Your Business Visible on Google

Interest for the 2023 event has been bigger than ever, with record numbers of visitor registrations, new and existing exhibitors, and outstanding nominations for the Awards.

Commenting on this year’s visitor programme, Multimodal 2023 Event Director Robert Jervis said: We are delighted to be joined by Google and its Digital Garage as it will be bringing a new twist to the support we offer visitors. Digital skills are vital, whatever area of the supply chain you are in or what level you are. Visitors will be spoilt for choice thanks to our full conference programme featuring industry experts, plus the new digital training sessions. Multimodal is a unique industry event; now it offers additional value thanks to the Google Digital Garage.

Digital technologies are truly transformative and can help businesses and individuals across the UK to increase their earnings, boost their productivity and unlock their full potential. As a former business owner myself, I understand how tough it is to know where to turn to for advice. That’s why we’re providing hands-on support as part of our nationwide digital skills drive to help equip more people with invaluable skills that help to create jobs and economic opportunities.

Debbie Weinstein, Managing Director, Google UK & Ireland

Find out more about Multimodal 2023 via https://www.multimodal.org. uk and view the full seminar programme here: https://www.multimodal. org.uk/conferences-2023#/seminars

SILK WAY WEST ANNOUNCES UPCOMING CASPIAN AIR CARGO SUMMIT ���� ON AIR CARGO EUROPE IN MUNICH

On the largest transport exhibition “air cargo Europe” in Munich Silk Way West Airlines, one of the leading cargo airlines in the Caspian and Central Asian region, jointly with Euroavia International announces Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023, to be held at the JW Marriott Absheron Hotel in Baku from October 23-25, 2023. This event will bring together key players of the air cargo industry from all over the world to discuss industry trends, challenges, and opportunities.

Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023 will feature a diverse range of topics, including logistics, transportation, e-commerce and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices, and to explore new business opportunities. The Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023 promises to be an engaging and informative event, and Silk Way West Airlines is committed to ensure a rewarding and productive experience for all participants.

We are delighted to have Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023 back on the agenda this year. It is the number one air cargo summit in Central Asia, bringing senior global executives together in a vibrant and exciting region at the heart of one of the world’s key trade corridors. The event will provide participants with relevant insights into the growth of air cargo activities in the region as well as not-to-be-missed networking opportunities. As Central Asia’s leading cargo carrier, we are looking forward to welcoming participants from all over the globe. Wolfgang Meier, president, Silk Way West Airlines

I am really delighted that Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023 will return this autumn after a four-year hiatus. Caspian Air Cargo Summit has always attracted key air cargo professionals to Baku for great networking, high-level conference sessions and superb entertainment. This year’s event will focus on the Europe-Asia trade lane, e-commerce, cargo aircraft, innovation in logistics, the sustainable supply chain, and the global market outlook. Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023 is the ideal one-stop platform to find out about the latest developments in the air logistics industry.

Lars Gunnar-Comen, founder & director, Euroavia International

For more information about the Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023, including sponsorship opportunities and registration details, please visit the event website at www.caspianaircargosummit.com. Registration for the Caspian Air Cargo Summit 2023 is now open.

CUSTOMS & SECURITY

EU PROPOSES

FAR-REACHING CUSTOMS REFORMS

Long-term proposals for ‘the most ambitious and comprehensive reform of the EU Customs Union since its establishment in 1968’ include abolition of de minimis thresholds and new responsibilities for e-commerce platforms for ensuring customs duties and VAT are paid at purchase

The European Commission (EC) has put forward long-term proposals for what it calls the most ambitious and comprehensive reform of the EU Customs Union since its establishment in 1968 , in response to the dramatic changes in global trade and communications brought by factors such as digitalization, e-commerce and geopolitical shifts.

The proposed reform is a response to the current pressures under which EU Customs operates, including a huge increase in trade volumes, especially in e-commerce, a fast-growing number of EU standards that must be checked at the border, and shifting geopolitical realities and crises. It will make the customs framework fit for a greener, more digital era and contribute to a safer and more competitive Single Market.

The reform simplifies and rationalises customs reporting requirements for traders, for example by reducing the time needed to complete import processes and by providing one single EU interface and facilitating data re-use. In this way, it helps deliver on President von der Leyen’s aim to reduce such burdens by 25%, without undermining the related policy objectives, the EC said.

A new EU Customs Authority will oversee an EU Customs Data Hub which will act as the engine of the new system. Over time, the Data Hub will replace the existing customs IT infrastructure in EU Member States, saving them up to €2 billion a year in operating costs. The new Authority will also help deliver on an improved EU approach to risk management and customs checks.

A new partnership with business

In the reformed EU Customs Union, businesses that want to bring goods into the EU will be able to log all the information on their products and supply chains into a single online environment: the new EU Customs Data Hub, the EC noted, adding: This cutting-edge technology will compile the data provided by business and – via machine learning, artificial intelligence and human intervention – provide authorities with a 360-degree overview of supply chains and the movement of goods.At the same time, businesses will only need to interact with one single portal when submitting their customs information and will only have to submit data once for multiple consignments. In some cases where business processes and supply chains are completely transparent, the most trusted traders (‘Trust and Check' traders) will be able to release their goods into circulation into the EU without any active customs intervention at all. The Trust & Check category strengthens the already existing Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) programme for trusted traders.

It said this new partnership with business is a world-first. It is a powerful new tool to support EU businesses, trade and the EU's open strategic autonomy. The EU Customs Data Hub will allow goods to be imported into the EU with minimum customs intervention, without compromising on safety, security or anti-fraud requirements.

Under the proposals, the Data Hub will open for e-commerce consignments in 2028, followed (on a voluntary basis) by other importers in 2032, leading to immediate benefits and simplifications. Trust & Check traders will also be able to clear all of their imports with the customs authorities of the Member State in which they are based, no matter where the goods enter the EU. A review in 2035 will assess whether this possibility can be extended to all traders when the Hub becomes mandatory as from 2038.

A more modern approach to e-commerce

The reform will make online platforms key actors in ensuring that goods sold online into the EU comply with all customs obligations. This is a major departure from the current customs system, which puts the responsibility on the individual consumer and carriers, the EC pointed out.

Platforms will be responsible for ensuring that customs duties and VAT are paid at purchase, so consumers will no longer be hit with hidden charges or unexpected paperwork when the parcel arrives. With online platforms as the official importers, EU consumers can be reassured that all duties have been paid and that their purchases are safe and in line with EU environmental, safety and ethical standards.

At the same time, the reform abolishes the current threshold whereby goods valued at less than €150 are exempt from customs duty, which is heavily exploited by fraudsters. Up to 65% of such parcels entering the EU are currently undervalued, to avoid customs duties on import, the EC said.

The reform also simplifies customs duty calculation for the most common low-value goods bought from outside the EU, reducing the thousands of possible customs duty categories down to only four.

This will make it much easier to calculate customs duties for small parcels, helping platforms and customs authorities alike to better manage the one billion e-commerce purchases entering the EU each year. It will also remove the potential for fraud. “The new, tailor-made e-commerce regime is expected to bring additional customs revenues to the tune of €1 billion per year.

A smarter approach to customs checks

The EC said the proposed new system will give customs authorities ‘a bird’s-eye view of the supply chains and production processes of goods entering the EU.’ All Member States will have access to real-time data and will be able to pool information to respond more quickly, consistently and effectively to risks.

Artificial intelligence will be used to analyse and monitor the data and to predict problems before the goods have even started their journey to the EU. “This will allow EU customs authorities to focus their efforts and resources where they are needed most: to stop unsafe or illegal goods from entering the Union and to uphold the growing number of EU laws that ban certain goods that go against common EU values – for example in the field of climate change, deforestation, forced labour, to give just a few examples,” the organization said. It will also help to ensure proper collection of duties and taxes, to the benefit of national and EU budgets.

To help Member States prioritize the right risks and coordinate their checks and inspections – especially during times of crisis – information and expertise will be pooled and assessed at EU level via the new EU Customs Authority acting on the data provided through the EU Customs Data Hub.

The new regime will substantially improve cooperation between customs and market surveillance and law enforcement authorities at EU and national level, including through information sharing via the Customs Data Hub, the EC noted.

Background

It said the proposed reform delivers on President von der Leyen’s promise ‘to bring EU Customs to the next level’ and builds in particular on the recommendations made by the Wise Person's Group on the Future of Customs in 2022.

The legislative proposals will now be sent to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union for agreement, and to the European Economic and Social Committee for consultation.

THYME-IT WILL BE AT STAND 3040 WELCOMING VISITORS, CUSTOMERS & PARTNERS AT THIS YEAR’S MULTIMODAL

Leading Customs and Excise software solutions provider Thyme-IT will be exhibiting at Multimodal 2023 - one of the UK’s largest and most prestigious events for logistics, transport, and supply chain management

Thyme-IT will be welcoming visitors, customers, and partners at Stand 3040 at this year’s Multimodal event in June.

Commenting on the event, Managing Director Dave Browne says “We are really excited to meet clients, industry representatives and stakeholders at Multimodal 2023 and talk about recent changes in the logistics, transport, and supply chain management industry, where the industry is going and how we can be part of positive changes in the future.”

Thyme-IT is a leader in the Customs and Excise software solutions market and provides cutting-edge web- based solutions to address all Customs and Excise software requirements for companies involved in the import and export of goods and logistics.

With a diverse customer base of over 850 companies, Thyme-IT has become an established and trusted partner in the industry. Their track record speaks for itself, with seven of the top ten global freight forwarders and seven of the top ten pharmaceutical companies relying on their mission-critical software.

Using Thyme-IT’s intuitive web-based software, businesses can easily fulfil their legal requirement to file Customs declarations while reducing manual labour and staffing needs.

The key features of Thyme-IT's solution include...

1. User-Friendly Interface: Thyme-IT's platform is designed with userfriendliness in mind, ensuring that businesses of all types and sizes can navigate and complete Customs declarations easily and efficiently.

2. Seamless Multi-Jurisdiction Support: Whether operating in the UK, Ireland, or both Thyme-IT's solution seamlessly handles Customs declarations providing businesses with a comprehensive and unified approach.

3. Unmatched Support Services: Thyme-IT sets itself apart from the competition by offering exceptional support services. Their dedicated and knowledgeable team is readily available to assist customers, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

4. Tailored Solutions: Thyme-IT understands that all businesses have unique needs. That's why their solution caters to a range of customer types and sizes, from small freight forwarders to SME importers and exporters and large e-commerce operators.

5. Multiple Data Input/Output Methods: Thyme-IT’s solution allows for data entry via their secure web- based environment, data upload using simple Excel upload options and 2-way data exchange via XML

files. The solution also includes an e-commerce dashboard that allows at-a-glance overview and management of all Customs declarations by status and trailer for each day or week.

Compliant with HMRC and Irish Revenue systems, Thyme-IT provides the following solutions...

• Import and Export declarations via CDS to HMRC

• Import and Export declarations via AIS/AES to Irish Revenue

• NCTS Transit declarations – web-based and Android App

• EMCS for excisable products

• S&S GB & EU ICS

• GVMS & PBN

Thyme-IT will be demonstrating their software at the exhibition, running one-to-one sessions with attendees, and describing their exciting product roadmap for future releases.

At Stand 3040 we’ll be talking about how our solutions are helping hundreds of companies around the world to make their Customs declaration process simpler and more time-efficient while also driving down costs. We are happy to help our customers to reduce costs in an industry that has only seen costs going up in the past few years.

Steve Breen, Operations Director, Thyme-IT

To us, our customers are like co-designers, working closely with them to identify their needs and develop solutions that are as userfriendly and cost-effective as possible. By placing a strong emphasis on customer collaboration, we consistently deliver tailored solutions that align perfectly with their requirements, cultivating enduring partnerships based on trust and shared achievements.

Adam Fitzsimons, Development Director, Thyme-IT

About Multimodal:

Since 2008 Multimodal has been successfully building a supply chain and logistics community of shippers, retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers, importers and exporters and the suppliers who support them. It's free to visit Multimodal, just register in advance to get your badge, print it off and walk straight in! www.multimodal.org.uk

About Thyme-IT

Specialising in the Transport and Freight market sectors and recognised as the market leader in the implementation of Customs and Excise software solutions, Thyme-IT provides frontend data entry and API solutions to address all Customs and Excise electronic messaging requirements.

