Global Supply Chain January 2023 Issue

DRIVE THE NEW WAY

NEW IVECO T-WAY: HIGH PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY ON OFF-ROAD TERRAINS

With a complete line-up of AWD and PWD versions and the the 16-speed HI-TRONIX automated gearbox, the IVECO T-WAY features a host of functionalities such as Rocking Mode, Off-road Mode, Creeping Mode and 4 reverse gears to tackle with ease the toughest off-road conditions. The new architecture of the EBS system, combined with disc brakes on all wheels, greatly improves the vehicle’s performance and the driver’s safety in the most demanding applications.

NEW IVECO S-WAY: HIGH TECHNOLOGY AND EFFICIENCY FOR ON-ROAD MISSIONS

The new IVECO S-WAY, with a completely redesigned and reinforced cab, offers a wide choice of Euro III/V diesel engines, a delivering class-leading power from 360 HP to 560 HP Euro III / 570 HP Euro V and superior fuel-saving devices, such as anti-idling feature, Ecoswitch, Ecoroll and Smart Alternator. 12-speed HI-TRONIX automated transmission with the most advanced technology in its category, electronic clutch and best-in-class torque-to-weight ratio.

SIGNATURE MEDIA FZ LLE

P. O. Box 49784, Dubai, UAE Tel: 04 3795678 Email: info@signaturemediame.com

Exclusive Sales Agent Signature Media LLC P.O. Box 49784, Dubai, UAE

Publisher: Jason Verhoven jason@signaturemediame.com

Editor: Malcolm Dias malcolm@signaturemediame.com

Art Director: Johnson Machado johnson@signaturemediame.com

Production Manager: Roy Varghese roy@signaturemediame.com

Printed by United Printing Press (UPP) – Abu Dhabi

Distributed by Tawseel Distribution & Logistics – Dubai

Contributor’s opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor and while every precaution has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate and timely, no liability is accepted by them for errors or omissions, however caused. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Signature Media FZ LLE & SIGNATURE MEDIA LLC and cannot be reproduced in any form without written permission.

Software as a Solution

Firstly, and at the very outset, this is the New Year, and I would like to convey to our readers ‘Compliments of the Season’ and best wishes for a successful and prosperous 2023!

We know Service as a Service (SaaS) to be a licensing model in which access to software is provided on a subscription basis, where the software is located on external servers rather than on servers located in-house.

How about ‘Software as a Solution’? In our cover story for this edition, we have a prominent Germany-headquartered company that has ‘Software as a Solution’ as its mantra. Ehrhardt + Partner Solutions’ (EPS), has made its proprietary, signature software the centerpiece of its effective professional offerings to solve challenges emanating from Supply Chain processes and operations.

Global Supply Chain met Dr. Makrem Kadachi, General Manager GCC, Ehrhardt + Partner Solutions DWC LLC, at the EPS dedicated offices in Dubai Logistics City for an expansive, extended interview. The regional supremo brought us to speed on the latest developments and professional accomplishments during his tenure and his vision for the future using his proverbial ‘crystal ball.’

With the conclusion of the exciting and massively followed FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, there is much rejoicing in country over the largely successful and well conducted games.

One of the key stakeholders in this mammoth endeavour was the Doha-headquartered Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC), the official Logistics Services Provider (LSP) to the games. We review the seminal role, from a logistics standpoint, played by the company in this mammoth project.

‘Make in the Emirates’ is the new mantra at the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technologies (MoIAT). The call to ‘Make in the Emirates’ provides manufacturing and production companies with an opportunity to benefit from the UAE economy’s tremendous and unique value proposition by investing in future industries and advanced manufacturing and exporting UAE products to new global markets.

Against this backdrop, we highlight the contributory role played by two randomly chosen companies—Acme Intralog in Dubai and Lubrex FZC in Sharjah. We talk to the heads of the two companies on the implications of this much touted chant and how they were able to successfully implement policies and strategies consistent with the directives and incentives of the Ministry.

Add to this our regular repertoire of news, features, profiles, business analyses, and useful content all of which are well encapsulated and curated to make for stimulating reading!

Happy reading!

Malcolm

Dias Editor, malcolm@signaturemediame.com

Digitalization of Supply Chain process now essential

COVER STORY: EHRHARDT + PARTNER GROUP (EPG)

Ehrhardt + Partner Group (EPG), of which Ehrhardt + Partner Solutions (EPS) is an integral subsidiary, is the embodiment of an exemplary company’s success story. By the company’s own admission and in its own words, the consistent alignment with customer needs and demands coupled with the highly developed and the sophisticated, premier EPG ONE™ supply chain execution suite, is the surefire recipe for success.

Meanwhile, the company continues to thrive and monitor current market demands. A combination of well-ingrained corporate characteristics including ingenuity, a passion for innovation and commitment for in-house developed, targeted software solutions alongside successful application, implementation and effective monitoring is boosting EPG’s reputation, revenues and performance not only in the region but globally, as Global Supply Chain found out in a recent visit to the company’s office and facility in DWC-Dubai Logistics City and an exclusive interview with Dr. Makrem Kadachi, General Manager GCC, Ehrhardt + Partner Solutions DWC LLC.

The Ehrhardt + Partner Group is a leading international innovator and operator in supply chain and logistics. With extensive experience in more than 700 successful logistics centres all over the world, the company’s interdisciplinary engineering teams realize investment and future-proof solutions for clients around the globe.

To get the lowdown on the latest updates and performance, Global Supply Chain journeyed to Dubai South for an exclusive, one-to-one interview with Dr. Makrem Kadachi, General Manager, Erhardt + Partner Solutions GCC. The following are excerpts from that meeting.

Global Supply Chain (GSC): Give us a brief thumbnail profile of Erhardt+Partner Solutions and the company’s origins in the Middle East?

Dr. Makrem Kadachi (MK): I would like to point out at the very outset that EPG is a technology centric and solutionsoriented company with extensive expertise and importantly experience in developing and implementing in-house and independently developed supply chain software for our customers across the globe.

We are very customer-focused and offer tailored software solutions that best meet the requirements and expectations of our clients and ensure streamlined

operational efficiencies.

EPG facilitates smooth and seamless transition of processes and integration with our clients existing systems. There is still considerable merit in our legacy systems, but these have since evolved paving the way and ushering in new sophisticated, advanced systems.

Ehrhardt Partner Group has enjoyed a long presence in the Middle East. We established an independent, stand-alone, full-service office with comprehensive facilities in Dubai in 2006 and have the distinction of being the first tenant in Dubai Logistics City.

Currently EPG employs over 800 in 22 locations globally. We presently serve 1600 customers drawn from multiple industries. Our interdisciplinary engineering teams have capabilities to realize investment and future-proof solutions along the supply chain execution.

GSC: What are your core activities and what industry verticals do you cover?

MK: We offer our growing clientele emanating from a variety of industry verticals with a vast array of software technology solutions including WMS (Warehouse Management Software), TMS (Transportation Management Software), and Voice solutions to empower and optimize logistics processes.

EPG’s proprietary Supply Chain Execution Suite (EPG ONE) is in the vanguard of enabling Smarter Connected Logistics

EPG’ other applications and software offerings include WCS (Warehouse Control Software), WFM (Workforce Management), DOCK (Dock & Yard Management Software), Contract & Billing (CnB), International Shipping System (ISS) and EPG ONE APP (Digital Workflow Software).

EPG solutions cover the entire scale of the supply chain from warehouse, retail, e-commerce, manufacturing and road to ground and cargo handling solutions at airports.

GSC: How significant is the Middle East for EPG?

MK: The Middle East is a very important geographical region for EPG. This expanse also includes the continent of Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Our performance in this progressive region has been exemplary and we have also been instrumental in assisting other geographies in software development.

GSC: How did EPG fare in 2022 and what is the outlook for 2023 in the Middle East?

MK: The year 2022 was a very good year for EPG in this region. Being a privately owned Group, I am not able to reveal figures, but suffice to say our performance in 2022 was extraordinary and we closed strong.

Continuing in this vein, EPG holds a positive outlook for 2023 and we resolve to maintain the momentum in 2023 and surpass targets and meet expectations.

MK: Our core strengths are our human resources twinned alongside our sophisticated technology solutions. Our employees are fully trained and adept with understanding customer demands and needs and initiating adaptable, implementable and demonstrable solutions.

The technological research and consulting firm Gartner has clearly put its seal of approval for EPG characterizing ‘WMS as a sophisticated and proven solution offering a whole host of different functionalities that can be scaled up to handle even highly complex warehouse environments, including highly automated warehouses.’

Our technologies are very advanced, the most modern and meet the highest quality industry standards and benchmarks. Our employees are highly qualified, much experienced and both involved and committed.

Furthermore, our software technology, developed entirely in-house, is proprietary and bears the EPG imprint and signature. Our suite is protected by IP (Intellectual Property) statutes and protocols.

From an implementation perspective, our experts both institute and monitor the rollout of software to ensure oversight and its appropriate enforcement.

Our ‘best practices’ offering of solutions is comprehensive. Additionally, we offer logistics consulting, cloud services, managed services and logistics courses at the company’s own academy.

GSC: What sets EPG apart? What are your core brand strengths and how are you leveraging these capabilities to increase your market share in the region?

For Greenplan, the decades of experience, the global reach and position as well as EPG’s distinctive expertise are decisive arguments for the cooperation. “We offer a complete TMS solution in addition to perfect route planning.

Gartner Challenger EPG takes a stake in Greenplan

EPG (Ehrhardt Partner Group) is considered one of the global market leaders in the field of warehouse management systems (WMS).

The international group of companies bundles its solution portfolio in its supply chain execution suite EPG ONETM and recently added a new transport management system (TMS). For intelligence (the TMS algorithm), EPG now relies on the innovation power of Greenplan – one of the strongest innovators in route planning.

By working with Greenplan, EPG is expanding its TMS solution to include a unique and powerful algorithm for automatic routing and scheduling solutions, with efficiency increases of

up to 20% compared to standard solutions on the market. By working with EPG, Greenplan is gaining a partner whose global presence and complementary supply chain product portfolio provide an ideal basis for joint global growth.

EPG’s work with Greenplan is the result of a successful cooperation in which both companies have already jointly implemented logistics projects. From now on, customers also always benefit from Greenplan’s innovative route planning algorithm as part of a TMS project with EPG. Both companies are counting on the strong synergy potentials to strengthen their joint market position.

TMS with intelligent automatic routing: sustainable and efficient route planning for logistics of the future

LYDIA™ 9 Voice Browser by EPG is Certified by SAP®

EPG (Ehrhardt Partner Group) recently announced that its solution, LYDIA 9 Voice Browser is again certified by SAP® for integration with SAP S/4HANA® and with SAP NetWeaver®.

EPG-technology secures recertification

“This certification from SAP further confirms that businesses that use SAP technology can significantly enhance warehouse performance with the aid of LYDIA 9 Voice Browser,” noted Tim Just, CEO Voice Solutions at EPG. “LYDIA 9 Voice Browser also ensures they have complete control over their voice application. Our solution has been offering these features since 2009,” he continued.

LYDIA Voice is a pick-by-voice solution that can be accessed using LYDIA 9 Voice Browser. Ensuring a simple integration process, LYDIA 9 Voice Browser is compatible with a range of SAP modules, including SAP Extended Warehouse Management rapid deployment solution.

Customers benefit more from enhanced performance than with other integration methods thanks to its standardised design and simple system maintenance. Modifications and upgrades can be implemented flexibly and reliably.

Integration

With LYDIA 9 Voice Browser, LYDIA Voice can be integrated into a company’s existing SAP environment without the need for middleware. This intelligent online connectivity ensures maximum efficiency in warehouse processes.

The process logic is SAP-based, giving customers a crucial advantage: all standard SAP functionalities can be utilised, and changes can be implemented by their own SAP team with a great deal of flexibility.

LYDIA 9 Voice Browser offers multi-modal functionality for LYDIA Voice. Users can also access infographics and enter data simultaneously via voice command, touch, scan or keyboard. Thanks to its online connectivity, the technology also offers functions such as real-time stocktaking to track current warehouse inventory, while also facilitating optimised warehouse replenishment and enhanced order-picking efficiency.

SAP Integration and Certification Center (SAP ICC) has certified that the integration software for the product LYDIA 9 Voice Browser integrates with SAP S/4HANA and with SAP NetWeaver using standard integration technologies.

SAP S/4HANA is the next-generation business suite designed to act as the digital core, helping customers drive digital transformation across their organizations.

“This certification from SAP further confirms that businesses that use SAP technology can significantly enhance warehouse performance with the aid of LYDIA 9 Voice Browser.”

GSC: What are you expansion plans for the region?

MK: EPG has performed well in this region and both the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are demonstrating a lot of promise and potential.

COVER STORY: EHRHARDT + PARTNER GROUP

We are rapidly expanding in the Kingdom and consistent with the strategy and ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, our prospects there are very encouraging, and we are excited about the future. Saudi Arabia will be the subject of our focused attention in 2023. We are also performing well in the

UAE, our regional home base, and we are optimistic about growth in the forthcoming months.

I am also delighted to point out that EPG has now expanded into the continent of Australia, and we now have full-fledged operations in the country.

Schneider Electric boosts logistics capacity by 15 percent with LFS

Global supply chain software specialist Ehrhardt Partner Group (EPG) has deployed its innovative Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) LFS at Schneider Electric’s Sarre-Union warehouse and distribution center in France, boosting logistics capacity at the facility by 15 per cent.

Responsible for all enclosures and related accessories to Schneider Electric’s local distribution centers and third-party suppliers all over the world – the equivalent of 30 trucks per day leave the site carrying a collective 30,000 tons of goods, with over 7,500 products in storage, and 15,000 pallets in internal and external locations – reliable and always-on IT and software systems are vital in running the 10,000 sq ft warehouse and distribution center efficiently.

