FORWARDER magazine March 2018 'European Road & Express'

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS FREIGHT

EUROPEAN HAULAGE The advantages and expectations

5 THINGS HGV DRIVERS DO that drive fleet managers mad

REGIONAL FOCUS

UK: Yorkshire | Global: The Americas

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MARCH 2018

elcome to the 'European Road & Express' edition of FORWARDER magazine.

CONTENTS

FORWARDER DIGEST

6

The freight industry's month in review from the Editor

INDUSTRY NEWS

it like ...

SIMO BEEC N HEN Simp ER ex Move

News and press releases from the world of freight

FOCUS ROUNDUP

Articles from the last 12 months relating to this month's focus

MOVE IT LIKE...

FORWARDER SPOTLIGHT

66

Wings Onboard

FORWARDER FOCUS | ASK THE EXPERTS

44 58

Simon Beechener, MD of Simpex

Advantages of European haulage

8

Expectations for European road

70 74

5 simple things HGV drivers do that drive fleet managers mad

REGIONAL FOCUS Leeds Clean Air Zone: FTA clarifies the issue

78

M&A FOCUS

82

Freight companies for sale and sought

RECRUITMENT FOCUS

94

Jobs and candidates in the freight industry

MARKETING FOCUS

100

Tweet your way to the top

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March 2018

3

SOLUTIONS FOR CARGO OWNERS TO REDUCE COSTS AND CO2 BY RUNNING A SLICKER SUPPLY CHAIN

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Multimodal is an excellent opportunity to grow and accelerate your network within the freight & supply chain industry. I was able to consult experts regarding issues encountered throughout the working year to establish solutions to improve our supply chain.”

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As my first time, it was very educational and allowed me to connect with many potential suppliers.”

Jaguar Land Rover

Over three days you can: • • • • • • •

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discover the very latest freight solutions available from over 300 exhibitors; your one stop shop to compare suppliers and modes; free to attend inspirational seminars from UKWA, CILT and the FTA; network with the industry’s elite and forge new business partnerships; participate in the exclusive Shippers’ Village to hold your own private discussions; join in the FTA Multimodal Awards recognising industry excellence and showcasing best practice; dedicated pavilions representing Tees Valley, Rail Freight Group; Logistics Leaders’ Network & UK Warehousing Association; New for 2018 the Multimodal Mixer! Late night opening, with food, drink and music whilst you network.

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I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Multimodal this year from listening to seminars to understand other companies perspectives of the shipping market.”

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4

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Britvic

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Great opportunity to meet a wide selection of existing and potential vendors.

Very time efficient and reduces travel times.”

Tata Steel

March 2018

WELCOME TO FORWARDER...

A WORD FROM

THE EDITOR

M

MEET THE TEAM

CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF craig@freight-media.com

arch is upon us, and here at FORWARDER we are

MATT EDITOR

services have had upon both the UK and our American

DAREN SALES MANAGER

looking at the effects that European road and express freight

counterparts. With road freight being not one single market, we have seen a methodical change within the sector over the past 12 months.

Brexit, clearly, is going to play a vital role in the shifting landscape of the sector, but we have also seen the development of new fuel types to combat the inflation of diesel prices, along with much investment put into the field of battery technology. These shifts are detrimental to the overall continued growth of the sector, allowing many companies and drivers to create a smooth transition through

matt@forwardermagazine.com daren@freight-media.com +44 (0)1454 275 946

KATIE ADVERTISING katie@freight-media.com +44 (0)1454 628 771

RICHARD ADVERTISING richard@freight-media.com +44 (0)1454 628 775

DOM DIRECTORY ADVERTISING

the murky waters of Brexit and any other issues that may lie ahead.

dom@freight-media.com +44 (0)1454 628 794

In recent years we have seen the European road freight market grow

DARREN DIGITAL MARKETING

by 2.5% in nominal terms, which shows its invaluable influence on the industry. However, in years to come we may see this growth stop, as Brexit may threaten to sever the logistical lifeline that connects destinations like Yorkshire from (the rest of) Europe.

d.glasspool@freight-media.com

MOHIT SOCIAL MEDIA mohit@freight-media.com

TIM DESIGNER

tim@forwardermagazine.com

This uncertainty has led to a rise in investment with canal shipping and rail networks being restored. This could spell trouble for the sector, and with road freight playing a pivotal role in the UK’s freight

Read the magazine online: got to www.ISSUU.com

network we need to address these issues, rather than avoid them.

and search for FORWARDER

twitter.com/ForwarderMag

The Americas rely heavily on the use of express freight throughout

facebook.com/forwardermagazine

their daily lives. With the express sector bringing in over $69.9bn

linkedin.com/company/forwarder-magazine

in the USA, this is a significant market for both north and south.

www.FORWARDERmagazine.com

Our reliance on express delivery is evident in our daily lives, and this month at FORWARDER we will be looking how technology,

Freight Media Ltd

environmentalism and market growth will help speed up the already

Unit 8 Apex Court,

remarkable express freight service in many countries.

Almondsbury Business Park, Bristol BS32 4JT

Matt Dailly, Editor, FORWARDER magazine

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

5

FORWARDER DIGEST

T

he current climate for many freight

Due to a lack of clarity regarding our departure, freight forwarders

forwarders across the globe has been

really need to fend for themselves in the meantime. Many bigger

one of scepticism for several months

companies in the industry will need to align with agents across

now. Has much, if anything, changed

Europe, helping to concentrate resources and having a stable plan

in March? The sad answer: not really.

in place before we exit.

We still have uncertainty regarding the Brexit conundrum we find ourselves in.

It will be more costly in administrative terms for forwarders to deliver into Europe, but with electronic processing – assuming this

The economic, political and sociological

remains in place – the impact should be minimal.

repercussions are still a mystery. However, I can make an educated guess as to what it will mean for the majority of us...

If the UK Government is smart, they will increase the low-value threshold from £15 to anywhere upwards of £150. This appears to

I know, most of you are reading this with a bit of distain, maybe

be a harsh punishment for distributors coming through to the UK.

even a little hatred for the word ‘Brexit’ itself. Though, regardless

However, for the many, this will help tomaintain the stability the

of how much you are sick of hearing the word, or me rant about it,

industry's known for.

you can’t run away from the fact that May-and-the-gang’s decisions could potentially affect your business for the foreseeable future.

We know vast numbers of shipments are coming into the UK without paying duty and VAT – perhaps hundreds of thousands, every day.

Freight forwarding is one of the most profitable industries in the

This may help stem any economic leakages and help anybody who

world, and its top performers are almost as profitable as some of

hasn’t had the foresight to collaborate with a European counterpart

the tech giants hidden away in Silicon Valley.

before the split.

Forwarding’s experience and productiveness has led to a structured

Whilst I often lean towards the negatives of the Brexit fallout and

business model that many would find hard to replicate. Imagine

freight forwarding, we have tended to miss a trick with the rise

if Apple were told that, due to Brexit, their distribution and

of online. Everything is going electronic, giving greater and more

trading routines where going to be interrupted or inflated in cost.

instant visibility. The physical documents we still use at times will

There would be an uproar.

soon become a thing of the past. Everything will go digital and this affects us in a positive way. If the government shies away from this

Now, whilst I understand the dust has settled from Brexit, we still

and doesn’t take it into account, trade will begin to become more

need high-profile people from within the industry to push for quicker

expensive and could result in a collapse.

and more concise negotiations. So far, the talks regarding what will happen to European trade have been unclear at best. Again, I’m very

No government wants to be in the firing line when it comes to the

aware that it’s a complicated process, but someone needs to step up

potential fall of an industry. Ease of trade is the only way a country

and give people peace of mind regarding their business.

can expect to develop their imports/exports, and this needs to happen at every point of the logistics chain.

6

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

These must be taken as positives in the Brexit debate. The Government

Not to bang on about it, but this is a huge advantage to any

must respond to these changes or face the wrath of an incredibly large

discussions happening regarding Brexit. It could be considered one

and powerful industry, one which backs up our economic standing,

of the best bargaining tools distributors could bring to the table.

and they should try to keep freight forwarding onside.

Overall, 65.1% said the 4.8% growth rate was ‘about right’; 33% felt it Getting away from the Brexit débâcle, there is plenty going on

was ‘too optimistic’; 1.9% felt it was ‘too pessimistic’. This isn’t the biggest

throughout the rest of the world. E-commerce and digitisation

growth within the sector by any means, and we need to make sure we

continue to reshape the market place for many freight forwarders.

continue to increase, or at best maintain the steady rate of growth.

The global freight forwarding market has grown by 2.7% since 2016

In other news, BIFA recently announced their winners in its Freight

but, owing to a continuation of excess capacity issues and lower

Service Awards Competition 2017. The winners of the eight General,

average oil prices, rates are in more recent times falling, with the

Modal, and Specialist categories in the Awards, which has established

sea freight sector taking the brunt of the hit.

a benchmark of quality for the British freight forwarding industry for more than a quarter of the century, are: Superior Freight Services

The market is anticipated to grow at an annual rate of 4.1% as global

UK, TR Logistics, Dachser, B&H Worldwide, Metro Shipping, Moto

trade volume growth accelerates – which is great. The digital age,

Freight, Pharmafreight and Morgan Cargo.

combined with e-commerce, is one in which we can expect faster results and a better-connected industry.

The annual awards were considered a success and can be measured evaluation for the growth of forwarding companies throughout the

However, any business moving freight globally should plan their

UK. The awards reward excellence and the luncheon is a opportunity

budgets accordingly. Digitalisation, along with changes to the

for members and guests to network, cement existing relationships

competitive landscape due to a variety of reasons and, ultimately,

and develop new ones.

whether forwarders can adapt and survive the upheaval being caused by the continued evolution of the digital supply chain is something

This is something, if you were unaware, that can be considered a

that we should all keep a close eye on.

yardstick for industry standards, and you should try to get into the loop with any forwarder networking you can be doing.

With the somewhat up-and-down nature of the digitalisation of freight forwarding and the role e-commerce will play, emerging markets are set

The overall tone of the freight forwarding industry is, yet again,

to grow. Emerging markets are predicted to grow this year at their fastest

one of uncertainty. Everyone appears to be tentatively awaiting the

rate since 2013, according to the latest Agility Emerging Markets Index.

eventual leave date from the Government. But we can see that this tentative balancing of opinion is something that still isn’t slowing the

In 2017 the IMF GDP figure stood at 4.6%, whilst in 2015 and 2016 the figure

growth of the industry. Hopefully this trend will continue and we

reached 4.3% after five years of decline. If the projection for 2018 is correct,

will see freight forwarding on a high, Brexit or no Brexit.

it would mark the fastest expansion of emerging markets since 2013 and a second consecutive year of higher growth in developing countries.

Matt Dailly, Editor, FORWARDER magazine FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

7

INDUSTRY NEWS

MEMBERS OF FTA EMISSIONS SCHEME

LEAD THE FLEET ON CLEAN AIR M embers of the Freight Transport Association's Logistics

HGV fleet has already been upgraded to meet Euro VI standards, with

Carbon Reduction Scheme (LCRS) have continued to

just over a quarter of members' vans reaching the same. Introducing

cut vehicle emissions and fuel costs, according to the

and accepting new technologies at this speed is an impressive testament

latest data released today.

to members' willingness to change the environment around us, and the new government regulations announced recently will go a long way to

LCRS members have continued to make significantly better progress

reinforcing this new behaviour across the freight sector.

in reducing carbon emissions when compared to the freight sector as a whole, which is testament to their willingness to trial and accept new

By signing up to the scheme, which is supported by LCRS Industry

technologies. In fact, LCRS members registered average emissions levels

Partner Bridgestone Tyres, LCRS members have demonstrated their

almost 13% per vehicle km lower than in the wider logistics industry.

dedication to reducing national carbon emissions, through carbon

This reduction in emissions directly led to a similar saving in fuel costs.

reporting the LCRS aggregates fuel usage and business activity data

In a marketplace where emissions standards are increasingly under the

from members to establish a carbon footprint for the scheme. At

spotlight, the LCRS results demonstrate what can be achieved with a

such a challenging time for freight operators with regards to clean

willingness to adapt and learn from previous behaviours.

air, the performance of LCRS members against emissions targets is

Christopher Snelling, Head of National Policy, FTA

a clear demonstration that changes are possible, and emissions can be reduced, with use of the correct technology.

LCRS scheme members committed to reducing their vehicles' emissions when the programme was announced in 2010. And as

We are always seeking ways to operate in a more environmentally

Mr Snelling continues, there is no room for complacency despite

friendly way, whether that be through the premium products we

the impressive improvements announced today:

provide, or the many aftercare services we support our commercial customers with. As the world's largest tyre manufacturer, we are

The freight sector is often blamed for all of the nation's air quality

constantly striving to find ways to measure and reduce emissions. We

woes, yet the LCRS members have demonstrated there are significant

are pleased to be able to work closely with the LCRS for another year

improvements which can be made with some relatively small operating

as we aim to make a big impact in this increasingly significant area.

changes. LCRS members have also been at the forefront of using new

Terry Salter,

technology and purchasing the latest vehicles. 40% of the LCRS members'

Product Manager, TBR & Retread, Bridgestone Tyres North Europe

8

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at 1gsa.net

1

GSA – the recently-launched independent GSA network – has

Korea is an important and growing market, and the addition of

appointed Goodman GLS Co. Limited as its exclusive member

Goodman GLS to our network – with both export and import

for Korea.

capabilities - provides 1GSA with a significant further enhancement to its airline proposition. We look forward to growing together as

The Goodman GLS GSSA business was launched in 2014, as part

we explore and realise mutual opportunities.

of a well-established group with diverse freight-related interests.

David Lee, President, 1GSA

It currently represents Westjet, Cubana, and the Leisure Cargo portfolio of 14 airlines, providing its customers with access to destinations throughout Asia, Europe, Caribbean, Middle East and Africa.

The company offers a full portfolio of GSSA services to airlines, covering sales and marketing, reservations, revenue accounting, load planning, and handling supervision. It can also manage import operations where required, provide ground transportation including door-to-door and courier services, and assist airlines with their landing rights applications.

We are delighted to have been selected as 1GSA’s representative for Korea. Joining this growing group will enable us to increase our profile internationally, as well as providing our fellow members with a strong presence in the important Korean market.

H.E. Shin, Chief Executive, Goodman GLS

1GSA ADDS ANOTHER MEMBER TO GROWING NETWORK FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

9

INDUSTRY NEWS

AMERICAN AIRLINES CARGO RECEIVES

2017 XLA STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE AWARD A merican Airlines is proud to announce that it has received

and thank you to the entire American Airlines Cargo team for your

the 2017 Express Cargo Service Standard of Excellence

incredible performance in 2017 and every year.

award for the second year in a row from the Express

Roger Samways, VP Sales, American Airlines Cargo

Delivery & Logistics Association (XLA). The award recognizes excellent performance servicing the express cargo industry.

With new and ongoing investments in technology and process improvements, American remains focused on caring for its gold-

XLA is a trade association for companies engaged in providing and

medal team.

procuring services within the global air express mail and logistics industry. Each year, XLA surveys its approximately 50 member companies about their experience on all facets of their express cargo

ABOUT AMERICAN AIRLINES CARGO

experience with various airlines. Members are asked to rate airlines

American Airlines Group is the holding company for American

based on their general express cargo performance, services and

Airlines. American provides one of the largest cargo networks

products—like American’s Priority Parcel Service (PPS)—as well as

in the world with cargo terminals and interline connections

on specific categories that include on-time performance and next flight

across the globe. Every day, American transports cargo

out (NFO) availability, communications, customer service, recovery

between major cities in the United States, Europe, Canada,

experience, web and technology, cold chain and other factors.

Mexico, the Caribbean, Latin America and Asia. American Airlines and American Eagle offer an average of nearly 6,700

In announcing the Standard of Excellence award, XLA noted that its

flights per day to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50

members found that American Airlines Cargo 'met and surpassed

countries. American has hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/

the high performance standards' required for the award.

Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. American is a founding member

We are particularly proud of this award because it comes from

of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect

XLA members who are an important part of our customer base.

serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to

Thank you to the XLA membership for recognizing our hard work,

150 countries. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade

10

on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. In 2015, its stock FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

joined the S&P 500 index. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines.

Thursday 21st June 2018 | Telford International Centre WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.dachser.com

I2018

n 2017, Dachser ends: fully acquired the Italian food logistics provider y Bird EarlPapp Italia. Effective h immediately, the branch in Verona in

rc d MaItaly 2nnorthern is now called Dachser Italy Food Logistics S.R.L.

With its strategically strong position in northern Italy, Dachser Italy Food Logistics is an ideal starting point from which to expand and further internationalize our contract logistics business for food in Italy.

By introducing standardised processes, we’ve made the service we can

As a major food producer and consumer, Italy plays a major role

The only event

offer European food producers and retailers even more attractive.

dedicated to skills and training

in the transport of goods around Europe. This is what led Dachser

This takes our import/export business to a whole new level, which in

to acquire a 50 percent share in Italian food logistics provider Papp

turn further strengthens the European Food Network.

Italia back in 2012 following two years of collaboration. Dachser

Alfred Miller, Managing Director, Dachser Food Logistics

acquired the company outright in 2017, and now the transition to Dachser systems and renaming the entity mark the final steps in the integration process.

in logistics

At the heart of the integration was the migration of all logistics processes and IT systems to Dachser standard ones, a phase that was completed by mid-February. This means that Dachser Italy Food Logistics is now

From its headquarters and central terminal in Verona, Dachser Italy

seamlessly integrated into all Dachser network processes. Customers

Food Logistics regularly delivers 230,000 metric tonnes of fresh,

benefit from the consistent product portfolio vivengo as well as from

temperature-controlled, and ambient food to more than 1,200

access to the eLogistics platform for end-to-end shipment tracing,

(retail and industry) recipients across Italy every year. The facility

proactive discrepancy notifications, and straightforward order and

near Verona has a warehouse offering 17,000 m2 of storage in a variety

warehouse management. The location is also connected to aCONFERENCE further 33 of temperature zones as well as 41 loading 170 employees SESSIONS NOT TObays.