Thyme-IT are a dynamic software company, that has been successfully developing and implementing quality standards-based software-as-aservice solutions since its inception in 2004.

REUL BILL LEAVES UK SUPPLY CHAIN AT RISK SAYS

LOGISTICS UK

Business group Logistics UK has raised concerns about the government’s proposed Retained EU Law (REUL) Bill, which is currently making its way through Parliament, and the risks which its adoption will pose to UK businesses and the nation’s supply chain.

In a letter to PM Rishi Sunak, Logistics UK’s Chief Executive David Wells OBE has highlighted the industry’s concerns about the Bill, which is due to be implemented from December 2023: the cost and potential scale of the changes which will impact businesses trading across the UK’s borders, the risk of creating trade barriers which could impede the movement of goods and slow the UK’s economy, and the risk of unintended consequences, caused by a lack of oversight thanks to the pace at which regulatory changes could be applied.

Britain’s logistics businesses keep the UK trading and are driving the country’s economic recovery by reinforcing existing trading relationships and establishing new ones. But with at least 4,000 EU laws across around 500 policy areas affected by the REUL Bill, the impact of its implementation will be significant. Our members operate on very narrow margins, and have already absorbed significant costs as a result of the UK’s departure from the EU. Coupled with the ongoing uncertainty over what legislation will be retained, removed or improved, and how those changes will need to be implemented and when, it is clear that logistics businesses are increasingly concerned about the scale of the task ahead.

As Wells continues, logistics businesses have already had to adapt to significant changes in the past few years, prompted by both the pandemic and also the UK’s departure from the EU: Logistics is, by its very nature, flexible and adaptable, but implementing new trading processes and adapting to new regulatory conditions will take time and money. The lack of clarity over what will need to change, and by when, is causing great uncertainty across our industry, a sector which is at the heart of all trading relationships both domestically and internationally. Trade benefits from smooth border processes, simple procedures and fewer regulatory differences for logistics workers or vehicles. Any changes need to deliver clear benefits, manage the scale of change effectively and recognise the attendant costs and time required to implement and bed down new systems and processes – assuming the necessary IT solutions are available.

Wells is keen for the government to take a considered, measurable approach to the process, so that both industry relationships and overseas trading connections can be protected: It is vital that the approach taken is careful and considered and that we do not rush through changes which duplicate effort or disadvantage our sector, and the UK’s consumers. We need a clear timeline for the changes which will be required to protect the UK’s highly-interconnected supply chain, while minimising unnecessary change and delivering clear, positive benefits to UK PLC. Logistics UK and its members remain committed to keeping the UK’s trading relationships open and effective, but need the assistance of government to ensure that industry has full insight of the plans being considered, and a meaningful feedback process which will enable discussion and debate. Our priority must be to ensure goods continue to move smoothly across the UK’s borders for the benefit of consumers and business.

It’s no secret that, over the last year, Brexit demands have placed extra pressure on small and international companies across all industries, especially those that transport goods across Europe. In response, CDN Consular Services Ltd has been quick to introduce their new subsidiary ATA Carnet Express.

As the United Kingdom navigates the complex terrain of Brexit, businesses are seeking solutions to the uncertainty surrounding international trade. One solution that has been gaining popularity is the ATA Carnet. With increased Brexit-related restrictions, and documentation challenges causing delays, and increasing costs, the need for an efficient Carnet service has increased exponentially.

We’d been working in Europe for years but didn’t really understand the implications of Brexit on our business. When the legislation changed we realised we could no longer move our equipment in and out of Europe without an ATA Carnet. Jo, a Production Co-ordinator at an esteemed broadcasting company explained

An ATA Carnet is an international customs document for temporary shipments allowing you to take non-perishable items out of the UK to participating countries, while eliminating the need to pay any import taxes and duties. First introduced in the 1960s, the ATA Carnet has been used globally for decades. Recent disruptions across Europe have increased its usage dramatically.

Jo continues: Matt and his team at ATA Carnet Express were invaluable in guiding us through the complex requirements of obtaining an ATA Carnet. Their calm and efficient manner instilled confidence from the start and provided us with our Carnet in good time.

The legislation surrounding Carnets is unclear and has a wide impact on small companies who travel occasionally. In a post-Brexit world, having access to a streamlined Carnet service is essential for businesses working across Europe and globally. ATA Carnet Express Limited is a specialist Carnet provider and part of the CDN Consular Services Ltd, the largest privately owned Consular Documentation providers in the UK and Europe. With a wealth of knowledge in providing Carnets across multiple sectors, ATA Carnet Express supports clients through the process, ensuring applications are completed more efficiently than was previously possible.

Our consular services began in 1983 offering professional support to exporters, freight forwarders, notary publics and pharmaceutical companies. As our authoritative reputation has grown over the years, ATA Carnet Express has developed into its own separate business and we’re proud to be widely recognised as being at the forefront of the ATA Carnet industry.

Matt Neal, Director, ATA Carnet Express

ATA Carnet Express developed an accelerated service for the Film, Events, Sports and Entertainment industries. This provides the option of either a same day express service or overnight next day service. Tailored to specific requirements, the specialist end to end Carnet service solution includes a free pre-checking service, and an in-house, dedicated Chamber of Commerce.

Neil, a Director at a Freight Forwarding company, says: We have found ATA Carnet Express has provided the utmost efficient and professional service available. Furthermore, they have consistently delivered on their promises and have met our tight deadlines, which is commendable.

GLOBALIA LOGISTICS NETWORK SURPASSES 200 MEMBERS & 130 COUNTRIES FOR THE FIRST TIME

Globalia’s territorial exclusivity, its rigorous selection process and the continued trust from members have contributed to the quick rise in the number of agents

Globalia Logistics Network, an exclusive network of the most reliable freight forwarders, has set a record by reaching 209 members representing 133 countries. Globalia Logistics network was founded in 2017 with 50 members and has steadily increased its coverage during the last 6 years.

The proficiency and productiveness of Globalia have attracted freight forwarders from all the 5 continents who now have an international presence along with a large number of reliable partners in all the major cities of the world.

In the words of Antonio Torres, President and Founder of Globalia Logistics Network, Globalia was created 6 years back with the express objective of providing a solid global platform for independent freight forwarders which would allow them to gain new businesses while boosting their brands. There have been tough moments during the pandemic but we have been able to overcome the obstacles and even expand more. The whopping rise in the number of our members certainly reflects the efficacy of our network and our commitment to our member’s cause.

One of the factors that has contributed to this growth is the Annual Meetings organized by Globalia. In these yearly events, Globalia members get face to face and discuss the prospects of enhanced collaboration and finalize their deals. Moreover, their territorial exclusivity ensures that each major city/port gets represented by just one forwarder to avoid any kind of competition.

Overall, we owe this achievement to our members. This could not have been possible without the support and trust of Globalia members, who have believed in the network even in the most difficult moments. We are like a big family and Globalia is proud to be the link, continues Antonio Torres.

Other causes contributing to their growth are the wide array of online tools to make business easier for its members. In a bid to digitize the process of quote preparation, they have introduced the FreightViewer –an online freight rate management software which is available for free for all members of the network. It allows the members to create an accurate and professional quotation for their clients within less than a minute.

Your one-stop shop for DOMESTIC transportation, logistics, and consulting needs.

- Drayage, FTL/LTL, and final mile deliveries from anywhere to everywhere across the US

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- Supply Chain and Logistics consulting

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BEYOND EVERY PRODUCT AND SERVICE IS A PERSON.

Con-Tra America Corp’s #1 priority is people - that means you! Partnership is one of our core values and we cherish every one. We look beyond the surface and dive deep, building relationships with the people within. We’re not just your partners, we’re your friends.

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has concluded the 2022 financial year very successfully, continuing the company's strong performance of recent years in the face of persistently challenging market conditions. Hellmann was able to increase its total sales by 24 % to EUR 5.0 billion (2021: EUR 4.1 billion) as well as shipment volumes, which grew significantly year-on-year to just under 20 million (2021: 18.1 million). At the EBIT line, Hellmann was able to achieve an increase of 31 % vs. the prior year, delivering an EBIT result of EUR 210.8 million (previous year: EUR 160.1 million). Thanks to the improved cash flow from operating activities of EUR 268.7 million, liquidity improved by a total of EUR 124.7 million despite a significant increase in investments.

Beyond its positive financial performance, Hellmann also successfully continued its strategic development last year. For example, even during continued market disruptions from the COVID pandemic and the war against Ukraine, the Group stuck to its digitalization strategy and invested significantly in digitalization of business processes and forwardlooking technologies. Hellmann also made several acquisitions in support of further growth, such as the takeover of the joint venture in Peru and the acquisition of OptimNet, an overnight express provider operating in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The international growth course and the expansion of the Hellmann network also continued to show success: Having already expanded its business activities to Indonesia, the Philippines, Egypt, Oman and France since 2020, Hellmann also opened its own country organization in Switzerland last year to expand its product portfolio and its footprint into the Swiss market.

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HELLMANN ACHIEVES ANOTHER RECORD RESULT

They are one of the best Freight Forwarders that I know and have had a working relationship with them over the last 5 years. I am confident they can be of great assistance and value to you!

- Alex Mecca, COO of Accem Warehouse

A DIGITAL REVOLUTION IN CARGO INSURANCE

AI, data analytics and technology are transforming almost every aspect of the freight sector, including cargo insurance – enhancing customer experiences, reducing operational costs, helping to better assess risk, detecting fraud, and reducing human error, highlights

Matthew Phillips from specialist Breeze

Cargo insurance, much like air freight forwarding, is undergoing a digital revolution. Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics and technology are transforming almost every aspect of the industry – enhancing customer experiences, streamlining internal processes, reducing operational costs, helping to better assess risk, detecting fraud, and reducing human error.

For example, using AI and big data, an insurer can quickly and accurately assess the risk of an air cargo consignment, looking at route, commodity type, airline and other data points, and apply risk-based premiums that, in many instances, reduce existing flat-rates.

AI and data analytics can also be used to improve claims processing and customer experience by deploying machine learning algorithms to automatically process and triage claims, reducing the time it takes to resolve them. Additionally, predictive analytics can help to identify fraudulent claims, resulting in cost savings and reduced losses.

Thanks to the availability of data, more risks can be underwritten in profitable ways.

Matthew Phillips

Lastly, by analysing data and behaviour, insurers can identify gaps in existing cargo product offerings and develop new insurance products and services that better meet customers’ needs. Thanks to the availability of data, more risks can be underwritten in profitable ways.

There is a lot of untapped potential to be found in leveraging these tools to improve existing, but outdated, insurance processes for air, sea and road cargo – processes which haven’t really changed in the last few hundred years.

However, the real challenge is not simply using AI, data, and technology, but rather leveraging these tools and methods whilst also making sure that forwarders and logistics companies actually get what they need in a simple and frictionless way.

In other words, how do you find the balance between complicated back-end processes such as AI, data, and code, and simple, slick, userfriendly processes for customers to engage with, which also solve their pain points? This is the hard part, and it is something that we have made our mission to find out.

We found that around 70% of global cargo is uninsured or underinsured.

Matthew Phillips

At Breeze, we have developed a platform that uses and leverages AI, data, and analytics for cargo insurance, taking these elements to a new level in the cargo insurance industry – for all modes of transport, including air cargo, sea cargo, and road transport.

The first thing we did to ensure that we always have our customers’ needs as our north star, was to work as operators at a freight forwarding company. We knew that the best way to learn about cargo was to put ourselves at the heart of the process, the place where almost all cargo goes through – freight forwarders.

We spent months working as forwarders, learning every little detail and corner of the business, from operations to finance. That’s the only way we could understand our customers (forwarders and logistics companies) and their needs.

Insurance is often missed

This is how we discovered that a major gap exists for forwarders when protecting their shippers’ cargo. As freight forwarding agents, we found that cargo insurance is often missed, and is not being proactively offered to shippers when they book their shipments. Shippers often don’t even know that their cargo isn't insured, and many of them mistakenly think that insurance is already provided by default as part of the shipment. Deep-diving into this, we found that ~70% of global cargo is uninsured or underinsured.

We also realised the two main reasons forwarders aren’t properly offering insurance: (1) they have A LOT on their plate, and often don’t think

about insurance; and (2) they don’t have the right tools and technology to seamlessly add this as a step in their everyday processes. Finding a solution for these problems became our main goal and obsession. Finding a solution, we thought, will allow forwarders to offer insurance for every shipment at the time of booking and, in doing so, ensure that shippers are protected, while also increasing their sales and revenues.