Sustainable innovation

As a company with almost 200 years of history in sustainable innovation, Schneider Electric is a leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, and the provider of electrical distribution equipment and secure energy equipment for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure, and industry.

Prior to the upgrade, the center’s previous WMS was built on a legacy mainframe, and with existing data becoming less reliable, Schneider Electric looked to EPG to install a flexible, state-of-theart WMS that could both match their own specific needs more closely as well as future-proof the business at the same time.

Fast, trouble-free implementation

LFS is EPG’s off-the-shelf WMS, customized to intelligently connect the planning and control of all material flows in a logistics facility. It actively guides the movement of all manual and automated storage units with 100 per cent safety and transparency, a clear advantage over rival systems. Implementation of the project was trouble-free, and required no downtime at Sarre-Union, despite the added pressures of the Covid lockdown, which did delay the first ‘go live ’target date.

The entire process took 18 months, and the EPG team worked closely with Schneider Electric teams with initial workshops and project specification to prepare for the customization, tests and deployment.

Immediate performance uplift

Since implementing LFS, the center has experienced significant improvements to its processes, including a 15 per cent uplift in logistics capacity. In just three months, the center was outperforming previous benchmarks and has boosted capacity by 15 per cent.

“All configurations are controlled by our own key users, who can manage the jobs, change the flows and processes all by ourselves,” confirmed Department Operations Manager Kevin Cartolano.

“The label management facility enables us to print directly via LFS. The benefits of that include no fixed batch jobs and no downtime needed to integrate new orders. Meanwhile, the printer management function permits key users nominated by us to manage individual printers,” he added.

Ease of use

Schneider Electric managers and staff were also impressed with the system’s easy-touse interface. This makes it more comfortable for relevant teams to adopt, particularly as it is flexible enough to be used on several platforms as required throughout the facility, such as tablets, handheld units, laptops and desktop computers.

“Schneider Electric is delighted with the flexibility benefits provided by the multiple functionalities incorporated within the customized LFS,” Kevin Cartolano shared. “The quality and speed of communication provided by EPG’s versatile and expert support personnel have been commendable, and we look forward to working with EPG on many future upgrading projects,” he concluded.

“Schneider Electric is delighted with the flexibility benefits provided by the multiple functionalities incorporated with LFS”

Smooth FIFA World Cup™ operations confirm Qatar’s ability to host outstanding mega-events

Qatar’s accomplishments are testimony to the country’s grit and determination to deliver on promises

A promise made and a promise kept! Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC) outlines extensive logistics mandate during Qatar 2022TM as the country looks forward to hosting more major international mega-events in the future. GWC has played a key role and has been an integral part of and instrumental in the FIFA Cup™’s success story.

The resounding success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ lays a platform for the country to host major international events long into the future. The tournament will also significantly boost the development of business sectors across the country, including logistics.

“We have spent years preparing for this mega-event and stood ready to support Qatar, the local organizing committee and FIFA to deliver a memorable edition of international football’s showpiece event,” affirmed Sheikh Abdulla Bin Fahad Bin Jassem Bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman, GWC.

“We are also determined to leverage this tournament to deliver a robust economic legacy that benefits businesses large and small for generations to come, in line with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030,” he continued.

A colossal undertaking

Delivering the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world involved a gigantic logistical mandate, which was handled in Qatar by GWC; the Official Logistics Provider for the tournament.

The numbers involved are staggering: GWC handled more than 15 million cans of beverage, 1.8 million pieces of equipment, 117,900 pieces of furniture, 20,400 traffic and safety assets, 34,700 office supplies and 20,000 spectator and traffic barriers. This was in addition to all the tournament equipment, including kits, uniforms and footballs.

Transporting fresh food and beverages to a host of tournament sites was another key deliverable. For the media, GWC handled more than 30,000 pieces of equipment, including cameras, tripods and lighting,

GWC REPORT: FIFA QATAR WORLD CUP™

with everything delivered to and from eight stadiums, 36 team base camp hotels, two airports, two seaports, media hubs, fan zones and other sites.

Serving the logistics requirements of an event as large as the FIFA World CupTM needs a forward-thinking strategy in order to deliver a seamless operation. GWC implemented a control tower approach for Qatar 2022TM which delivered according to a master delivery schedule (MDS), a corporate press communiqué stated. .

This acted as the central point for all logistical activities; from the time an order needs to be picked up, where it has to be delivered, the time it is due and its current status.

Vision coming to fruition

From a logistics standpoint, people, processes and technology are the key ingredients, according to Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC. “When you are delivering the logistics mandate of the FIFA World CupTM, detailed planning is imperative,” stated Menon. “What we saw during Qatar 2022TM was the result of years of preparation. It was our plans, and those

of our stakeholders in Qatar and globally, coming to fruition,” he observed.

“In order to optimise the value chain and unlock maximum potential, it is essential for companies to get the right balance between people, processes and technology. At GWC, we believe the success of Qatar 2022TM was people-driven, technologyfuelled and goal-orientated,” Menon added.

Qatar’s growing MSMEs sector

Hosting the FIFA World CupTM has cemented Qatar’s status as a global hub for major international events – laying a platform

for significant economic development, in particular helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) flourish in the country and across the region.

In early 2022, GWC opened Al Wukair Logistics Park, its largest logistics park to date. Covering an area of 1,500,000sqm that caters specifically for MSMEs. The site provides all their commercial needs, as well as affording an opportunity to network with like-minded businesses. GWC is an enabler and catalyst for MSMEs – helping them to establish and grow their businesses and leverage Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup.

“MSMEs have benefitted massively from the World Cup in a vast range of sectors, including logistics. The challenge now is for MSMEs to leverage the tournament’s legacy and grow their businesses, supported by the platform which Qatar built,” Menon further stated.

Menon praised Qatar’s leadership for fostering a conducive business environment and helping the logistics industry to flourish – boosted significantly by hosting the biggest sporting event on the planet.

“We have received massive support from all sectors from day one of our journey. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the vision, commitment and passion of Qatar’s wise leadership,” he further noted.

“One area of particular support would be Qatar’s management of the public-privatepartnership, something GWC is proud to be taking part in. Through this partnership, we are committed to developing Qatari abilities and reinforcing the logistics sector’s role and contribution to economic development, while offering direction to government projects for new approaches and modern vision in managing national projects efficiently and sustainably,” he said.

Integrated systems and dedicated staff

Delivering Qatar 2022TM involved an extensive range of services, including asset management and tracking, asset recovery and dissolution, pre-receipt processes, warehousing, pick, pack and dispatch, logistics fleet management, materials distribution, vehicle delivery permit distribution, freight forwarding, customs clearance, reverse logistics and last mile delivery.

A prime example of such operation was the distribution of +200,000 match tickets both locally and internationally. The operation included collection of tickets, parking passes and other ticketing accessories, sorting, segregating, inventory creation, all the way to international and local delivery.

The compact nature of the tournament proved a huge advantage. Qatar delivered the most compact edition of the FIFA World CupTM in modern history, with every stadium located within an hour’s journey time from central Doha.

“From the very beginning, Qatar highlighted the opportunity to host a

compact World Cup for the benefit of fans, players and officials. While it has been amazing for fans to attend more than one match a day, Qatar’s geographical footprint has also proved to be hugely beneficial in terms of logistics, making it simple for people and products to be in the right locations at the right time.”

GWC’s state-of-the-art dedicated logistics network

A dedicated 50,000m² warehouse footprint, plus more than 150 dedicated vehicles – all within 45 minutes of any stadium and more than 400 key sites – were the foundations for success. More than 200 truck drivers covered 1,900,000km of distribution journeys over 288,000 hours, backed by 1,200 venue operations staff and six bespoke logistics systems.

All of the personnel involved were dedicated to delivering on-time and in-full for a host of stakeholders, including FIFA, participating teams, commercial affiliates, broadcasters, media, fans, staff, suppliers and vendors.

“The key to everything is long-term planning, dedicated training for thousands of staffs and a range of relevant test events. We benefitted significantly from staging tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup, on two occasions, and the FIFA Arab Cup, along with local events such as the Amir Cup,” said Menon.

“Going forward, we will focus on the further integration of artificial intelligence and automation, to make it simpler and quicker to deliver our objectives. We have also seen a major focus on sustainability and delivering environmentally friendly solutions during the FIFA World CupTM and we will continue to support these trends to continue in the future,” explained Menon.

“The final lesson learnt is that hosting mega-events in a compact setting is not only preferable for fans and players – it is also hugely beneficial for organisers and the people and businesses involved in logistics planning and delivery,” he added.

The importance of reverse logistics

While the players head back to their clubs and competing week to week in leagues around the world, GWC will focus on reverse logistics, which means returning every item to its next destination.

“Just about everything that arrived in Qatar needs to be returned home safely. Reverse logistics is a major part of our operation, and our work will continue long after the trophy has been lifted. We will work closely with our stakeholders to carefully demobilize every item and ship it securely back to its next destination,” he emphasized.

A bright future

Menon is looking forward to a positive future for Qatar, GWC and the logistics sector.

“What has been clear from day one is that hosting the FIFA World CupTM is part of a long-term plan for Qatar. It is accelerating the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 and helping a number of industries to grow and develop, including the vital logistics sector.”

“Our goals now are to continue supporting the country in its mission to host major international events, building on the incredible legacy of hosting the first FIFA World CupTM in the Middle East and Arab world, and expanding our footprint into countries across the region. We are very confident a bright future lies ahead for both Qatar and GWC,” concluded Menon.

“Our goals now are to continue supporting the country in its mission to host major international events, building on the incredible legacy of FIFA World CupTM

UAE bats for local manufacturing and production

Increasing numbers of investors notably manufacturing and production companies are gravitating to the UAE, taking advantage of the Government’s resolve to provide incentives, sops, tax relief’s, subsidies and waive-offs.

The call to ‘Make in the UAE’ provides them with an opportunity to benefit from the UAE economy’s tremendous and unique value proposition by investing in future industries and advanced manufacturing and exporting UAE products to new global markets.

“The decision by HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to issue a new law to regulate and develop the country’s industrial sector helps to create an attractive business environment for investors, strengthens the UAE’s position as a global industrial hub, and reflects

positively on the performance and growth of the industrial sector.

This law will drive industrial development through empowerment, integration, and partnerships

Pillars of empowerment,” affirmed Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Director and Group CEO, ADNOC and Chairman, Masdar.

“This law provides the flexibility to issue more incentives in the form of policies and programs, which are linked to national strategies, some of which have already been implemented, such as the National In-Country Value program, Industry 4.0, and the Technology Transformation Program. It will encourage new programs to be rolled out in the future to support the efforts of the industrial sector,” the Minister further asserted.

The UAE’s leadership supports the transformation of the country’s industrial sector into a global manufacturing hub

‘Make it in the Emirates’ is an open invitation to investors, innovators and developers to contribute to the UAE’s industry and advanced technology strategy, ‘Operation 300bn’.

Why invest in the UAE?

The UAE’s industrial ecosystem is conducive to growth, as industrialists can easily access financial, advisory and technical support to establish and develop their businesses.

The offer is particularly attractive to companies associated with the logistics and supply chain sectors.

The country boasts a diverse energy mix at competitive prices. Topping regional and global indices in logistics, transport and communications, its advanced infrastructure comprises 10 civilian airports, numerous cargo companies (and counting), as well as 12 sea and commercial trading ports capable of handling more than 17mn tons and a cargo capacity of 80mn tons annually.

The UAE also ranks high in global

indicators that measure economic performance and ease of doing business, in addition to enjoying a strong credit rating. The country’s legislative framework is considered the most advanced in the region and its strategic location makes it a global link. From the UAE, it is possible to reach global markets spanning five billion people through flights that do not exceed eight hours.

How can companies benefit from the campaign?

Through a partnership between Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technologies (MoIAT) and Emirates Development Bank (EDB), industrial investors, innovators and entrepreneurs can receive significant

financial and advisory support from EDB.

The bank is the financial driver of Operation 300bn and provides a wide variety of services to industrial players. Services include financing advanced technology and equipment, sponsoring machinery and equipment upgrades, especially those involving Fourth Industrial Revolution (4.0) applications, as well as green finance, business expansion, structured financing and capital investment, feasibility studies and business incubators.

Global Supply Chain highlighted two UAE companies—Acme Intralog from Dubai and Lubrex from the Hamriya Free Zone, Sharjah, as lead case studies for successful track records in their pursuit and resolve to ‘Make it in the UAE’.

Local automation solution manufacturer Acme records increased demand for its warehouse automation solutions

The hallmark is the production

UAE based Acme Intralog has recorded a 30% increase in demand for the company’s warehousing automated solutions and manufactured products all produced in the UAE in fiscal 2022.

“This growth is predominantly driven by retail and e-commerce sectors that are looking for solutions for order picking and sortation. If operated manually, these processes are often the most time-consuming, while also being repetitive and dull. Automating these processes can increase productivity as well as accuracy significantly,” affirmed Navin Narayan, CEO, Acme Intralog.

Range of solutions

At the company’s manufacturing facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Acme develops and produces a complete range of material handling solutions such as conveyors, AS/RS and control systems. They also design and manufacture customised factory automation solutions for a variety of industries in the region. Acme continues to make significant investment in R&D to develop competitive and innovative solutions.

Acme provides its customers with an end-to-end life cycle support service that can be deployed both on-site as well as on an on-call basis. Their team can help customers manage equipment maintenance, safety, and obsolescence management as well as training customer maintenance staff to safely maintain and improve machine and system longevity.