BESome MISSED: countries through the European Food Network. Every day, goods are

take care of distribution, warehousing, and administrative operations.

routed from Verona to the European Food Logistics hub in Frankfurt,

In Taranto (Apulia), Dachser Italy Food Logistics has a branch whose

as well as to other terminals in the network.

job is toWhat organize will full loads for Italymean and for export.

Brexitmain Panel: Brexit for the future of training and recruitment in logistics?

PAPP ITALIA IS NOW DACHSER ITALY FOOD LOGISTICS talentinlogistics.

Live Debate: Why aren’t young people attracted to working in logistics?

DVSA Seminar: What does the future of vocational training look like?

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01952 520216

www:

FORWARDER magazine

11 .co.uk

March 2018

INDUSTRY NEWS

W

ith the introduction of new Bluetooth tracking

Real-time ULD tracking information will also allow Delta’s cargo

technology, Delta will soon become the first U.S.

control center to more accurately monitor and reroute shipments

passenger airline to provide, real-time tracking for

that are delayed due to irregular operations, like inclement weather.

unit load devices (ULDs).

When implemented, the new tracking system will also enable Delta

This move marks a new era for Delta Cargo and the more than

to produce electronic unit control receipts, which is required by the

500 million kilograms of cargo it flies annually. The technology will

International Air Transport Association when ULDs are transferred

replace manual tracking for all shipping containers, called ULDs,

between parties – making Delta the first airline to offer a fully

which move cargo shipments, baggage and mail globally.

automated solution for customer transactions.

Our customers have told us they want improved tracking and

Delta was the first major airline to test Bluetooth tracking

immediate transparency for ULD shipments, and this best-in-class

technology, beginning in 2016, and has since deployed readers to 23

product will deliver exactly that. Our innovative tracking technology,

locations. By the end of 2018, the tracking system will be available on

in conjunction with our 24/7 cargo control center, gives us the

all of Delta’s ULDs, with more than 1,400 readers tracking customer

competitive edge when it comes to serving our customers.

shipments at more than 200 airports across six continents.

Shawn Cole, Vice President - Cargo, Delta

DELTA BECOMES 1ST MAJOR CARRIER TO OFFER

REAL-TIME BLUETOOTH TRACKING ON CONTAINER SHIPMENTS 12

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.deltacargo.com

The airline’s current GPS-enabled cargo tracking products, including a recently-announced service for highly time-sensitive shipments called Equation Critical, will continue to be available for both narrow body and wide-body aircraft shipments traveling internationally and within the U.S..

ABOUT DELTA CARGO Delta Cargo offers access to an industry-leading global

Delta recently introduced auto check-in for Fly Delta app users and

network, reaching more than 310 destinations in 54 countries

started testing its biometric boarding pass at DCA and its redesigned

on six continents and carrying more than 2.2 billion cargo

E-Gate experience in Atlanta. Over the past year, Delta has led the

ton-miles each year. Whether it’s life-saving pharmaceuticals,

industry on a number of other innovative customer solutions like

organs for transplant, fresh flowers, asparagus, luxury cars or

biometric-based self-service bag drop, RFID baggage handling, real-

bulk shipments, Delta Cargo offers reliable shipping services

time bag tracking via the Fly Delta mobile app, more efficient and

with GPS and real-time tracking options. With an industry-

high tech automated screening lanes and a groundbreaking flight deck

leading Cargo Control Center for 24/7 proactive shipment

app that helps Delta pilots avoid turbulence for a more comfortable

monitoring and IATA’s CEIV Pharma certification, Delta has

flight. Delta’s partnership with CLEAR already gives exclusive rates

the best on-time performance of any U.S. airline. In 2018, Delta

to U.S.-based SkyMiles Members for a faster way through security

was named to Fortune’s top 50 Most Admired Companies

lines at more than 20 airports nationwide.

in addition to being named the most admired airline for the seventh time in eight years. Additionally, Delta has ranked No.1 in the Business Travel News Annual Airline survey for an unprecedented seven consecutive years. Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs more than 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 800 aircraft. The airline is a founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance and participates in the industry’s leading transatlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia as well as a joint venture with Virgin Atlantic and Aeromexico. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 15,000 daily flights, with key hubs and markets including Amsterdam, Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York-JFK and LaGuardia, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City, São Paulo, Seattle, Seoul, and Tokyo-Narita. Delta has invested billions of dollars in airport facilities, global products and services, and technology to enhance the customer experience.

Discover more at www.DeltaCargo.com.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

13

INDUSTRY NEWS SUPPLY CHAIN

RED ALERT W hen food is making headlines in the national press

But how can even the biggest e-commerce company in the world

anywhere, this is usually because something has gone

guarantee that its customers will always receive what they have

wrong. And when logistics is deemed to be at fault,

ordered, and in a condition that will make them prepared to come

we know there is something seriously out of place.

back for more.

KFC having to close outlets in the UK because of a chicken shortage

Now, fast forward to food e-commerce. Food e-commerce is still

offered a salutary example of what happens when logistics is not

in its infancy, but it is growing.

working as it should. As a result, over 700 outlets were reported closed on more than one day last week. (Disgruntled customers

Failure to deliver, not delivering in time, or providing goods that

even phoned the police to get their chicken fix.)

are unfit for consumption are becoming the ‘new normal.’ At least, this is if you believe everything that is said on social media today.

What really happened when KFC decided to appoint a new logistics

However, surely these are only isolated cases of supply chain failure.

service provider?

As reported in the Guardian, the fact that over 60% of companies We will probably never get to the truth about whether this was

involved in meat cutting in the UK failed at least one food safety

down to the decision made by the client not to reappoint Bidvest

test according to UK food safety laws, points at the increasingly grey

in order to cut costs, or whether the new logistics service supplier

area between food production, distribution and logistics. Spurred

DHL was not up to the task. Reducing the number of distribution

on by outsourcing, the edges between production, food safety and

centres used by DHL has been given as a possible explanation, i.e.

logistics are blurring.

using just one DC instead of six. The silo approach in supply chain management thinking was another reason given.

Dubbed a ‘super-scary disaster we want to avoid in South Africa’

by Andy Connell of A-Bar-C Services, the case of Tasmanian fruit

However, one thing is clear: when deliveries fail, this is the point

fly being traced back to a failure in fumigation raises the issue of a

when disruption gains a new layer of meaning.

potential cost of a food recall.

Take Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba who was heard on Youtube in Davos 2015 saying that all he needed was to have two servers to get more e-commerce customers than Walmart. Building more warehouses was not the answer, the e-commerce guru said.

14

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at coollogisticsresources.com

There is a lot of emphasis placed upon the ‘glass tube’ supply chain and high visibility and ‘transparency’. Yet this is focused upon

Eke simply asked the rhetorical question: How can producers name a price if they do not know all their costs?

documentation processes and documentation compliance and NOT upon supply chain integrity and quality,

Connell says.

The risk is to infer that if your documentation process is good and you can deliver on time, clear on time, without delays, then it must be a good supply chain solution.

But visibility of the cold or frozen chain is left very much to the depth of diligence that the seller/buyer want to have,

he adds.

Division of labour, consolidation and de-consolidation, containerisation and cross-docking, packaging and re-packaging are all sources of potential contamination. And if there is no effective temperature control at the different stages of the supply chain, the

Source: John Eke, Exxent Consulting

risk of contamination increases.

When consumers start to demand a better alignment of quality, In an age of demand for greater transparency (empowered consumers)

safety and timeliness. they will be the new kings of the supply

how long can the food logistics sector continue to shirk responsibility

chain. Perhaps e-commerce will be able to deliver this. But before

and plead ignorance of temperature failure, cross contamination and

this happens, the food supply chain should become much more

unreported poor cleanliness standards during transport and storage?

transparent than is currently the case.

It may be that supply chain issues will become catalysts for more

Alex von Stempel, Director, Cool Logistics Resources Ltd.

visibility of cold chain quality, rather than simply documenting ‘logistics efficiency’.

As John Eke of Exxent Consulting recently said in a ground-breaking speech at Logistics Hub during Fruit Logistica earlier this month, most food manufacturers have very little idea how to account for logistics costs within their own organisations.

Whilst the lion’s share of logistics costs is due to transportation costs, the figure is in fact much higher when not just outbound but also all inbound logistics costs are included.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

15

INDUSTRY NEWS

NEW E-COMMERCE SCHEME ...WHY YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO IGNORE THE NEW RULES

W

hat’s in your warehouse, who does it belong to and

HMRC says there is systematic under-declaration of value and

where is it going? If you think none of that matters,

misdeclaration of goods, with no VAT being paid following the

you really need to think again.

online sale.

The world of e-commerce has been largely unregulated in the UK

From the very largest, most sophisticated fulfilment houses, to the

up to now, but a dramatic change is on the way, warns transport

warehouse operator using a few spare shelves to handle and store

and logistics law specialist Howard Catherall.

products sold online, to the individual channelling products through their spare bedroom, the rules will apply across the board.

Tough new regulations will crack down on previously ‘under the radar’ fulfilment houses and will place very significant administrative

In every case, the fulfilment house will have to have details of

burdens on all companies involved in this sector.

exactly who each customer is and, if the operator knows or has reasonable grounds to suspect that customer isn’t meeting VAT/

HMRC’s Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme goes live in April

Customs obligations, there is a requirement to notify HMRC and

2019, but the deadlines are much earlier.

not do any more business with that party. Failure to do so could lead to a £3,000 penalty. Non-compliance could put a company out

Any company engaged in fulfilment services for non EU

of business entirely.

customers is required to register with HMRC this year and then to comply with the requirements. Failure to register in time will

The fulfilment house will be required to keep records of

lead to significant penalties.

customer details, VAT information, descriptions of the types and

Howard Catherall, Partner, Gotelee Solicitors

quantities of goods being stored, import entry numbers and other information. There will also be a knock-on impact relating to the

The reason for the new regulations? HMRC says there is a £1.5bn VAT

safety of items being sold. Trading Standards will have access to

and Customs duty black hole where large amounts of e-commerce

HMRC’s list of fulfilment houses. Trading Standards officers will

is taking place and fulfilment houses are being used by unscrupulous

visit your premises, have the power to look at goods being stored

retailers, based outside the EU, which advertise goods for sale online.

and will ask how you ensure that unsafe goods don’t leave the

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.gotelee.co.uk

warehouse. It’s no good saying to HMRC or Trading Standards ‘it’s

In response to the impact of the new rules, Gotelee Solicitors have

all cardboard boxes to me’. Whether it’s satisfying HMRC’s due

developed an app, to be launched at Multimodal, which enables

diligence obligation on type and quantity of products or complying

those involved in e-commerce distribution to run through a series of

with your product safety obligations – it’s your responsibility to

defined steps to check the safety of the products they are handling.

open the box and check.

Some legislation is complicated – but that doesn’t mean you can afford to ignore it.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

17

INDUSTRY NEWS INDEPENDENT FREIGHT FORWARDERS

ALSO TURNING DIGITAL A

fter the recent entry of new digital freight forwarders and

changes. Various of our members are already users of the system

at the same time that the large multinationals as DHL,

and have created their own digital platform for automatic pricing.

K&N, DB Schenker and CH Robinson amongst others

Sarah Bidmead, Network Manager, Pangea Group

have announced the launching of their digital platforms (Saloodo, Twil Logistics, FreightQuote, UShip), local freight forwarders have

In a study conducted by KPMG ´Startups in Logistics and Forwarding:

also made available their own state-of-the-art digital technology. This

Business models, investments, challenges´, the sector and its potential

allows cargo agencies of any size to take their business online and

and current technological challenges were analyzed. In this report, the

participate for the first time in a world of automation, instantaneity

need to implement and use White Label systems were already pointed

and connectivity. This is all conveyed through the recently released

out as crucial next steps for freight forwarders and 3PLs. White

White Label platform, Freightalia.

Label systems have been functioning in many sectors and have been applied as useful and affordable tools that within their capabilities have

Freightalia has partnered with the Pangea Group, a network

revolutionized routines and internal processes, such as Freshbooks

association that unites more than 300 independent freight forwarders

for invoicing and payment management, other accounting systems like

from around the world in order to give their members access to this

Sage and Xero, email and marketing tools like Mailchimp, Icontact and

powerful automatic quoting system and help them to further their

Jotform, and other more specific solutions as ticketing systems for

engagement with exporters, importers and agents.

hotels and conferences, such as Sirvoy and Regonline.

There has been a lot of interest in the newly released system,

Freightalia is an automatic system for freight quoting and rate

as due to the fast-paced development of our modern world, freight

management, that allows a complete easy self-customisation

forwarders have been receiving mounting pressure regarding digital

from the platform branding to the system notifications. Each

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

freight forwarder has its own Freightalia domain which can be

The independent freight forwarders deal with 40% of the global market

completely incorporated into their current website. The system

share, an amount which is not insignificant. This is due to the fact that,

is primarily focused upon sales, the main bottleneck for a freight

despite the coexistence with large multinationals, the independent

forwarder and which presents elevated costs for the company.

freight forwarder can provide a service that is much more personable and customer-oriented. However, it is clear that to retain their market

To effectively respond to the needs of customers who increasingly

share, independent freight forwarders should embrace new technology

demand faster pricing, a radical change in digital work systems is

and not lose their ability to compete within the sector.

necessary. Indeed, it is no longer feasible to wait for the prices from a supplier in order to send a quote to a potential client. It is necessary to anticipate the input of the rates from suppliers, airlines

ABOUT PANGEA GROUP

and shipping companies in an updated and well-organized system. An

The PANGEA Group includes Pangea Logistics Network,

effective management of rates is the first step to make the pricing

international network of general freight forwarders, and

process become automatic and instantaneous. But not only this, a

Connecta Airfreight Network, international network of air

powerful engine has to combine rates, items and specific markups

freight forwarders.

for each client to deliver accurate offers in real-time.

Pangea Logistics Network was launched in December 2010

ABOUT FREIGHTALIA

and comprises strong, well-established air- and ocean-freight

Freightalia is a white label system that allows Freight

operating from 400 bases in 95 countries, collectively handling

Forwarders to instantly quote importers and exporters

over 1.5 million bookings per annum. For a list of members,

automatically and online. The system is simple and intuitive

visit pangea-network.com/members

forwarders and consolidators. It now has 180 members

for the freight forwarder and its customers. Its main features include modules for Quotations, Rates, Clients, Customization

Connecta Airfreight Network was launched in 2015 for IATA

and Reports.

certified airfreight forwarders with a proven track record in air cargo. Connecta’s aim is to form an airfreight community,

Freightalia can be integrated with the company’s website

for sharing specialised resources and strengthening collective

via Widget, as well as with other existing ERPs using API

buying power with airlines and other suppliers. Connecta

integration. The system is fully customizable to match each

already has 120 members operating from 80 airports in 50

freight forwarder’s branding and preferences.

countries. For a list of members, visit www.connectanetwork.com/members

For more information, visit freightalia.com Pangea and Connecta members benefit from a financial incentive program covering all shipments routed between members, supported by a centralised payment protection system. They also have access to CHAMP’s web-based freight forwarding system, Logitude, which enables them to manage quotes, shipments, bookings and consolidations more efficiently and cost-effectively, without major financial outlay.

Logitude supports the IATA e-AWB and e-freight initiatives, facilitating electronic data interchange with some 100 airlines.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

19

INDUSTRY NEWS

ANGLOFREIGHT LAUNCHES

FREIGHT IS GREAT CAMPAIGN

T

aking inspiration from the Department of International

Coming at a precarious time in the UK’s economy, it can only help

Trade’s 'Exporting is Great' campaign designed to create

the country if the DIT’s campaign achieves the ambitious target it has

100,000 new UK exporters by the year 2020, Anglo

set out to. Many companies looking for new opportunities to sell

Freight, the Southampton based freight forwarder, have launched

their products are now looking overseas to keep their order books

their own 'Freight is Great' initiative.

looking healthy. And now thanks to the expansion of the world wide web and with the world at their fingertips, they see this as a logical

According to Chris Goodman, their Managing Director, the main

progression for their business. Setting up an Export operation has

purpose of this campaign is to help many of those small companies

never been easier, and with the right help and support there is no

that are new to exporting get through all the first hurdles and to

reason why a company with an entrepreneurial spirit and a bit of

help their key 1st orders run smoothly, as well as ensuring their

ambition can’t succeed in seeking out new markets overseas.

cargo reaches its overseas destination in good condition and in a timely manner.

As the Minister for Trade and Investment at the time of the 'Export is Great' launch, Lord Francis Maude, said:

Travelling overseas in

We are providing advice and help on things such as export

my capacity as Minister for Trade, I see first-hand the demand that

packaging, documentation and methods of payment. We are also

exists for UK products and services, but many companies don’t

providing on-going support to ensure the newcomers to shipping

realise this demand exists.

are not deterred by the complexities of exporting.

As the DIT are now succeeding in putting many of these companies This could be by either pointing shippers in the right direction to avail

in contact with overseas demand, it can only be a good thing that the

themselves of all the resources that are available to them out there, or

service providers in our industry contribute to ensure any first time

simply being on hand to answer any questions they may have.

shippers are not discouraged at the first obstacles that come their way, and are given access to the right resources to ensure that this

First time shippers contacting the forwarder receive a 'start-up

significant effort translates into additional valuable revenue streams

pack' which includes information on Incoterms, a list of commonly

for our economy.

used abbreviations, a directory of useful resources, and a step by step guide to successfully handling their first order from an

Anglo Freight’s Exporters start up pack can be obtained by contacting

overseas market.

them at www.anglofreight.co.uk

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at europa-worldwide.com

T

he Nottingham team of leading logistics provider, Europa

Our relocation in Nottingham was an investment in our stance in

Worldwide Group, has recently celebrated its most

the area, to strengthen Europa’s influence and position ourselves as

successful month in its four-year history, just 6 months after

one of the leading logistics providers for businesses across the East

moving into its new, larger offices at Colwick Quays Business Park.