Now, with this extremely important information, we were able to take our extensive AI, data, and technology skills and elegantly tie them to a product that is laser-focused on solving the problem. A slick design that sits on top of an enormous AI and data foundation, constantly improving the insurance offering for forwarders and logistics companies – allowing forwarders and logistic players to focus on powering the global supply chain.

Matthew Phillips is chief commercial officer at cargo insurance specialist Breeze (www.breezeai.com)

INDUSTRY SERVICES EXPERTS

Supply chain visibility has been a hot innovation topic for more than the last five years, as tracking technology has evolved and more benefits have been identified. But getting past the market hype, what real progress has been made, and what is left to be done to give supply chain and logistics professionals comprehensive visibility to their operations – especially within retail?

To answer this question, as part of a broader innovation study, Descartes, in conjunction with SAPIO Research, conducted a study of 1,000 supply chain and logistics executives in Europe and North America to gain a better understanding of how far innovations in supply chain visibility have been deployed.

The results of the study – Supply Chain and Logistics Innovation

Accelerates, But Has Long Way to Go – show that visibility is contending with other major innovation initiatives and is mature in some transportation modes, but also still has a ways to go. There is, however, a significant variance in the length of that journey for companies based upon senior management’s understanding of its importance to the business. This point should not be lost by supply chain and logistics leaders.

Chris Jones, EVP, Descartes explains, and reveals key findings from Descartes’ recent research.

A contender in a crowded digitisation market

Digitisation has received a lot of attention because it’s closely aligned with supply chain and logistics innovation to transform company performance in ways that allow customers to see the positive difference. Supply chain and logistics operations are typically very extensive, and is something most retailers – bricks n’ mortar and ecommerce brands – can relate to. So it’s highly unlikely that companies would have digitisation programmes that address the entirety of their operations, and innovation themes would end up competing for the same resources. Therefore, senior management support is extremely critical to get to the top of the funding list. The study specifically asked if senior management thought that supply chain and logistics innovation was important – or not, and then cross referenced that answer with other questions to see what impact it had.

The research identified the top four digitisation initiatives companies have focused on as order fulfilment (47%), customer experience (45%) and transportation processes (44%) and supply chain visibility (43%). There was little difference in senior management support the for the first three results when evaluating who thought supply chain and logistics innovation was very important – or not. However, there was a significant difference in visibility results when senior management thought innovation was important (51%) compared to those who believe it was less important (30%).

What might be the reason for greater importance of senior management support for visibility innovation versus the others?

The subject has been discussed for ages, but more practical deployments, especially for real-visibility, have become a reality in the last ten years. However, the other areas (order fulfillment, customer experience and transportation processes) are more widely understood by leadership and tie to business execution. This is why it is so important to educate senior management on the value of real-time visibility.

Given the significant disruptions of the last several years, supply chain visibility has become extremely important to manage supply chain and logistics performance. For senior management who believe innovation is very important, advanced tracking of truckload transportation (47%) was the top fully deployed innovation followed by fleet (45%) and courier (44%). Supply chain visibility is, however, rapidly maturing as between one-third to one-half of the respondents across all modes (i.e., truckload, fleet, courier, air, rail, ocean, LTL and barge) cited technologies in pilot or partial deployment.

Taking visibility information and integrating it into supply chain and logistics processes is where its value is fully exploited. Almost half (49%) of the respondents have already fully integrated real-time shipment tracking into their customer service solution, followed by integration with customer portals (36%), transportation management systems (TMS, 27%), supply chain control towers (23%) and dock appointment scheduling systems (23%). For fully deployed TMS integration with real-time shipment tracking, there was a significant difference between those who said senior management believes supply chain and logistics innovation is very important (34%) and those who think it’s less important (16%). The same was true for real-time shipment tracking integrated with a customer portal, with senior management who regard innovation as very important at 44%, compared to 23% for those who regard it as less important.

Competition

Competition is also shaping supply chain and logistics innovation and raising the importance of visibility. The top competitive innovation respondents cited was real-time shipment location (27%) followed by electric or alternative vehicles for more sustainable delivery (23%), digital customer experience (22%) and robotics to improve fulfillment capacity (21%).

Conclusion

Shipment and delivery visibility has become one of the top supply chain and logistics innovation initiatives as companies look for ways to better serve customers and manage inventory. It is also a differentiator that offers retailers the data and insights needed to a leap ahead of the competition. While the value may be apparent to supply chain and logistics professionals, it’s not necessarily the case with senior management, and may be challenging for visibility programmes to compete with other innovation initiatives for funding. This is why it’s so important for supply chain and logistics organisations to educate senior management within their retail organisations about the value of visibility and where it can be deployed as it rapidly matures.

Where is your brand in its visibility innovation journey, and how have you gotten your senior management to see the opportunities that exist with it?

Chris Jones, EVP, Descartes

SUCCEED

THE TIME FOR SUPPLY CHAIN VISIBILITY IS NOW: WHERE RETAIL CAN

SUPPLY CHAIN PROs SOUND ALARM ON RECESSION, GEOPOLITICAL TENSIONS & COST PRESSURES

Asurvey with 1200 supply chain professionals aimed to understand the biggest challenges they foresee for their business in the second half of the year showed that recession in the US remains the top concern, followed by geopolitical risks and rising operating costs. The survey was conducted by Container xChange, an online container logistics platform that provides an operating infrastructure for container trading, leasing and management.

Recession in the US

49% of those surveyed fear a recession in the US as a key concern for the freight forwarding industry.

Interest hikes by central banks due to sticky inflation has put the balance sheets of many lenders under pressure, essentially forcing them to mark down assets or sell them off at a loss to cover short-term liquidity needs.

Christian Roeloffs, cofounder & CEO, Container xChange

The collapse of two US lenders in March caused a global banking crisis that spread to many economies, sparking fears of contagion. Emergency measures were taken by the US Federal Government and other agencies to backstop the financial system, but stress in the banking sector has grown. This has led to increased odds of a US recession within the next 12 months, according to Goldman Sachs, with implications for the market.

The Federal Reserve has announced that it will stop raising interest rates after the last hike of 25 basis points last week, and the European Central Bank is also becoming cautious. The bank crisis, compounded by the troubles in the real estate sector, negatively impacts interbank lending. Higher cost of interbank lending will lead to tight access to credit for the real economy and this in turn leads to higher risk of recession. This vicious circle of increasing interest rates, rising instability in the banking sector, tightened access to credit, falling commercial real estate values and eventual recession is underestimated by the overall market, and has significant implications for supply chains, commented Roeloffs.

Geopolitical tensions to cause fractionalisation of trade blocks

The flaring geopolitical tensions have flared as on the one side we have ramifications of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, on the other side we witness rising tensions between China and Taiwan.

While China has pioneered investments over the past twenty years into infrastructure projects, Bridges, roads, terminals, and ports in South America and Africa, Taiwan is the biggest manufacturer of semiconductors. It is worth considering how these investments and the dependency of those countries will impact global trade.

These high-risk geopolitical tensions could potentially lead to the fractionalization of trade blocks and potentially a world where trade becomes less efficient because you cannot trade with everybody anymore. Trade becomes restricted to blocks. Currently, it looks like there might be two major blocks but in future, there might be more. This will then limit trade and make it less efficient, added Roeloffs.

Rising Operating costs

We know that the demand for freight declined significantly after it reached its peak in September 2021. The profit margins reported in the Q1 of 2023 by shipping lines were still strong because of the prenegotiated contract rates but we do expect these sliding significantly. As the contract negotiations are underway, we will soon see revised rates which will then impact the profitability of the shipping lines in the second half of 2023 and into the year 2024.

Amidst this, we also witness rising operating costs resulting from shooting energy prices and labour costs which are not expected to come down soon. Shortage of depot space remains a struggle and depots are charging enough to cause worries. Terminal tariff hikes in Europe and in India (as informed by our customers) are causing further worries to carriers.

Commenting on the challenges of the rising OPEX costs, Aaron Callahan, the owner of a container trading company based in the US shared with Container xChange, The container market, in general, is very volatile currently, it changes every week, so there is risk in predicting what will turn out after six months. We face high demurrage and detention charges, operating costs, and other charges pertaining to container storage and transfers. The demand is not coming back anytime soon, on the other hand, the capacity and supply of containers is abundant. Most of us are trying to build resilience and consistency in our operations. This is business critical. There is a shortage of depot space too.

The Bright side

There is some positive news in the container shipping industry, particularly in Asia. Despite the current oversupply of equipment, freight rates and container prices appear to have stabilized in Asia showing resilience in the intra-Asia trade routes. This could be good news for businesses that rely on container shipping as it means they can anticipate more predictable shipping rates and potentially more stable supply chains.

Supal Shah from Arcon Containers, India commented on the Asia outlook, The freight rates and container prices seem to have bottomed out; I don’t see big change on either side as there is a huge supply of equipment. On the positive side, Chinese factories are not producing too many new units so over the long run this will have a positive impact on demand and supply and price of the containers.

Survey methodology

The survey was conducted by Container xChange in the month of April 2023. The questions were posed to freight forwarding companies, container leasing companies, container traders, NVOCCs, leasing companies and shipping lines. A total of 1200 supply chain professionals responded to the survey. The purpose of the survey was to understand the key challenges and fears that the industry is facing and foreseeing for the coming rest of the year. The survey was conducted online through objective questions which are mentioned in the graphs as well as through qualitative interviews with customers of Container xChange.

CRISIS RESPONSE EXPERTS

Recently the World Health Organization announced that they no longer consider Covid-19 to be a public health emergency, coinciding with an end to the U.S. national emergency response to the pandemic. While well received, these official milestones have not put an end to the longer-term impacts of the pandemic, particularly when it comes to the global supply chain.

From a clogged parts pipeline and high demand that’s resulted in backlogs, to the continued trend towards reshoring, we’re still seeing lingering impacts. While many companies cut costs during the pandemic, such as Toyota developing a solution for each sector within its supply chain, the moves to rescue expenses and develop a more resilient supply chain continue even post-pandemic.

Cutting costs in the wake of the Covid-19

In April, it was reported that FedEx intends to merge its express, ground, and other services, streamlining its delivery operations and reducing costs. This consolidation is expected to save the company $4 billion, enabling it to compete with UPS on affordability. Conversely, Amazon, which rapidly expanded its fulfillment network to meet the surging demand for e-commerce during the pandemic, has had to curtail its operational expenses due to excess capacity that has hampered its profitability.

If business titans crucial to global trade and the supply chain, like FedEx and Amazon, are looking to shave down costs post-pandemic, it’s no stretch that many other smaller and mid-size companies impacted are also looking to lower costs and prepare themselves for what’s next.

And if the past three years have taught us anything, it’s that the supply chain and global trade will continue to be unpredictable and face disruption, even with the pandemic in the rear-view mirror.

Tech's emerging promise in slashing supply chain costs

According to an April report by The Wall Street Journal, CFOs are exploring ways to enhance the resilience of the supply chain, such as implementing more automation. Companies are recognizing the need to be better prepared for disruptions in the post-pandemic era and are leveraging all available resources to achieve this.

According to Gartner, 50% of top companies worldwide will leverage AI in their supply chain operations by 2025. With AI rapidly advancing and cost reduction being a top priority for CFOs, AI-powered products, and services are poised to become a critical component in ensuring supply chain resilience and efficiency.

I mentioned earlier the excess inventory problem that Amazon is addressing. That’s just one area where AI can play a role. It’s here where AI is playing a larger role in handling manual tasks, such as inventory updates and risk management, traditionally performed by humans. AI-powered tools can also detect labeling errors and identify items in the warehouse more accurately when processing inventory data.

We’re also seeing retailers employing autonomous driving to cut costs and focus on sales, thereby enhancing the customer experience. Customers and employees can receive live updates on the status of their orders as they move through the supply chain. Automation can also make it easier to ensure compliance with standards by alerting businesses to potential problems.

AI to help reduce supply chain risk

AI can also be instrumental in reducing risk in parts of the supply chain, such as compliance. For instance, when shipping goods human error can occur when assigning HS codes, which are numerical values used to classify trade products. With varying code lengths across different countries, it’s an arduous task for humans to manage. AI can quickly and efficiently allocate HS codes, making it a reliable, cost-saving method for companies. With the help of these tools, companies can expect to save 85% of their funds through process automation.