“As a local manufacturer, we have strong design and consulting capability based out of our Dubai facility. This enables us to provide quick and accurate solutions that cater to our customers’ requirements,” Navin Narayan observed.

Advanced manufacturing facility catering to regional and global demand

“With a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Jebel Ali, we are able to manufacture to European specification and CE standards at affordable prices with short lead times and therefore fast project delivery times,” he added.

“In addition to this our large after sales team in the region can support our customers with life cycle maintenance as well as operation support so that they are never left without support once the system is handed over. Particularly in the UAE, we have seen great opportunities in the push for the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative by our Government as well as the increasing appetite for Industry 4.0 solutions across the whole region,” he asserted.

Over the past over 47 years since inception, Acme has gained great trust and respect within the MENA region and developed a huge base of customers. Their continuing successes can in no small measure be attributed to Acme’s local manufacturing capabilities and indigenous production that enables the company to deliver customised solutions that are tailored to the needs of the region.

Lubrex FZC is a leading lubricant manufacturing company, registered in Hamriyah Free Zone, Sharjah, UAE. It was established in 2005 as the flag bearer in the UAE of a group of lubricant manufacturing oil exporting companies with decades of experience.

With a primary focus on the GCC, Middle East, Far East and Africa, Lubrex is uniquely positioned to lead in manufacturing, development and marketing in the regional and international markets, providing unmatched level of support and services for its customers.

Producing its distinctive products in the UAE is a trademark and Unique Selling Proposition (USP) for the company. The

company has made local production the centerpiece of its corporate objectives.

Critical factors

Having realised that a critical factor of success in any venture is the access to specific industry knowledge, the company is founded and articulated by a team of leading industry professionals, strategic partners, and business associates, which in turn have encouraged and emboldened the company to participate in one of the most challenging markets in the world.

Lubrex uses state of the art automated blending systems with latest machineries to keep products precisely blended avoiding any human errors, ensuring

consistency in the delivery of products in scheduled time without compromising in quality.

Lubrex lubricants are made from first grade mineral oils, virgin base oils, and high-quality additives to meet industry standards. According to a company official local procurement, given the advanced, highly developed infrastructure complemented by the investment policies of the UAE, the local sourcing and local production makes sound economic sense.

Furthermore, this move strengthens the local and national manufacturing ecosystem thereby consolidating the national economy whilst providing employment opportunities.

UAE is a major player in the regional and global trade routes, its infrastructure incubates innovation and incentivises creativity in all aspects. ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign is a great example of that, and we are proud of being part of it.

Lubrex Q&A

Global Supply Chain (GSC): Why did you espouse the cause for ‘Make it in the Emirates’?

Abbas Moniri (AM): We are proud of our global expertise and international staff, but we are also proud of our roots and our understanding the local market needs.

By adopting ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign, we can ensure our costumers the best of both worlds, global know-how and local understanding.

GSC: Briefly, make the case for ‘Make it in the Emirates’.... incentives of the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT)?

AM: UAE has always been a major player in the regional and global trade routes. This is not just for its strategic location, but also for its infrastructure that incubates innovation and incentivises creativity in all aspects. ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign is a great example of that, and we are proud of being part of it.

GSC: Describe your partnership with Acme Intralog?

AM: We appointed Acme Intralog to design and build an end-of line solution for us that would seamlessly integrate with our automated production line.

Thanks to this partnership, our palletisation is now fully automated. This enhances our overall productivity as our capacity is now significantly higher than before since our end-of line solution is

now streamlined.

It was important to us to work with a solution provider who manufactures their systems in the UAE as they could offer a custom solution for us as well as fast installation and maintenance services.

GSC: How did Acme empower local production and profitability? How specifically was Acme associated with your operations?

AM: With Acme’s solution we can now palletise our range of close to 200 types of products coming from six production lines. The new optimised system (which includes two palletising robots) would help us increase our end-of-line productivity by 210%.

The robots are equipped with customised universal grippers that can lift boxes of different sizes and shape as well as prepare empty pallets on the outbound lines. That way, we do not have any interruptions when the production lines change, or a pallet is filled and ready for shipping.

GSC: What are your UAE and regional expansion plans?

AM: Our plan is simple: To be the best, and then to remain the best.

As simple as it can be said, this is only achievable by hard work, and investing in research and development. With ambitions like ours and the support we have from the UAE as an incubator of success, the sky is the limit.

Abbas Moniri, Managing Director, Lubrex, responded to a questionnaire from Global Supply Chain.

“Global GSA in a state of constant evolution as Group expands”

— Ismail Durmaz, CEO

Group anticipates growth through the new acquisitions planned in 2023

Global GSA Group was founded in 1995 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, as the first independent cargo General Sales Agent (GSA). The establishment of the Group was in response to the emerging professional development of the air cargo business.

Today, the Group represents some 62 carriers and have offices in 46 countries. The Global GSA Group team comprises of committed and experienced professionals.

In an exclusive interview with Global Supply Chain, Ismail Durmaz, CEO, Global GSA, traces the growth and development of the Group since its founding, its current and anticipated performance and his vision and strategy for future growth.

Global Supply Chain (GSC): Explain the growth of the Global GSA Group since its inception?

Ismail Durmaz (ID): As our business grows and our geographic footprint expands, we have to consistently evolve what we do and

Ismail Durmaz,

CEO, Global GSA Group, is the archetype of the self-taught and self-made man.

Originating from Erzincan, Turkey, it is in 1988 in the Netherlands that he first started working for the Dutch forwarder/broker ChartAir Europe BV.

Passionate about the industry, Ismail loves what he does because it enables him to make the impossible possible. This passion will soon lead him to found Global GSA Group in 1995 in Amsterdam. Today, as a company among the top five GSAs worldwide, Global GSA Group has a promising future.

how we do it. The world is facing significant environmental and sustainability related challenges.

That is why we are striving to find new ways to lessen the negative impact on the sector. In the competitive and everchanging air cargo market, outsourcing commercial airline activities provides enhanced specialization, focus and agility, which can result in significant cost savings while achieving the best possible yields and load factors.

Global GSA Group aims to provide the best possible all-service airline representation in the air cargo market, while fully maintaining the airline’s own identity and propositions.

GSC: Which international Airlines specifically are you the GSA for?

ID: Currently, we have 62 international airlines in our portfolio. As examples, I can cite the carriers we represent in several regions, such as Avianca, Azul, China Southern, and Turkish Airlines. We are particularly proud to have established mainly long-term relationships with our clients. For example, we have been representing China Southern and Turkish Airlines since the establishment of Global GSA Group back in 1995.

GSC: How did you fare in 2022 and what is your outlook for 2023?

ID: 2022 has been a good year for our industry. With the success of the last couple of years, we have seen huge investments in the industry. Many sea freight carriers have entered the air freight industry with huge freighter fleets.

Major international carriers have expanded their cargo capacity and added new routes. But 2022 also showed important indicators for the coming months. As of April 2022, we monitored a decrease trend in yields.

With the market data and intel we have collected, we expect the market to drop even further in Q1 2023.

GSC: What is the extent of the current freight network coverage and what product and service options (for perishables / pharma / cold chain) does Global GSA currently offer?

ID: We have 74 offices in 46 countries, covering the most important regions regarding airfreight traffic. We are able to provide services for all commodities that carriers are transporting, and we do so with the highest level of expertise whether it be perishables, pharma or others.

GSC: How important is the Middle East for Global GSA and what is being done to further improve yields on this sector?

ID: Middle Eastern countries are very important destinations as they import a lot. Mainly the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Israel. The principal actions to increase yields are to improve customer experience and after-sales, ensuring that shipments flow as planned.

GSC: You have an office in Sharjah, SAIF Free Zone; are you planning expansion in the UAE and the Middle East?

ID: We have an office in Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA). For the moment, we have no plans to expand further into the Middle East. However, expansion decisions are always evolving and are therefore under constant consideration.

GSC: What is your general assessment of the current state of the global air freight industry—is there cause for concern?

ID: With Covid-19 and its new variants and the war in Ukraine still ongoing, it is difficult to make long-term projections. But for the short term, we expect the environment to become tumultuous. We advise our carriers to take cautious strategic actions regarding business investments.

We are currently witnessing many large airfreight providers taking steps back when it comes to investments. Scheduled freighter frequencies are being reduced, available capacity is being shared with various regions, and announced new routes and additional capacity are not implemented.

GSC: What are your global expansion plans / strategy and where do you anticipate this growth is expected to come from?

ID: We anticipate growth through the new acquisitions planned in 2023. The focus for Global GSA Group is to strengthen our position in the Canadian, US and South American markets.

GSC: Which is your fastest growing sector for the airfreight industry and why?

ID: Our operations in Vietnam have been our fastest growing market. Their economy remained stable during the Covid-19 period and played a significant role in the export of Covid-19 tests and masks. Furthermore, they acted as an important gateway for Chinese e-commerce exports.

GSC: What are the opportunities and challenges ahead for Global GSA for the foreseeable short- and long-term future?

ID: With the market shifting to pre-covid rates and demands, we are experiencing that more airlines are seeking GSAs’ support. Worldwide carriers that operated their own foreign offices are looking to outsource their operation back to GSAs. We seek to benefit from this trend.

Importance of smart Email collaboration for Seamless Supply Chain functioning

Email remains an essential tool in the complex world of Supply Chain Management

At its core, supply chain communication relies on efficient and steady information sharing between all stakeholders involved. This is where an innovative and intelligent enterprise Email and Collaboration system can prove to be a game-changer, affirms Pramod Sharda, CEO, Middle East & India, IceWarp, in this special contribution for www.logisticsgulfnews.com.

to stay on top of changing conditions, an intelligent enterprise E-mail & Collaboration system can help lower stress and ensure dexterous functioning in even the most challenging supply chain scenarios.

As manufacturers work to adhere to strict production schedules and keep up with the demands of their retailers, constant communication with their suppliers and vendors becomes crucial.

engaged throughout the purchase process.

However, businesses can also take advantage of E-mail when it comes to delivering products by deploying comprehensive Email and Collaboration suite that integrate seamlessly with other business applications.

Email has long been a staple for business communication, and it remains an essential tool in the complex world of supply chain management as well.

With Email and related collaborative tools, suppliers can provide real-time updates on purchase orders, ensuring that everyone involved stays up-to-date on the status of each order. This allows businesses to respond quickly to changes in demand or supplier performance issues, minimizing disruptions and losses due to stockouts or delays.

Informing several stakeholders about potential supply disruptions simultaneously through the instant and easy-to-use messaging features of an E-mail and Collaboration Suite becomes an essential feature enabling smooth operations.

Improving communication

Overall, by improving communication and equipping the workforce with the right tools

Specifically designed Enterprise Email and Collaboration solutions allow manufacturers to easily stay in touch with individual retailers, letting them know about order status or potential disruptions.

By automating most of these processes, Email makes it easier than ever for manufacturers to manage the communications related to their supply chains effectively.

Whether you are a small business owner looking to streamline your operations, or a large corporation trying to optimize efficiency across your entire operation, newage Email solutions offer an unparalleled advantage when it comes to carrying out successful Communication as well collaborate with teams for an effective supply chain management.

Email reliance

Ecommerce brands have long relied on E-mail for tracking individual package deliveries, and for good reason. Email is an easy and effective way to keep customers informed about their orders’ status and stay

The right set of Email and Collaboration tools can prove beneficial in streamlining communication around a wide range of business needs, from bid and invoicing processes to rate changes and compliance issues.

Minimizing redundancy

The aim is to minimize redundancy, even if it is caused by constant switching between tabs and applications. By leveraging a single platform for exchanging data with their ecosystem, organizations can track processes end-to-end based on a single view without having to piece together information from multiple sources.

By creating transparency and enabling real-time collaboration, Email helps businesses stay on top of changing conditions and adapt quickly to disruptions in their operations.

As the need for digital collaboration grows in today’s economy, it is important for businesses to upgrade their existing systems and embrace advanced technologies like Email and Collaboration solutions that can keep up with the demands of a rapidly evolving marketplace as well a solution that does not hurt deep on their pockets.

LogisEye advances to the final phase of TAQADAM

LogisEye has advanced to the ultimate round by scoring high on scalability and defensibility

LogisEye recently announced that it has been shortlisted to the final phase of TAQADAM, the region’s leading tech startup accelerator program.

TAQADAM is a startup accelerator powered by KAUST and SABB. Since 2016, Taqadam helped founders push the boundaries of what is possible, giving them the funds, tools, and hands-on resources to define and refine their companies — and bring their gamechanging businesses to market.

TAQADAM believes in the power of people with big ideas, bold thinking and creativity to change the world and backing MENA’s most remarkable founders who are creating the next generation of startups, a press communique stated.

Launched in 2021, LogisEye is a digital freight procurement platform with its global headquarters in Dubai, connecting importers/exporters with logistics service providers and cargo insurance brokers.

Digital Solutions

LogisEye’s digital solutions include LogieBid the reverse auction to procure competitive market freight rates and LogiQuote, the Marketplace for instant freight & marine insurance rates for air & courier.

“LogisEye will pave the way for a new era of digital freight solutions to make your freight procurement faster, easier and costeffective,” affirmed CM Mathew, Founder & CEO, LogisEye Solutions FZCO.

LogisEye has advanced to the final round by scoring high on Scalability, Defensibility, Sales & Marketing, Traction and Team, compared to most of the other startups participating in this program, LogisEye will get continued access to TAQADAM’s mentors and experts who will support us in our growth phase.

Final round

LogisEye will have the opportunity and access to showcase LogisEye to investors from the region during the final round event to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between February 25 to March 3, 2023.

“We thank all our existing customers, suppliers and partners and look forward to engage with many more stakeholders and strategic partners in an effort to increase productivity and transparency in the wider logistic service sourcing sphere,” asserted Mathew.