Midlands. These figures clearly show that the team have made some brilliant achievements so far, which certainly sets us in great stead

The team of seven, which was established when Europa was acquired

for the rest of the year. Two of our Operators at the branch have

in 2013, saw gross profit increase by a third and booked 22 per cent

applied for our internal Road Account Management scheme and will

more export shipments in January compared to the same period

start training for their new roles soon – opening up new positions,

in 2017. As well as these record-breaking figures, all of Europa’s

so we are now welcoming any enquiries about applications.

Nottingham Road Account Managers smashed their targets in

Dionne Redpath, Sales Director, Europa

January and the team is now looking to appoint new Operators to support its growing customer base.

Europa Worldwide Group employs 650 people across 12 sites in the UK plus Hong Kong and is represented in 100 countries.

This expansion comes after the business invested in a brand-new East Midlands office in October 2017 to fulfil the needs to the growing team.

We’re delighted with our January results; this increase in bookings and boost in profits comes off the back of a lot of hard work from our team. Our new office fits with our ambitions and has definitely helped to facilitate the growth of both our customer base and our own team. Our Account Managers have done a brilliant job of bringing new business in from across the East Midlands so far this year – securing 21 new accounts, which went on to book 65 shipments in January. We’re looking forward to consolidating this hard work, building upon our presence in the region and growing our team over the coming months!

Sally Watson, Branch Manager, Europa Nottingham

In August 2017, Europa launched its pioneering new MBX (Money Back Express) service, offering new and existing customers the opportunity to benefit from a full refund of freight charges if Europa fails to deliver to the customer’s defined and agreed transit time. In January, seven per cent of all total bookings made by Europa’s Nottingham team included this service - a testament to its success across the UK.

EUROPA NOTTINGHAM SPEEDING TOWARDS GROWTH WITH

RECORDBREAKING MONTH FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

21

INDUSTRY NEWS DEMATIC OPENS

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART OFFICES IN LITHUANIA

D

ematic has invested to secure the skilled engineering resources

Dematic is expanding and we need more and more people with

needed for future expansion by moving to new ultra-modern

good engineering skills to work both here and abroad. The reason

offices in Kaunas, Lithuania’s second largest city.

that Dematic is committed to Lithuania is that there is a large pool of well-educated, skilled individuals keen to embrace core areas of

Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of Dematic’s establishment of

competence for Dematic, such as engineering, systems modelling and

an Engineering and Consulting office in Lithuania, the business has

analytics. These state-of-the-art offices offer a wonderful space to

made a significant commitment to further developing its regional

work and will, I’m sure, be very attractive to individuals looking to

centre for engineering design and analytics.

work in an advanced and exciting business.

Tom Klanderman,

Opened on the 18th January by Tom Klanderman, Senior Vice

Senior Vice President Global Project Engineering, Dematic

President Global Project Engineering, Dematic, in the presence of senior engineering management from across Europe, the new offices

Referring to the landmark anniversary of Dematic’s presence in Lithuania,

are a centre of excellence for Dematic’s Controls Engineering,

Brendan Lacy, Vice President Global Project Engineering, EMEA, Dematic

Solutions Design and Financial Analysis disciplines.

says:

Over the past ten years we have developed a highly capable team

of loyal and talented individuals in Kaunas. I am confident that we have The move to a 1,000 square metre open-plan suite in the newly built

invested well to support and grow those capabilities.

Kauno Dokas Centre, close to the heart of Kaunas, will help facilitate the recruitment of a near doubling of the number of skilled Dematic

Our skilled workforce relies on advanced IT and fast communications,

engineers, consultants and analysts based in the city – taking staff

so it can be no coincidence that we are established here, as Lithuania

numbers from 70 to over 130 within the next few years.

is No.1 in Europe for its optical internet penetration. It helps office efficiency and makes working remotely much easier.

Vadim Major, Office Manager, Dematic’s Kaunas facilities

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.dematic.com

The new offices are more than double the size of the previous facilities and are more conveniently located close to the city centre with easy access to fast transport links.

ABOUT DEMATIC

Dematic is a leading global supplier of integrated automated technology, software and services to optimise the supply chain.

Dematic employs over 6,000 skilled logistics professionals to serve its customers globally, with engineering centres and manufacturing facilities located across the globe. Dematic is now integrated under the roof of KION Group, and has implemented more than 6,000 integrated systems for a customer base that includes small, medium and large companies doing business in a variety of market sectors. Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dematic is a member of KION Group, a global leader in industrial trucks, related services, and supply chain solutions. Across more than 100 countries worldwide, the KION Group designs, builds and supports logistics solutions that optimise material and information flow within factories, warehouses and distribution centres. The company is the largest manufacturer of industrial trucks in Europe, the second-largest producer of forklifts globally, and a leading provider of warehouse automation.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

23

eSHOTCAMPAIGNS

With organically grown data built up over the last 10 years and over 25 consultants updating records of freight forwarders, shippers, supply chain and logistics departments worldwide, our data is unrivalled. We can run campaigns by geographical region or by vertical market.

NEWSLETTERS

Internal and external communications. Newsletter production as well as content writing as required. Newsletters are an excellent way to increase client awareness of new services and keep employees fully engaged.

POSTALMAILSHOTS

Our Postal Mailshot data is the cleanest in the industry. We can produce postal mailshots in exactly the same format as our eShot campaigns. As with our digital marketing we are able to target geographical regions or verticals according to your requirements.

PAFFINDER

PAF Finder is a new section being added to FORWARDER magazine where you can talk about your Partners, Agents and Franchise (PAF) agreements. It will include promotional editorial and a section where you can advertise for a new partner, agent or franchise.

FORWARDERDIRECTORY

The FORWARDER Directory is a listing of freight forwarding companies, shipping lines, airlines, etc. The Directory has recently been redesigned to include all of the countries in each issue and to be a persistent, ever-evolving resource.

FORWARDERONLINE

FORWARDERmagazine.com is the magazine, advertising space and Directory online. We offer a daily posting service straight to the site that gets shared across the whole of the Freight Media social platform including Freightabase, LinkedIn Facebook and Twitter.

CONTACT US: KATIE@FREIGHT-MEDIA.COM +44 (0)1454 628 771 FORWARDER magazine March 2018 24

FREIGHTMEDIA PROVIDES AN OUTSOURCED MARKETING SOLUTION FOR THE FREIGHT INDUSTRY

MOVEITLIKE...

Significant front-cover exposure and 6-page Q&A in FORWARDER magazine about you and your company. Designed for the forwarder that wants to stand out from the competition and for use when presenting your services to clients. Includes a separate PDF booklet.

SITESTATISTICS

A two- or four-page spread in FORWARDER magazine ideal for anyone aiming to promote a new facility. As with ‘Move it Like…’ we can produce a handout that your sales team can use for client meetings and marketing campaigns.

PROMOTIONALEDITORIAL

An excellent way of promoting new services, new recruits or any exciting projects that you may have coming up. Over the next 12 months we will be covering various topics around UK regions, international trade lanes and vertical markets.

SOCIALMEDIA

Our team of social media experts will post regular articles to increase brand awareness and exposure. Most of our clients are too busy moving freight to get caught up in perfecting their social media presence. We will take it off your hands.

WEBSITEDESIGN

Your website is your shop front and you only get one chance to make a first impression.

We are here to ensure it’s an excellent one. Our digital marketing and design team will work with start-ups, SMEs or top-25 forwarders to forge their online presence.

FORWARDINGJOBS.COM

Forwardingjobs.com is the leading job board for the Freight Forwarding Industry.

If you are recruiting on a regular basis we can offer a range of services depending on your requirements and vacancies are included in the recruitment section of FORWARDER.

WWW.FREIGHT-MEDIA.COM 25 FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

INDUSTRY NEWS

GEODIS SIGNS EXPANDED CONTRACT IN SPAIN WITH BIOSYSTEMS SA

G

EODIS has just signed an expanded contract with

GEODIS and Biosystems S.A. have been building up a trusted

Biosystems S.A. – a company focused on the Pharma and

relationship for years. GEODIS conducts regular face-to-face

Healthcare industry – to send temperature-controlled

meetings with this important customer in order to ensure a true

reagents and lab instruments to over 35 countries across the world.

collaboration that relies on flexibility and personal attention to every

The two companies have been cooperating for over 10 years, and

shipment, with a dedicated structure in place for sometimes daily

this new contract incorporates all new destinations across the globe.

pick-ups to reduce Biosystems S.A.’s warehousing costs.

Biosystems S.A. exports to regions where the transport of goods can be challenging, such as Armenia, Afghanistan and a variety of

ABOUT GEODIS

African locations. GEODIS uses its global network to perform

GEODIS is a Supply Chain Operator ranking among the top

customs activities while organising direct bills of lading according

companies in the field in Europe and the World. GEODIS,

to the company’s requirements.

We provide our services to

owned by SNCF Logistics, which in turn is a business line of the

Biosystem SA through close cooperation between sales, operations

SNCF Group, is ranked as the number four logistics provider

and customs. This creates one integrated solution with top service

in Europe and number seven at a worldwide level. GEODIS is

at the best possible rate and simplified monthly invoicing.

also listed as a “Leader” in Gartner’s 2016 Magic Quadrant of

Vincent Bertonnaud,

Worldwide 3PLs. GEODIS’ reach includes a direct presence in

Managing Director for Freight Forwarding in Spain, GEODIS

67 countries and a global network spanning over 120 countries.

With its five Lines of Business (Supply Chain Optimization,

We trust GEODIS’ professionalism. Their sales and operations teams

Freight Forwarding, Contract Logistics, Distribution & Express,

operate at a very high level to provide quality products and services at

and Road Transport), GEODIS manages its customers’ Supply

reasonable rates. They also go above and beyond in terms of personal care

Chain by providing end to end solutions enabled by over 39,500

in the management of our daily shipments. They are always willing to help

employees, its infrastructure, its processes and systems. In 2016,

in times of urgency with quick assistance and close customer attention.

GEODIS recorded €8 billion in sales.

Anna Carné, Sales Administration Manager, Biosystems

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.wfs.aero

W

orldwide Flight Services’ (WFS) North American

WFS is also seeing strong demand for its passenger services in the

operations have made a successful start to 2018 by

U.S. Starting in April, it will serve passengers travelling on LOT

winning and renewing cargo handling, ramp and passenger

Polish Airlines’ new weekly Warsaw-New York JFK-Warsaw flights

services contracts with airline customers at eight U.S. stations.

as well as those flying onboard Allegiant Air’s new six flights a week from Sarasota.

At Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, WFS won the freighter handling contract for Turkish Airlines’ new twiceweekly flights to Istanbul. The agreement extends WFS’ existing relationship with the airline. New cargo handling contracts have also been awarded to WFS by Aer Lingus in Seattle for its new four times weekly flights to Dublin, starting in May, while, in Miami, Ethiopian Airlines has chosen to partner with WFS to support its new route from Addis Ababa. WFS expects to handle some 5,200 tonnes of

And, it’s not just in the U.S. where WFS is enjoying new contract

freight per annum for the airline.

success. In neighbouring Canada, it has signed a three-year contract with Lufthansa to handle some 6,000 tonnes a year onboard its

DHL Air has also renewed contracts with WFS in both Kansas City

services from Frankfurt.

and St. Louis.

2017 was a very positive year for our stations in the U.S. and it is Three new ramp handling contracts have been awarded to WFS

pleasing to see this continuing since the start of 2018 with new contracts

since the start of the year in Newark. All three-year contracts,

being awarded to us from both existing and new airline customers

these see WFS now serving Austrian Airlines, Primera Air and Swiss

across all of our services. Most of these latest contracts are extensions

International Air Lines at the airport. Swiss currently operates seven

of working relationships we have with these airline customers at other

services a week to and from Newark, while Austrian operates five.

points in our network so we especially welcome their confidence in our

Primera Air is also launching seven services per week in April.

ability to provide the same superior service, safety and security at more of the airports they serve across the U.S. Ray Jetha, SVP, Sales & Business Development, WFS

A STRONG START TO 2018 FOR WFS IN NORTH AMERICA FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

27

INDUSTRY NEWS

TWILL ADDS MEXICO TO ITS DIGITAL FREIGHT FORWARDING PLATFORM

T

he Hague, NL – 06 March 2018 – Twill has announced that

Twill brings a huge amount of simplicity to our operations.

Mexico is the latest addition to its digital freight forwarding

Technology is changing at such a fast pace that it’s essential we act

platform. This announcement means that since its launch

now to ensure we are delivering the best for our customers. Twill’s

less than a year ago, Twill now operates in five import countries and

Supplier Initiated Booking feature is also hugely important for us and

four export countries.

will help us to enter new markets as well as add more value for our existing customer base.

As a digital freight forwarding solution, Twill is bringing the industry

Narin Phol, Regional CEO for the Americas region, Damco

into the 21st century. Serving full container load, ocean services from port to door, Twill’s booking process is designed to make shipping

Initial customer feedback has shown that the visibility provided

simple and it can take as little as 30 seconds to place a cargo booking

through the platform, the ability to manage all paperwork in one

on the intuitive platform.

place and Twill’s proactive customer care team are all reasons why existing customers in Mexico are already very interested in

By partnering with Damco, Twill can utilise its existing footprint

the new platform.

across the globe. Dedicated Twill customer care teams at each origin and destination country make the process as simple for customers as possible.

Mexico is the largest market in Latin America and while it is still largely considered an emerging market, it is expected to grow significantly in 2018, making it a major player for us in the context

We’re delighted to be rolling out Twill into Mexico and there’s

of global trade. We’re one of the first in Mexico to offer this sort of

a lot of excitement amongst our customer base! For a while now,

solution for our customers. It’s clear to see that companies in Mexico

we’ve been looking at ways in which we can improve end-to-end

are open to new ways of working and are constantly looking for new

visibility and manage logistics in a much more practical way. A lot

ways of doing things, and we’re excited to play our part in that.

of our customers are transactional, and Twill offers an innovative

Troels Stovring, CEO, Twill

solution to better serve both current and new customers. It also means that we can differentiate from our competitors – we truly

If you’re interested in shipping to Mexico from China, Vietnam,

believe this sort of technology is the future.

Indonesia or India, sign up to make your first booking at

Alexandra Loboda, CEO of Mexico, Damco

www.twill-logistics.com

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at cargologicair.com

B

ritish cargo airline, CargoLogicAir, has confirmed

milestones, Mr. Kerr’s key responsibilities will be to focus on

management changes to support the next phase of its

developing CargoLogicAir into a leadership position in the air cargo

development strategy.

market through further fleet expansion and network development, as well as strengthening the airline’s growing reputation as a high

Dmitry Grishin, who successfully led the establishment and launch

quality service provider.

of CargoLogicAir as well as its initial network development, has now handed over his responsibilities to newly-appointed CEO David

At present, CargoLogicAir is the only British cargo airline operating

Kerr, a move previously announced by the airline.

flights from the UK, connecting customers with prime cargo markets around the world, including Frankfurt, Mexico City, Atlanta,

Mr. Grishin contributed significantly to the company’s formation, its

Houston, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Hong Kong and Tel Aviv. Its fleet

initial validation process and the commencement of flight operations.

currently consists of three modern Boeing 747 freighter aircraft,

As the airline now moves towards achieving its next strategic

including the latest generation 747-8F.

LEADERSHIP ROLE HANDS OVER AT CARGOLOGICAIR FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

29

INDUSTRY NEWS

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.bimco.org

BIMCO RELAUNCH

SHIP BENCHMARKING SYSTEM B IMCO relaunches ship benchmarking system Shipping KPI

Shipping KPI is based on self-reporting by 300 companies and a total

after two years of redesign. The system helps shipowners

of 6000 ships. It enables users to compare performance parameters

and managers make strategic decisions about their fleet.

between ships of similar type, tonnage, trades or flag states, while remaining anonymous.

The Shipping KPI system enables me, as a shipowner, to

make rational strategic decisions on how to run my fleet, by

Users can compare 33 different Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

benchmarking with other ships in the segments we compete in.

– for example budget performance, ship availability, contained

It is an important step for BIMCO in its goal of developing digital

spills and officer retention. The KPIs are based on 64 individual

solutions for the industry.

performance indicators.

BIMCO's short term target is to get more than 10,000 ships into the system to create an even better foundation for comparison and analysis.

Shipping KPI, a community tool We see Shipping KPI as a community effort. It is by the industry for the industry. It is designed for shipowners and ship managers, to help them compare apples with apples, without giving over proprietary data to their competitors. It enables us at Kaptanoğlu Group to manage our fleet better,

Kaptanoğlu says.

BIMCO has improved the reporting tool and made sure that the Şadan Kaptanoğlu, owner of Kaptanoğlu Group, President Designate

reporting values conform to IMO-rules and industry-standards.

of BIMCO and chair of the Shipping KPI steering group

A lot of work has also gone into improving the user experience.

30

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

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Confidential data When you benchmark in the Shipping KPI system, the lowest level you can compare your ship or ships with is the data from a minimum of 10 ships, owned by at least three different companies.

The data is hosted with an external company, which is independently audited to verify its ability to safeguard the data. It should be noted that BIMCO does not have direct access to the data provided by the participating companies.

Free of charge Shipping KPI is run by BIMCO on a not-for-profit basis. New users have to pay a sign-up fee, but thereafter, the tool is free for BIMCO members. Non-members have to pay a sign-up fee and thereafter an annual subscription of €1,975.

09.03.2018 14:26:39

•• Shipping KPI was first launched in 2009.

•• BIMCO acquired Shipping KPI from Intermanager in 2015.

•• InterManager is the international trade association for the ship management industry.

•• 300 companies use Shipping KPI, reporting on around 6000 ships, this has increased by 1,500 ships since BIMCO acquired the system in 2015.

•• Shipping KPI is a tool for the entire industry run on a not-for-profit basis.