STATE OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN...

HOW DATA & A.I. CAN HELP ALLEVIATE LINGERING

PANDEMIC ISSUES

The same technology can also be used to calculate tax and duties, providing accurate calculations at the point of sale. The accuracy of this data is crucial for successful cross-border trade, and parcels must be trackable regardless of the delivery method. The implementation of AI can help manage these tasks, preventing errors and ensuring compliance with policies like the STOP Act and ICS2.

With companies increasingly searching for ways to cut costs within the supply chain, AI has emerged as a viable option to address both old and new challenges. As the supply chain industry continues to evolve, companies that embrace AI and data solutions may find themselves better positioned for success in the long term post-pandemic. The potential benefits are significant, and the time to act is now.

Chris Lentjes, CEO – US, Eurora

COST PRESSURES DELAY NET ZERO AMBITIONS RESEARCH REVEALS

Cost pressures are delaying fleet adoption of electric vehicles, research from mobility specialists Bridgestone and Webfleet has found.

The study, conducted among 210 fleet decision-makers, discovered that more than three-quarters (76%) are postponing their fleet electrification plans. A further 78 per cent said cost pressures were delaying plans for fleet technology adoption.

Cutting capital spend is the go-to survival strategy for many businesses as rising costs hit their bottom lines. But when it comes to fleet decarbonisation and digital transformation, it is a case of kicking the proverbial can down the road. What’s more, by deferring expenditure and adopting a short-term approach to cost-control in these areas longer-term profitability risks being compromised. With careful planning and management insights, the total cost of ownership (TCO) of electric vehicles – the cost of procuring, operating and maintaining them – can be lower than for their fossilfuelled equivalents, resulting in savings over the fleet lifecycle. Similarly, the cost of fleet tech investments can be rapidly offset by higher productivity, or by savings on everything from fuel and maintenance to insurance and administration.

Andrea Manenti, Vice President North Region, Bridgestone EMIA

Fleets acknowledge the dangers of falling foul of short-termism, with more than three-quarters (78%) admitting that pressures to cut costs this year will negatively impact their longer-term cost-reduction strategies.

Cost cutting measures include fleet downsizing, cited by almost a third (32%) of those businesses surveyed, while almost two-thirds (61%) anticipate having to layoff fleet-related staff over the coming months.

A high proportion of fleets (72%) are also looking to extend their vehicle replacement cycles.

With the business squeeze continuing to stretch resources, digital systems that harness fleet insights to deliver efficiency and productivity gains can prove invaluable. For fleets that have yet to deploy the latest, advanced fleet management solutions, now may be the time to do so. The returnon-investment opportunities –alongside significant sustainability benefits – are far reaching, offering a precious route to greater business resilience when it is needed most.

Beverley Wise, Webfleet Regional Director, Bridgestone Mobility Solutions

Webfleet’s Cost of Business study is in line with the Bridgestone E8 commitment and its eight values – Energy, Ecology, Efficiency, Extension, Economy, Emotion, Ease and Empowerment – underpin the company’s sustainable mobility vision.

More than 150 representatives of the UK cold chain were joined by Ministers and MPs for a Cold Chain Federation parliamentary reception on 16th May 2023, where politicians praised the expertise and innovation of cold chain people and commended the industry’s investment into recruitment and future skills.

reception gave the Cold Chain Federation an important opportunity to show politicians the vital role that cold chain people are playing for the nation today and for the future. I would like to thank all the Ministers and MPs who joined us for their appreciation for the people working in the UK’s cold chain.

Paul Bennell, President, the Cold Chain Federation

The reception was hosted in The House of Commons by Chris Clarkson (MP for Heywood and Middleton) on behalf of the Cold Chain Federation. Into its second year, this year’s event focused on the Celebration of People in the Cold Chain. Partnering with Generation Logistics and Lineage Logistics, it brought the membership, future talent and decisionmakers together to learn more about the sector, the ongoing work, and a chance to honour the best and brightest. People in attendance included apprentices, young professionals, and the future leaders of the logistics industry – who have embraced the sector through a variety of different roles and career development opportunities.

It celebrated the skilful and resilient work of people across the UK cold chain’s wide range of roles including temperature-controlled warehouse operations, driving, engineering, sustainability, finance, marketing, HR, digital technology and international trade. It also demonstrated the industry’s investment into future skills needs as well as improving pay, conditions, and welfare facilities, and discussions explored how Government policies can support the industry to the benefit of communities, the economy and the environment.

People across the UK’s cold chain have shown unswerving dedication and resilience as we have kept the nation’s food and pharma running smoothly through challenge after challenge in recent years. At the same time, people in our industry have been adapting and learning new skills as the cold chain evolves in response to changing customer requirements, international trade dynamics and the journey towards net zero. This

Alongside host Chris Clarkson MP, politicians in attendance included MP for Suffolk Coastal and Defra Secretary Therese Coffey, MP for Redditch and DLUHC Minister Rachel Maclean, MP for Vale of Clwyd and Wales Office Minister James Davies, MP for Livingston Hannah Bardell, MP for Eastleigh Paul Holmes, MP for Warrington North Charlotte Nichols, and more.

I am pleased to host this reception to celebrate people working in the UK’s cold chain industry. The nation relies on cold storage and temperature-controlled distribution operations as the linchpin of our food and pharma supply chains, and their resilience and reliability came to the fore in the pandemic and the challenges that have followed. Cold chain businesses also make important contributions to our local communities and the national economy, it was a pleasure to celebrate the people who make this happen day-by-day.

Chris Clarkson MP

The past few years have showcased the vital role that our people play across the cold chain and our national food supply chain. With increasing demand for temperature-controlled logistics, it is crucial that we continue to invest in developing our talented people and our skills for the future. I am delighted to join the Board of the Cold Chain Federation, and to work alongside a talented team to advance the cold chain industry.

Claire Walters, Regional Vice President of Lineage Logistics

CARDINAL GLOBAL LOGISTICS BECOMES THE WORLD’S BIGGEST EMPLOYEE -OWNED LOGISTICS FIRM

Manchester-born logistics services provider, Cardinal Global Logistics is marking 25 years in business by transitioning to an employee-ownership model – making the firm the biggest employee-owned company of its kind in the world.

The Cardinal Partnership merges two cherished brands, Far Logistics and Cardinal Global Logistics, and the group has earned recognition in the logistics sector for its tech-powered approach, transparency, innovation and determination to deliver exceptional service and value.

Launched in Eccles in 1998 with a £15,000 business loan, Cardinal has since blossomed into an international firm with over 40 offices, 6,000 clients and revenues exceeding £500 million. It is now celebrating its quarter-century by creating an environment where every employee has the same opportunity to become a Partner.

The leading logistic services provider joins the growing number of national employee-owned businesses, with around 1,000 similar models currently operating in the UK today.

Cardinal’s democratisation model means every member of staff now gets to share in the profits that the company generates each year.

In addition to financial benefits, employees will have input regarding the direction of the Cardinal Partnership, helping to shape its future with an increased sense of ownership over their roles in the business. The employee-owned nature of the business also means more open and transparent communication channels, as Partners have a direct stake in the overall success of the firm.

This move also represents an active effort to preserve the employeefirst company culture Cardinal has worked hard to establish over the past 25 years, functioning as a powerful tool for creating a more engaged, motivated and innovative workforce, whilst benefiting the sustainability and viability of the business in the longer term.

Our decision to become an employee-owned business will be transformational. We believe that excellence and dedication should be rewarded, and we have some of the most talented operators in our industry. During our first 25 years as a business, we have been able to take the company from a £15,000 investment to one of the UK’s most respected and sizable logistics businesses. Undoubtedly, this transition will allow us to take our business to the next level and I’m looking forward to what’s to come.

Brian Hay, CEO, The Cardinal Partnership

Cardinal worked with an investment banking company, Houlihan Lokey, to pursue a liquidity event for shareholders when establishing its employee ownership trust.

Cardinal is a high-quality logistics services provider, providing reliable, market-leading service to its clients on a global basis. The company is a great example of delivering strong growth whilst maintaining its core values. We have thoroughly enjoyed working closely with management on this transformational step in its history, and look forward to watching the next phase of their journey.

Gareth Owen, Capital Markets Director, Houlihan Lokey

With 20 million Brits actively searching for a new job[i], and the UK facing a shortage of professional drivers, HGV recruitment specialists Driver Hire Training have given their insights on how to join the industry, and the benefits of becoming a commercial driver.

Whether it’s obtaining your C1 licence and embarking on a career in delivery driving, completing your ADR training to drive dangerous goods, or passing your HIAB certificate to drive lorry mounted cranes, your HGV licence is the best place to start, and allows for great career progression.

Getting Qualified

To become a professional HGV, bus or coach driver, Richard OwenHughes, marketing director at Driver Hire Training says there are some initial steps you’ll need to take. Firstly, you will need to be in possession of a full car driving licence and must also be over the age of 18. To become qualified and drive a large goods vehicle commercially you must undergo a series of tests, usually split out into four modules, including your Driver CPC training online or in person, which needs to be retaken every five years to ensure you remain compliant.

Once you’ve passed, you’ll gain your DQC, Driver Qualification Card, a legal requirement for professional LGV and PCV drivers.

Application Process

Once you’ve completed your training, you can now gain your LGV licence. Firstly, you must attend a medical assessment to classify as safe to drive, before applying for your provisional licence of the vehicle you want to drive. For those who have medically restricting licences it must be renewed every 5 years.

Then, you’ll undertake the four tests to gain your licence and Driver CPC, detailed here:

1. Theory Test

2. Case Study

3. Practical Exam

4. Practical Demonstration

Once completed, you can apply for a mandatory digital tachograph card, a card to store information about your daily work as a driver.

Now You’re Qualified

Once you receive qualification rights, you will need your DQC before legally being able to hit the road. Richard warns Other than passing your Driver CPC and waiting for your card in the post, if you drive without possessing your DQC, you can be fined up to £1,000.

After 5 years, you must refresh your CPC training periodically to keep driving professionally.

Fees

To get started, your application for a professional HGV licence is free. The cost of the training may vary, depending on which provider you go with, and which Driver CPC courses you take. That said, HGV training doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive, especially if you opt for a fast-track route, which will get you on the road in a matter of weeks for a competitive price and means you can start earning quicker. Finance options are also common with providers if you would like to split the cost.

Career Opportunities

Should you want to progress your career and drive other, more advanced vehicles, there are multiple opportunities for drivers to upgrade their licences in all kinds of vehicle groups.

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING NEWS

Seetec Outsource, in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority, are in the final months of delivering ‘Skills for Growth’ training courses to help transport and logistics employers boost the knowledge base of their workforce.

Seetec Outsource, one of the UK’s leading national training providers, is providing a specialist programme focused on upskilling people within logistics organisations, funded entirely through the European Social Fund. There are a variety of courses available at level 3 or equivalent, with completion times ranging from 11-26 hours and all the courses can be entirely tailored around existing work commitments.

The funding is only available until September 2023 and so time is of the essence to book onto the Skills for Growth courses. A number of leading logistics and supply chain businesses, including 3P-Logistics, Cargo-Partner and DB Schenker have already taken advantage of the scheme and had great success in upskilling their workforces.

The logistics industry has a vital role to play in supporting Greater Manchester’s social and economic growth, and we look forward to working closely with employers in the region to co-develop skills provision that builds workforce capability and increases productivity. As an award-winning provider with significant expertise and experience within the logistics sector, Seetec Outsource is well placed to deliver the skilled workforce that Greater Manchester needs to meet current and future challenges and embrace opportunities for growth.

Lloyd DeVal

, Director of Sector Skills, Seetec Outsource

Liam Goss, an Apprentice LGV Driver at Breedon Group, is a recent learner on the scheme. On the nature of the course, Liam said: I would definitely recommend this course. I think you’ve got to approach it with an open mind, but the course helps you to develop that skill! You can read more about Liam’s story on our website.

Alongside the Skills for Growth programme, another of the key areas within Seetec Outsource is the providing of apprenticeships in the Transport and Logistics sector, with a range of Level 2 and 3 courses available to support managing the movement of passengers or goods while delivering exceptional customer service. This expertise within the industry has been recognised with the awarding of the AAC Transport and Logistics Apprenticeship Provider of the Year for 2022.