LogisEye

The trillion-dollar plus global freight industry demands smart and evolving technologies with an increased focus on procurement and overall supply chain transformation to meet the needs of the changing customer requirements.

LogisEye offers state-of-the-art cloud-based digital logistics procurement ecosystem, integrating with all parties on the value chain. With its multiple innovative solutions, scheduled to be launched over three phases, aim to solve the key challenges in the procurement and payment of logistics services.

LogisEye not only accelerates digital transformation in the logistics industry but also adds value to each stakeholder across the value chain.

The platform aims to simplify and standardize the logistics procurement processes and efficiently manage air freight, sea freight, road transportation, and cargo insurance, resulting in cost savings, real-time shipment tracking, and transparency— excerpted from company sources.

Jaleel Holdings opens US$ 24.5mn distribution facility in Dubai Industrial City

The new facility double’s the group’s food storage capacity with room for further expansion

Jaleel Holdings, one of the leading UAE-based investment companies and business conglomerates, recently opened its new US$ 24.5mn (AED 90mn) facility at Dubai Industrial City, a member of the TECOM Group.

HE Eng. Mohammed Mousa Alameeri, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector

“Food security and sustainability rely on advanced manufacturing. Government strategies and initiatives such as ‘Operation 300bn’ and ‘Make it in Emirates’, are attracting significant investment with benefits in key sectors like fresh food and FMCG, while providing a roadmap for sustainable and innovation-led operations.,” stated Alshawareb.

“Apart from the Cash and carry store we have our new integrated logistic venture in the same facility with a 28,000 MT storage capacity. We will be offering world class 4PL Services to the market through this facility,” noted Sameer K Mohammed.

As a part of the region’s largest industrial hub, the newly inaugurated Jaleel Holdings facility comprises the latest store of UAE’s largest consumer goods wholesaler, Jaleel Cash & Carry and the integrated logistics centre of Crosswell Logistics.

The ceremony was presided over by HE Mariam Bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment. Also in attendance was Abdulla Belhoul, CEO, TECOM Group, and Saud Abu Alshawareb, Executive Vice President, Industrial Leasing, TECOM Group; MV Kunhumohammed, Chairman, Jaleel Holdings; Sameer K Mohammed, Managing Director, Jaleel Holdings, among other dignitaries including government officials and VIPs.

Jaleel Holdings owns and operates retail, wholesale, distribution and processing companies in the fresh food and FastMoving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sectors. With a presence in the UAE, Saudi Arabia,

Oman, Bahrain and Ghana, the group is one of the largest consumer goods distributors in the region.

Crosswell Logistics

The facility also includes Crosswell Logistics, a fully owned subsidiary of Jaleel Holdings and Contract Logistics Services provider. It offers more than 28,000 palletised tons of multipletemperature controlled storage ranging from ambient to -20 C and transport services.

This Facility allows Jaleel Cash and Carry to ensure a 30-day stock for all customers and fulfil the daily requirements of hotels, restaurants, caterers, retailers, offices, and bulk-buying families. The 30-day stock is also large enough to serve 5% of UAE’s population.

“The opening of the new facility of Jaleel Holdings is a significant step in this direction, which will go a long way in supporting a sustainable supply chain and marketing homegrown products,” observed

UAE’s largest consumer goods wholesaler

The facility will be the company’s largest in the region, with a total built-up area of 281,000 sqft and an investment of more than US$ 24.5mn. Benefiting from Dubai Industrial City’s proximity to key transport networks, including land, sea, air, and soon Etihad Rail, Jaleel Holdings will be able to cater to customers across the GCC and Africa.

The new facility will enable the group to double its storage capacity, currently built for 19,000 pallets (approximately 28,000 tonnes).

Built for sustainability

The new facility features an ammonia plant to manage the temperature in the facility and prevent harm to the environment. An average of 9,000 litres of water from the cooling equipment is recycled daily for all irrigation, sanitation, and flushing requirements.

at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.

Wiremind wired for success

Tailwinds propelling Wiremind to new heights

Wiremind was established to better address the growing needs in the field of digital solutions that airlines, GSAs and forwarders have, asserts Nathanaël De Tarade, CEO, Wiremind Cargo.

Founded in 2014, Paris-based, Wiremind provides optimization systems and inventory management solutions for the transport, supply chain, event and hospitality companies.

Used by market leaders, all the applications developed by the Wiremind’s team of engineers and experts are designed to handle a very large amount of data combined with artificial and human intelligence. Wiremind’s current clientele include airlines and freight forwarders, railways private and national companies, travel and tourism operators, football club in France and abroad.

Global Supply Chain recently conducted an exclusive interview with Nathanaël De Tarade, CEO, Wiremind Cargo. The following are the transcripts of that interview.

De Tarade

is one of the three Managing Directors and co-founders of Wiremind, in charge of the SaaS (software as a service) activity for airfreight. He has been with Wiremind for 6 years, and before that, worked for 6 years at Air France-KLM Cargo, being based successively in Paris, Atlanta (USA), Singapore, and finally again in Paris.

Nathanaël

GSC: How do you assess the performance and growth of Wiremind Cargo over the 8 years since its inception?

Nathanaël De Tarade (NDT): Wiremind has been around for 8 years, yet the cargo activity is more recent. But, if I look at our overall growth, I can say that we have been blessed with tailwinds since we are now a total of over 75 employees, dozens of customers, many products that are references in their own space, whether passenger or cargo, for airlines and railways.

On the Air Cargo part specifically, I think that the most exciting time starts now for Wiremind Cargo. We have had successes, but I am glad to say 2023 looks even better.

GSC: What are among the top two or three digital products Wiremind Cargo has unveiled and a very brief description of each.

NDT: Wiremind Cargo addresses several processes: some of them are core, transactional processes, this is why we launched our CMS, which is a long-term effort to try and bring to the industry a product that we believe was lacking, I am thinking about user experience and ease of maintenance, among other things we bring.

Other processes that we address with other modules are more strategic, related to decision-making: typically revenue management, pricing, capacity forecast, overbooking and capacity optimization.

GSC: Wiremind Cargo recently launched a new module within its CargoStack CMS suite. Tell us more.

NDT: I believe you are referring to our Revenue Management product. We have decided to prioritize the improvement of this module as the industry’s response to what we started with was extremely positive.

I am very excited about this module, especially because of my personal background: I used to be a revenue management analyst and then manager, so creating the system I would have liked to use back then is a great challenge.

GSC: How receptive has the industry been towards these products?

NDT: I would describe the receptiveness and interest of the industry in our products as very positive. Ever since the inception of our first product, SkyPallet, there was a clear problem

that we were trying to address for different stakeholders in the air cargo, whether they are airlines, forwarders or even GSAs.

Aside from the growth in our active customers, their willingness to provide us with feedback and new requirements to iterate our product, is a testament to their desire to buy-in. We see more and more customers coming to us with problems asking for help, which we certainly take as a positive sign of their trust in us.

GSC: How critical is technology for the air cargo industry globally?

NDT: Technology has always played an important role, given the incredible engineering feats that are the aircraft that carry cargo.

However, in terms of digital technologies in the area we specialize in, we believe there is a big opportunity to unlock revenuegenerating opportunities for airlines or improve air cargo operations, given that many decisions are still taken without the modern data-supported tools that other, more digitally native industries, are using. We are particularly pleased to see the accelerated adoption of more recent technologies within air cargo.

GSC: How important is the Middle East for Wiremind Cargo? Do you plan to have a regional presence?

NDT: With Emirates SkyCargo as one of our largest clients, I can say that it is one of the key regions for us. While we do not currently have offices there, our commitment to our Middle East customers has been strong from the beginning.

GSC: What prospects do you foresee for Wiremind Cargo in the Middle East in the near future?

NDT: We expect the region to be one of our strongest growing regions in the coming years in terms of customer acquisition. We are already having advanced talks with several stakeholders, with different roles in the industry, and we are confident that we can secure long-term partnerships.

GSC: How has the Wiremind Cargo performed in 2022 and what is the outlook for 2023?

NDT: On the development side, our

performance in 2022 has been excellent, although as CEO I always wish things would go even faster! But if I look at where we were a year ago and where we are now, we have achieved a lot. Our team has worked hard to make sure that our products are competitive and innovative. From a customer acquisition perspective, it has also been a very promising period, with new customers such as Tap Air Portugal, Air Europa, Kuehne + Nagel, and many others. We have renewed our partnerships with our existing customers as well, so things look good!

GSC: What are the opportunities and challenges for Wiremind Cargo going forward?

NDT: I think the key opportunity for us as a company is that the industry as a whole is becoming more vocal about its need for digital solutions to its problems, demonstrating a desire for change.

For example, the revenue management practices of cargo airlines or departments have traditionally lagged behind their passenger counterparts. However, we are observing a real step change in their plans to catch up, requesting support in their decision-making process on pricing, capacity planning and demand forecasting.

One of the biggest challenges for a company like ours, whose solutions are largely data-driven, is that the industry’s data maturity and practices or adoption of the latest technological practices may not be as advanced as we would have hoped.

As much as customers like our capabilities or products, secondary challenges, such as extensive data engineering or replacement of mainframe systems, may arise as hurdles that we have to overcome together.

We are now a total of over 75 employees, dozens of customers, many products that are references in their own space, whether passenger or cargo, for airlines and railways.

UD Trucks senior management visit Abu Dhabi’s Al Masaood service facility

New facility effectively doubles maintenance capacity; it can handle 30 trucks and 12 body repairs at a time

UD Trucks and Abu Dhabi’s Al Masaood senior executives met ahead of the launch of a new facility in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi, that is scheduled to open soon to support the growing number of customers of the Japanese truck manufacturer.

This brand-new state-of-the-art service centre will help 1981-established UD Trucks to meet growing demand without compromising on quality or customer satisfaction, and by putting a high value on uptime, the manufacturer revealed in a press communique.

UD Trucks Senior Vice President, Jacques Michel, UD Trucks Middle East, East & North Africa; President, Mourad Hedna, along with Hani Tannir, CEO Group Industrial, Al Masaood, met with customers and discussed the brand’s long-term vision and direction as well as its future within the Isuzu Motors Group. Customers from across the emirate attended the event, which allowed them to visit the brand-new facility and learn more about its capabilities.

Doubling capacity

This new facility will double the brand’s servicing capacity in comparison to its previous facility, providing service space

for 30 trucks and 12 body repairs. The number of technicians has also increased substantially from 21 to 39.

The workshop is expected to contribute to strengthening UD Trucks’ market share by providing sustainable aftersales services, while Al Masaood will continue to provide the highest standards of support to UD Trucks customers on a larger scale. Also included in the expanded workshop will be a large parts warehouse, which will result in faster turnaround times.

Service support

“At UD Trucks, we strive to provide uncompromising service support, which means adhering to efficient and clear standards. We firmly believe that our longstanding partner, Al Masaood, will serve our customers in their newly established location with unmatched tenacity, providing excellent aftersales services and ensuring our promise, ‘To Go the Extra Mile’,” asserted Mourad Hedna, President, UD Trucks Middle East, East & North Africa.

“Our much-anticipated M40 facility will help us achieve our common objectives and will further strengthen our relationship. Besides offering excellent after-sales services on a larger scale, the new workshop also has a sizable parts warehouse, which will greatly reduce turnaround time, further enhancing the overall customer experience,” stressed Mohammed El Zeftawi, General Manager, Al Masaood Commercial Vehicles and Equipment.

UD Trucks partners

Arabian Ocean Rowing team for historic transatlantic journey

UD Trucks recently announced a partnership with the Arabian Ocean Rowing Team ahead of the group’s 5,000-kilometre row across the Atlantic Ocean from La Gomera to Antigua in the Caribbean.

Forming part of the UN Environment Programme’s ‘Clean Seas’ initiative, the row is being undertaken to raise awareness of environmental sustainability and plastic pollution.

The UAE-based team began its

journey Monday, 16th December 2022, aiming to become the first boat from the region to row unassisted across the Atlantic Ocean.

“As part of this partnership, together with the team, we aim to raise awareness around green energy and sustainable development, balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability,” asserted Mourad Hedna, UD Trucks Middle East, East & North Africa President.

The row is in partnership with the UN Environment Programme’s ‘Clean Seas’ initiative

with the

DHL is first to launch fast track sea freight services at Saudi Arabia’s EGBZ

DHL’s Sea Freight Express Service will improve transit times and boost reliability

DHL Global Forwarding has become the first logistics provider to launch fast-track sea freight clearance services at the Eastern Gateway Bonded Zone (EGBZ) at the King Fahad International Airport in Dammam, to speed up processing of LCL Sea Freight Services.

Located on a 100,000sqm site at Dammam’s King Fahad International Airport, EGBZ is designed to facilitate the movement of air and road cargo into Saudi Arabia in a seamless and efficient way. EGBZ is the fastest growing and only site in Saudi Arabia that offers multi-modal, multi-user, multi-temperature facilities, along with a fast-track clearance gateway, national distribution hub and bonded storage facility, a press communique indicated.

DHL will provide reliable, fully managed end-to-end transportation, ensuring predictability across the supply chain. Cargo received at the bonded facility will be cleared within 24 hrs from arrival to facility, thereby

improving overall transit by at least six days compared to the conventional timelines.

“Through the facility, DHL Global Forwarding will be able to offer more direct services, cutting transit times to a minimum, with reliable, fully managed, end-to-end transportation, ensuring predictability across the supply chain and enabling timely delivery. This means that container receiving, segregation, clearance, loading and delivery to the end user will be handled seamlessly by DHL Global Forwarding in collaboration with EGBZ authorities,” explained Sue Donoghue, CEO, Arab Cluster, and Managing Director, Saudi Arabia, DHL Global Forwarding.