•• BIMCO is hosting a launch event in Cyprus on 26 February 2018 for Shipping KPI.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

31

INDUSTRY NEWS

FREIGHT TRADE ASSOCIATION URGES MEMBERS TO

REVIEW CYBER SECURITY MEASURES I n light of the substantial cost of last year's cyber attack on Maersk and other institutions, the British International Freight Association

(BIFA) is urging its members to review their cyber security policies.

The cyber attacks have revealed the scale of impact that security breaches can have on global logistics and supply chains, with the

physical cost of rectifying the problems incurred at Maersk reported to be around USD300 million.

With businesses continuing to push for digitisation and connected systems, it is impossible to deny the rising importance of cyber security for global supply chains. BIFA takes advice from various experts on this matter and we believe it would be prudent for members to review their IT-related security processes, with a view to identifying and remedying any obvious weaknesses. We are encouraging our members to contact a reputable IT supplier with expertise in cyber security to discuss this matter. BIFA has found that some insurers – especially those providing business interruption insurance policies – can also provide assistance.

Robert Keen, Director General, BIFA

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

O

ne of the UK’s largest steel traders has just signed a new five year deal with PD Ports at Groveport, the inland port complex on the River Trent that has direct sea

access along the Humber Estuary.

Steel trader, All Steels Trading imports steel from all over the world and sells to both stockholders and end users with the ability to deliver

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.pdports.co.uk

steel products in the UK and Europe within 48 hours from the time of order; with Groveport an integral part of that supply chain.

Groveport is an important part of the PD Ports’ operations in the

warehouse with direct quay access that provides a comprehensive

UK and with steel products being handled at this location for more

service for our steel customers. With an additional 41,000 sq.m of

than 40 years. The relationship with All Steels Trading is a long-

covered warehousing and a surfaced open storage area we can offer

term one based on trust and deliverable logistics according to Geoff

at total of 450,000m2 space for handling and storage.

Lippitt, Business Development Director at PD Ports.

Laurence McDougall, Managing Director at All Steels Trading We have a very experienced team handling steel products at Groveport and we are both delighted and proud to have further

believes the partnership with PD Ports works because of the unique working relationship.

strengthened our long-standing relationship with All Steels Trading as UK port of choice for the next five years and beyond. We have

PD Ports understands what we need to keep our customers

vast experience in and knowledge of the markets steel traders

on track, it’s an invaluable partnership. We often have to respond

operate in and our steel handling operations reflect the care and

quickly to fluctuations in demand and knowing we can rely on

attention to detail we offer in this sector. As well as the excellent

PD Ports to handle, store and have our steel products available

transport links for road deliveries into the UK network, a key

on demand adds real strength to our customer offer in terms of

benefit of using Groveport is that we have a 19,200 sq.m covered

efficiency and value for money.

PD PORTS SIGNS 5-YEAR DEAL WITH ONE OF THE UK’S LARGEST STEEL TRADERS AT GROVEPORT FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

33

INDUSTRY NEWS

LONDON MAYOR’S TRANSPORT STRATEGY IS

ANTI-HAULAGE & ANTI-BUSINESS T he Road Haulage Association is frustrated that the Mayor of London’s Transport Strategy does little to support hauliers delivering the goods the capital relies on.

His plan doesn’t address the need to move freight efficiently despite

the RHA offering considered advice to help address the challenges London faces in reducing the congestion that costs the economy

billions. Peak time morning traffic is projected to slow to just nine kilometres per hour by 2041.

There’s a clear drive to force lorries off the streets of London in a bid to reduce traffic and air pollution. But it won’t. We’re seeing more and more vans delivering freight in London as it is - today it’s four vans to every lorry and rising. Over-regulation of HGVs will widen that gap even more, which clearly isn’t going to do much to reduce emissions and congestion. The Mayor is reducing motorised mobility across London – his strategy makes freight movements very expensive, which will hugely impact hauliers, retailers and London’s communities. By 2041 London's population will have grown by nearly two million – needing more than a million new homes.

Each new home requires several tonnes of building materials and infrastructure. How does the Mayor propose that’ll happen if lorries can’t move freely and efficiently across the city?

Richard Burnett, Chief Executive, RHA

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

GEODIS PILOT PROJECT FOR

T

ROBOTIC PICKING DOUBLES PRODUCTIVITY

IN ITS INDIANAPOLIS WAREHOUSE

o address the record-low unemployment rate (~3%) and the

The results have been staggering. Now, 80% of the units are picked

strain on labor during peak seasons, GEODIS and a major

to the robots daily. Employee productivity has doubled and there

online women’s apparel client partnered to pilot collaborative

was at least 50% reduction in time to train new employees. GEODIS

each-picking using 30 autonomous mobile robots from Locus Robotics

looks to expand the partnership with Locus Robotics in more

in a 139,000 square foot (13,000 sqm) warehouse in Indianapolis. The

warehouses with their retail and ecommerce customers.

location handles over 30,000 SKUs and uses a manual picking process that is complex and leaves little margin for error.

Our mission is to help our clients succeed by overcoming their logistical constraints and we are committed to innovative solutions for our customers to address industry-wide challenges. The labour market is tight, especially during peak seasons, and we want to enable our team to better execute for our customers. And in this case, the technological support of robots effectively solved the challenge.

Marie-Christine Lombard, Chief Executive Officer, Geodis

The success of the pilot started with simplifying GEODIS employee training. Rather than spending hours in the classroom, team members were instructed on how to pick to the robots on the warehouse floor, completing the training within a matter of minutes. The messaging on the robots is displayed in their preferred languages allowing for faster absorption of training and a decrease in picking errors. Picking units to the robots also reduced physical demand by eliminating the need to pull pick carts and decreasing overall travel.

We are very proud to welcome GEODIS as a customer.

Our robots enhance more than worker productivity; they improve worker job satisfaction by removing some of the more physically demanding aspects of the picking process. We look forward to continuing to help the GEODIS team drive operating efficiencies.

Rick Faulk, CEO, Locus Robotics

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

35

INDUSTRY NEWS

T

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at headfordgroup.com

he Headford Group was recently represented at the 10 th

As a global staffing businesses focused purely on the freight

WCA Worldwide Conference by three of its leading

industry, the WCA conference in Singapore allowed us to meet

figures. Craig Headford, Managing Director of the group,

with clients from multiple continents in one place. It’s a unique

was accompanied by Lewis Bunn and David Roberts, who head up

experience that allows me as a recruitment manager to sit down

Headford Growth and Freight Mergers respectively.

with multiple clients in quick succession and talk about their ‘organic’ growth strategies whether that’s taking on a team of operators for a

The WCA event in Singapore was simply the best industry

new product offering; a single high-level sales professional with vast

networking event I’ve attended in all my years within forwarding,

industry knowledge; or start up in a new territory through the hiring

and I started when I was sixteen. While I’m not actually operating

of an established team of operators, sales people and Managers.

a freight forwarding business these days, the opportunity to add

Lewis Bunn, Head of Global Recruitment, Headford Growth

so much value to all of the members of the WCA across staffing, mergers & acquisitions, and media & advertising is a privilege. Many of

The chance to meet up to 3,000 business owners in one place

the members already knew of one of the areas within our business,

presents a unique opportunity to get a feel for how the market is

but this event in particular allowed us to showcase the breadth of

changing and the effects these changes are having on the growth and exit

services that we offer as a group that cover growth, advertising

plans of small and mid-size forwarders from so many countries. For me,

and ultimately the acquisition of a freight forwarding business to

the real opportunity was to help these business owners understand that

grow even further, or the selling of a business once our clients have

the acquisition of another business, or the sale of their own organisation

achieved their goals.

isn’t actually such an unrealistic or daunting prospect.

Craig Headford, Managing Director, Headford Group

David Roberts, Principal Consultant, Freight Mergers

36

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

FOUR GROUPS | ONE MISSION LEADING THE WORLD IN LOGISTICS PARTNERING

wcaworld.com

THE ORIGINAL FREIGHT NETWORK

THE NEXT GENERATION

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lognetglobal.com

EXCLUSIVE, DYNAMIC & STRATEGIC

THE ELITE, BEST-IN-CLASS

gloBal logistics FORWARDER magazine netWoRK March 2018

elitegln.com

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

Haulier LCL

NVOCC FTL

LTL

Courier Air cargo

Shipping line Air courier

Air Rail

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at go2tigers.com

TIGERS GROWS GLOBAL FOOTPRINT

WITH NEW TEMPERATURE-CONTROLLED DALLAS FACILITY

S

upply chain group Tigers to expand its omni-channel

The new Dallas branch offers the full range of Tigers’ logistics

offering in North America with new office in Dallas and

services, from international freight forwarding and Customs

further expansion across the USA

brokerage to omni-channel fulfilment for the retail industry and others across North America.

Dallas, Texas, USA, Tuesday, 13th March 2018 – Tigers has expanded into a larger facility in Dallas, Texas, USA, complete with

Tigers has raised the level of service we are providing to our

a temperature-controlled area, as part of ongoing global growth,

Associates around the world by using the latest technology to manage

supporting customers across North America.

quality control and shipping. As a result, we can now send out far more orders in a single day than ever before, and they are more accurate,

The new 86,000 square foot state-of-the-art office and warehouse

which means our customers will be seeing a big difference.

facility, located at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, is headed

Joel Bikman, COO & Chief Marketing Officer, Mannatech Inc.

by Jodi Flynn, Branch Manager, Dallas, Tigers, specialising in health supplements and cosmetics.

The Hong Kong headquartered e-commerce specialist operates 16 offices in the USA, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver,

Our new Dallas facility is perfectly positioned to allow us to deliver omni-channel orders across the USA. Our global warehouse

Detroit, Los Angeles, Riverside, Miami, New York, Newark, San Francisco, and Seattle, and is planning further expansion in 2018.

management system and SmartHub: Connect are integrated with customers’ order management systems, allowing for real-time order processing. Our eShop, which will be available to customers across our US offices in March, will enable customers to enter the e-commerce market. We are currently implementing multinational, multi-level marketing solutions for personal care products, as part of our commitment to clients.

Amber Braband, VP, Growth, Tigers

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

39

INDUSTRY NEWS

EURGENT, A UNIQUE NAME IN FORWARDING

A HISTORY OF AN INDEPENDENT TIME-CRITICAL SPECIALIST

A

ugust 1996 seems a lifetime ago since Neil McCabe

Indeed, we completed 10 aircraft charters in as many days when

asked Dave Price to re-enter the logistics arena. Back in

the Port of Calais was closed due to industrial action, to keep a

April 1996, with the help of a third-party investor, Neil

South Wales manufacturing plant operational when they were under

conceived Eurgent Freight Management and a few months later

immense pressure from their automotive client.

convinced Dave he should come back to the freight scene and help him develop the business, both having been away from the industry

One consignment in the formative years that remains in the memory

for several years.

was the transportation of a consignment of poisonous frogs from a facility in Frankfurt to a research centre in Nottingham. The driver,

So, from a small office in Porthcawl, South Wales, the company began

unwittingly, put the container on the passenger seat of his vehicle,

its journey. Twenty-two years later the company is still thriving,

not a wise thing to do when you have the most toxic reptile in the

under the guise of Eurgent Ecspress. In 1999 they completed an MBO,

world on board!

and having moved to Gloucestershire for three years the company returned to its spiritual roots in South Wales. Unfortunately Neil

The range of products Eurgent has transported has been equally diverse:

passed away in 2007 and sadly did not get the chance to see the

contaminated blood samples from Paris to Portsmouth, aircraft seats

growth of his company progress to its current standing.

from Madrid to Belfast and life jackets from Newcastle to Trieste, to name but a small representation. Also, many value-added consignments

Eurgent, as the name suggests, targeted the time-critical import/

including ADR and temperature-controlled goods have been shipped.

export market in the initial stages but the company has diversified to offer a full gamut of solutions in the logistics field. Eurgent has also

As the company grew and increased its turnover the need to

completed many air charters, from on-board couriers right through

increase the database of suppliers was evident and today it has

to general groupage and containerised traffic.

a large pool of tried-and-tested contractors to call upon from all areas of Western Europe.

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

ADVERTORIAL

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.eurgent.co.uk

Eurgent has continually re-invested in the company and moved to a new build facility in 2007. The constant need to update the operating systems has led to investment in a bespoke application some years ago and although this has the capability of online booking the company still completes most of its enquiries by verbal communication.

Dave adds,

Although Eurgent has an online capability, we still

firmly believe that customers need to have confidence that the company providing the solution for their transport requirement clearly understands the complexities of the requested task; people don't always feel that apps or algorithms are a totally secure and efficient method.

Staffing in our unique 'time critical' world has always been a challenge, and Eurgent has always prided itself on retaining welltrained and experienced individuals within the organisation: the current operations team has over 100 years' experience in this ever-demanding field.

When asked about Brexit, Dave comments,

I firmly believe that

we will not see a return to the frustrating days where commercial vehicles are waiting 24 hours to cross European borders – no matter what hurdles the politicians may want us to believe lay The global recession had a big impact on the logistics market and the rise

ahead – the captains of industry and other like-minded bodies will

of the EU operator has become increasingly evident in the last ten years.

not allow these potential ramifications to jeopardise the financial stability of their organisations. There will certainly be an impact to

Dave comments,

If you had told me in 2007 that I would be spending

all industries and nobody can be certain what these could be until

20 times the figure on European contractors in ten years' time, I'd have

the various trade agreements are negotiated, although these will

questioned that prophecy. But I do feel that many good UK courier

certainly come at a cost to the UK taxpayer...but in my opinion

companies have had their operations compromised by what I feel is an

that will be some time. In the meantime, as logistics professionals,

unfair 'playing field'. The major costs are far more prohibitive in the UK

all we can do is maintain customer service levels and 'keep the

(e.g. vehicle, insurance and wage costs) – this does not allow perfectly

wheels turning' to provide effective and competitive solutions for

competent operators to compete in the export marketplace, thus

all of our clients.

depriving the UK forwarder the opportunity to reload UK vehicles. The winner has been the UK shipper on this front and not the UK operator.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

41

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You can place any size advert from a free single-line entry to a double-page spread to promote your strongest services. Our team can advise you on how best to use the space.

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

COMING SOON...

UK specialisms, divided into the 12 UK regions we judge to be most familiar to the freight industry professional at work.

From 'abnormal loads' to 'warehousing & storage', if you need it done, it's in here.

www.

FORWARDER Directory .co.uk FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

43

FOCUS ROUNDUP

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS

FOREIGN DRIVERS CANNOT ESCAPE

PAYING THE DART SAYS CHARGE RHA T he news that over one million non-UK drivers have

Fines totalling more than £81 million have been passed on to a

managed to avoid paying the Dart Charge when travelling

European debt recovery agency since the Dart Charge began in

over the Dartford Crossing comes as little surprise to the

2014. Highways England have stated that foreign drivers not paying

Road Haulage Association.

their charge make up less than 1% of total crossings, but the fact of the matter is that the dodged fines can make up an enormous loss.

Speaking to BBC Kent, RHA policy director Duncan Buchanan said: This issue was identified from the moment the Freeflow system

We need enforcement to ensure that the appropriate Dart

was introduced, and it is still a problem. Foreign drivers should pay:

Charge is collected from all crossing users and the RHA considers

it’s as simple as that. It is very concerning that there are still hauliers

it to be totally unfair that there are still many who are making the

making the crossing for free.

crossing free of charge. It is a great concern that we just don’t know just how many crossing users are dodging the charge.

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

A

s Transport for London release their interim

Standards may be part of the road safety mix; however it is unlikely

HGV star ratings as par t of their Direct

to be the panacea to the road safety challenges faced by London.

Vision Standard proposal the Road Haulage

TfL have not been clear about what impact the proposal will have on

Association (RHA) welcome the clarity that TfL have

road safety as the focus has been on the engineering standards and

brought with this announcement.

visibility from the cab in isolation from other factors.

Richard Burnett, Chief Executive, RHA

This only highlights the scale of the issue and reaffirms what we’ve been saying for some time, that the vast

In response to the proposals for a permit scheme, Richard Burnett

proportion of existing HGV’s will not meet their currently

concluded:

proposed standards. It is positive that we now have an

to ensure that we achieve the best possible outcome for safety but

opportunity to work with TfL and the industry to find an

we need their reassurance that the cost of permits will be set to

effective solution to improve road safety in a balanced way

do no more than recover the cost of operating the permit scheme.

and to have recognition that the issue is complex and will

Any charges over and above that will amount to a tax on operators

require a lot more work to ensure that the best possible road

and the people and businesses of London.

The RHA will continue to work with TfL and operators

safety benefits are obtained. The proposal for Direct Vision

DIRECT VISION STANDARDS

A CHALLENGE FOR SAYS ROAD HAULIERS RHA FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

45

FOCUS ROUNDUP

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS

EUROPA PUTS ITS MONEY WHERE ITS MOUTH IS WITH

NEW PREMIUM SERVICE E uropa Road, a dedicated division of leading independent

The Road division of the business has expanded consistently over

logistics operator, Europa Worldwide Group, has launched

the last 4 years due to a combination of strategic investment with

a unique new express product to further enhance its suite

an increase in destinations, routes, services and new partners, plus

of services across its road network.

further investment in the team which is seeing the business running at a 25-35 per cent consignment growth across the board. Now

MBX (Money Back Express) will offer Europa customers the

is the perfect time to launch our exciting and unique Money Back

opportunity to benefit from a full refund of freight charges if Europa

Express product. It makes sense to continue to expand the choice of

fails to deliver to the customer’s defined and agreed transit time –

products we’re able to offer to our customers particularly as transit

something which no other logistics business is currently offering on

times quicken, stock is removed from supply chains and businesses

express shipments which move through a network.

are placed under more pressure than ever to improve service to their customers.