The specialist apprenticeship options include, but are not limited to:

• Level 2 Urban Driver • Level 2 LGV Driver

• Level 2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative

• Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Specialist

Cameron Smith, who enrolled on the International Freight Forwarding Specialist apprenticeship with Ligentia, said the following of his experience: I probably learnt more in the apprenticeship than I did in my years at school and college; the opportunities I’ve had have been beyond what I expected, and I’ve learnt so much in the past year or so.

24 MAY 2023 | Source: SEETEC OUTSOURCE

LAST CHANCE TO LEARN NEW SKILLS

The list of courses available includes, but is not limited to:

• Customs Declaration Service (CDS)

• Organising documentation for the transportation of goods

• Arranging the transportation of goods using multiple modes of transport

• Ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, ethical and social requirements

• Improve performance

• Provide leadership for your team

• Applying technology

• Minimising the environmental impact of logistics operations

For all apprenticeship and training opportunities, visit the Seetec Outsource website: seetecoutsource.co.uk

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING APPOINTMENTS

WELCOMING IN THE POSITION OF

ULRICH STEENKEN

TO

LESCHACO GROUP

C.F.O.

LESCHACO GROUP APPOINTS ULRICH

STEENKEN

AS NEW CFO

Ulrich Steenken will assume the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the globally active logistics service provider Leschaco, headquartered in Bremen, Germany, with effect from June 01, 2023. With Ulrich Steenken, the company has chosen an internationally experienced financial manager with proven business expertise to complete the Management Board.

After studying business administration at the University of Cologne, Germany, the graduated business economist started his professional career as Commercial Controller at Trans-O-Flex, Weinheim, Germany. He then moved to Kühne & Nagel Inc., New York City, USA, where he assumed responsibility as Regional Controller Latin America. This was followed by key positions in financial management at Rohde & Liesenfeld International GmbH & CO KG, Hamburg, Germany (part of the Geodis Group since 2008) and Paul Günther Logistik AG. Hamburg, Germany. In 2008, he moved to the Geodis Group, an internationally active logistics service provider, where he most recently held the position of CFO at Geodis FF Germany GmbH & Co KG, Hamburg, Germany. Before joining the Leschaco Group, Ulrich Steenken was Managing Director at Confion Consulting GbR.

In his role as CFO, Ulrich Steenken will be responsible for the financial management of the Leschaco Group as a member of the Management Board and will work closely with Constantin Conrad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Group, to drive the family-owned company’s growth plans and achieve its strategic targets.

We welcome Ulrich Steenken as CFO to Leschaco’s Management Board and look forward to working together to achieve our future goals, says Constantin Conrad. We are convinced that his leadership style, international experience and diverse expertise will be of great value to the growth strategy and success story of our company.

In addition to CEO Constantin Conrad, the members of the Leschaco Group Management Board are Oliver Oestreich (Chief Operating Officer), Nils Fahrenholz (Incoming Chief Operating Officer) and Steffen Küpper (Chief People and Culture Officer).

ABOUT THE LESCHACO GROUP

The Leschaco Group is a traditional, owner-managed logistics service provider and offers intercontinental logistics solutions for sea and air freight as well as contract logistics and tank container operation. As proven partner for leading companies in plant construction and mechanical engineering, automotive, chemical and related industries, producers of consumer goods and pharmaceuticals. Leschaco offers comprehensive logistics solutions from one single source. Our globally standardised IT–environment guarantees the required high process transparency. The company was founded under the name of Lexzau, Scharbau by Wilhelm Lexzau and Julius Scharbau in Hamburg in 1879.

SCOTT CHANCELLOR: NEW SALES MANAGER FOR NTEX UK

Scott Chancellor started working at the transport and logistics company NTEX at its Bristol office back in 2010, within operations. Having been promoted to roles such as Operations Manager, Branch Manager and Regional Manager, Scott is now taking the next step within the company in his new role as Sales Manager for NTEX UK market from April 1st.

Scott is a competent and determined professional who has made very good contributions to NTEX in his various positions over the years. I am convinced that he is absolutely the right person for this task.

Tobias Rindevall, Global Sales Director, NTEX

With a solid background in the forwarding industry and at NTEX, Scott Chancellor is well equipped for his new assignment. After a couple of shorter stints with other logistics companies, Scott ended up at NTEX in 2010, and soon it was clear to him that he had come to a company to thrive in over time. In the expansive phase NTEX is in, the continuity that Scott Chancellor contributes is of great importance.

I know where the company has come from and where we are going. While we are always exploring the possibility of further growth, it is important that we retain our identity and flexibility.

NTEX UK’s incoming Sales Manager

Having almost grown up in the company, he sees himself as a guarantor that NTEX’s core values are maintained even in changing times. During his almost 13 years at NTEX, Scott Chancellor has had time to try out most of the tasks that exist within NTEX operations.

We have many fantastic people within NTEX, not least in the sales organization. I have a strong belief that together we will be able to develop the commercial part of NTEX in the UK in a good way. I will do my very best to have a positive impact on the business , Scott concludes.

FORWARDER magazine Issue79 97

SCOTT CHANCELLOR SALES MANAGER

TO WELCOMING

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING WELCOME

WELCOME TO THE TEAM

ABOUT ME

Iam a highly motivated individual with a history in sales, I take pride in whatever I do, I achieve anything I set my mind to. I am educated to a university level with a bachelors degree.

EXPERIENCE

My experience is sales orientated with lots of training in people skills and communication.

INTERESTS

I love combat sports (current ICO middleweight World Champion in K1 kickboxing) and 5th Dan blackbelt. I also enjoy gaming.

FAVOURITE ANIMAL Panther

INTERESTING FACT

The official name for boxing is not boxing but pugilism meaning to practice skills of fighting with fists. GET

+44 (0)161 696 1738 scott@forwardingjobs.com

CONSULTANT, (NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA)

ABOUT ME

Iam a driven individual who started my career in the aerospace industry working with Rolls Royce and Airbus. I decided to have a career change, and I then did doorto-door sales. The experience I built up helped me transfer into event sales where I was working with C-level executives from Fortune 500 companies daily. I have since changed careers again to recruitment as I felt like a fresh challenge.

INTERESTS

Chess, reading, archery and watching TV.

FAVOURITE ANIMAL Lion

INTERESTING FACT

When the moon is directly overhead, you weigh slightly less due to the gravitational force of the moon against the Earth's. GET

+1 (786) 233 5774

jorell@forwardingjobs.com

WELCOME TO THE TEAM

ABOUT ME

Iwould say I’m possessed with success and take great pride in my skillset that is to find a solution to a required result. My two children would say I’m a dad that’s too much at time as I absolutely live for them and ensuring there future Is one of promise and fulfilment

EXPERIENCE

I have a pleather of different industries experience from sales to events and the furniture industry.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS

Boxing, watching my eldest son play football at Bristol Rovers... up the gas!

FAVOURITE ANIMAL

My English bulldog Pandora

INTERESTING FACT

I have a large coin collection and i've been a Newcastle fan my whole life... up the toon!

GET IN TOUCH... +44 (0)20 3872 6909 omar@freightsolutions.com

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

FEATURED POSITION

WHAT WHERE

EUROPEAN ROAD FREIGHT BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

WHO

BARRON WOOD DISTRIBUTION

NATIONWIDE (REMOTE WORKING ROLE)

Salary: £40k–£90k (DOE)

THE COMPANY

Barron Wood is a privately owned, family business established for nearly 30 years providing road transport solutions to a wide range of customers. Currently the company moves over 900 loads every day within the UK & Europe, having experienced consistent growth for the last three decades.Our family values are very important to us and at the heart of our company and as we have grown, we have made sure these remain in our core.

THE ROLE

We have an opportunity for an experienced BDM to join our international division, selling import, export and cross-border road freight services to Europe and Ireland. The role will allow you to play a key role in the companies future growth. This will be a home based role with a requirement to attend our Preston office, and will involve UK & international travel.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Managing all aspect of the sales process from identifying sales leads to implementing new customer contracts.

• Working with the existing management structure to develop a sales & marketing strategy for the European road business.

• Undertaking appropriate marketing activity to support the sales strategy.

• Responding to tender requests & providing quotations.

• Site visits & presentations to new customers.

• Account management of key customers.

• Working with the operations team to identify sales opportunities.

• Requirement for business travel in the UK & Europe

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE

• Excellent communication & presentation skills.

• Demonstrable record of winning new business in the European road freight sector.

• Database of potential sales leads.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in European road freight sales role.

BENEFITS

• Excellent salary with scope to increase earnings

• Unlimited career prospects for long term career

• Company pension

• Up to 25 days holiday through loyalty scheme

Applications should be sent to careers@bwd-traffic.co.uk

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING

Powered by

NATIONAL ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

HAMBURG, GERMANY

Salary: €80,000–€90,000

• Builds successful partnerships with key stakeholders at all levels of customers’ organizations to cultivate relationships and generate revenue opportunities across all FF product and service lines.

• Presents solutions to customers to gain approval of proposals and move forward with the sales process.

• Sells technology solutions (Flex Global View) to customers to secure their business, provide added value to proposals and satisfy business needs.

GATEWAY SERVICE SPECIALIST

FRANKFURT, GERMANY

Salary: €50,000–€64,000

Financial analyzes & action plans:

• Accounts payable control and coding

• CASS difference report

• Cost development analyzes

• Statistical reports for management

Drive Operational excellence:

• Process optimization (LOP/SOP adjustments)

• Quality Management (KPI performance)

• Compliance

• Performance reports

• Support to identify training needs and develop training plans

• Development of action plans

Customer Service:

• Coordination between gateway and service centers

• Support Implementation of new customers

• Handling of Customer Complaints

• Develop and promote use of CEP

MULTIMODAL OPERATOR

BIRMINGHAM, UK

• To provide shipping, transport and forwarding expertise across Ocean movements, to build and develop relationships with customers, understanding their needs and requirements. To provide service information, quotations, take bookings and champion the needs of the customer.

• To operate, provide service information, quotations, take bookings and champion the needs of the customer.

• To offer a high standard of customer service, by providing accurate and appropriate information and demonstrating a professional, helpful and positive manner.

PROJECT COORDINATOR

COLNBROOK, UK

• Assist in defining and creating process maps & standard operating procedures

• Update & manage controlled documents

• Carry out various ad hoc project related tasks

• Maintain & update project plans

• Issue & log non-conformance reports

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

MIDLANDS, UK

SALARY: £ 45 ,000

• This is a fantastic opportunity to join a company committed to providing quality, innovation, and value-added logistics services.

• Based at DSV Road Tamworth the successful candidate will cover a designated set of postal codes across either the East or West Midlands region of the UK

VACANCIES

FREIGHT FORWARDING AGENT –CONTROL TOWER KEY ACCOUNT

ATLANTA, GA

SALARY: CIRCA $45 ,000 - $55 ,000

• Provide accurate, timely, and proactive customer service to the Company’s customers as well as effectively communicating and coordinating with internal departments and third parties to meet customer requirements

• Process simple and complex freight forwarding services, while following all government regulations and abiding by company policies and procedures

• Maintains thorough understanding of regulations and laws affecting international transport of cargo

FREIGHT FORWARDING AGENT, REEFER

MIAMI, FL

SALARY: CIRCA $38, 400

• Obtain all necessary information from the customer including weight, dims, container size, temperature, etc. to plan the best and most efficient routing for the shipment via LCL of FCL

• Book the cargo with ocean carrier, trucking companies, warehouse companies, cold storage, etc. as needed for the shipment

• Capable of finding solutions for the customers to their satisfaction, while earning profit for the company

EXPORT MANAGER

REMOTE – EAST COAST/CENTRAL TIME ZONE

HOURS

SALARY: CIRCA $ 80,000 - $ 95 ,000

• Seek the most profitable mode of transportation while meeting the customer’s requirements for the movement of their cargo.

• Proactively identify gaps and contribute to the process of establishing controls resulting in zero compliance issues

• On-board new team members providing them with the proper resources including training on our SOP’s and software tools/systems

OPERATIONS MANAGER

TORONTO, ON

SALARY: CIRCA $55,000 - $65,000

• Leading the Domestic & International Ocean, Air, Inland Freight Forwarding services, you will have responsibility for managing all Ocean, Air and Inland operations and pricing activities. Operations Manager provides planning for, direction to, and controls available resources associated with the timely, damage-free movement of cargo.