“The DHL and EGBZ Fast Track Sea Freight

clearance service will be beneficial for all stakeholders, including Saudi consignees seeking faster vessel to door delivery times,” commented Mark C. Anthony, Commercial Director Eastern Gateway Bonded Zone.

The major benefits of the Sea Freight Express Services at EGBZ are average consignment clearance times of less than 12 hours, avoidance of port demurrage penalties, avoidance of line detention charges, deferment of duty payments while cargo is held in Bond at EGBZ, the ability to utilize EGBZ as a hub and spoke for KSA LMD of cleared consignments, and the ability to carry out value added services on imports pre-clearance, the press statement concluded.

Sue Donoghue, CEO, Arab Cluster, and Managing Director, Saudi Arabia, DHL Global Forwarding, spoke exclusively to Global Supply Chain to explain and shed more light on the implications of this initiative and launch the fast track sea freight services at Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Gateway Bonded Zone.

Global Supply Chain (GSC): DHL Global Forwarding has become the first logistics provider to launch fast-track sea freight clearance services at the Eastern Gateway Bonded Zone (EGBZ) at the King Fahad International Airport in Dammam. Tell us more about this special service?

Sue Donoghue (SD): Located on a vast, sprawling site at Dammam’s King Fahad International Airport, the Eastern Gateway Bonded Zone (EGBZ) is designed to facilitate

the movement of air and road cargo into Saudi Arabia in a seamless and efficient way. EGBZ is the fastest growing and only site in Saudi Arabia that offers multi-modal, multi-user, multi-temperature facilities, along with a fast-track clearance gateway, national distribution hub and bonded storage facility.

DHL Global Forwarding will provide reliable, fully managed end-to-end transportation, ensuring predictability across the supply chain. Cargo received at the bonded facility will be cleared within 24 hours from arrival to facility, thereby improving overall transit by at least six days compared to the conventional timelines.

The major benefits of the Sea Freight Express Services at EGBZ are average consignment clearance times of less than

12 hours, avoidance of port demurrage penalties, avoidance of line detention charges, deferment of duty payments while cargo is held in Bond at EGBZ, the ability to utilize EGBZ as a hub and spoke for KSA LMD of cleared consignments, and the ability to carry out value added services on imports pre-clearance.

GSC: What is the scope and extent of the services on offer?

SD: Some of the services on offer are door to door transportation including customs clearance and LCL shipment to Saudi Arabia from across the world. DHL remains committed to serving the needs of our customers in the coming year with digitaldriven solutions that improve sustainability and efficiency.

Sue Donoghue

KSA’s strategic plans to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 and 2060 respectively are central to the region’s long-term goals to transition to climate neutrality in the next decades. At DHL, we are fully embedding sustainability across our operations. Our purpose remains to connect people and improve their lives by enabling trade and helping businesses to grow.

GSC: Do you propose to roll out this service for other Bonded Zones / Free Zones across Saudi Arabia and GCC?

SD: We certainly have plans to extend this service to Jeddah in the near future. Through our collaborations with other Free Zones, DHL Global Forwarding will be able to offer more direct services, cutting transit times to a minimum, with reliable, fully managed, end-to-end transportation, ensuring predictability across the supply chain and enabling timely delivery.

This would mean that container receiving, segregation, clearance, loading and delivery to the end user can be handled seamlessly by DHL Global Forwarding, together with the Free Zone authorities. Our goal is to centralize and manage global shipments from multiple origins, with guaranteed transit times and enhanced reliability.

GSC: What countries constitute the Arab Cluster?

SD: DHL Global Forwarding formed the Arabian Cluster in 2020 which constitutes the countries Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait, to further capitalize on the region’s growth prospects by synergizing resources and expertise.

The Middle East shows great promise and is an important region for DHL’s network. It has tremendous economic growth opportunities, owing to their hydrocarbon wealth, strategic location, and availability of skilled manpower.

The region has witnessed a steep growth in the logistics sector through its efforts on economic diversification. Some examples of improvements in the region are the development of Jeddah Port’s infrastructure and new electronic clearance systems at Kuwait’s borders –to help the region’s economic wheel turn faster.

GSC: How is DHL Global Forwarding faring / performing in the Kingdom?

SD: In Saudi Arabia, DHL Global Forwarding has invested in both people — it plans to have 60 percent of its workforce hired locally— and the industry.

DHL Global Forwarding has invested in excess of 30 million Euros, opening three key gateways in Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah. This has helped the economic flow of global trade between Saudi Arabia and its counterparts. This investment in the Kingdom has paid off. Even with recent challenges, the logistics industry is experiencing growth and Saudi Arabia is perfectly positioned to benefit from the opportunities presented.

freight marketplace Saloodo! is leading the movement to ‘Uberize’ trucking, by helping carriers manage their fleets better and optimize the capacity of their full truckload (FTL) shipments with a few ‘clicks’, while shippers can find the most pricecompetitive option.

We are also fully embedding sustainability across our operations. Our purpose remains to connect people and improve their lives by enabling trade and helping businesses to grow.

As the world gradually transitions to recovery from the pandemic, we look forward to continue our humanitarian efforts through DHL’s Global Humanitarian Logistics Competence Center in Dubai, to coordinate the movements of aid and relief for needy communities on behalf of humanitarian organizations.

GSC: What challenges do you confront in Saudi Arabia?

As a result of the gateway investments, DHL has continued to offer its customers market-leading solutions that clearly differentiate DHL from the competition in terms of our operational performance. This has acquired new and additional business from the global network.

GSC: What are your expectations and plans for the region?

SD: At DHL Global Forwarding, we remain guided by our Strategy 2025, which focuses on harnessing globalization, e-commerce, digitalization and sustainability for the profitable long-term growth of our business. We believe growth comes from a consistent focus on our profitable core logistics businesses – and digitalization has become the greatest lever, steadily improving services, processes and standards over the coming years.

DHL Global Forwarding remains committed to serving the needs of our customers in the coming year with digitaldriven solutions that improve sustainability and efficiency. For instance, our online

SD: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted every sector and geography across the globe including logistics in Saudi Arabia. At DHL Global Forwarding, KSA we took this challenge as an opportunity to make a positive impact. The DHL teams worked round-the-clock to ensure that essential medical supplies, and protective equipment reach frontliners across the globe.

While Saudi Arabia began its recovery from the pandemic, the logistics industry in the Kingdom grappled with surging demand, shrinking capacity, high freight rates, labor shortages and geopolitical tensions. One key challenge that we faced was the lack of sufficient expertise in the industry.

The logistics industry in the region needs to produce enough talent to keep up with the growing demand. These challenges were met through DHL’s innovative, digital and purpose driven solutions that came to fruition thanks to Deutsche Post DHL Group’s extraordinarily broad geographic footprint and comprehensive portfolio of logistics solutions, ranging from international express services, global air and ocean freight transport to warehousing and e-commerce solutions. We are more robustly positioned than other companies and thus well situated to navigate crisis situations.

DHL Global Forwarding has invested in excess of 30 million Euros, opening three key gateways in Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah.

DHL Express signs MoU with Bahrain Airport Company

Deal

sealed at the recently concluded Bahrain International Airshow 2022

DHL Express recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), at the Bahrain International Airshow 2022.

The MoU between the two stakeholders will see both parties enhance collaboration on upcoming projects to support DHL’s planned investment in expanding its local operations to better serve its customers both locally and across the entire region.

The signing of the MoU was held at the Bahrain International Airport stand, between Nour Soliman, CEO, DHL Express MENA, and Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, CEO, BAC. Also present during the signing ceremony were Bachi Spiga, Head of Operations, DHL Express MENA, along with Abdulla Janahi, Chief Development and Technical Officer of BAC, and Ayman Zainal, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer, BAC, and other members of the BAC team.

“The Kingdom of Bahrain continues to be a significant Hub for DHL’s regional network. We look forward to our continued partnership with BAC to further accelerate our expansion plans,” stated Suliman.

“Bahrain has been home to DHL’s business since 1976 when the company established its first Hub in the Middle East region. As the operator and managing body of the Kingdom’s aerospace gateway, BAC is pleased to be strengthening its partnership with DHL and we will continue to support them with their ongoing investments,” commented Albinfalah on this occasion.

DHL Express spearheads retail automation in the CEP Market

Launches its first Digital Service Point in Dubai Silicon Oasis

DHL Express has marked a breakthrough in retail automation in the Courier, Express & Parcel (CEP) Industry with the launch of its first digital service point in the UAE.

Located at the Dubai Digital Park (DDP) in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), this fully automated service point is the first in the Middle East region and across DHL’s global network. It is an unparalleled innovation in the industry that is reflective of DHL’s market leading position in UAE and initiates an era of digitalizing customer experience in logistics.

The launch event was hosted by DHL Express in collaboration with Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), at DSO’s owned DDP, Dubai’s first integrated smart city project that spans 150,000sqm and was attended by senior executives from both DHL Express MENA and DSO.

“The location of the service point in the Dubai Digital Park has been strategically selected to demonstrate DHL’s commitment to supporting the ambitious vision of the UAE Government in transitioning the country into a smart digitalized city,” commented Geoff Walsh, Country Manager, DHL Express UAE.

“As an integrated technology park, Dubai Silicon Oasis encourages, promotes, and adopts innovative smart city technologies,” stated Salem Khalifa, Senior Vice President Projects Management, DSO.

The fully automated service point will cater to Account and Cash customers, as well as eCommerce return shipments, and will provide a suite of facilitated services, enabling them to seamlessly send, receive and track shipments up to 15 kgs with ease, speed and efficiency, throughout the day.

Admiral Mobility to bring 5000 EVs to the Middle East

Seals partnership with Geely Farizon for the rollout of commercial EVs across the Middle East

Admiral Mobility, a leading company in providing accessible eMobility and energy management solutions, recently announced the commitment to bring 5000 electric commercial vehicles to the Middle East.

The commitment comprises of 3000 Electric Commercial Trucks, split between 6T and 8T, and a further 2000 Electric Farizon SuperVANs, the company announced via a press communique.

Supporting governments, municipalities and ‘mega-projects’ in its quest to ‘decarbonise’ the transportation industry, Admiral Mobility’s focus will be to offer businesses distributing goods the opportunity to do this sustainably via the use of EV (electric vehicle) trucks, thus providing an environmentally friendly and commercially viable business model, the press statement continued.

Furthermore, Admiral Mobility will provide multiple ways to support public and private sector businesses, through assisting with charging network requirements, managing after-sales services, as well as offering attractive leasing model arrangements to provide complete flexibility and peace of mind.

Electrification strategy

“We are proud to play a key role in building an infrastructure that empowers the government’s electrification strategy, and we are looking forward to supporting businesses as they move towards electric vehicles in the region,” affirmed Frank Bernthaler, Chief Operating Officer, Admiral Mobility.

With a range of up to 400km, the zero emissions electric Farizon SuperVAN operates safely, taking less than two hours to fully charge via its efficient LFP

battery. Advanced safety features include lane-keeping assist adapt cruise control, remote locking systems, high beam LED lights equipped with auto adaption to the surrounding traffic, and of course, ease of comfort of driving.

Advanced automotive technology

“With Farizon’s advanced automotive technology enabled by our R&D capabilities, now aided by the extensive market reach and customer insights of Admiral Mobility, we are confident in bringing high-quality carbon-free commercial vehicles to the

entire GCC region,” asserted Mingshi Lin, Vice President, Geely Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group.

With a range of up to 400km, the zero emissions electric Farizon SuperVAN operates safely, taking less than two hours to fully charge via its efficient LFP battery. Advanced safety features include lane-keeping assist adapt cruise control, remote locking systems, high beam LED lights equipped with auto adaption to the surrounding traffic, and of course, ease of comfort of driving, the press note concluded.

Benefits of having Automatic transmission.

• The optional automatic transmission knows the best gear to engage in any situation and allows for quicker yet efficient and optimal cruising speeds. That means more trips per day and a boost to overall productivity.

• Direct coupling “lock up” function for enhanced fuel efficiency and performance.

Wide range of choices to keep every type of business on schedule.

• 3 GVW ranges from 19 – 10.4 Tones.

• Up to 21 different basic configurations.

• 8 & 5ltr engines with 180hp – 280hp.

• Euro 5 emission levels.

Medium Duty Truck with Allison Automatic Transmission

GH8E Engine + Automatic Transmission + 11ton Rear Axle

AP Moller-Maersk to strengthen its Saudi Arabia operations

A new 13,300sqm Cold Storage facility to handle 8,000 FFEs 168,000 pallet positions annually

AP Moller-Maersk (Maersk) recently signed an agreement with Refad Real Estate to operate a brand-new Cold Storage facility at Mawani’s King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, Saudi Arabia’s second-largest port for refrigerated containers (reefers). Maersk will open the doors to the facility in March 2023 for its customers.

The latest agreement between Maersk and Refad Real Estate was signed in the presence of HE The Minister of Transport and Logistics, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Authority, Engineer Saleh Bin Nasser AlJasser; HE The President of The Saudi Ports Authority, Omar bin Tala Hariri; Mohammad Shihab, Managing Director, Maersk Saudi Arabia and the Chairman of the Board of Al Qahtani Holding; Sheikh Abdulaziz Abdelhadi Al-Qahtani, a press communique stated.

The agreement was signed by Sheikh Abdelhadi Abdulaziz Al Qahtani, Group Director, Refad Real Estate and Mohamed Sedeek Hashish Director of Products and Services, Maersk Saudi Arabia.

“Saudi Arabia is a significant market for us. With more than a fifth of the country’s food imports coming through King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, we wanted to establish a state-of-the-art cold storage facility that will help us serve the food industry better”, asserted Mohammad Shihab during the signing ceremony.