Following four years of targeted and strategic investment in the

Our product choices will allow customers to consider

business after it was acquired by Andrew Baxter in 2013 – including

the needs of each shipment carefully and to select a service

a bold front-end restructuring, investment in quality European

commensurate with those needs. We recognise that every shipment

partners and an innovative new IT system developed in-house –

is important but we need to offer that something extra when and

Europa is confident that the introduction of a bold, new express

where it’s needed. This is where MBX comes into its own.

product will further propel it to fast becoming the UK’s number one

European groupage operator.

offering. If we fail to achieve the criteria of the express – which is

MBX is a straightforward guarantee and is simple in its

very unlikely of course! – but if we do, the customer will receive a Sales Director at Europa Road, Dionne Redpath, said its MBX

full refund of freight charges for that shipment swiftly and with no

premium service would further set Europa apart from competitors

discussion. Moving a shipment as an MBX will provide real peace

and demonstrates how confident the business is in the reliability and

of mind to our customers where timings are exacting and the

quality of its services.

consequences of failure are significant. Where the stakes are high, the product needs to provide enhanced care and attention but, more importantly, a clear proposition outlining what will happen

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

O

n 1st July, Espace launched its new Express PLUS 1 service.

Express PLUS 1 lets Espace offer a heavily discounted semi-express service by co-loading two express shipments

on the same van. The PLUS 1 element refers to the extra day required to deliver the express shipment due to the discounted rate.

The Express PLUS 1 service compliments Espaces’ dedicated van service which was rebranded in November 2012 as 'The Freight Emergency Service'. It still offers a Money Back Guarantee, or as their service

if failure did occur – even if that failure was outside of

tagline states:

If we’re late, you won’t pay the rate.

Since 2012

Europa’s control. MBX does that in a way that no other

their dedicated express service has gone from strength to strength,

product or service can do and we’re really excited to be able

culminating in a record month for Espace’s express freight in June 2017.

to offer such a robust and unique solution to our customers from the beginning of September.

It’s a competitive market so I am always looking for ways to give Espace a competitive advantage. Some shipments won’t stand a

Europa Worldwide Group employs 650 people across 12

dedicated van rate to/from Europe but they still need to be delivered

sites in the UK plus Hong Kong and is represented in 100

in 48 hours. Traditional groupage services cannot do this, that’s why

countries. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Europa

we developed our semi-express service. A dedicated non-tranship

also provides specialist air & sea, warehouse and showfreight

service at almost half the cost of a dedicated van.

services alongside its road operations.

Geoff Yates, Express manager, Espace

Customers who have an express shipment are now offered two prices: a dedicated and a co-load express price. It’s all about giving our customers more choice.

Tony Shally, Managing Director, Espace

AN EXPRESS SERVICE AT

ALMOST HALF THE PRICE FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

47

FOCUS ROUNDUP

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS

CRIMINALS STEALING GOODS WORTH €1.3 BILLION ANNUALLY FROM TRUCKS IN GERMANY

B

usiness associations in Germany have launched a joint

With the launch of their new ‘Theft Prevention in Freight Transport

initiative to tackle growing cargo thefts across the country

and Logistics Working Group’, the associations are calling for greater

which, according to a new report, result in product losses

support and action by law enforcement agencies in Germany.

valued at €1.3 billion a year.

In a statement, the Working Group says:

The business

The size of the problem has been identified by the joint calculations

associations supporting this initiative are doing so because of the

of several business associations, led by the Transported Asset

scale of cargo thefts and their impact on businesses in Germany.

Protection Association (TAPA). According to the analysis, physical

The ‘Theft Prevention in Freight Transport and Logistics Working

cargo carried onboard almost 26,000 trucks is stolen in Germany

Group’ aims to increase the safety of transport logistics by, among

every year, averaging a new attack on a truck every 20 minutes. In

other things, means of higher safety standards and investments

addition to the value of the goods, the group says further damages of

in locating technology, anti-theft alarm systems, immobilizers

€900 million are caused by penalties for delivery delays, the cost of

and secured parking spaces. We are urging the authorities to

replacing stolen products and repairing damage to vehicles targeted

provide more support through increased search pressure on

by cargo thieves.

internationally active criminal organisations. The police authorities also need to be more present at highway service stations, and

One of the biggest challenges identified in the report is the low level

specialist police units and law enforcement agencies should help

of reporting and recording of cargo thefts in Germany, which follows

to streamline transnational law enforcement. In order to take

a similar trend seen across Europe, and the fact that many of the

targeted preventive and repressive measures, the investigating

incidents of thefts from vehicles in Germany involve trucks which are

authorities must improve recording of ‘cargo theft’ offences and

registered and insured in other European countries. Understanding

create the conditions for nationwide uniform reporting of cargo

the true causes and impact of cargo crime in Germany is also further

crime. Lack of staff, poor networking and low specialisation only

complicated by the fact that German law enforcement agencies do

serve to delay investigations. This situation has to be addressed

not keep their own cargo crime statistics.

as quickly as possible.

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.tapa-global.org

The association members of the Theft Prevention in Freight Transport and Logistics Working Group are: •• ASW Bundesverband - Allianz für Sicherheit in der Wirtschaft Ev •• Alliance for Security in Business North Germany (ASWN) •• BDSW Association of Security Economy Ev •• BDGW Bundesvereinigung Deutscher Geld- und Wertdienste Ev •• Federal Association of Road Haulage Logistics and Waste Management (BGL) Ev •• Bundesverband Paket und Expresslogistik e. V. (BIEK), •• Federal Association for the Economy, Transport and Logistics (BWVL) e.V. •• German Forwarding and Logistics Association e. V. (DSLV) •• Gesamtverband der Deutschen Versicherungswirtschaft e.V. (GDV) •• Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) •• Verband Chemiehandel e.V. (VCH) •• German Chemical Industry Association (VCI) •• Verband Deutscher Verkehrsunternehmen e. V. (VDV) In support of the Working Group’s objectives to reduce cargo thefts in Germany, TAPA will also be encouraging companies across the

ABOUT TAPA

country to increase their adoption of its three industry standards

TAPA was formed in 1997 to tackle the multi-billion euro

for supply chain security: Facility Security Requirements (FSR),

problem of cargo thefts from the supply chain. Today, it boasts

Trucking Security Requirements (TSR) and the new Parking Security

over 800 member companies globally, including many of the

Requirements (PSR).

world’s biggest manufacturers and logistics service providers as well as leading SME freight forwarding and transport operators, and other stakeholders.

TAPA’s mission is to minimise cargo losses from the supply chain. TAPA achieves this through the development and application of global security standards, recognised industry practices, technology, education, benchmarking, regulatory collaboration, and the proactive identification of crime trends and supply chain security threats.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

49

FOCUS ROUNDUP

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS

RANGE T HIGH PUTS COMFORT & SAFETY FIRST FOR EURO UK MOVES GROUP WITH LOADS MORE ROOM

D

river comfort and safety comes first for Staines-based Euro

The left-hand drive Range T High sleeper cab, in Ultimate Alu finish

UK Moves Group Ltd, which has selected a flagship left-hand

with Ultimate upper bunk, boasts all the home comforts for life

drive 26-tonne Renault Trucks Range T440 High 6x2 rear-

on the road including a 40 litre fridge and Renault Trucks’ built in

steer rigid to support its international and domestic removals business.

We do everything to keep our drivers happy and the Range T

entertainment system, as well as bespoke additions.

The new vehicle is fitted with a Transvend Renater heater and

High delivers with its large, flat floor sleeper cab.

wash unit on sliders inside one of the lockers so the driver can make

Vittorio Gismondi,

hot drinks. It has also has a side scan pedestrian warning system,

Company Director & Transport Manager, Euro UK Moves Group

interior and exterior LED lighting and Renault Trucks’ factoryspecified rear camera: all of these extras help make the driver’s life

For Euro UK Moves Group, which also offers a fragile packing service,

easier and more comfortable on board.

made-to-measure special crates, and specialist fine art, exhibition and gallery moves, its reputation for exceptional customer care is

The Kurt Hobbs Coachworks Ltd rigid body is a low height sub-

underpinned by keeping its drivers engaged and motivated, making

frame, maximum height vehicle and has an overall length of 11.83

the top specification left hand drive Range T High ideal for the

metres, maximum width of 2.55 metres, and a tare weight of 11,980

company’s European long-haul work.

kgs – all designed to maximise payload which is critical on two week trips across Europe.

Supplied by Renault Trucks Essex, the Range T High has been built to Euro UK Moves Group’s detailed requirements, featuring a bespoke Kurt

By working with Renault Trucks and Kurt Hobbs Coachworks

Hobbs Coachworks Ltd high specification removals body. The new truck

Ltd we have been able to increase our volume by 8-10% which is

is used on European runs to Italy, France, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland,

crucial in running a profitable business. In order to maximise space

Portugal and Spain as well as domestic work for private and trade clients.

and payload, there’s a second deck for loading over cars too.

50

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at euro-ukmovesgroup.co.uk

As well as having a more fuel efficient Euro-6 engine, we were also

The efficient Range T High is equipped with DTI 13-litre engine,

able to specify two fuel tanks so we can fill up on route in Luxemburg

12-speed Optidriver automated transmission, and Optivision gear

where we save, on average, 30 pence per litre. Being able to do

shifting strategy optimised for Fuel Eco. Its rear-steer axle delivers

this every two weeks or so saves us a significant amount on our

exceptional manoeuvrability for working in tight access areas such

fuel bill. Fuel theft can be a huge and expensive problem so we’ve

as London’s congested streets. Full air suspension on front and back

also included lockable doors over the fuel fillers to deter would-be

axles helps reduce loading height, and gives a more comfortable ride.

thieves.

Maintenance is undertaken by authorised Renault Trucks Repairer, The Range T High was a perfect partner for our highly bespoke

MTHL, who originally supplied the sales lead to Renault Trucks.

body and it was a real pleasure to work on such a great project with

Mark West says:

We’ve been servicing Euro UK Moves’ vehicles

Vittorio and the team. The vehicle has also been future-proofed

for some time so I’d like to say it was my pure charm and good looks

with an adjustable spring-assisted under-run bar for possible VBG

that persuaded them to swap to Renault Trucks, but I think it was

coupling fit, giving Euro UK Moves Group the option of building a

the excellent product and second-to-none back up from ourselves

trailer to tow behind the existing truck and further increase capacity

that really sealed the deal!

as their business grows.

Shaun Warren, Operations Director, Kurt Hobbs Coachworks Ltd.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

51

FOCUS ROUNDUP

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

YORKSHIRE

Further information can be found at www.iportuk.com

NEW AMAZON FACILITY COMPLETED IN DONCASTER

V

erdion has completed the construction of a logistics facility

OVERVIEW for Amazon at iPort, its railfreight interchange in Doncaster, iPort comprises a 337 acre greenfield

South Yorkshire, covering more than 557,000 sqm. development connected to Junction 3 of the M18 motorway via the Great Yorkshire Way. The development has funding in place and an outline planning consent for the construction of up to 6 million sq ft of logistics space.

IP1b

IP1a

The warehouse itself spans more than 102,000 sqm and cost GBP The first phase of iPort, comprising the 100 million (more than â‚Ź111 million). northern element of the site, is well underway with 1.1 million sq ft under construction for Amazon. A further 215,000 sq ft has been built for CEVA Logistics and Lidl will also be taking a 685,000 sq ft build to suit facility which is expected to be completed in Q1 2018.

Verdion's iPort scheme is a key driver in one of Yorkshire's premier logistics sites.

IP2e

The first two speculative units have been let to Amazon and Fellowes respectively whilst a further speculative unit of 195,000 sq ft will be available in May 2017. Further speculative units will be delivered throughout 2017/18.

IP2c

IP2f

Apart from Amazon, Lidl, Fellowes and Ceva are also active there.

IP4

iPort can still accommodate a further single footprint building in excess of 1 million sq ft and units from 55,000 – 1 million sq ft + are available, with eaves heights of up to 35m, on a build to suit basis.

IP13

IP9 IP6 IP10

IP14

IP15

IP12

IP7 IP5

IP11 IP8

DEVELOPER

iportuk.com

Image credits: www.iportuk.com

52

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

iport

THE AMERICAS

C

aroTrans, a leading global NVOCC (non-vessel operating

network to address the growth in U.S.-Central America trade, we're

common carrier) and ocean freight consolidator, today

also working to strategically increase partnerships with larger global

announces the expansion of its Central American service

networks, to better serve large, global freight forwarder customers

network and alliance partnerships to meet market demand and

that require a unified, synergistic network,

strengthen its overall global network. In Costa Rica and Guatemala,

Kika Veiga, Latin America Trade Development Director, CaroTrans

CaroTrans is aligning with Globelink Aeroceano, and in Panama, with Sicarga, both well-respected NVOCCs in the region and part of the

Weekly U.S. export shipments move from CaroTrans Miami hub to

GlobeLink network.

Central America and the Caribbean Islands.

CaroTrans works closely with GlobeLink in many markets throughout the world, such as India and Malaysia, and will further bolster its partnerships with regional GlobeLink branches. CaroTrans is also

ABOUT CAROTRANS

partnering with the Global Cargo Alliance to further strengthen its

Established in 1979, CaroTrans International is one of the world's

worldwide network.

leading NVOCCs providing global LCL (less-than container load) and FCL (full container load) services. CaroTrans has a network

The Panama Canal expansion has had a positive influence on freight

of offices in Asia, Europe, South America, Oceania, and the

volumes. Panama is a critical hub for freight moving in the region and

United States, along with strong local partners in global markets,

offers a unique level of efficiency and streamlined cargo movement.

offering a global reach that is truly unique. The CaroTrans suite

In addition, we're seeing an increase in shipments from the Panama

of Web-based and EDI-enabled e-commerce tools include

hub to the Caribbean Islands due to the devastating hurricanes that

booking, ocean and inland rates, sailing schedules, and tracking.

CAROTRANS BUILDS OUT U.S.– CENTRAL AMERICAN NETWORK

passed through there last year. As we align our service and alliance

TO SUPPORT TRADE GROWTH IN REGION FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

53

FOCUS ROUNDUP

THE AMERICAS

CDN LAUNCHES FLEETCONNECT ELD FOR US HOURS OF SERVICE MANDATE

L

eading cloud technology specialist Car Delivery Network

Electronic logging represents a new era of communication and

(CDN) has announced the launch of FleetConnect, a new ELD

connectivity between transportation companies and their drivers,

(Electronic Logging Device) app developed to enable trucking

signalling the end of recording key information on paper, which is both

companies to comply with the Hours of Service (HOS) mandate,

slow and less efficient. Companies piloting the software report that it

compulsory legislation shortly to come into force in the United States

supports improved time management and increased efficiency, while

aimed at monitoring driving time and saving lives on the roads.

ensuring compliance. The additional and immediate visibility it delivers allows fleet managers and transport planners to assess the capacity of

FleetConnect will be officially launched - and available on Apple and

each driver and ensure no-one exceeds their safe hours allowance.

Google App Stores - on September 15th 2017, in the lead up to the

Derric Hicks, General Manager N.A., Car Delivery Network

introduction of the new legislation, set to take effect on December 18th 2017 and being introduced by the Federation of Motor Carrier Safety

What will differentiate FleetConnect from other ELD solutions

Administration (FMCSA) for carriers that are non-OBRD compliant.

available is its potential to offer a much richer functionality going forward. Connecting to CDN’s cloud based suite of services,

The FleetConnect device engages automatically when the vehicle

FleetConnect (FC) will ultimately provide real time reporting on

reaches minimum speed, switching into driving mode and must be

current freight status, vehicle condition, and location visibility, plus

reset by the driver to indicate an ‘on duty, not driving’ status. Each

additional freight opportunities and available driver time, as well as

step of the load journey is automatically logged including when to

hours of service, making it a highly attractive investment.

park up and rest and importantly register when the maximum driving hours have been reached.

Initially, the FleetConnect product will support FMCSA compliance with additional reporting functionality. In the longer term, we will

CDN has piloted the app with premier privately-owned OEM

continue to develop the product as ELD is a cornerstone of CDN’s

transportation logistics company, US AutoLogistics (USAL). As part

connected truck strategy.

of the process, USAL has now added a further 20 FleetConnect ELD units to their fleet, moving the company away from the traditional

Product completion is scheduled for December 2018, well in advance

paper based logging system.

of the second part of the FMCSA mandate, which takes effect in December 2019.

54

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at daviesturner.com

D

avies Turner has added a new oceanfreight service from

Even though the service is calling at Charleston, efficient

the UK to the USA and appointed a new partner in Canada

oncarriage operations by our partner EMO-Trans means we can

as part of a strengthening of its transatlantic freight and

market this as an express product into the southern US states. The

logistics operations.

fastest direct service from the UK into Houston or New Orleans is approximately 16 to 18 days. We believe that via our Southern

The UK's leading independent freight forwarding company has

Express Service, we will be able to deliver to most of Florida, Texas

launched a fast oceanfreight service from the UK direct into the

and Louisiana in 13 to 14 days, to door.

port of Charleston in conjunction with one of its partners in the

Steve Turner, head of North American Services, Davies Turner

USA, EMO Trans Charleston.

Meanwhile, in Canada, Davies Turner is teaming up with OntarioMarketed as the ‘Southern Express Service’, the new operation

based FCL Fisker Customs & Logistics to strengthen its ocean freight

sails every Tuesday from Southampton and offers a nine-day transit

services between the UK and Canada.

from that port to Charleston, which will enable Davies Turner to deliver consignments into the southern US states more quickly

Davies Turner provides a weekly service over Toronto for both

than via New York.

LCL and FCL shipments and once the containers land, Toronto consignments are cleared and distributed across Canada using

The new service complements Davies Turner's existing oceanfreight

Fisker's in-house customs brokerage and comprehensive

services between the UK and other key US markets, which are

distribution network.

operated in association with long-standing, regionally-strong partners.

Steve Turner adds:

The new partnership with FCL gives us an

ideal opportunity to further strengthen the two-way services that we operate between the UK and Canada, just as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between the EU and Canada kicks in, which should initially provide a boost for business and trade between the UK and Canada.