• Work closely and support sales and pricing teams, customers and vendors to develop the freight forwarding products Ocean, Air, Inland.

• Monitor company’s or department’s performance, prepare periodically reports for senior management, ensuring compliance with the company’s partner/vendor/country/ government standards and regulations

FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO APPLY, PLEASE FIND THESE ROLES ON

PALLET-TRACK DELIVERS ROAD SAFETY TRAINING

Pallet-Track has delivered a new road safety initiative to improve staff awareness around the challenges faced by HGV drivers on the road and on site.

The groups were also educated on the challenges HGV drivers encounter every day and how everyone can play their part in helping to keep all road users safe thanks to a talk from the RHA and training videos.

The Wolverhampton-based pallet network teamed up with the Road Haulage Association (RHA) to host an internal road safety training programme to mark World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

Its office team experienced some of the challenges HGV drivers navigate daily thanks to a visibility demonstration using a double deck trailer.

The interactive training session provided staff with the opportunity to gain a lorry driver’s view of the road with the help of blind spot mats, which highlight potential danger zones where pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users cannot be seen.

Visibility is one of the leading causes of accidents involving an HGV; in 2021, 207 people were killed in road collisions involving an HGV that were reported to the police, according to Department for Transport figures.

Participants took it in turns to sit in the cab and gain first-hand experience of the zones at the front, rear and sides of the vehicle and trailer where visibility is severely restricted.

The interactive activity was positively received by the team and will be rolled out more widely as part of Pallet-Track’s ongoing safety drive.

Safety is our biggest priority at Pallet-Track and we are committed to providing our team with regular training activities that enhance their knowledge around HGV safety. We would like to thank the team at the RHA for its support with developing an interactive safety activity that was engaging and had real impact. As an industry, it is essential that we work to improve awareness of the difficulties faced by lorry drivers every day on our roads and improve safety for all road users. To achieve greater awareness, Pallet-Track will be rolling out this initiative more widely and working with our local community to increase knowledge around HGV visibility restrictions.

Caroline Green, Chief Executive, Pallet-Track

There is nothing more important on our roads then keeping people safe. It was a thoroughly informative and productive day –we were delighted to be involved with Pallet-Track in delivering this life-saving training.

Simon Priest , Area Manager, RHA

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

Acquisition enhances GEODIS’ end-to-end supply chain capabilities across the US

International freight transport and logistics giant GEODIS has acquired Southern Companies, a leading drayage provider based in the U.S. that handles all phases of the import and export process. The acquisition enhances GEODIS’ end-to-end supply chain capabilities across the U.S., further strengthening its position as one of the world’s leading providers of logistics services.

Southern Companies is a family-owned business founded in Miami in 1965 and has moved more than 1 million containers. The company runs operating terminals serving seven key ports: Port of Miami, Port of Everglades, Port of Houston, Port of Jacksonville, Port of Tampa, Port of Savannah and Port of Charleston. Southern Companies provides a range of import and export services, including warehousing and trucking, to ensure customer goods are moving swiftly through the supply chain.

The acquisition of Southern Companies represents an important addition to GEODIS as we continue to strengthen and grow our capabilities, our team and our client roster throughout the U.S.. Southern Companies has been a leader in drayage services, from warehousing to trucking, for nearly six decades and operates in ports that are critical to our clients. From their people and culture to their expertise and capabilities, Southern Companies is an ideal fit for GEODIS and aligns perfectly with our Americas growth strategy.

Mike Honious, President & CEO, GEODIS in Americas

We have been relentlessly focused on import and export logistics, with a special emphasis on port operations, and have witnessed tremendous organic growth since our beginnings over 55 years ago. We understand the unique needs of our clients and have proven expertise in maintaining the highest standards of excellence while meeting the ever-changing demands of a growing international market. By combining our capabilities with GEODIS’ exceptional leadership, deep bench of experts and global footprint, we can expand our reach and provide an even broader range of services to our clients to help them navigate today’s complex supply chain landscape.

Jorge Mora , Owner & CEO, Southern Companies

The acquisition complements GEODIS in Americas' existing transportation and warehousing capabilities, providing customers with an efficient and reliable end-to-end logistics solution. More than 80 employees spanning Southern Companies’ seven facilities throughout the Southeast will officially join GEODIS. With its Americas region headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee, GEODIS currently operates more than 150 warehouse facilities for its clients with over 50 million square feet of warehousing space in the U.S. alone. GEODIS now has more than 17,000 employees across North America.

GEODIS EXPANDS US DRAYAGE WITH ACQUISITION OF SOUTHERN COMPANIES

& ACQUISITIONS

ARCHLYNK ACQUIRES WCS STRENGTHENING ITS DIGITAL SUPPLY CHAIN SERVICE OFFERING WORLDWIDE

ArchLynk, a global leader in Digital Supply Chain Consulting Services and Global Trade Solutions headquartered in San Jose, California, announced today the acquisition of WCS Consulting, a leading consulting advisory firm for Planning and Operational optimisation solutions for digital supply chains

This acquisition is part of ArchLynk's vision to become the leading digital supply chain systems integrator globally. This is ArchLynk's first acquisition following the merger of Krypt and Novigo, SAP digital supply chain partners backed by BV Investment Partners. This strategic acquisition strengthens ArchLynk’s standing as a top-tier provider of end to end innovative supply chain solutions.

One of the key factors that made this acquisition an attractive opportunity for ArchLynk was WCS’s reputation and deep expertise in the Integrated Business Planning and operations consulting space.

WCS's clear leadership in IBP adds a critical foundational element to the ArchLynk platform and accelerates our goal of creating the only independent, pure-play provider of the full suite of SAP Digital Supply Chain services. We are excited to partner with Simon Tunmore and his team in bringing our combined capabilities to all of our clients and the broader market.

Eric A. Ahlgren, Managing Director, BV Investment Partners, LP

Simon Tunmore, CEO of WCS, will become SVP, leading the new business unit of Business Consulting & Planning, bringing along his existing team and integrating additional members from ArchLynk.

Joining forces with ArchLynk was an easy decision and combining our supply chain and factory planning expertise enabled by SAP's solutions will allow us to offer unparalleled value to our clients.

Simon Tunmore, CEO, WCS Consulting

We are thrilled to welcome WCS Consulting into the ArchLynk family. The opportunities presented by this acquisition, bolstered by the merged organization's strategic vision, end-to-end DSC capabilities, and culture of innovation strengthen our capabilities and position us as a comprehensive digital supply chain solutions provider.

Sekhar Puli, CEO of ArchLynk

In a domain primarily serviced by general Systems Integrators, ArchLynk stands out by offering specialized, targeted domain knowledge backed with an extensive toolkit of Intellectual Property catering exclusively to the supply chain sector.

This acquisition will elevate ArchLynk’s position as a leader in the Digital Supply Chain Consulting ecosystem. Customers will leverage a comprehensive range of services that not only address their specific supply chain challenges but also drive digital transformation and continuous improvement. The customer bases of both entities are distinct from one another, presenting a unique opportunity for ArchLynk to offer our wide range of offerings across our combined customer universe.

As part of ArchLynk’s vision and strategy, the leadership will also continue to look for strategic and opportunistic acquisitions in the space globally.

For more information about ArchLynk and the acquisition of WCS Consulting, visit ArchLynk's website at www.archlynk.com.

DANX’s investment in TBS will expand its network in hardto-reach areas of northern Norway and create opportunities for further service and sector growth

Time-critical logistics operator DANX, part of the DANX Carousel group, has joined forces with Tromsø Budbil Sentral (TBS), the largest supplier of courier services in northern Norway.

The partnership will see DANX offer strategic investment and resource support while benefitting from TBS’ well-established local customer network, which stretches from Narvik to Kirkenes, in northern Norway.

By joining forces, we strengthen our offering to northern Norway, expand our network, and progress the DANX Carousel group's ambition to become the European leader for time-critical in-night logistics. We’re looking forward to working with the TBS team to further develop their network, solution, and sector offering which will bring about more success together in the future.

Ole Larsen, Managing Director – Norway, DANX

TBS has been operating in northern Norway for the past 20 years and boasts a fleet of temperature-controlled vehicles with a payload of up to 8,000 kg.

The new venture represents a significant development for DANX in northern Norway, enabling it to provide its customers with a pre-7am delivery service of regular and temperature-controlled goods to harderto-reach destinations.

Frank Riise, Managing Director of TBS, will continue to head up the courier service’s operations as it joins DANX.

We are looking forward to growing with DANX and are excited about the commercial and operational possibilities that will arise as well as the new developmental employee opportunities. This integration with DANX represents a great opportunity for TBS and we look forward to continuing to deliver an excellent level of service to our existing customers and hopefully to many more.

The development comes after DANX’s recent joint venture with Polish logistics specialist, ILS, which has boosted DANX’s network in Poland, improving its time-critical and in-night logistics solutions in Eastern Europe.

TIME-CRITICAL LOGISTICS SPECIALIST

DANX JOINS FORCES WITH TROMSØ BUDBIL SENTRAL

FLEXPORT ACQUIRES SHOPIFY LOGISTICS

Forwarder expands its services into last-mile and e-commerce fulfillment, accelerating plans to offer logistics from ‘factory floor to customer door’, and becoming the official logistics partner for the Shopify e-commerce retail giant’s millions of merchants

US freight forwarding and logistics provider Flexport has agreed to buy the assets of Shopify Logistics, the logistics and fulfilment arm of the Shopify e-commerce retail platform and point-of-sale specialist, expanding its global services into last-mile and e-commerce fulfillment ‘to all customers’ and becoming the ‘official logistics partner’ for Shopify’s millions of merchants.

Under the terms of the agreement, Shopify will receive stock representing a 13% equity interest in Flexport, on top of an existing equity interest in Flexport that it acquired last February as a strategic investor in the California-headquartered forwarder’s $935 million ‘Series E’ funding round, which took the total equity raised by Flexport to more than $2 billion and raised its valuation to $8 billion.

As part of last year’s investment, Shopify and Flexport ‘forged a strategic relationship and a shared vision to build a unified supply chain network for Shopify merchants from factory floor to customer door’. This led to the launch in February of the Flexport App on Shopify – ‘a one-stop, integrated solution designed to allow small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to meet their global trade needs’. The app initially enables merchants using Shopify to quote, book, track, and ship products to the US – including LCL and FCL services – and obtain customs clearance, insurance and financing. Described by Flexport as ‘the first milestone in Flexport’s strategic partnership with Shopify to empower SMBs with the technology and tools they need to grow their businesses globally’, Shopify’s millions of merchants were also offered ‘access to real-time cost estimates and the ability to leverage enterprise-grade reporting and analytics to remove common barriers to freight forwarding’.

Sale of Shopify Logistics

But after Shopify over-extended parts of its business in anticipation of continuing growth rates similar to those during the pandemic, Shopify on 3 May announced significant workforce cuts and the sale of most of the assets of Shopify Logistics, including its Deliverr business, to Flexport – along with the sale of Shopify’s ‘6 River Systems’ collaborative AMR (autonomous mobile robot) fulfilment solutions business to Ocado.

A senior source at Flexport said this was part of Flexport’s strategic plan to provide a ‘shopfloor to final delivery’ service, ‘and this opportunity came, and accelerates that plan.’

Flexport CEO Dave Clark, a former long-standing Amazon executive who was Amazon’s SVP for worldwide operations for eight years until 2021, commented: This is an exciting time for Flexport. This acquisition is the last piece of the puzzle that enables us to drive technologyfueled solutions across the entire product life cycle from the manufacturer’s floor, across the oceans and skies, through ports and fulfillment, and, now, right into the hands of customers. Over the past six months, we’ve taken some important strategic steps, building off of the amazing momentum Flexport has had, to position the company to achieve our audacious goals. We’ve built a strong leadership bench with some of the best logisticians, technologists, and operators in the world. We are also heavily invested in hiring hundreds of software engineers who are joining our existing teams with a passion for rapidly building for customers. Across all our teams, we have the talent, focus, vision and the tenacity at Flexport to change the world.

He described the Shopify Logistics acquisition as ‘one big step on an already incredible journey that Flexport is taking to modernize and change the future of the supply chain. Another central goal for us is to level the playing field for small businesses. In the U.S., in a world where the e-commerce market size is poised to surpass $8 trillion in 2026, one-in-four small businesses in America still do not have an online store. This is a massive number of companies on the sidelines. We want to welcome them into the e-commerce ecosystem and support their supply chain needs; you shouldn’t have to be the biggest company in the world to have easy, cost-effective and fast supply chain solutions.