“Our ambition is to connect and simplify our customers’ supply chains. To achieve this, we must be close to our customers, collaborate with trusted and reliable

partners and build a network that truly enables global trade. With our new facility in Dammam, we are setting ourselves up to achieve all three goals,” he affirmed.

Strategic Location

Dammam enjoys a strategic location in more than one way. Several food processing manufacturers in the different industrial zones and residential communities are based around King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam. This means that there is manufacturing as well as consumption of food items in and around Dammam.

Moreover, Dammam lies in close proximity to neighbouring Gulf countries like the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar, making it a significantly important distribution hub for several markets. On the other side, King Abdulaziz Port is also strongly connected to the hinterland through a robust road and rail network, making it the location of choice for many.

A state-of-the-art facility

Maersk’s Cold Storage facility at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam will primarily serve the requirement to store frozen commodities such as poultry, meat, vegetables, confectionary and processed

food. The facility will also house chilled cargo such as dairy products and seasonal fruits.

To ensure top-notch quality of service, the facility will be equipped with world-class standards when it comes to temperature and humidity control. This will help ensure minimum to no food wastage during its storage at the facility. The customers will also get complete visibility on these parameters, thus creating transparent and trusted operations, the press statement continued.

Sustainability at the core

ESG, especially decarbonisation, is at the core of every decision Maersk takes. In line with that, several considerations have been made to ensure that greenhouse gas emissions are kept to a minimum through various actions such as:

A 600 kWp solar panel plant will be installed on the facility’s roof to generate at least 15% of the power requirement at the start of operations.

In the near future, the trucks shunting between the facility and King Abdulaziz Port’s terminal will also be replaced with electric ones to reduce carbon emissions further, the press note concluded.

Khazen Dry Port (KDP), located in Barka in the Al Batinah Governorate of the Sultanate, enjoys a strategic location closer to Maersk’s customers’ manufacturing hubs around Muscat and the gateway it opens to global markets.

By adding KDP to the network of ports and offering land freight and valueadded solutions to and from KDP, Maersk is implementing time-and cost-efficient solutions for its customers, the shipping giant said in a press statement.

The long-term commercial agreement with Maersk falls in line with Asyad’s role to facilitate trade and support local merchants to do business efficiently at global standards. It further bolsters KDP’s global positioning as an import, re-export, and transhipment centre as the country forges ahead to become one of the leading logistics hubs in the region.

Growth leader

Underlining Asyad’s role as a market growth leader, this integration is yet another step in the Group’s carefully designed scheme to improve efficiencies and adopt higher standards across the logistics sector.

“Oman has been a key logistics destination for Maersk, especially when it comes to the accessibility to global markets. We have worked closely with Asyad Group over the years to foster our relationship to offer best-in-class integrated logistics solutions supporting Oman 2040 Growth Vision,” stated Mads Skov-Hansen, Head of Ocean Customer Logistics, Maersk West & Central Asia.

“By integrating KDP within Maersk’s network, we are able to improve international market accessibility, facilitate trade and increase the flow of products and services to and from Oman at the touch of a button,” observed Juma Al Maskari, Executive Director, KDP.

“We are home to more than 80 local and global companies with an annual capacity of 50,000 TEU. This integration with a powerful global network facilitates business and trade for the private sector, providing them with operational efficiencies and cost optimisation by simply leveraging Maersk’s global routes to best suit their supply chains,” he added.

AP Moller–Maersk adds

Khazaen Dry Port to its global network of port calls

Oman’s Khazaen Dry Port is now bookable on Maersk.com as a port of origin or destination

Strategic location

Khazaen Dry Port is strategically located within easy reach of the booming economies in the region, with proximity to the Saudi-Omani border, UAE-Oman border, the Port of Sohar, the Port of Salalah, and the Port of Suwaiq.

It is purposely designed and built over an area of 100,000sqm; KDP is a one-stop shop for custom clearance, inspection and handling and storage of containers, and cargo movement at Muscat’s doorstep.

Since starting its operations, KDP has leveraged its unique value proposition in Khazaen Economic City to attract major corporations and global players to invest in Oman.

As the country’s first integrated inland dry port, it connects the city and other economic areas in the Sultanate to seaports, airports, and land borders through a network of roads designed to accommodate land transport and shipment.

AP Moller–Maersk (Maersk) has added Khazaen Dry Port, part of Oman’s Asyad Group, to its extensive ‘Port of Call’ network offering business transportation, container terminal, and reefer container services to easily import and export goods.

‘Hellmann Smart QR’ digitizes passive data tracking

The monitoring and transparency of global supply chains are becoming increasingly important

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and Finnish startup Logmore have jointly launched a passive dynamic QR data tracker named ‘Hellmann Smart QR’.

platforms, the passive data trackers already used millions of times are for the first time combined with a real-time solution,” affirmed Stefan Borggreve, Chief Digital Officer, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.

“Through this new tool and its passive data tracking, we achieve an equally efficient but more cost-effective solution compared to active tracking systems. At the same time, the new tool generates tracking data up to 95 percent faster than other passive trackers,” he continued.

In November 2022, Hellmann acquired the rights to the exclusive distribution of the hardware developed by Logmore in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Mexico, making it the responsible local product contact.

Unique Data Link

Hellmann has a new data checker!

The new Hellmann Smart QR contrivance measures temperature, humidity, light as well as shocks and generates a new QR code with each measurement, which is displayed on the device and can be downloaded via cell phone camera upon cargo arrival.

By integrating this additional data into the already established platform-based Hellmann tracking systems SmartAir! and Smart Ocean, each deviation can be directly associated with a specific point in the cargo’s journey.

‘Hellmann Smart QR’ enables cost-

efficient and user-friendly visibility along the entire supply chain for sensitive cargo such as perishable goods or pharmaceuticals. With the help of push notifications, deviations become visible at a single glance and available directly after scanning both via cell phone or the cloud-based platforms SmartAir! and Smart Ocean. This makes it easy to track and assign responsibilities within the supply chain.

Digital Tracking Platform

“With the integration of ‘Hellmann Smart QR’ into our existing digital tracking

“Not only our very strong international logistics network, but also our Smart Solution product portfolio provides the perfect framework for the new Smart QR System. With ‘Smart QR’, Hellmann establishes a unique data link between system environments which provides our customers with comprehensive transparency along the entire transport chain,” asserted Henning Pottharst, Product Manager Smart Solutions, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.

Since its foundation more than 150 years ago, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has developed into one of the major international logistics providers. With more than 12,300 employees, the company operates in 60 countries and, in 2021, generated sales of around EUR 4 billion.

The range of services includes classic forwarding services by truck, rail, air and sea freight as well as an extensive range of CEP services, contract logistics, industry and IT solutions, a company source indicated.

Tristar conducts its Annual External Stakeholders’ Workshop

n The Tristar Group recently conducted its 8th Annual External Stakeholders’ Workshop with its customers, suppliers, private companies, media partners and NGOs who were updated on the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy and goals. The gathering was held at the Tristar head office in Jebel Ali.

The attendees were asked to rate Tristar’s Materiality issues related to ESG and Sustainability. The results will be shared by Tristar in its 2022 Sustainability Report in line with the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) Ten Principles and GRI Standards.

The UNGC has required all membercompanies to submit an annual Communication on Progress or COP which mentions their adherence to its Ten Principles covering Labor, Human Rights, Environment and Anti-corruption.

The external stakeholders were also enriched with the insightful speeches of Habiba Al Marashi, Chairperson, Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), about the ‘Importance of Stakeholder Materiality’; John Katsos, Associate Professor of Business Law, Business Ethics and Social Responsibility at the American University of Sharjah, on ‘Managing Sustainably During Times of Crisis: Tackling Climate

Change, Globalization, and Inequality’, and Suman Ghosal, Business HeadDigital Assurance, Supply Chain & New Product Development at DNV Business Assurance India Limited, regarding the developments on ‘Sustainability in Supply Chain’.

“We believe we can make more positive impacts by not only addressing our own contributions, but also, by empowering our stakeholders and engaging with our broader ecosystem to create solutions that facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy,” affirmed Eugene Mayne, Founder & Group CEO, Tristar, in his opening address.

Noatum acquisition makes AD Ports Group a global logistics platform

n AD Ports Group recently announced that it has acquired Noatum, a global integrated logistics platform with a presence in 26 countries. Noatum will lead AD Ports Group’s Logistics Cluster, consolidating the company’s existing logistics offering into its operations.

Noatum, whose origins date back to 1963, operates in three business areas – Logistics, Maritime, and Port Terminals – with marketleading positions in Spain and Turkey and a significant presence in the US, UK, China, and Southeast Asia.

Noatum’s global logistics business specialises in comprehensive freight management, project logistics, contract logistics, international supply chain management, customs, and e-solutions, with offices and a wide network of agents around the world.

In particular, Noatum has advanced capacities in heavy lift logistics which AD Ports Group aims to bring to the region.

The company’s Terminals operations include 15 Ro-Ro, dry bulk, general cargo and container terminals in Spain, supported by highly professional management, while its Maritime division provides shipping agency services, including outsourcing and ancillary services, and cargo services, such as liquid bulk, breakbulk cargo, reefer and dry cargo.

“This acquisition makes AD Ports Group one of the most significant global players

in the finished vehicle logistics, which we intend to expand in our home and core markets,” noted Falah Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Chairman, AD Ports Group.

“We will leverage the acquisition of Noatum to build a strong international logistics brand with deep roots in this region,” commented Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group.

Invictus procures advanced refrigerated trucks to transport over 1500MT annually

n UAE’s Invictus Investment recently announced the capital expenditure of AED 2.8mn (US$ 0.76mn) to procure a fleet of over 8 refrigerated trucks to enable movement of perishable goods between Sudan, UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The purpose-built vehicles will transport key items such as chilled meat of lamb, beef, and goat along with fruits. This is the first key procurement to ramp Invictus Investment’s offering and expand services in the climatecontrolled transport and storage facilities with asset allocation a continued focus, a press communique indicated.

Earlier this year, Invictus Investment also entered into a joint venture with AD Ports Group’s SAFEEN Feeders to launch an international dry bulk

shipping centre at an initial commitment of AED 463mn (US$ 126mn), cumulatively, for five ships of varying sizes.

Invictus’ dry-bulk trading business currently ships more than three million tonnes of commodities annually, primarily wheat and complementary grains.

“The rising urban population combined with the proximity to the sea and airports have been key contributing factors to the growth of the cold chain business in the region,” affirmed Amir Daowd Abdellatif, CEO, Invictus Investment.

“At Invictus investment, we are committed to connecting producers and consumers between the UAE and Saudi Arabia in a cost effective and timely manner,” he added.

Established in 2014, Invictus Investment listed in the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) in June 2022 with an initial valuation of AED 3bn (US$ 816.77mn).

LogiPoint Jeddah Industrial City and UWC commemorate landmark accomplishment

n Dignitaries from Jeddah Industrial City, LogiPoint, and United Warehouse Company recently (UWC) descended at an elaborate, customised venue in LogiPoint’s ‘Jeddah Logistics Hub’ to celebrate yet another glittering milestone in the LogiPoint journey.

The occasion was the ground-breaking ceremony of the advanced, highly sophisticated, 15,000sqm multi-purpose warehousing facility, which LogiPoint is building for United Warehouse Company (UWC), the Kingdom’s leading provider of sophisticated warehousing and logistics

solutions.

The ‘Built-to-Suit’ facility will be developed in LogiPoint’s ‘Jeddah Logistics Hub’ located in the heart of Modon, Jeddah Industrial City 1.

It will be a world class addition to the industrial city and will boast specialized sections to efficiently and effectively handle frozen, chilled, ambient, and dry cargoes. Once delivered, the facility will enable UWC to cater to the full spectrum of warehousing clientele handling commodities including meat and poultry, dairy, foodstuff, and raw materials for manufacturing, while

optimizing operational efficiency and maximizing ROI.

LogiPoint’s latest addition to the Kingdom’s logistics and supply chain infrastructure will be built in strict compliance to stringent ESG protocols and international safety standards.

Jeddah Logistics Hub (JLH) is LogiPoint’s 120,000sqm fully integrated logistics platform in Jeddah Industrial Area enabling the 400 factories in the Industrial Area to optimise and streamline their logistics operations.

GAC Qatar opens new sustainability-built warehouse and office facility in Qatar Free Zones

n GAC Qatar has recently opened a new sustainably built 27,000sqm multi-user contract logistics facility and office building in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, in partnership with Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA), adding to the company’s existing infrastructure and boosting customer services and offerings in local and international markets.

The new facility features up to 40,000 pallet positions, as well as four temperature and humidity-controlled chambers, to meet the requirements of a wide range of sectors, including food and beverages, fast-moving consumer goods, retail, and telecommunications. It also features 500 m² of dedicated value-added services space and 2,000sqm of mezzanine

storage to meet customers’ requirements and international quality standards, the company revealed in a press communique.

GAC Qatar’s newest facility is set to benefit from the Middle Eastern country’s advanced infrastructure, as well as its position within Qatar Free Zones. It is strategically located in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, next to Hamad International Airport and close to the Umm Al Houl Seaport Free Zone.

“The purpose-built contract logistics facility is designed to maximise operational efficiencies and achieve higher productivity to provide quick turnaround time in a lean and agile manner to help customers achieve their supply chain goals,” remarked Adrian

Peiris, Business Manager, Contract Logistics, GAC Qatar.

“The opening of the new facility and office building signifies our continued commitment to delivering end-to-end shipping and logistics support from a strategic location for our customers locally, regionally and internationally,” commented Henrik Althén, General Manager, GAC Qatar.