DAVIES TURNER STRENGTHENS

NORTH AMERICAN FREIGHT SERVICES FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

55

FOCUS ROUNDUP

THE AMERICAS

LOGISTICS PLUS SELECTED AS A MEMBER OF THE NEW

IFLN GLOBAL PROJECTS NETWORK

L

ogistics Plus Inc., a leading worldwide provider of

As a long-time member of IFLN, we are proud to support IFLN

transportation, logistics and supply chain solutions, is proud

with our 20-plus years of project cargo management and project

to announce it has been selected to be an inaugural member

forwarding expertise in the United States and Mexico. Membership

of the new IFLN Global Projects network, representing Houston,

provides more companies with access to our award-winning services

Mexico City, New York City, and Monterrey. The new network was

while providing us with additional exposure and coverage to logistics

officially announced on September 13, 2017 by Michel Vanlerberghe,

projects in North America.

president of the International Freight Logistics Network (IFLN).

Gabriela Garza, Corporate Business Development & Agent Relations Manager, Logistics Plus

There are other project cargo networks out there, but this one is different. IFLN Global Projects network only accepts as members those who are highly proficient project forwarders. We want to

ABOUT IFLN

be the new force in the world of project logistics management.

IFLN is a global organisation of freight forwarders and logistics

Randy Durham, General Manager, IFLN

companies headquartered in Houston, Texas -USA. IFLN Global Projects is affiliated with the IFLN Network, a unique alliance

Only cargo agents with experience and a high degree of capability in

of specially selected members that work together to provide

the field of project forwarding will form part of the rapidly expanding

comprehensive supply chain solutions and end-to-end logistics from

group. IFLN Global Projects network can put together a team of

project initiation to sustainable operations. The IFLN Network,

highly specialized global project members to support any bid or

established in 2000, consists of 280 specialist freight companies in

any project cargo shipping task. IFLN will also make the necessary

more than 100 countries with high standards of quality, conduct

introductions, coordinate member efforts and liaise with the

and business practices enabling them to compete with multinational

customer if needed.

logistics companies on a global basis. To learn more about the new IFLN Global Projects network, please contact Randy Durham at RandyD@ifln.net, or visit www.ifln.net/projects.

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

C

apitalizing on a successful partnership established since 2014, GEODIS manages, since July 1st, 2017 a new warehouse in Los Angeles, California (USA), for Danone

Waters of America, a subsidiary of Danone specializing in the distribution of bottled water.

A new five-year contract covers logistics operations (storage and handling) at the 15,000m² warehouse in Carson, Long Beach, near Los Angeles. From here, Danone will supply most of the western United States with products such as Evian and Badoit. The GEODIS

In 2015, Danone Waters of America asked GEODIS to manage hefting

operated warehouse manages a stock of 4,000 pallets and, as such,

and storage operations at its site in Miami, Florida (USA). Every year,

is able to handle an increase in the current quantities imported by

one million beverage packs, equivalent to 1,156 import containers,

Danone Waters of America. It is expected that more than 1.5 million

are handled at this location. The warehouse is around 8,500m². These

beverage packs will transit through the site by 2018, the equivalent

packs are distributed to wholesalers, supermarkets and hypermarkets,

of 1,656 containers. The US subsidiary chose GEODIS because of its

as well as local shops in the southern part of the United States. The

excellent understanding of its business challenges and for its ability

Group has also developed an e-commerce delivery service dedicated

to implement tailored solutions.

to a leading online retailer selling Danone products.

We are aware of the strategic importance of the United States for

These US warehousing operations dovetail with the sea freight

Danone Group. As they put their trust in GEODIS, our Group looks

export activities managed by GEODIS for Danone from a control

forward to supporting Danone’s growth. We constantly focus on

tower based in Marseille. For the past three years, this tower has

the needs of our customer. Our staff provides appropriate, flexible

conducted customs clearance operations for the US and Canada on

solutions based on our unique capabilities: our comprehensive

behalf of Danone Waters of America.

coverage of the US; our expertise in the beverage sector; and our responsiveness in terms of storage and handling requirements,

From the beginning, when we started with custom brokerage, we

driven by increases in the volumes to be handled.

have been able to leverage GEODIS expertise and expand by having

Marie-Christine Lombard, CEO, GEODIS

collaborative and trustful discussions that have been an asset to build our network design strategic plan.

We are excited to continue to expand our relationship with

Yvone Nava, Operations & Planning Dir., Danone Waters of America

GEODIS as we see them as a true partner and an enabler for our business growth. GEODIS is able to understand our dynamic

In 2016, GEODIS processed 1,400 customs import declarations and

business needs and comes with logistics solutions; and on a daily

activity has expanded continuously since the Danone Group decided

basis, we value the professionalism and leadership of GEODIS team

to focus its growth efforts on the US market – particularly with

in the way they implement the solutions and run the operations.

the acquisition of WhiteWave Foods, a manufacturer specialising in

Alan Pecherz, Supply Chain Director, Danone Waters of America

health-related organic products.

GEODIS EXTENDS ITS U.S. PARTNERSHIP WITH DANONE WATERS OF AMERICA FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

57

MOVE IT LIKE...

YEAR FOUNDED

2009

SALES INCREASE

Currently experiencing 20% growth SPECIALISM

Europe-wide dedicated express vehicles, semi-express & secure economy services MODE

Road freight EMPLOYEES

14

SITES

Birmingham (HQ) Leeds MILESTONES

2009 established, 2012 moved from office only to office and warehouse at Birmingham Airport.

2013 Leeds office opened.

Mid-2018 scheduled move from current unit to double the size with a £100,000 investment.

SIMON BEECHENER, SIMPEX 58

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

SIMON SAYS...

I’m immensely proud of how the company has developed over the years

S

impex Express is a business specialising in time-

and knowledge of everything to do with European Road

critical transport to and from all parts of Europe,

and Express, we were able to sit down with Managing

whilst maintaining high levels of customer service

Director, Simon Beechener, to discuss Simpex, Brexit,

and communication. A company with proven experience

Charity and more.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

59

MOVE IT LIKE...

Q A

Simon, can you tell our readers more about Simpex, and how you separate yourself from others in the express freight sector?

Simpex was formed back in 2009 as a full European freight service provider with a clear focus on express, something

SIMON SAYS...

As with any industry, the landscape is constantly changing. and the market matures

Q A

How have you seen the industry change within your time working in the freight industry?

As we’ve grown we’ve overseen a huge shift in the International courier scene especially, from being driven by mainly UK operators to what is now dominated by

that mirrors my own experience spanning back to 2001. We

foreign carriers. We’ve embraced the changes and stay

provide dedicated vehicles for time-critical deliveries, a semi-

ahead of the game with our strength of contacts, our

express service offering consolidated options to 15 European

ability to provide consolidated options, and by off ering

countries and more recently we’ve added an economy

unrivalled customer service.

service. These are provided mainly on small vehicles such as Sprinter vans or Luton vans and we maintain full control with any consolidated routes fully planned by us. We have a warehouse at Birmingham airport, an office in Leeds and a passion for customer service.

We separate ourselves from the competition by being the most competitively priced on the market and being experts in our field. We’re innovative, pro-active and understand that ‘service’ isn’t enough, it’s customer service (the bit that just requires the right attitude) that makes the difference.

Q A

What services do you see having most prevalence with the current climate of express freight?

As with any industry, the landscape is constantly changing, and the market matures. We’ve capitalised by being an early mover in the express freight industry, but we continue to push the boundaries, and this is currently with consolidation.

Our semi-express service has been hugely popular, offering

I often receive feedback that when a booking is made with us

speed at an affordable price. It sits nicely between a dedicated

you can relax knowing that the job will be done and it makes

and groupage service and offers great value.

my visits to existing clients extremely easy.

Starting in what can only be described as a broom cupboard, I’m immensely proud of how the company has developed over the years into what is now a well-known, well-respected and highly professional transport company.

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Q A

We understand that you’re a big giver to charity, can you tell us about this?

Yes, we’ve just passed the £100,000 mark for our charity donations over the past 8 years and continue to look for

Q A

What do you do to relax?

With 3 children 6 years old and under I come to the office to relax! I also thoroughly enjoy running.

We have a treadmill in our upstairs area which myself

worthy causes for the future. We donate at least £1 from

and Stuart Verity use as much as we can when time

every booking received and it’s an important commitment

allows. We both ran the London Marathon in 2017

that was made from day 1. We detail all beneficiaries on our

for one of the company’s charities but prefer sticking

website and like for the money to go to specific projects that

to 5k and 10k distances now.

have tangible outcomes. One was the creation of a memory tree in the reception of Birmingham St. Mary’s Hospice. It gives families the chance to sponsor a leaf with an engraving of their loved one’s name. The tree has generated income more than our original donation and continues to do so every year.

It’s something we’re all very proud to have been a part of.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

61

MOVE IT LIKE...

Q A

How do you see Brexit effecting your business in Europe?

Great question! It’s so hard to say at this stage but I welcome the challenge. The obvious preference would be for the UK to enter into a free trade agreement, but it appears we’re leaning away from this currently so when the decisions are made we’ll react accordingly. We’re a problem-solving company and well known for

SIMON SAYS...

We have 2 online calculators; ‘Express’ and ‘Economy’.

Q A

it. Whilst the Brexit process has the ability to negatively affect the

Getting qualified drivers has been a problem dogging road freight for some time, do think this is still a predominant problem?

It most certainly is from a UK haulier perspective.

It’s not a career that most young people these days aspire to and something needs to change at a government level to drive interest.

economy, I strongly believe we’ll adapt and overcome, both as a company and as a country. Simpex is already highly experienced with customs procedures with traffic outside the free trade area so we’ll have a good grounding ahead of any changes.

Q A

Is there any major advice you would want to give to anybody else dealing with road freight throughout Europe?

Q A

Can you tell us more about your online calculators?

We have 2 online calculators; ‘Express’ and ‘Economy’.

Our Express Calculator provides export quotations from anywhere in the UK to 15 European countries. It covers 1-4 pallets with 2 transit time choices and we commit to collection on the same day if booked by 10am. Our Economy

Yes, use Simpex! Having been in the industry for 17 years I’ve seen

Calculator offers reduced pricing for 1-6 standard pallets or

a lot of mistakes from a lack of experience, training and planning. It’s

1-8-euro pallets and includes coverage to our more regular

vitally important to understand local laws and rules, as well as customs

destinations in Europe, currently covering 7 countries.

procedures when travelling outside the free trade area. If venturing to Europe, do your homework or employ the services of someone who

Both calculators are ‘open’ in that there’s no need to log

has done it before. Drivers’ hours records, weight/height restrictions,

in. There are 5 drop-down boxes to choose from on each

tolls/vignettes – and many more – are all considerations where the

calculator and once the price is confirmed you can proceed

implications of non-adherence can be severe. At Simpex we have a

to booking, confirm to email or to start again. The user-

CPC National & International holder (myself), a DGSA, customs-

friendly nature has been hugely popular and reflects how we

trained operations manager, ex-European drivers, multi-linguists and

do business, keeping things simple.

a combined experience in dealing with European shipments of over 100 years. We’re always happy to offer our advice, even when we’re not involved in the job itself.

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March 2018

Q A

Online shopping has created a new wave of questions for freight forwarders. How have you adapted, or innovated, your services to fit around this new consumerism?

Online is most certainly growing and we’ve invested

Q A

What predictions do you have for the sector?

If my predictions for the sector are anything like my Premier League predictions these days, then I ought to keep quiet! In all seriousness, we’re in a

in our website and continue to do so for both search

period of transition where we must just wait and see.

engine optimisation and usability. The development of our

Brexit is the game-changer and until there’s clarity on

calculators is a unique offering and allows our online audience

our future relationship with the EU, it’s impossible to

to easily understand our pricing, service capabilities and gives

call. My hope is that we’ll retain access and that it’ll

them a choice when considering using us. I’ve often been

be business as usual, though even if it goes the other

asked why we don’t make it imperative for people to enter

way, I don’t see longstanding business relationships

their details so that we can track who is using it but it’s the

disappearing overnight. Overall, I’m optimistic about

open nature of it that I think is the real appeal. I personally

the future.

dislike having to enter my own details when obtaining online quotes and it often prevents me from proceeding. I’m also very confident in the pricing being competitive and welcome competition to keep us on our toes.

Q A

What plans does Simpex have in the next five years?

Our ambition over the next 3-5 years is to double the amount of business we handle. To start with we’re expanding our operations team to cope with both the existing high demand for our services and to allow capacity for the new accounts coming on every week. To accommodate the increase in numbers we’ve recently signed an agreement to take a unit on the same estate at Birmingham Airport that doubles our floor space. With a £100,000 investment we’ll create a fantastic base for the future with the very best IT and communications available.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

63

MOVE IT LIKE...YOU

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD ON THE COVER OF FORWARDER

NICK PLATTS

SPENCER & BRADLEY WALLER

LEE GRIFFITHS

Head of Cargo at Heathrow Airport

Alliance Shipping Group

Executive Director of NNR Global

PHIL DENTON

HILARY DEVEY

IAN McCARTHY

KATIE ELLIOTT

MD of Ital Logistics

Founder & CEO of Pall-Ex Group

UK Director of ECU Worldwide

Campaign Manager of Freight Media

ANDREW BAXTER

STEPHEN CARR

ANDY MARTIN

MD of Europa Worldwide Group

Commercial Director of Peel Ports

VP, MD (EMEA) of MIQ Logistics

FORWARDER magazine March 2018 64 LEVEL THE PLAYING

FIELD. CALL US ON +44(0)1454 275 946

THIS COULD BE YOU...

LEE ALDERMAN-DAVIS

JOHN WILLIAMS

ANDREW MAY

STEPHEN BLYTH

Airfreight Director at Ligentia

Group MD of Maritime Transport

MD of DHL Freight

Chairman of Delamode Group

CARL PARTRIDGE

MATT BEECH

ANDREW MITCHELL

MD of Priority Freight

CEO of Maltacourt Global Logistics

VP of Healthcare & Life Sciences EMEA, DHL

CARL DAY

KEVIN BRADY

GRAEME UNDY

MATT PERRY

CEO of Imorex

MD of Woodland Group Ireland

MD of Eddie Stobart

Founding Director of Transition15

FORWARDER magazine March 2018 65 ...OR EMAIL DAREN@FREIGHT-MEDIA.COM

FORWARDER SPOTLIGHT

WINGS ONBOARD

PREMIUM ONBOARD COURIER SERVICES Wings onboard courier network is a young and dynamic company,

Their customer base consists of freight forwarders anywhere

founded at Schiphol Airport. Today, Wings is a respected,

around the globe. Forwarders not only are in close contact

dedicated and independent OBC (onboard courier) provider

with shippers in industries such as automotive, aerospace,

with offices in the Netherlands (HQ) and in the USA. Wings

pharmaceuticals and oil & gas; they also have excellent knowledge

provides premium OBC services worldwide. We are proud of

of the requirements of their customers and know the local

our global network and the opportunity to offer our customers

market very well.

a unique logistics solution.

To get in touch with the forwarders, Wings is present at several leading cargo exhibitions; as a visitor (for example Air Cargo India, last February) or as an exhibitor, which was the case at Air Cargo Europe in Munich, Germany in May 2017.

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

Their international team is committed to the hand-delivery

Regarding sales activities, Wings co-operates with reliable GSA

of high priority goods when airfreight isn’t fast enough. OBC

partners worldwide because of their knowledge of the local

requests are answered within 15-30 minutes. Within 45 minutes

freight forwarders. Last summer, one of the leading US fl ag

after confirmation, one of our OBCs is on the way for pick up.

carriers saw the value in providing premium time critical services.

They can rely on more than 1900 OBCs in 125 countries who

Since that moment, the carrier added Wings’ services to their

are all highly experienced, multilingual, fully trained en screened.

own portfolio of products.

In an increasingly interconnected world, where consignments

Wings have been able to source their couriers with the proper

must be delivered just in time, forwarders are now seeing the

travel documents and visa without jeopardizing the deadline for

value in providing premium time critical services.

delivery as required by the customer. Unlike any other provider,

Source: AirCargoWorld, March 2017

they have a worldwide premium courier network. The number of OBCs who take care of our customers’ high priority consignment

Wing’s OBCs are equipped with the Wings app on their

grows day by day. Currently, they have more than 1900 OBCs

smartphones, allowing them to communicate with the Wings

available in 125 countries. They have a state-of-the-art, in-house

Control Tower, which is 24/7/365 in operation. Forwarders are

developed app which is installed on all OBC smartphones and is

able to monitor their consignments in real time.

linked to their website.

Each consignment gets allocated a unique tracking number, which

The ability to source the courier with the proper travel

serves as the customers’ login for the personal Wings Track and

documents without jeopardizing the deadline for delivery as

Trace webpage. In order to provide full transparency our couriers

required by the customer, is the promise we make!

take pictures of the content and the documents of the consignment, which are uploaded to the personal Track and Trace webpage.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

67

FORWARDER SPOTLIGHT

WINGS ONBOARD

In the future, Wings have predicted an increase in just-in-time

They have invited the readers of Forwarder Magazine to visit

deliveries mainly in the automotive and aerospace industry. As

their website and find Wings’ local sales offices. In a later edition

a consequence of this development, we will expand in the next

of Forwarder Magazine this year, you can read an in-depth

five years, opening sales- and customer service offices in Canada,

interview with Mr. Sander van Woesik, managing director of

South America, Middle East, Africa, Asia and Australia. Their

Wings onboard.

goal: be one of the most reliable OBC providers in the world!

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FORWARDER magazine

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

69

FORWARDER FOCUS

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS

O

ur reliance on European road and express freight

This disregard for how important European Road and express freight

has grown exponentially over the last decade or so.

is from certain people is a worrying sign for an industry that offers

Advances in technology, environmentalism and other

so much, to so many. Here at FORWARDER Magazine we wanted

key factors have led to an incredible service, which can positively

to examine the advantages that this sector provides many different

impact consumer lives due to the speed of distribution, new tracking

roles throughout the industry in general.

services and an overall satisfaction with the industry.