For Flexport, this acquisition enables our vision for a full digital transformation of the global supply chain that we will bring to all customers. This democratization and pooling of scale will level the playing field for cost and speed of delivery for all businesses, not just the largest corporations in the world.

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS NEWS

The former Amazon executive, who oversaw the building of Amazon’s transportation network for its sellers, has said he now aims to do the same for rival shipping customers via Flexport, where he became CEO on 1 March after spending six months as co-CEO.

He continued: The end-to-end supply chain industry has not undergone the technological breakthroughs and data platforming we have seen in other sectors. Flexport is changing that. After the past several years of public discourse focusing on what’s wrong with the supply chain, it’s exciting to look ahead to how Flexport can bring solutions and make the global supply chain better for everyone.

Through the integration of Shopify Logistics, Flexport will strengthen its advanced AI-driven optimization to streamline the full global supply chain, reducing costs and improving reliability for customers’, the forwarder said. ‘Traditional supply chain technology has failed to create a single system for end-to-end supply chain planning, visibility and execution. Flexport intends to change all that, reducing out-of-stocks for customers, costs for companies, and decreasing the environmental impact of the movement of goods.

Clark added: Following in the spirit of our partners at Shopify, Flexport has built technology solutions on top of a global, diverse network of logistics partners to make the world simpler for merchants and enterprises selling across all their channels around the world. With this acquisition, we will deepen and expand these partnerships, providing all merchants and businesses more opportunities to grow and succeed because their success is our success.

The companies expect the deal to close in the second quarter subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals.

‘Mission-aligned’ partners

Tobi Lütke, founder and CEO of Shopify, said the sale of Shopify Logistics to Flexport will enable Flexport and Shopify to carry the merchantcentered logistics vision forward, and give more businesses access to a fast, flexible and affordable logistics network that seamlessly integrates with the Shopify tools they know and love.

Lütke told Shopify staff, On May 3, 2023, Shopify entered into a definitive agreement to sell the majority of our logistics business, including the people, technology, and services related to these operations, to Flexport, a leading tech-driven global logistics platform. Shopify has been building a world-class logistics solution that is port to porch – giving merchants speed, flexibility and affordability, all with a simple, seamless integration into the Shopify tools they already know and rely on every day. This transaction will take the logistics solution Shopify has been building and place it in the hands of a trusted and mission-aligned partner Flexport.

He said the transition of Shopify logistics assets to Flexport will be led by Harish Abbott, co-founder and CEO of Deliverr, under the guidance of Flexport CEO Dave Clark. In connection with the closing of the sale, Shopify is entitled to name a director to Flexport’s board.

Flexport will also become the official ‘Shopify Logistics Partner’ and provider of ‘Shop Promise’ for millions of Shopify merchants. Shop Promise enables transparent shipping timelines, including two-day and next-day delivery options to customers of Shopify merchants, and will be extensible to all major commerce platforms, Flexport said, adding: These services will be powered by Flexport and available on the merchant-facing Shopify Fulfillment Network app, which offers merchants an integrated logistics experience through Shopify.

Flexport said its technology ‘now makes it easy for businesses to plan, visualize and execute the movement of goods from manufacturer to the customer's store or door, unified under one technology platform.’

Combination creates an Americas-Europe-APAC network with a global footprint of 201 cargo and ground handling stations in 23 countries to drive future growth and secure greater earnings resilience

SATS Ltd. (‘SATS’) has announced it has completed its acquisition of global air cargo logistics provider Worldwide Flight Services (‘WFS’) for €1.3 billion (equivalent to approximately S$1.8 billion) from an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management (‘Cerberus’), representing an enterprise value of €2,250 million as previously announced. The acquisition received an overwhelming support of 96.8% approval from SATS’ voting shareholders in January this year and obtained regulatory approvals in all relevant jurisdictions in February. With effect from completion, WFS becomes a fully owned subsidiary of SATS, which is headquartered in Singapore. WFS will continue to be headquartered in Paris and operate as Worldwide Flight Services. Craig Smyth, CEO of WFS, will continue to run the company and report to Kerry Mok, President & Chief Executive Officer of SATS, and an advisory board.

Both SATS and WFS have a long history and deep knowledge of the aviation industry. SATS is a leading provider of food solutions and gateway services in Asia, while WFS is a leading air cargo logistics provider globally with ground handling capabilities. As a combined company, SATS and WFS create an Americas-Europe-APAC network with a global footprint of 201 cargo and ground handling stations in 23 countries, covering trade routes responsible for more than 50% of global air cargo volume. The combined group operates in five of the top 10 cargo airports in North America and Europe respectively, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Frankfurt, and Paris, and four of the top 10 cargo airports in Asia, including Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, and Beijing.

Mok said, Recent global events have highlighted the importance of supply chain resiliency and an interconnected global network of cargo handling capabilities that provides speed, traceability, and certainty to our customers. SATS and WFS will provide our customers with the critical global cargo handling capability, and the scale advantage for us to develop and pioneer new solutions that will enhance our customers’ competitiveness. We welcome the management team and employees of WFS into the SATS family. Our focus is now on accelerating value creation for our customers over the medium term.

Smyth added, Our combination with SATS enhances our ability to provide end-to-end trade solutions, which is increasingly critical to our global customers. Together, we will drive technology and service innovations while maintaining our industry-leading standards of safety and security. We are very excited about the value we can deliver for customers from our combined capabilities and broader network.

We are incredibly proud to have partnered with WFS and its talented team. Over the past four and half years, WFS invested in its technology and operations, achieved tremendous growth, and persevered through the COVID-19 pandemic. This strategic combination with SATS will support the company’s continued success and deliver great value for its customers.

Craig Brooks, Senior Managing Director, Cerberus

LARGE UK LOGISTICS PROVIDER SEEKING ACQUISITION OPPORTUNITIES

OVERVIEW

Freight Mergers have been appointed by a large UK logistics provider who are part of a wider global group. Freight Mergers are looking to source relevant acquisition targets that match their criteria. This buyer is looking to facilitate a timely and smooth transaction within 2023; they are open to introductory meetings over the coming weeks and months. They feel they will be a suitable custodian for any business where the director(s)/shareholder(s) are aiming to retire or move on to their next chapter.

KEY POINTS

• £25m+ Revenue

• £5m+ GP per annum

• Air freight focused

• He ad office: UK based

• Strong Senior Management Team

• Asset light (unless a warehouse is owned in the North West)

• Flexible regarding the deal structure of the owner

MAIN ROUTES

• Far East

• Indian Subcontinent

• US/Canada

• Middle East

• Turkey

FINANCIALS OF THE BUYER

2021

Turnover: £232m

Gross Profit: £41.9m

Profit Before Tax: £28.2m

Cash in Bank: £28m

LOCATION

UK wide

REFERENCE

Project North

CONTACT

Alex Reading, M&A Consultant

alex read ing @freightmergers.com

+44 (0)1454 275 933

MEDIA & MARKETING

Today, privately owned maritime services and logistics conglomerate Harren & Partner have announced that they have changed their name to Harren Group

The launch of this group brand marks the start of a new era of collaboration and innovation within the organisation to further enhance customer satisfaction. While the group’s individual company brands remain, this step unites these brands and its people across land and sea through a shared vision, mission and set of values to build the next generation of maritime services and logistics.

There is one global ocean, and we are one global group – bringing together the best thinkers and doers to move the world forward. This is an exciting step for all Harren Group members: Harren Bulkers, Harren Tankers, Harren Ship Management, SAL Heavy Lift, SAL Engineering, Intermarine, Combi Lift, Atheleon, trans-Marsupply, HeavyLift@Sea and all affiliated service units. As a part of this world-renowned group, they are dedicated to becoming the bridge to the future – and the industry benchmark for what’s possible.

Dr Martin Harren, CEO, Harren Group

The biggest change to the group is undeniably the evolved group brand identity. A new logo represents the ultimate bridge between all units, inspired by engineering excellence and maritime architecture. This instantly recognisable group image welcomes the world to the future of shipping and freight forwarding: a future that can only be created by today’s and tomorrow’s top talents. This new group brand is designed to attract great candidates, strengthen commercial synergies and leverage the group’s unique maritime service range and depth.

It is crucial for everyone to know that our commercial brands are still operating as individual group members. The key difference: We will now be united under one strong group brand. Lifting customer expectations, collaborating to achieve what others have not and building a greener tomorrow, highlights Dr Martin Harren.

The transition to Harren Group kicks off with the rollout of the new brand identity across all communication channels, including the company’s website, social media platforms and marketing materials. The Harren Group rebrand comes at a time when the industry is experiencing significant transformation and demand for carbon-neutral end-to-end solutions is continuously growing. Some call it the ocean, but Harren Group calls it the office. Here’s to what’s next

11 MAY 2023 | Source: HARREN GROUP

Advertising: +44 (0)1454 628 795 tony@

FROM FORWARDER MAGAZINE POWERED BY FREIGHTABASE

EMPOWERING FREIGHT FORWARDERS: INTRODUCTION TO THE REGULATIONS FOR THE SAFE HANDLING & TRANSPORT OF DANGEROUS GOODS

FIATA is very pleased to announce the release of the highly anticipated 'Introduction to the regulations for the safe handling and transport of dangerous goods (3rd Edition)', designed to equip freight forwarders with essential knowledge and guidelines for the safe transportation of dangerous goods.

As the transportation industry continues to prioritise safety and compliance, training resources are required to improve and raise awareness on the way freight forwarders handle dangerous goods.

Such dangerous goods, comprising articles and substances that pose potential risks to public safety, the environment, and property, demand meticulous handling and storage. The Dangerous Goods Brochure, in its 3rd Edition, provides freight forwarders with invaluable insights into the nature, properties, and conditions of hazardous materials, enabling them to navigate the complexities of transportation with confidence.

Developed under the umbrella of the FIATA Advisory Body on Safety and Security (ABSS) along with the valuable expertise of Dangerous Goods Management (DGM), TT Club and International Cargo Handling Coordination Association (ICHCA), this brochure is an introductory resource for the industry’s safety policy, with the particularity of including data on all modes of transport. By adhering to these recommendations, freight forwarders contribute to the standardisation and improvement of safety practices in line with existing regulations, fostering a safer global transportation ecosystem, and promoting a clear communication of responsibilities and obligations to customers.

FIATA, at the forefront of this safety initiative, actively supports the enhancement and development of safety practices. With involvement in working groups dedicated to improvement, FIATA ensures that the Dangerous Goods Brochure remains up-to-date, relevant, and aligned with industry best practices.

The handling and transport of dangerous goods are core competencies of our industry. The Dangerous Goods Brochure, in its 3rd Edition, serves as a useful tool to mitigate risks, protect lives, and uphold industry standards. We encourage all freight forwarders to seize this opportunity to equip themselves with the knowledge required for responsible handling and transportation of dangerous goods.

Niels Beuck, Chair of Advisory Body Safety & Security, FIATA

To obtain your copy of the Dangerous Goods Brochure (3rd Edition), visit FIATA’s website. Elevate your safety standards, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with safety practices and international regulations.

GIVING BACK

UNICEF & FLEXPORT.ORG ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP TO PROVIDE GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN RELIEF

New collaboration will help UNICEF expand access to critical supplies for children and explore opportunities to address logistics bottlenecks for humanitarian response

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Flexport. org, the impact arm of Flexport, a leader in global supply chain technology, today announced a new partnership to drive access to humanitarian relief globally, while exploring additional areas of collaboration for more effective, efficient and sustainable supply chains for humanitarian aid. The three-year partnership includes Flexport’s support for UNICEF’s programmes, and will include collaboration leveraging UNICEF and Flexport’s respective global supply related expertise, assets and networks to reach children and their families across the world.

This announcement builds on UNICEF’s collaborative relationship with Flexport.org, which began in 2021 and has helped enable access to essential supplies and services for children and their families across Afghanistan, Chad, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Ukraine, Venezuela and Yemen.

Over the past two years, Flexport.org has supported UNICEF in delivering more than 1.1million lbs of critical supplies for UNICEF’s global humanitarian relief efforts. The partnership has already delivered $2 million in transportation costs for critical aid including ready-touse-therapeutic food, syringes for vaccinations, wash supplies, diapers, blankets, and water tanks, as well as stock replenishment and cold storage.