GAC Qatar’s newest contract logistics facility and office building has been built with sustainable materials and methods, as well as the latest technology to ensure the company remains consistent with the wider GAC Group’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, the press statement concluded.

Bahri signs JV Agreement

n Bahri recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Riyadh, Saudi Arabia headquartered Ajlan & Bros Holding Group (ABHG), a large privately owned business conglomerate.

The MoU will pave the way for the formation of a new joint venture company which will specialize in owning, operating, and managing various models of vessels, serving as an essential contributor to the nation’s fleet.

Under the terms of the agreement, Bahri will act as the JV company’s commercial and technical manager. This encompasses the management of the JV company’s fleet of vessels, along with regular commercial and operational management duties, performed in accordance with the highest industry standards, a press release stated.

“This new venture comes as part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with various leading national companies and achieve the maritime sector’s Vision 2030 objectives,” remarked Eng. Ahmed Ali AlSubaey, CEO, Bahri.

“This will see us working to expand the scope of our investments in such a vital sector for the Kingdom. ABHG’s business development efforts, in tandem with leading

Saudi companies such as Bahri, are all in line with our overarching Vision 2030 objectives,” commented Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Alajlan, Deputy Chairman, ABHG.

The agreement will create a wide range of new employment opportunities and significantly contribute to the Kingdom’s economic expansion and fiscal growth, the press communique concluded.

with Saudi Arabia’s Ajlan & Bros Holding

Etihad’s logistics partner DSV first to purchase SAF to offset the carbon emissions

n Etihad Cargo recently announced that DSV Global Transport and Logistics has become the carrier’s first partner to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to offset the carbon emissions of its cargo shipment.

Via the book and claim system, Etihad Cargo facilitated DSV’s SAF purchase, enabling the transport and logistics provider to offset CO2 emissions and reduce non-CO2 climate impact. Etihad Cargo transported DSV’s cargo shipment from Washington Dulles to Abu Dhabi on Etihad’s first transatlantic NetZero flight on 13 November 2022.

Etihad’s Boeing 787 ‘Greenliner’ combined SAF with contrail prevention technology from its partner, SATAVIA, to actively manage carbon emissions and non-CO2 climate effects from contrails, or condensation trails, which cause surface warming and are responsible for up to two-thirds of aviation’s climate impact.

“The successful delivery of DSV’s shipment has proved net-zero air cargo

operations are possible and is the first step in transforming the possible into the routine,” stressed Martin Drew, Senior Vice President–Global Sales & Cargo, Etihad Aviation Group.

The carrier is targeting a 20 per cent reduction in emissions intensity by 2025 and aims to cut 2019 net emissions by 50 per cent by 2035.

Demonstrating the carrier’s commitment to achieving sustainability through partnerships, Etihad Cargo became the first Middle Eastern carrier to join TIACA’s BlueSky verification programme, enabling the carrier to assess its progress against eight critical sustainability criteria via an evidencebased desktop verification process.

Etihad Cargo awarded CEIV pharma recertification by IATA

n Etihad Cargo has been awarded Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharma recertification by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The carrier is one of only 37 airlines to hold IATA CEIV Pharma certification globally.

Etihad Cargo achieved IATA CEIV Pharma recertification following an audit by independent validators that assessed the carrier’s capacity to control and enhance its processes through a checklist that focused on Etihad Cargo’s Quality Management System that incorporates supplier management, training programmes, processes and procedures, audit programmes, and quality enhancement, among others.

Achieving recertification demonstrates Etihad Cargo’s and its dedicated pharmaceutical transportation product PharmaLife’s full compliance with specific pharmaceutical regulations, including IATA Temperature Control Regulations (TCR), Good Distribution Practices (GDP), a quality system for warehouses and distribution centres dedicated to medications and life sciences products.

“The benefits of CEIV Pharma certification extend to Etihad Cargo’s customers, who can be assured the carrier’s dedicated pharma cargo management constantly monitor and analyse the quality and safety of Etihad Cargo’s PharmaLife product performance,” commented Martin Drew, Senior Vice President, Global Sales & Cargo, Etihad Aviation Group.

A new facility, made possible through the carrier’s ongoing partnership with Etihad Airport Services Cargo and Abu Dhabi Airports, will double Etihad Cargo’s cool chain capacity to carry and accommodate an additional 50,000 tonnes of cool chain commodities, including pharmaceuticals and life sciences products.

“Organisations holding CEIV certification and their customers recognise that CEIV Pharma certification is a key differentiator, highlighting the additional efforts taken to improve service quality and enhance the customer experience,” remarked Frederic Leger, Senior Vice President Commercial Products and Services, IATA

PwC and SAP launch new innovation strategy

n PwC and SAP recently announced a new co-innovation strategy to make sustainability an integral part of standard business operations.

The strategy is directed at creating trusted solutions to address key environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) business challenges. It covers carbon measuring, reporting and steering as well as supply chain decarbonization, climate risk and competitive analysis.

The new ESG strategy builds on the strength of the existing alliance between PwC and SAP, which has successfully delivered business transformation solutions to clients in more than 80 countries.

Together, PwC and SAP help organizations leverage the solutions they need to fulfill compliance requirements and drive growth to support the ever-increasing expectations of customers and investors.

They also assist customers in shaping the future of their net zero strategy and sustainability reporting.

The PwC and SAP strategy includes solutions encompassing an enterprisewide ESG strategy, ranging from trading optimization and tax credit recognition to third-party risk management and competitive analysis. Three top challenge areas for ESG, net zero and sustainability reporting will also be addressed:

“Combining our expertise and reputation for trust and integrity with SAP’s technology platform will help bring broader capabilities and solutions to respond to organizations’ challenges in meeting their ESG and sustainability commitments,” asserted Bob Moritz, Global Chairman, PwC.

“Our collaboration will combine the deep industry expertise and customer insights of PwC with our leading sustainability technology portfolio, and the resulting ESG transparency will help companies reinvent their business models and deliver the sustainable outcomes the world urgently needs,”affirmed Christian Klein, CEO and member of the Executive Board of SAP SE.

AD Ports Group and TotalEnergies collaborate for solar opportunities

n Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi, KEZAD Group, recently announced an agreement with TotalEnergies Renewables Distributed Generation Middle East & Africa, an affiliate of TotalEnergies, to explore opportunities to solarise assets across KEZAD’s industrial ecosystem.

TotalEnergies’ Renewables Distributed Generations develops, finances, builds and operates solar installations for industrial and commercial customers-Instrumentation & Control (I&C). This year, TotalEnergies’ reached 500 MW of onsite business-tobusiness solar distributed generation projects in operation globally.

TotalEnergies has been present in the UAE for over 80 years and as part of its ambition to produce more energy with less emissions, it is now developing solar projects for I&C customers in the country. In the UAE, the Company has around 100MW under development of business-to-business solar power, it was revealed in a press statement.

Covering a total land area of 550sqkm including 100sqkm designated as Free Zones,

and home to more than 1,750 investors, KEZAD Group’s industrial ecosystem is wellpositioned to generate far-reaching benefits from TotalEnergies’ distributed solar solutions, which would enable the group to produce clean energy across its sites.

“Through our collaboration with TotalEnergies, we are keen to realise the complete potential of distributed solar

generation across our integrated ecosystem at KEZAD Group,” stated Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO, Khalifa Economic Zones

Abu Dhabi-KEZAD Group. “We are pleased to partner with KEZAD and AD Ports Group as this agreement is a steppingstone for many future opportunities,” commented Hamady Sy, Managing Director, TotalEnergies Renewables Distributed Generation, Middle East and Africa.

Maersk to open doors to a new 100,000sqft warehouse in Bangladesh

n AP Moller–Maersk (Maersk) is expanding its warehousing footprint in Bangladesh with a brand new 100,000sqft facility being built in Chattogram.

The upcoming facility is strategically located close to the Chattogram Port and easily connected to the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway, giving easy access to Bangladesh’s garment exporters based out of the nearby manufacturing hubs.

“We realised that the demand for

warehousing space was rising and decided to undertake measures that could address this requirement proactively,” commented Angshuman Mustafi, Head of Maersk, Bangladesh

Maersk Bangladesh has partnered with Vertex Off-Dock Logistics Services Limited to commission the new three-storied facility. The lift, conveyor belt and slider-operated warehouse will ensure higher productivity.

Internal and external parking facilities

AP Møller-Mærsk announces change of guard

n

“I am grateful for Soren’s support in the CEO succession review making sure the Company does not lose any momentum in its strategic endeavors in a changing and difficult market. The Board believes Vincent holds the right experience and capabilities as CEO to pursue and oversee Maersk’s strategic and organizational development in the years to come” remarked Robert M. Uggla, Chair of the Board of Director, AP Moller-Maersk.

will allow for a higher number of trucks and vans to be accommodated within the warehouse. While the current facility will be 1000,000sqft, Maersk has access to more space in case of expansion in the future.

Imran Fahim Noor, Managing Director, Vertex Off-Dock Logistics Services, said, “By building efficient warehouses, we are catering to the demand of the country’s exporters and addressing their requirements to the level of international standards.”

“Now is the right time for Maersk, for Vincent, and for me to make this transition. The Company has executed very well over the past years. We have never been stronger financially and we have an inspiring and visionary plan for the continuation of our global integrator strategy that will guide Maersk for many years to come,” commented Skou.

“I am looking forward, together with the leadership team and all the Maersk colleagues around the world, to take it to the next level, building on the very strong foundation we obtained with Soren at the helm, and delivering on our promises to customers, shareholders, and to the society at large,” stressed Clerc.

Vincent Clerc, currently CEO, AP Moller-Maersk, Ocean & Logistic Business, will succeed current CEO Soren Skou as CEO, Maersk Group, effective 1 January 2023, the company announced via a press communique.

MYCRANE momentum continues with USA launch

n A milestone in MYCRANE’s global expansion was achieved with the launch of its own operation in the USA. Houston-based Scott Wilkes has been appointed as Director of Business Development, reporting directly to the senior management team in the United Arab Emirates.

Reflecting the importance and size of the market, MYCRANE has elected to establish its own operations in the USA, rather than appoint a franchisee to roll out its services, as it has done in other locations.

The Dubai-based digital disruptor launched the world’s first online crane rental platform in autumn 2021 and offers a suite of other innovative digital tools and services to help all those in the construction industry.

Pointing to encouraging recent legislation such as the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and the largest infrastructure bill for more than a decade, MYCRANE founder and CEO Andrei Geikalo said the time was right for MYCRANE’s expansion into the USA.

Independent professionals who have customer connections, such as those working in construction, oil and gas, petrochemical, energy, mining and other industries where cranes are being used, are invited to help to market MYCRANE’s services and products to their professional

FedEx Express trials electric vehicles in the UAE

n FedEx Express (FedEx) recently announced the beginning of electric vehicle (EV) trials in the UAE.

The one-ton electric trucks combine lowenergy consumption and high performance. The all-electric delivery vehicles will be used for parcel pick-up and delivery across strategic locations in the UAE.

The six-month trial represents the debut of zero-tailpipe emissions vehicles for FedEx in the Middle East and North Africa region and will allow for evaluation of the vehicles’ operational effectiveness on typical routes while carrying a full load of packages.

“This first EV trial in the Middle East and North Africa region is a step towards shaping the future of delivery. It requires identifying the right technology to ensure the successful integration of electric vehicles into the FedEx Express fleet, and ultimately enhancing how we support our business, customers, and team members,” stressed Taarek Hinedi, VP, FedEx Express Middle East and Africa operations.

The trial is part of the efforts to attain carbon-neutral operations globally by 2040. Electrifying the entire FedEx Express pick up and delivery fleet is a core element towards

network, on mutually beneficial terms.

“We recognise that the crane industry is a people business, and we welcome those who share our vision of a digital future to join us as a partner, so we can benefit from the digitalization of the industry together,” concluded Geikalo.

this target. By 2025, FedEx has a goal that 50% of FedEx Express global pick up and delivery vehicle purchases will be electric, rising to 100% by 2030, a press communique concluded.

Volvo delivers electric trucks with fossil-free steel to customers

n In September 2022, Volvo Trucks started series production of heavy-duty electric, 44Tonne trucks, as the first global truck manufacturer to achieve this. Some of the electric trucks will also be the first trucks in the world that are built with fossil-free steel, the manufacturer stated in a press communique.

“Our journey to net zero emissions includes both making our vehicles fossil free in operation and over time fully replacing the material in our trucks with fossil-free and recycled alternatives,” asserted Jessica Sandström, Senior Vice President, Product Management, Volvo Trucks.

The fossil-free steel is produced by the Swedish steel manufacturer SSAB and is made by using a completely modern technology with fossilfree electricity and hydrogen. The result is a significantly lower climate impact and an important step towards a netzero emissions value chain.

CargoAi welcomes its 71st airline available for instant eBooking

n CargoAi, airfreight’s fastest growing digital enabler, closes off a great 2022 with instant eBooking made available for 71 airlines from 195 origins to 447 unique destinations, the company said in a press communique

Their CargoMART eBooking platform has become the marketplace with the most available options per routes and is becoming the partner of choice for freight forwarders.

“2023 looks already very exciting as CargoAi will focus on delivering new solutions outside of our eBooking platform (CargoMART) and work on customized projects for our partners,” commented Matt Petot, Founder and CEO, Cargo Ai.

As of October 2022, freight forwarders were prompted with the ‘greenest’ (least carbon-producing routes) when searching

In November 2022, CargoAi announced a landmark partnership with Neste, the world’s leading producer of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) enabling small to medium freight forwarding companies worldwide to purchase SAF in accordance with their cargo bookings, in much smaller quantities.