Developments of Road Infrastructure Whilst European road freight industry can be overlooked by

If you have listened to the news, or read a paper, you will see the UK

politicians, whom instead of focusing on the economic value it

government is investing heavily on rail and road infrastructure throughout

contributes, or the critical nature of efficient transport to European

the country. This is an incredibly positive move for the country, and using

manufacturing strategies, it instead considers the environmental or

the example of The International E-Road Network, which has had a

social problems, rather than the sector as an asset.

beneficial impact on world trade, especially with the development of a strong European Union and the nurturing of valuable relationships as a result, we can see the benefits of road developments from this.

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

Whilst I am aware Brexit will have an affect (until more is said, and

Save Money

negotiations become more definite, I can’t, with confidence, say if it’s

The economic benefits when using road freight and express can rival

going to be detrimental or positive yet) this still can’t be overlooked

the cheapest forms of freight. Every shipper using these distribution

as a major factor in developing the freight network across not only

methods can expect to save on courier or postage costs as they can

our island nation, but for countries across the world.

send the copy of the Express bill by electronic means, as well as saving on the bill of landing stationery. These may seem like inconsequential

Speed

factors for many within the industry, but saving pennies through these

Speed of delivery is something that is vital for nearly every type

means can lead to massive savings over time.

of freight, however, the speed of distribution from express is synonymous with the sector. Making sure that products can be

Safety

shipped quickly is an obvious advantage to the sector, however, it is

Whilst there can never be complete safety in the freight industry,

not only distribution speed we can see as an advantage.

European road freight and express have tried to push through many regulations that will improve the sector. Trans European Road

Other quicker factors such as the fact the consignee doesn’t need

Network through the harmonisation of fixed traffic signs and road

to wait for or surrender an original bill of lading to secure release

markings, has had made significant improvements to the overall

because if it is an Express bill, it is manifested as such – so cargo

safety to drivers across the sector. Advancements in technology have

release is immediate, meaning that this offers an immediate service

also improved the vehicles on the road, making them easier to track

for companies in the industry.

and drive, leading to a safer environment for everyone.

Matt Dailly, Editor, FORWARDER magazine

ADVANTAGES OF

EUROPEAN HAULAGE FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

71

FORWARDER FOCUS

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS

I

f we are being honest, it’s been a rocky 12 months for

to continue affecting the cost structure of road freight providers

anything to do with Europe. The waves of uncertainty that

operating in markets across Europe.

Brexit brought with it have left many distributers throughout

the UK cautious of what is to come for their vehicles travelling

The technological advancements within the next 5 – 10 years

throughout the EU. This indecision and doubt hasn’t stopped

will also play a key factor in the way in which the industry

many within the road freight industry prospering and creating

approaches road distribution. Automated vehicles, electric

growth within the sector.

engines and tracking improvements are set to impact the industry just as much as the UK’s departure from Europe. Along

Not only Brexit will play a key role in the changing landscape of

with the environmental developments that are continuously

European Road. The minimum hourly wage for drivers in France

worked upon through the industry, we are seeing European

and Germany, which was brought in some time ago, is also likely

Road change in front of our very eyes.

EXPECTATIONS FOR EUROPEAN ROAD

72

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

Whilst it is hard to predict the outcomes of all these changes,

Easy Communications

in economic terms i.e. as sources of wealth, employment and in

Due to the communications tools at the disposal of many drivers,

terms of support given to other economic activities, we can be

companies now can keep track of exactly the conditions in which

positive that European road will continue to provide a significant

they are subjected to. This is incredibly helpful in terms of how

piece of the UK’s economic structure.

customers receive information on their product. If somebody now calls regarding a delay, due to the communications

This can be backed up with significant investments in road

revolution, companies can now advise them exactly why there

development throughout the country. We cannot escape

is a delay, along with an expected time of arrival, resulting in less

the universal nature the road freight industry offers for

customer complaints.

infrastructure, and here at FORWARDER, we will be showing you the advantages and disadvantages to the current aspects of

Perfect for Perishable

the road freight industry.

Perishable goods make up a great deal of the road haulage.

Due to the transfers between ocean and air freight, road is the

Cost Effective

best distribution method for products such as pharmaceutical.

Whilst air and sea distribution are the only alternative for

Trailers are easily adapted to create the perfect atmosphere for

some companies, road freight throughout Europe is one of the

an assortment of perishable goods, and with the usually quick

most cost-effective ways for smaller companies to transport

turnaround of deliveries, many companies dealing with perishable

goods. New safety regulations have meant that vehicles stay

will continue to use road freight as their best form of transport.

on the road for longer, making the use, and lifespan, of the vehicles more eff icient for drivers and companies. New

Traffic, Breakdowns, Weather and Regulations

safety design can be more easily assimilated into new car

Whilst, as we can see, there are a plethora of reasons to use

manufacturing costs at the original design stage rather than

road freight, which instils confidence in the sector, there are

during subsequent stages of production, meaning something

disadvantages which would be remiss of me not to mention.

small, like Day Time Running Lights, can reduce the cost of

Traffic delays, adverse weather, unforeseen breakdowns and

your road freight in the long run.

regulations at ports or tolls are always going to slow down the process of road freight. However, with the many advantages

Tracking

to European Road, we can expect to see the sector grow and

Advancements in tracking and visibility for freight forwarders

prosper over the next 12 months.

has developed at an incredible rate over the last decade. Tracker technology will be compulsory in 2018 and fitted as standard in every model for distribution. These tracking devices can do

Matt Dailly, Editor, FORWARDER magazine

such things as alert the emergency services in the event of an accident, cutting down on road deaths and helping delays of products on the road.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

73

ASK THE EXPERTS

EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS

E

profitability. What we can be sure of is that these simple oversights

2

greatly impact a fleet manager’s ability to do their job effectively

will ensure that drivers receive all the breaks they need to remain

and can lead them to despair.

well rested and avoid fatigue. It also helps fleet managers back at the

very HGV driver knows that sometimes the smallest mistake can be costly. While not all mistakes will carry grave consequences, many HGV drivers are not aware

of how the small things they do (or fail to do) greatly reduce fleet safety, a business’ efficiency, productivity and ultimately,

1

Recording breaks as ‘other work’ Although pressing the wrong button and recording a break as ‘other work’ may seem like a pretty minor issue in the

grand scheme of things, this can actually greatly skew a driver’s hours and even lead to legal infringements. Breaks are required by law, so it is actually of great importance that they are recorded correctly. This

office know that everything is running smoothly.

time sheets and payroll. What’s more, if the driver card is not

3

put in, there is no ‘qualified driver’ in the vehicle according to the

legal limit for driving being four and a half hours, drivers need to

tachograph, which complicates matters significantly in the event

make sure they are planning routes efficiently in advance so they

of a potential insurance claim.

can take their breaks without also jeopardising delivery times.

Forgetting to put the driver card in the tachograph All drivers ought to know that failing to put the driver card in before driving a vehicle is illegal. On top of this, it means

that the tacho recording is not associated with the driver, causing huge headaches back at the office when it comes to sorting out

Not planning breaks effectively Drivers often need to juggle hectic schedules, so it is understandable that sometimes they can forget to plan

breaks into their day. Unfortunately, this can cause challenges for fleet managers, who must balance time-sensitive deliveries against making sure drivers are taking the breaks they need. With the

5 SIMPLE THINGS HGV DRIVERS DO THAT DRIVE FLEET MANAGERS MAD 74

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at verizonconnect.com

4

Incorrectly reporting hours One sure-fire way to make a fleet manager tear their hair out is through misreporting driver

hours. At best, this causes havoc with timesheets and payroll – and everyone wants to make sure they are being paid the full amount they deserve! At worst, fleet managers could end up incorrectly believing that drivers are breaking the law when they’re not, or vice versa. Drivers therefore must ensure that they are reporting their hours correctly to ensure they are being paid fairly, and staying on the right side of the law.

5

Not being accessible while out on the road It is important that fleet managers and drivers are able to remain in contact while the driver is out

on the road. Of course, if they are driving, then they should not be picking up their phone, but it’s not always easy to tell if they’re not picking up simply because they don’t want to instead. Therefore, drivers must make sure their fleet managers are up to date on the latest information regarding their whereabouts whenever they can, so fleet managers can easily provide any relevant updates and establish ETAs. By bearing in mind and avoiding these five simple but common errors, HGV drivers can easily help ensure that the company runs smoothly, and help reduce their fleet manager’s stress levels, leading to a safety and more efficient operation. One surefire way to overcome all these challenges is through a Mobile Resource Management platform that can integrate directly with the vehicle’s tachograph. This allows you to keep your fleet safe and allocate jobs faster and more efficiently – based on up-todate information and without having to contact your driver.

Derek Bryan, Vice President EMEA, Verizon Connect

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

75

REGIONAL FOCUS

YORKSHIRE

W

ith news stories about the UK’s air quality

surrounding towns and cities. Some operators are considering

seeming to appear on an almost daily basis,

sub-contracting, while others may pay any penalty and treat the

there can be little doubt about the pressure

charge as an operating cost. Every single one of these options

being placed on the government to take action. One of its

means moving goods and services around Leeds will cost more.

headline policies is the introduction of Clean Air Zones (CAZs)

And while these increased costs may be absorbed short-term, in

in some of the most polluted urban areas. Leeds was among

the end they will be passed on to other businesses and ultimately

the first local authorities to release its CAZ proposals for

local residents.

consultation. But as the FTA’s Head of Policy for the North, Malcolm Bingham explains, the plan as it stands, could be

Some of the companies most affected will be those running

devastating for local businesses.

specialised vehicles which are built for very specific purposes.

These can do limited mileage, which means they are often in

Everyone at the Freight Transport Association is committed to

service for longer. They are also far more expensive to replace.

making logistics safer, cleaner and more efficient. While our

This could affect a whole raft of companies, from domestic

members operate commercial vehicles, they are also pedestrians

removal firms to transportation specialists delivering musical

and cyclists and have family and friends living in urban areas.

and concert equipment to Leeds Arena.

However, if operators are unable to continue working effectively inside CAZs, not only do they suffer, but so do local residents

In the end, the impact of new CAZs, whether in Leeds or

and other businesses who are unable to get the goods they need

elsewhere, will depend on three factors: timing, the vehicles

or are forced to pay more for the everyday items and services.

affected and the geographic extent. These are the three areas where FTA wants to see concessions.

FTA is extremely concerned about the approach being taken in Leeds. The proposals put out for consultation early in 2018

Firstly, operators need practical information now about the

would leave commercial vehicle operators with some very

new CAZs to allow them to plan properly. It is unacceptable to

serious challenges. For some companies, it will simply be easier

expect industry to make its plans while there is indecision over the

to stop servicing the centre of Leeds altogether.

The impact

consultation processes. FTA has asked Leeds City Council to look

will be disproportionately felt by smaller firms who may have

for the latest date possible to introduce restrictions through charging

older fleets and do not have access to the funds to upgrade their

zones and it will be doing the same in other towns and cities.

vehicles or adapt the way they work.

When it comes to vehicle emissions, there are currently no Those companies which choose to stay, can buy or lease new

approved retrofit option for HGVs to bring Euro IV or V vehicles

vehicles to operate in Leeds or move their newest vehicles

up to the Euro VI standard. Nor is there a big enough second-

into the Clean Air Zone, but this could have the unintended

hand market in compliant vehicles. Again, companies need time

consequence of concentrating older more polluting vehicles in

to acquire the right vehicles in the most cost-efficient way.

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March 2018

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at www.fta.co.uk

Finally, the extent or size of the zones is very important indeed.

While it might seem wise to make them larger, to avoid moving the congestion into other parts of the city, this may well have other more damaging implications. Distribution centres and even vehicle maintenance and testing sites will have to be moved outside of the zones. This will force more vehicles to travel further to pick up and deliver goods and trucks may have also to travel longer distances to undergo regular maintenance and testing. Even worse, if companies have to split their fleets with only some vehicles able to service a particular area, this may lead to sub-optimal loading, creating the need for even more vehicle miles.

FTA is calling for councils to be flexible. It would like to see the introduction of sunset clauses appropriate to the local area, which would allow some businesses to keep operating in the short term, while they upgrade their fleets.

FTA is continuing to ensure the voice of the logistics sector is being heard in all CAZ consultations. Members should follow the weekly e-news for updates on how the plans are progressing.

Malcolm Bingham, Head of Policy for the North of England, FTA

LEEDS

CLEAN AIR ZONE FTA CLARIFIES THE ISSUE

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

77

REGIONAL FOCUS

T

he UK exported £8.2 billion of goods and services to Canada in 2016, making it the UK’s eighth biggest export market outside the EU. The UK is Canada’s seventh largest

source of goods imports and second largest services trading partner.

Canada has a stable political environment and a strong record of economic growth. It offers opportunities for UK companies across all sectors.

The implementation of the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) opens up further opportunities for UK companies as well as removing barriers to trade. CETA also gives UK investors assured preferential access into the USA and Mexico for goods

EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic

produced in Canada that comply with rules of origin requirements

& Trade Agreement (CETA)

under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

CETA will help strengthen trade between Canada and the UK.

Benefits for UK businesses exporting to Canada

Overall the CETA agreement will...

•• It has similar legal and business practices to the UK

•• Eliminate nearly all Canadian import duties

•• There are fewer trade restrictions due to the CETA agreement

•• Create more opportunities to bid for public contracts in Canada

•• It offers close proximity and easier access to the US market

•• Make it easier to access Canadian services and investment markets

•• It has a strong business and consumer base

•• Improve the framework for temporary movement of key company personnel and service-providers between the EU and Canada

•• Like the UK, it is considered to have one of the most transparent legislatures, with Canada ranked as one of the least corrupt nations in the world

EXPORT TO CANADA

•• Strengthen the Canadian intellectual property environment •• Increase co-operation between European and Canadian standards setting bodies

ISSUES & REGULATIONS 78

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

TOP IMPORTS INTO CANADA UN Comtrade ranks Canada’s top goods imports as:

TAXATION IN CANADA

Value Added Tax (VAT) on goods exported to Canada

•• Vehicles (not railway or tramway vehicles)

You can zero-rate the sale of your goods to Canada, provided

•• Boilers and machinery

you get and keep evidence of your export, and comply with all

•• Electrical and electronic equipment

other laws. You must also make sure the goods are exported, and

•• Distillation products and mineral fuels, including oil •• Plastics and plastic products •• Optical, technical, photographic and medical apparatus

you must get the evidence within 3 months from the time of sale.

Goods and services tax (GST) and harmonised sales tax (HST) in Canada

•• Pharmaceuticals

Canada’s goods and services tax is levied at 5% for most Canadian

•• Pearls, precious stones, metals and coins

provinces. GST is imposed on the supply of goods and services

•• Furniture, lighting, signs and prefabricated buildings

purchased in Canada, and it’s often included in the price of sales

•• iron or steel products

to customers.

HST is a consumption tax, used in provinces where both the

LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

federal GST and the regional provincial sales tax (PST) have been combined into a single value added sales tax. HST is charged at 13% in Ontario, and is levied at 15% in:

English common law is the basis for the law in 9 provinces and 3 territories. French civil law is the basis of the law in

•• New Brunswick

Québec. Canada is a federal state. Federal jurisdiction tends

•• Newfoundland and Labrador

to be narrowly focussed on particular kinds of business,

•• Nova Scotia

property and behaviour. Your business in Canada will be

•• Prince Edward Island

subject to both federal and provincial or territorial laws.

Québec places an additional levy called Québec Sales Tax (QST) Some industry sectors are regulated in Canada. Find out

on top of GST. Canada’s provinces and territories can exempt

more about the specific regulations in force and the permits/

different items from these taxes.

licences needed.

Contact the DIT team in Canada to help find tax and legal advisers before entering into agreements in Canada.

CUSTOMS IN CANADA

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regulates all https://www.gov.uk/guidance/exporting-to-canada Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0.

goods imported into Canada. CBSA provides a step-by-step guide to importing commercial goods into Canada. Find out which federal government departments and agencies are responsible for granting commodity-specific import permits or certificates. The EU’s Market Access Database provides information on import conditions into Canada, including: •• Import tariffs •• Customs clearance formalities and documentation •• Sanitary (animal related) and phytosanitary (plant related) restrictions

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

79

CONSOLIDATION • OUT-OF-GAUGE HANDLING • 25T OVERHEAD CRANE

VGM-AUTHORISED WEIGHING STATION • ADR HANDLING AND DISTRIBUTION

RECENT LAUNCH OF NEW WEB SITE

THE STORY SO FAR...

OUR REPUTATION HAS BEEN BUILT ON WORD OF MOUTH AND RECOMMENDATIONS. MY FAMILY ROOTS IN TRANSPORT AND WAREHOUSING GAVE ME THE INSPIRATION TO START MY OWN BUSINESS BACK IN 1999. WITH ONE VAN DRIVING THOUSANDS OF MILES ACROSS THE BRITISH ISLES, DEDICATION AND HARD WORK HAS ALLOWED THE HINKS HAULAGE NAME TO SUCCEED. OVER THE PAST TEN YEARS AND WITH THE BACKING OF A GREAT TEAM OF PROFESSIONAL STAFF I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO RE-INVEST IN THE COMPANY AND NOW RUN A FLEET OF NINE TRUCKS AND OPERATE A 25,000ft2 CONSOLIDATION AND STORAGE FACILITY. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE PART OF OUR STORY PLEASE GIVE US A CALL, THE NEXT CHAPTER IS WAITING TO BE WRITTEN!!