The new partnership agreement will support UNICEF in enhancing access to critical supplies needed for children to survive and thrive, as well as broader humanitarian assistance around the world through four key pillars of engagement:

In-kind transport of UNICEF-managed supplies via airfreight, ocean freight and land transport in response to humanitarian crises, and to support UNICEF’s programmes and priorities worldwide

Emergency logistics solutions as situations arise, including warehousing services, bespoke logistics support and targeted expertise

Supply chain sustainability solutions to reduce the environmental, social and economic impact of logistics

Strategic supply chain planning to develop innovative solutions to increase access to essential supplies in the hardest-to-reach places.

Efficient, streamlined logistics are critical to global humanitarian assistance response. We are excited to partner with UNICEF to leverage our combined expertise to overcome logistics bottlenecks and improve the delivery of humanitarian supplies to children in need, especially in remote and challenging locations.

Kristen Dohnt , Head of Flexport.org

Supply chains come under intense pressure during emergencies. This partnership with Flexport.org will help UNICEF to address bottlenecks and quickly deliver life-saving supplies to children and their communities in times of crisis. We are grateful for the support and collaboration of Flexport.org to find supply chain and logistics solutions so that no child is left behind.

Etleva Kadilli, Director of UNICEF’s global supply & logistics operations

IAG Cargo offers additional capacity between Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean for the summer season – and restarts services between Barcelona and Chile

IAG Cargo’s network today includes 33 destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean up from 25 in 2019

The business now offers 400 wide-body services between Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean (401)

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG) announces additional capacity for the summer season between Latin America, the Caribbean and its hubs - London, Madrid, and Barcelona.

Overall, IAG Cargo now offers 400 wide-body weekly services between Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. Following a revival last year, IAG Cargo now services 33 per cent more destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean than pre-pandemic.

IAG Cargo customers will benefit from more capacity to the region with flights between Madrid and Bogota increasing from 14 to 18 weekly services and in Lima four more connections will be added, offering 11 weekly flights. Panama will have between five and seven weekly connections throughout the summer, and daily services from November onwards. The business now also offers a daily service between London and Mexico, with flights between Barcelona and Chile restarting.

In the Caribbean, services between Madrid and Havana increase to five per week and Puerto Rico to six per week in August. Flights between London and Bermuda have increased to a daily service.

It’s great to see our network continuing to grow in Latin America and the Caribbean, these are vital trade routes crucial for maintaining a healthy global economy and supporting people’s livelihoods. The increased frequencies offer our customers more options to connect their cargo to the rest of the world via our network which today covers six continents, and we recently introduced China back to our regular schedule – an important market for many exporters in Latin America.

Rodrigo Casal, Regional Commercial Manager for Latin America & the Caribbean, IAG Cargo

These routes regularly facilitate the movement of perishables and popular foods grown locally including flowers, papayas, mangos, and stone fruits as well as pharmaceuticals and automotive parts.

IAG CARGO BOOSTS LATAM & CARIBBEAN CAPACITY

CLIMATE TECH STARTUP PLEDGE RAISES $10m

TO DRIVE DECARBONISATION OF LOGISTICS SUPPLY CHAINS

New Series A investment will drive development of Pledge’s decarbonisation software to help supply chain leaders and logistics businesses meet their sustainability goals

Climate technology leader Pledge has secured USD10 million in Series A funding to drive its mission to help businesses reach net zero emissions, starting with the logistics and supply chain industry.

Pledge provides accredited tools for supply chain leaders and freight forwarders to understand, report, reduce, and remove their logistics emissions. Its platform is built with accessibility, transparency, and simplicity at its core.

We started Pledge with the belief that technology can be a powerful lever in the fight against climate change. This funding round enables us to continue building best-in-class products to help accelerate businesses’ transition to net zero and remove gigatons of carbon from the atmosphere.

David de Picciotto, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Pledge

Increasing regulatory pressures from new climate directives, such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Fit for 55 in Europe, mean supply chain and logistics leaders need to address their emissions and make significant, long-term reductions.

Pledge is accredited by the Smart Freight Centre (SFC) for its adherence to the Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) framework, the only globally recognised methodology for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the logistics supply chain, which has formed the basis of the recently published ISO 14083 standard.

Pledge includes unique features such as Clarity™ and Accuracy™, which guide users through every step of the emissions calculation process, ensuring calculations are auditable and customers are confident in fulfilling their reporting requirements.

Supply chain emissions account for over 70 percent of the total GHG emissions for large and medium-sized businesses, whilst the logistics industry as a whole produces 11 percent of the world’s total GHGs.

Pledge’s self-serve product and free trial mechanism is part of its commitment to providing the best user experience in the industry and helping logistics companies of all sizes save time and resources, win new business, and improve supply chain resilience.

The funding round is led by Zinal Growth, with new investors including Base Partners, Ace & Company, as well as founders from leading business-to-business Software-as-a-Service companies and veterans from the logistics industry, including Dirk Reich, former Member of the Management Board at Kuehne+Nagel.

They join existing investors Lowercarbon Capital and Visionaries Club, who are doubling down on their initial investment in the company at the seed round.

Pledge’s product-led approach and vertical focus makes it a really exciting company in a new and growing space. With a product built on simplicity, scalability, and transparency, the founders have drawn aspects from their background in highly regulated and complex industries like payments and capital markets and applied them to the world of climate tech. They are taking an approach usually seen in vertical B2B SaaS companies and are applying it to impact some of the biggest emitting industries in the world.

Guillaume Waser, Managing Partner, Zinal Growth

Panther team members go sky high in bid to raise thousands for company’s corporate charity

Big-hearted Panther Logistics colleagues took to the skies in the latest charity challenge to help raise funds for the company’s corporate charity, Over The Wall Children’s Charity.

Dynamic duo Martyn Nightingale and Mark Joughin faced their fears to take part in the recent skydive, which with the aid of Panther’s charity matching support, has helped raise over £2,000.

Martyn, who is a Panther Planner based in Northampton, overcame his fear of heights to fly to 13,000ft with Mark for the skydive!

Martyn said: It feels so good to have achieved a dream of ours and raised a lot of money for the charity. I never dreamed we could raise that amount of money for such a great cause. The dive itself was an incredible experience, there’s no other feeling like it. I am so thrilled to have achieved something on my bucket list and raised so much money for such a great cause. I can’t wait for the next daring adventure to raise even more money.

I have always wanted to do a skydive, it was incredible. I would highly recommend anyone to take part in a skydive as it is one of the best feelings you can have, it is so peaceful when you are floating down.

Mark Joughin, Fellow fundraising skydiver, Castleford Network Planner

Panther Logistics are really upping their game with the adrenaline factor, and we couldn’t be more in awe of them taking on this incredible challenge to raise money for us here at Over The Wall. They’re continuing to show their amazing effort and commitment to us as a charity and everyone here is so grateful for their continued support. Taking on such an incredible challenge means that we’re able to support more seriously

ill children to take on their own challenges at our camps. We tell children at our camps to be the hero of their own story, well it isn’t a bird, a plane, or a superhero in the sky this time, it’s Panther Logistics!

Christopher Pitts, Corporate Partnerships Manager, Over The Wall

The successful skydive is the latest charity challenge by the company as part of its continuing support for the charity Over The Wall, which provides free activity camps for seriously ill or disabled children and their families at several sites in the UK. Through its Camp in the Cloud the charity also provides online camps for young people that are unable to attend camps in person.

Congratulations to Mark and Martyn on their amazing achievement. Panther’s proud to continue to help raise thousands of pounds for this incredible charity.

Vicki Barber, Head of People and Engagement at Panther Logistics

PANTHER LOGISTICS FUNDRAISERS REACH FOR THE SKIES TO SUPPORT CHARITY

AIR FRANCE KLM MARTINAIR CARGO PROUDLY SUPPORTS AIR FRANCE & KLM DURING THE SECOND SUSTAINABLE FLIGHT

Challenge

During the second edition of the Sustainable Flight Challenge, organised by SkyTeam, KLM operated a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner flight from Amsterdam to Los Angeles on 17 May, while Air France will embark on a journey from Paris to Atlanta on 23 May operating an Airbus A350-900. These flights symbolise our strong commitment to achieving the highest possible level of sustainability in today’s industry.

At Air France KLM Martinair Cargo, we’re constantly exploring new ways to make our operations more sustainable and reduce our environmental impact. We acknowledge that achieving meaningful change in the airfreight industry requires collective efforts. We take pride in the progress we have made together with our partners towards achieving greater sustainability.

For the second edition of the Sustainable Flight Challenge, we’re supporting both Air France and KLM by implementing the following initiatives:

1% for the Planet

Inspired by the Patagonia initiative: 1% for the Planet. We will be allocating 1% of Cargo turnover from all LAX flights during the week of the Sustainable Flight Challenge to the Gold Standard Foundation.

Optimise cargo load (high load and ideal weight & balance)

Weight & balance are crucial for safe flight operations and the position of the centre of gravity has a direct impact on fuel consumption. Implementing effective cargo load planning can result in significant fuel savings. The benefits here are twofold: reduced weight by having to carry less fuel and reduced emissions!

HVO on EU trucking network

Joining forces with several partner trucking companies, we reviewed our emissions and invested in Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel for our European trucking network in the two days leading up to the challenge, 15 and 16 May in a bid to reduce our carbon footprint.

Sustainable cargo operations

Paperless handling (E-AWB), electric transport in the warehouse and electric tractors to transport cargo to the aircraft.

Reduce weight (operation support materials)

During our cargo operations we will use lightweight nets, cardboard board cases, cardboard beams, lightweight unit load devices (ULD), and re-usable covers for cargo pallets.

Eco paperboard pallets (pilot)

We will be conducting a pilot with cardboard pallets instead of wooden ones for freight transport. This will generate weight savings of 5 to 8 kilograms per pallet. The pallets are made from recycled paper (94%) and are easy to recycle.

It’s fantastic and truly inspiring to witness how our passionate colleagues and partners have gone the extra mile in a short period of time to raise awareness and drive sustainability initiatives forward. The airfreight industry is a complex ecosystem involving many stakeholders. By uniting, we can catalyse, accelerate and transform the industry. Through the Sustainable Flight Challenge, we channel all of this positive energy towards a single shared goal: creating a more sustainable airfreight industry.

Adriaan den Heijer, EVP Air France-KLM Cargo and Managing Director Martinair

The challenge extends beyond its participants; it calls for cooperative efforts, responsibility, innovative thinking, and forging partnerships to shape the future of our industry.

By sharing and implementing existing innovations on a broad scale, we can make a significant impact and push the boundaries to explore new horizons. Through establishing a level playing field among industry partners, we have the opportunity to raise the bar year after year. Only together can we achieve a more sustainable airfreight industry.

9 MAY 2023 | Source: IAG CARGO

TOURISM: SUSTAINABILITY IS THE TREND OF ����

The latest research in the sector confirms travellers are more attentive to environmental issues

Sustainability is a more topical issue than ever and people are increasingly adopting habits and lifestyles aimed at limiting their impact on the environment. The tourism industry also fits into this context: in fact, an increasingly growing number of travellers choose to spend their holidays according to principles of sustainability and respect for the territories.

This trend is reflected in the numbers: according to the latest data of the Swg observatory released in March of this year, four Italians out of five would be willing to experience sustainable tourism, thus preferring to stay in a certified environmentally-friendly structure at the same cost. As far as the environmental protection initiatives are concerned, almost 70% of the sample respondents are in favour of limited access and traffic restrictions and 73% would be ready to do without their cars and to use public transport or ecological vehicles.

Read more at www.trueitalianexperience.it/en

THE LAST WORD...

THE TEAM...

CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

WILL CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

PAUL MEDIA / EVENTS MANAGER

TONY SALES EXECUTIVE

OMAR SALES EXECUTIVE

TIM DESIGNER

MOHIT DIGITAL & SOCIAL

A FINAL WORD FROM FORWARDER

Thanks for reading. Hopefully we got to meet you at Multimodal. Otherwise, perhaps we'll see you at our next FORWARDER event on 5 October, in Heathrow

Keep the website FORWARDER.events bookmarked for details!

Please keep the great content flowing our way, and we’ll present it to the freight and logistics world, with love from FORWARDER

Tim, Designer, FORWARDER

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GIVING BACK

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