CargoAi becomes the first marketplace where CMA CGM’s capacity and rate are available for instant booking, in line with CMA CGM’s first own scheduled freighter service from Paris to Hong Kong SAR and vice versa.

“We’re thrilled that Cargo MART becomes the first marketplace to sell CMA CGM’s freighter service,” noted Magali Beauregard, CCO, Cargo Ai.

for rates on the marketplace.

GAC appoints new Group President

n Global shipping, logistics and marine services provider GAC Group recently announced the appointment of Pontus Fredriksson as its new Group President effective from January 2023.

Bengt Ekstrand, who has held the position for the past 10 years, will take on the role of Executive CoChairman alongside GAC’s long-standing Executive Chairman Björn Engblom, the company said in a press communique.

During that uncertain period, Ekstrand launched a wide-ranging reform programme within GAC known as Delta21. Significant structural and operational changes followed that made the Group more resilient, more efficient, and more profitable. He leaves the position with GAC reporting record results in recent years, a press communique indicated.

Fredriksson joined GAC in 2007 and has been Group Vice President of GAC’s Americas region since August 2019. He previously held various finance and managerial roles in the Middle East, including Managing Director, GAC Bahrain.

“Pontus’ acumen and sound industry knowledge put him in a good position to lead the Group to further successes in a turbulent environment and I look forward to supporting him in his new role,” noted Ekstrand.

Mawani wins EFQM Recognition

n In a historic first for the Kingdom’s transportation sector, the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) recently received the prestigious Qualified by EFQM recognition by the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) after successfully passing its assessment against the seven criteria of the EFQM Model.

The international certification acknowledges Mawani’s consistent efforts to measure its overall performance and boost organizational efficiency, effectiveness, and quality in the maritime and ports sector, which translates into world-class excellence and services for investors, stakeholders, and shipping agents in line with the goals of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS), Mawani revealed in a press communique.

The national maritime regulator’s strategic aim of boosting organizational excellence and governance is inspired by the EFQM 2020 Excellence Model, a globally recognized management framework that equips organizations to manage their journey of transformation and progress.

The certificate is set to solidify the competitive position of Saudi ports and optimize its operational prowess, drive innovation and cultural change, and deliver results that blend future ambitions with current practices while adapting to current trends and evolving market realities.

The accolade is the latest addition to Mawani’s growing list of global achievements across the domains of excellence and quality, not least the ISO 31000 and ISO 22301 certifications in risk management and business continuity respectively, alongside the ISO 27001 accreditation in information security and the ISO 9001 standard in quality management.

Saudi Arabia’s AJEX launches specialized full mile services from China to Middle East

n A joint venture between Saudi Arabia’s Ajlan & Bros Holding and SF Express, AJEX Logistics Services (AJEX), the Middle East specialist in express distribution and shipping solutions, recently announced the launch of two new services as part of a significant phase of expansion of the company.

The newly available AJEX International E-Commerce Express (ICX) and AJEX International Express Service (IXS) will provide businesses in China, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain an enhanced portfolio of express cross-border delivery services for B2C and B2B.

Helping e-commerce businesses meet the demands of consumers, the ICX export and import options offer automated shipping, real-time tracking and proactive notification, and a personalized delivery experience.

AJEX International Express Service (IXS) provides B2B customers with a fully integrated service from China to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain in four to seven business days, with exact transit time depending on origin and destination locations.

The newly launched express crossborder services by AJEX are part of the company’s efforts to support the soaring demand for cross-border commerce. China is Saudi Arabia’s first business partner and bilateral trade between China and Saudi Arabia reached US$ 65.2bn in 2020.

The Saudi CEP (Courier, Express, Parcel) international market is expected to reach US$ 1,032mn in 2027 from US$ 665mn in 2022, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 9.9%.

“Introducing ICX and IXS services in China, Saudi Arabia, UAE and

Bahrain is an important enhancement to our service portfolio, driven by our customers’ requirements for speed, reliability, and transparency,” stated Nathalie Terault, Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, AJEX.

“Over the last 12 months, the team at AJEX has been working on developing our network and infrastructure with the opening of 20 additional distribution centers and 19 shipping centers in Saudi Arabia so that we can be closer to our customer,’’ remarked Tia Zhang, Chief of Express, AJEX.

Agility Saudi Warehouse is the first to earn EDGE ‘Green Building’ status

n Agility recently announced that a warehouse at its Agility Logistics Park complex in Riyadh is the first building in Saudi Arabia as well as the first warehouse in the GCC to receive EDGE Advanced certification as a green building, the company revealed in a press statement.

EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) is the global standard for energy-efficient buildings, a certification system overseen by the International Finance Corp. (IFC), an arm of the World Bank. Basic certification requires a minimum projected reduction of 20% energy use, water use and ‘embodied energy’ in materials as benchmarked against a standard local building.

Agility received the EDGE Advanced certification for a warehouse at its 870,000sqm Riyadh Park. EDGE Advanced buildings are ‘zero-carbon ready’ structures that are at least 40% more energy efficient than others in the market.

“Agility is determined to lead the way in development of modern, energy-efficient logistics infrastructure. We want to help drive Saudi growth, generate jobs, conserve resources and be an example for others in the area of sustainability,” noted Michel Saab, CEO, Agility Logistics Parks/Global Operations. In addition to its Riyadh complex, Agility Logistics Parks operates a 200,000 SQM facility in Dammam and recently announced plans to invest SAR 611mn (US$ 163mn) to build a 576,000sqm warehouse park near Jeddah.

Yango Delivery launches in the UAE with one-stop shop logistics solution

n Yango Delivery has launched in the UAE with its platform for delivery-bound businesses to seamlessly outsource logistics at the last mile.

With a background in maptech, the company claims to offer traffic-proof and cost-effective deliveries at different speeds from express to next day for any type of goods from food to furniture, the company said in a press statement.

The company brings equal quality of last-mile services to both small shops and bigger companies, granting individual customers a streamlined experience and businesses an infrastructure that would support their launches into new territories and scale up their operations.

The supported delivery modes range from express (one hour) to same- and next-day deliveries, with direct (to consumer) or reverse (pick-up) ways, the latter applicable to handle returns for example. When planning deliveries on Yango Delivery, partners are offered the selection of motorbikes, sedans, vans or

chiller vans depending on the items they seek to deliver.

“We are working on digitizing last mile logistics to grant our clients access to various delivery types in one place and possibility to easily switch between them or combine them,” explained Agam Garg, General Manager, Yango Delivery UAE.

Yango Delivery employs an advanced algorithm that dispatches orders to routes by digesting all required operational parameters (like the time window promised to customers) and traffic forecasts, ensuring an impressive on-time delivery success rate of 98%, the press statement concluded.

Saudia Cargo CEO re-elected to chair SkyTeam Cargo Alliance

n SkyTeam Cargo the global Cargo alliance, recently announced the re-election of Teddy Zebitz, the Chief Executive Officer of Saudia Cargo, to be the chairperson of the SkyTeam Cargo Executive Board for another consecutive term.

The appointment was endorsed at their recent meeting in London which is composed of the cargo executives of all Cargo alliance members and oversees SkyTeam Cargo’s global strategy. With his re-election, Zebitz will continue to strategically lead the SkyTeam Cargo board for a further period of two years.

“We will continue to empower our people, while

collaborating with our customers and partners, providing innovative and customized solutions to help them achieve their goals and realize their ambitions,” commented Zebitz.

SkyTeam Cargo is the global unique Cargo Alliance. Ten member airlines working together with more than 2,709 aircrafts including 45 full freighters to 150 destinations countries.

The members are Aerolíneas Argentinas Cargo, Aeromexico Cargo, Air France-KLM Cargo, China Cargo Airlines, Czech Airlines Cargo, Delta Cargo, ITA Airways Cargo, Korean Air Cargo, and Saudia Cargo.

AD Ports Group signs two trade agreements with Kyrgyzstan

n AD Ports Group and industry has signed two major agreements with the Government of Kyrgyzstan to promote trade and strengthen economic ties with the Central Asian nation.

Under the first agreement, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce has entered negotiations with AD Ports Group to secure more than 300,000sqm of land within the Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) to develop and operate a logistics hub and customs area.

The agreements build upon AD Ports Group ongoing strategy to expand its presence in Central Asia. In 2020, Kyrgyzstan exported US$ 70.9mn to the United Arab Emirates, with key exports including gold, aircraft parts, and refined

petroleum, while the UAE recorded US$ 174mn in trade to Kyrgyzstan.

“The signed agreements will not only give a great impetus to the development of bilateral Kyrgyz-Emirati relations, but will also help our country make a powerful economic breakthrough,” remarked Akylbek Sharapova, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Government of Kyrgyzstan.

“These dual preliminary agreements that highlight AD Ports Group’s leadership in free zones and digital services are an opportunity to advance relations between our two nations,” commented Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group.

“Companies will benefit from enhanced customs processes and accelerated access to market through the new trade hub, which will be supported by KEZAD’s strategic location and superlative range of specialised services,” stated Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO, Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group.

“This preliminary agreement reflects the trust that the Kyrgyz Republic has placed in our abilities, which will allow us to leverage our expertise and diverse portfolio of innovative AD Ports Group continues to extend its activities around the world,” observed Dr. Noura Al Dhaheri, CEO - Digital Cluster, AD Ports Group and CEO, Maqta Gateway.

Borouge and ADNOC Logistics inaugurate Borouge Global Gateway

n Borouge and ADNOC Logistics and Services (ADNOC L&S), the region’s largest shipping and integrated logistics company, have announced the inauguration of Borouge Global Gateway at Khalifa Port.

The facility will be owned and managed by ADNOC L&S to facilitate the export of Borouge’s ‘Made In UAE’ polymer solutions to international markets.

At the heart of the operations is a mega warehouse, the largest in the Middle East. The warehouse will play a critical role in enabling Borouge to improve operational efficiencies, by centralising and integrating its logistical operations.

The warehouse is part of Borouge and ADNOC L&S’ 25-year agreement covering transportation and handling operations for

“The inauguration of the Borouge Global Gateway is a key milestone in our growth, as we enhance our global supply chains and further capitalise on the growing demand for our innovative solutions,” commented Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, CEO, Borouge.

The new warehouse, the size of more than 40 football pitches, enables Borouge to store 180,000 tonnes of polyolefins every day, with 2.5mn tonnes per year throughput.

“ADNOC L&S provides a range of integrated services for our customers, strengthening our position as ADNOC Group’s logistics platform and delivering more efficiencies,” remarked Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO, ADNOC L&S.

Borouge’s products at Khalifa Port for export.

RAM Investment announces ‘AI City Dubai’ Vision

n HH Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Maktoum has announced a partnership with Europe’s leading artificial intelligence (AI) venture studio and ecosystem Merantix to conceptualize AI City, a proposed free zone in Dubai where impactful AI solutions will be pioneered, implemented and scaled.

AI City will be a global AI hub, powered by smart city infrastructure that connects AI research institutions and talent with leading homegrown and global startups, corporations and investors.

The project will work closely with universities to attract, train and upskill talent. By building a free zone, a regulatory sandbox environment will be created that will host worldleading computing infrastructure (HPC Clusters) and data centres, which will allow for rapid stress testing of wide-scale revolutionary and safety-critical AI concepts the company said in a press communique.

Merantix is Europe’s leading AI venture studio and ecosystem, incubating and investing in AI-first companies, building solutions and conducting leading AI research through their solutions provider ‘Merantix Momentum’ in Berlin.

“With AI City we want to make this technology more accessible, grow the public understanding of Artificial Intelligence, and get more people involved,” affirmed HH Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Maktoum.

“We need more collaboration to truly drive AI adoption, because only if we get all stakeholders to work together, we can bridge the gap between research and practice. I am looking forward to building a global AI lighthouse in Dubai,” commented Dr. Erasmus Rothe, CTO, Merantix.

Universal Carton Industries continues to grow in Ras Al Khaimah

n Universal Carton Industries (UCI), a top UAE leading corrugated cardboard box manufacturing companies located in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), is investing US$ 15mn (AED 55mn) to expand its production volume to meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in the UAE and overseas.

This expansion will increase UCI’s production capacity by threefold to 100,000 tons per annum, a press communique indicated.

The new state-of-the-art facility totalling 375,000sqft is scheduled to be completed in 2023. The company, which initially began operations

in 2014 at Al Ghail Industrial Zone, is aiming to increase its manpower to 300 employees.

“With the extension of our European food grade corrugation plant in Ras Al Khaimah, modern equipment and innovative technologies, we will have achieved an unparalleled production capacity,” noted Arsalan Pirani, Managing Director, UCI.

“The economic zone has been our guide since the very beginning, providing us with tremendous support in our setting up phase in the UAE,” remarked Saleem Vohra, COO, UCI.

Integrated and highly complex logistics services

W i t h a s y s t e m a t i c o r g a n i z a t i o n a n d i n n o v a t i v e s o l u t i o n s , w e o f f e r y o u Q u i c k , P r o - A c t i v e , c r e a t i v e s o l u t i o n f o r y o u r m o s t c o m p l e x t r a n s p o r t a t i o n C h a l l e n g e s O u r s e r v i c e p a c k a g e i n c l u d e s t h e h a n d l i n g o f O v e r S i z e d a n d H e a v y L i f t c a r g o , a s w e l l a s p r o v i d e R i s k A s s e s s m e n t a n d t h e m e t h o d s t a t e m e n t f o r t h e d e l i v e r y o f c a r g o O u r P r o j e c t P r o f e s s i o n a l s a n a l y s e s t h e s c a l e o f t h e p r o j e c t a n d o r g a n i z e s a l l t h e n e c e s s a r y r e s o u r c e s a n d p e r m i t s t o c o m p l e t e t h e d e l i v e r y w i t h g r e a t e s t e f f i c i e n c y

Emirhan