We offer a VGM (verified gross mass) service to help you

AEO accredited for safety & security

complyFORWARDER with the new SOLAS (safety of life at sea) regulations. magazine March 2018

FORS bronze

80

ARE PALLET SYSTEMS LETTING YOU DOWN? DO YOU HAVE FRAGILE OR OUT-OF-GAUGE FREIGHT? CALL US TODAY! WE OFFER FULL & PART LOAD DELIVERY SERVICES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

transport@hinkshaulage.co.uk warehouse@hinkshaulage.co.uk www.hinkshaulage.co.uk

Unit 1

Anglo Africa Ind Est

Union Road

Olbury B69 3EX

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

81

M&A FOCUS

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at freightmergers.com

FREIGHT MERGERS ACQUIRES PETER FARMER ASSOCIATES F reight Mergers (the trading name of Freight Solutions Consulting

Mergers has just concluded its best trading year to date’, was headed

Limited) has acquired the UK-based Mergers and Acquisitions

up by principal Freight Mergers consultant Jack Lonnen. With

advisory firm Peter Farmer Associates Ltd (PFA) in January 2018.

numerous relationships established by PFA over a period of decades,

this acquisition gives Freight Mergers a fantastic addition to its already

PFA was founded as a consultancy business in 1990 advising on mergers

extensive network within the freight, transport and logistics industry.

and acquisitions within the freight, transport and logistics market. Peter Farmer, a chartered accountant, has spent the majority of his working life in

Peter, who will continue working alongside Freight Mergers as a consultant,

the freight and transport sector, including owning and running a forwarding

will be able to provide clients with additional experience and expertise.

business which he sold at the end of the 1980s. This event sparked his

He commented, ‘this is the ideal way to ensure that the strong bonds

interest and involvement in M&A. During his time in the transport world,

and professional relationships with a significant section of the freight and

Peter was Hon. Treasurer of the British International Freight Association

logistics market are able to be maintained and developed’. Both parties

as well as sitting on the Board of the Chartered Institute of Transport.

are enthusiastic about what the future holds and excited in being able to realise the opportunities that the combined businesses will provide.

Since starting PFA, which was converted into a limited company in 1999, the business has conducted the sale of numerous companies over the years. These range from finding suitable exit arrangements for retiring owners of small freight companies through to identifying appropriate target businesses with specific locations or niche operations for global freight groups. Over the last 27 years PFA has been responsible for concluding hundreds of successful combinations.

Now planning for retirement, Peter Farmer has reached a working arrangement with Freight Mergers, joining forces on many projects for both buyers and sellers to the benefit of the two client bases.

This combination, described by Director and owner of Freight Mergers, Craig Headford, as ‘a perfect growth strategy at a time where Freight

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F R E I G H T

Are you planning to buy or sell a freight forwarding company? +44 (0)1454 275930 • enquiries@freightmergers.com Freight Mergers are specialists in selling owner-managed freight forwarding businesses. For most company owners, selling their freight forwarding business is the most important financial transaction of their life. To meet the challenge of getting a fair price for a business, we have developed a proactive approach to selling a business that connects buyers with sellers with the best synergy.

We have over ten years of experience in the freight forwarding sector and, due to our niche-specialist approach, can put you in touch with the best sellers for your business.

www.freightmergers.com

M&A for the global freight & logistics industry FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

83

M&A FOCUS

F R E I G H T

WITH

COMPANIES

FOR SALE UK INDEPENDENT FREIGHT FORWARDER

UK PHARMA STORAGE/DISTRIBUT'N OPPORTUNITY

Ref. 68321FM | North West, UK

Ref. 1512FM | Home Counties – N. London, UK

Key business features

Key business features

•• Well established after trading for over 20 years

•• Long-standing business with over three decades of experience

•• LCL and FCL to all parts of the Mediterranean, Middle East & Indian sub-continent, both import & export

•• Specialists in providing forwarding and storage services to the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector

•• Experienced, loyal, very capable senior management team •• Warehouse facility of 20,000ft2 owned by the company

•• Office and warehouse facility (15,000ft2) providing flexible, temperature-monitored storage, in-transit storage and short term

•• 70% of their work is with other freight forwarders

•• Supported by the membership of a UK distribution network

•• Sizable customer base, circa 200 trading clients

•• Fantastic customer spread with largest accounting for 21.5% of revenue, the remaining top 5 each between 5 and 7%

•• 16 members of staff who will continue under new management •• Owners willing to undertake a handover period

DAVID ROBERTS M&A Consultant

david@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 941

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•• Owners willing to undertake a hand-over period •• 24/7 365-day high-dependency drug distribution service to all UK hospitals DAVID ROBERTS M&A Consultant

david@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 941

SELLING OR BUYING A FREIGHT COMPANY? GET IN TOUCH

+44 (0)1454 275 950

enquiries@freightmergers.com

UK-BASED PROJECT FORWARDER

TEMPERATURE -SENSITIVE FORWARDER

Ref. 10492FM | South West, UK

Ref. 1502FM | South East, UK

Key business features

Key business features

•• Holds AEO Status, is a BIFA member and is ISO certified

•• Company trading 14+ years

•• Average client credit terms are 30 days with only one client on 60

•• Temperature-controlled handling and customs clearances

•• There are on average over 100 trading clients annually

•• Handle in excess of 50 million kg of air freight per annum

•• Main commodities shipped are construction and drilling equipment for large projects overseas

•• 48,000 ft2 temperature-controlled facility that has been approved as a Bonded Warehouse by HMCE

•• The majority of shipments managed by the company would be deemed project forwarding or heavy lift

•• Can provide customer visibility throughout the entire supply chain via implemented IT system

•• The owners want to step away from the business in a timely manner and an accelerated but comprehensive handover will be prepared

•• UK & EU transportation and value-added services

•• The company has 2 FTE. However, the owners are open to scenarios where the business would be relocated from the S.W.

•• Accredited by the British retail consortium, BIFA and IATA

JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

•• Portfolio of large blue-chip clients

DAVID ROBERTS M&A Consultant

david@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 941 FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

85

M&A FOCUS

SELLING OR BUYING A COMPANY?

F R E I G H T

WITH

GET IN TOUCH

+44 (0)1454 275 933

COMPANIES

FOR SALE

INDIAN PHARMA INT'L FORWARDER EXPORT FORWARDER & WAREHOUSING FOR SALE /PICK & PACK BUS.

Ref. 93472FM | India

Ref. 07633FM | East Midlands, UK

Freight Mergers is currently facilitating the sale of an air and ocean pharmaceutical forwarder situated in the world’s biggest emerging

Key business features •• Air and ocean forwarder with value-added logistics and fulfilment services provided to key clients, trading for 20 years

market, India.

Key business features

•• Largest key client accounting for 22.5% of revenue

•• Operating across 6 prime locations in India

•• Domestic distribution

•• 18 full-time employees

•• Exceptional and knowledgeable team, highly competent

•• Main routes: USA, Africa, Europe, Far East, Australasia

in all aspects of logistics and transportation, with manager

•• 50,000ft2 of temperature-controlled warehousing

and succession plan in situ

•• Turnover: $9,300,000

•• Quality client relationships with in-depth understanding of continuous requirements

•• Adjusted net profit: $360,000 DAVID ROBERTS M&A Consultant

david@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 941

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

JACK LONNEN M&A Consultant

jack@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 931

UK DISTRIBUTION, EUROPEAN FORWARDING & PALLET COMPANY Ref. 55146FM | South UK Regional leader in UK distribution, European freight forwarding and member of an established pallet network.

Financial •• Turnover: £3,700,000 •• Adjusted Operating Profit: £550,000

Key business features •• A well-established business for over 25 years is available for acquisition due to the planned retirement of its owners •• A number of blue-chip clients trade with the company •• Secure warehouse storage and custom export packing solution ••15+ vehicles ••10 operational/management staff • 15+ drivers JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

COMPANY SUMMARY:

EUROPEAN FREIGHT

33%

PALLET

43%

UK FORWARDING

8%

WAREHOUSING

6%

WORLDWIDE FORWARDING

6%

UK PARCELS

1%

EXPORT PACKING

1%

FINANCIALS

T/O: £3.8m EBITDA: £580k GET IN TOUCH

+44 (0)1454 275 931

SELLER OF THE MONTH FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

87

M&A FOCUS

F R E I G H T

WITH

COMPANIES

SOUGHT UK INVESTOR SEEKING FREIGHT FORWARDERS

GERMAN OR NORDIC TIME-CRITICAL LOGISTICS SOUGHT

Ref. 67453FM | UK

Ref. 8429FM | Germany or Nordics

Key features offered •• Initial investments typically between £2m-£10m and able to provide significant follow-on funding •• Minority, non-controlling equity partners (10-40% typically) – no exit deadlines or drag-on rights •• Enables existing shareholders to release equity and realise some wealth whilst retaining a majority shareholding •• Mix of equity and debt that many other investors cannot match, potential for less dilution for shareholders •• Funding for organic and acquisition growth

A rapidly growing well-financed provider of bespoke, time-sensitive logistics solutions is seeking acquisition of similar companies in Germany or in the Nordics. The client is a well-respected Europe-headquartered company with experience in logistics solutions to blue-chip organisations whose commodities are either exceptionally expensive or where there is a high chance of customer failure without a specific solution. Primary location for acquisitions: Germany, Nordics. Secondary: UK, Eastern Europe.

Features sought •• Time critical solutions provider or/ •• Bespoke logistics provider •• EBITDA of €100,000–€10,000,000

DAVID ROBERTS M&A Consultant

david@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 941

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JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

SELLING OR BUYING A FREIGHT COMPANY? GET IN TOUCH

+44 (0)1454 275 950

enquiries@freightmergers.com

N.Y. FORWARDER SOUGHT FOR ACQUISITION

MANCHESTER FORWARDER SOUGHT BY UK SME

Ref. 4828FM | New York, USA

Ref. 8174FM | Manchester, UK

Are you the owner of a freight forwarding company based in New

A well-respected, privately owned freight forwarder is

York? Do you have a great partner there that would be considering

aiming to grow its northern presence by acquiring a freight

a sale in the coming years? Freight Mergers am working on behalf

forwarder based in the Manchester area. This business

of an expanding supply chain group who have aspirations to grow

has a track record of acquiring and integrating companies

their US service offerings by acquiring a company ideally located in

into their group with great success.

New York (near to JFK).

Features sought

Features sought

•• Manchester based (or within 20 miles)

•• Licensed, New York-based freight forwarder

•• Export-driven air/ocean solutions

•• Regular trading clients with no single large account

•• Positive balance sheet

•• Air and ocean solutions provider

•• Management to remain or leave over a period of 2–3 years

•• Management team to remain or retire

•• Adjusted net profit of £80,000–£500,000

JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

JACK LONNEN M&A Consultant

jack@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 931 FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

89

M&A FOCUS

F R E I G H T

WITH

COMPANIES

SOUGHT

UK GENERAL FORWARDER IN FORWARDER AIMING SCOTLAND SOUGHT FOR ACQUISITION

BY ENGLISH H.Q.

Ref. 3130FM | UK

Ref. 4009FM | Scotland, UK

With a number of successful acquisitions already completed this

Freight Mergers have been mandated to approach forwarders in

mandated buyer is worthy of serious consideration to any owner

Scotland who are interested in being acquired by an expanding,

of a UK or Euro road transport provider. The management team is

England-based forwarder.

specifically looking for acquisition close to key motorway networks

Features sought

(M5, M4, M6, M62, M1). Due to previous acquisitions my client holds

•• Offer international air and ocean services

membership in various pallet and parcel networks and as such is able to on-board other members with their system very easily.

•• Have a wide spread of clients (no single client greater than 20% of turnover)

Features sought

•• Have a positive balance sheet without long-term liabilities

•• EBITDA of £100,000–£1,250,000 with positive balance sheet

•• Asset light

•• Owner willing to complete hand-over period

•• Have owners or a management team that are happy to commit to a handover period

•• Services offered; pallets, UK/European distribution, warehousing JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

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JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

SELLING OR BUYING A FREIGHT COMPANY? GET IN TOUCH

+44 (0)1454 275 950

enquiries@freightmergers.com

INT'L AIR & OCEAN FORWARDER SOUGHT

LHR FREIGHT FORWARDER SOUGHT

Ref. 74880FM | UK

Ref. 10988FM | London Heathrow, UK

A large and long-standing global freight forwarding and logistics

Our confidential buyer is looking for a small, air freight forwarding

company is aiming to build their UK presence through acquisition,

business to acquire in the London Heathrow area.

particularly focusing on the growth of their air and ocean business.

Features sought

An acquisition with proven financial performance over recent years and a strong management team would be ideal.

•• Air freight business preferable but multimodal operations would be considered

Features sought

•• Established and profitable with good margins

•• Niche/specialised business is of interest

•• Retirement sale ideal

•• Profitable in recent years

•• Up to £3m turnover

•• Turnover between £2m - £15m •• Majority of business activities air and ocean freight •• USA, Far East and European trade route development JACK LONNEN M&A Consultant

jack@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 931

JACK LONNEN M&A Consultant

jack@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 931 FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

91

M&A FOCUS

SELLING OR BUYING A COMPANY?

F R E I G H T

WITH

GET IN TOUCH

+44 (0)1454 275 933

COMPANIES

SOUGHT

INT'L LOGISTICS GROUP GROWING

BY ACQUISITION

UK AIR & OCEAN FORWARDING COMPANY SOUGHT

Ref. 5579FM | Europe, USA or Asia

Ref. 09433FM | Heathrow & Manchester

An internationally headquartered logistics service provider is aiming

A multimodal, general freight forwarder based in the UK are looking

to meet the growth targets set by its board for 2016 and 2017. With

to grow their operation through targeted acquisition of companies in

multiple high profile European and global acquisitions completed in the

either Manchester or the London Heathrow area. With consistent,

past five years this group offers company owners an opportunity to

healthy profits and funding available, alongside a strong management

continue within the group or to fully exit the industry in a timely manner.

team, my client is a mid-sized forwarder with the stable foundation

Features sought

for an acquisition.

•• Forwarders based in Europe, USA or Asia

Features sought

•• Air & Ocean service providers of high interest

•• Turnover ideally £1m–£5m but larger will be considered

•• Net profit of £200,000-£5,000,000

•• General forwarding with an air/ocean focus

•• Owners open to remaining or retiring

•• Structured owner exit or continued involvement •• Niche sector business a plus

JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

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JACK LONNEN M&A Consultant

jack@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 931

PRIVATE EQUITY SEEKS FREIGHT FORWARDING PLATFORM

FEATURES SOUGHT:

Ref. 16401FM | UK or Europe

Freight Mergers are mandated by one of Europe’s leading investment groups with a history of investing in service orientated industries. My client is seeking a freight forwarding asset with a proven management team who are keen to develop their company into becoming one of Europe’s top 20 freight forwarders with the support of a global network of offices and professionals. This will be a buy-and-build strategy financed by my client but operationally driven by the management team. My client is in funds without the need for additional borrowing for this investment.

INFO

30 portfolio companies 20 investment professionals $9bn of assets under management GET IN TOUCH

+44 (0)1454 275 933

Features sought •• Entrepreneurial management team (not necessarily shareholders) •• UK or European headquartered •• EBITDA of £1m+ •• Any niche service providers also of interest: Hazardous, high value, time critical, aerospace, AOG JAMES HUGHES M&A Consultant

james@freightmergers.com • +44 (0)1454 275 933

BUYER OF THE MONTH FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

93

RECRUITMENT FOCUS POWERED BY

BRANCH START UP (COMMERCIAL MANAGER) £45,000–£60,000 | North West, UK | Ref. NW15689FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787 An exciting opportunity for someone who is looking to take the next step in their sales career. The client is looking to expand their business into the north of the UK by setting up a branch in the North West.

•• South-based SME freight forwarder •• Retail vertical with a focus on USA and Far East import •• Air, ocean & road services

BRANCH MANAGER

UK GENERAL MANAGER

£40,000-£55,000 | London, UK | Ref: LDN38421FM jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951

Salary neg. | Leeds, UK | Ref: GMK27880FM jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious person who wants to step up in their career. The employer specialises within hazardous, project forwarding & out of gauge.

•• Covering three offices across the UK •• Directly in charge of 30-40 employees

•• South-based SME freight forwarder •• Operations, business development & P&L responsibilities •• Hazardous, project forwarding & OoG vertical focus •• Air, Ocean & Road Services

•• UK general management experience •• European Road freight experience •• Budgeting, P&L Experience

MULTIMODAL BDM

NATIONAL AIR & OCEAN BDM

£35k–£45k | Manchester, UK | Ref: 899440FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

£45k–£60k | North West, UK | Ref: 899431FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

•• Strong lean towards air freight •• Must have experience with air, ocean & road freight •• Win new business & build relationships with

•• Must have Air & Ocean sales experience •• Developing & retaining new accounts •• Willingness to travel on a national basis •• 4+ years’ experience in Freight Forwarding sales •• Fast Growing Top 25 Global Forwarder

current clients

•• 3+ years’ experience in Freight Forwarding sales

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

Required:

VACANCIES TRANSPORTATION BROKER

OPS MANAGER, TRANSPORT BROKERAGE

Coalville, UK | Ref: 516018-FM +44 (0)1454 275 935

Coalville, UK | Ref: 516017-FM +44 (0)1454 628 787

Amazon is looking for a Transportation Broker to help grow its portfolio of carrier partners.

Amazon is seeking a skilled and motivated Brokerage Leader to assist in the tactical management, procurement, and execution of Linehaul movements flowing into and out of its European fulfilment centres , sort centres and Amazon associated fulfilment network. An ideal candidate has a proven ability to grow and lead large teams and innovate new creative business solutions.

•• Lead and maintain the sales programme for brokerage initiative and contribute to Amazon’s bottom line

•• Track and report on key compliance metrics across Amazon’s Transportation network

DIRECTOR OF SALES, AUTOMOTIVE – SHANGHAI, CHINA $150–175k | Ref. DSAC592FM | Shanghai, China | lewis@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 770 My client is a top 10 global freight forwarder with a reputation for being an industry leader across multiple verticals.

We’re looking for a Director of Sales to lead the sales effort within the automotive vertical targeting A and B accounts. You will be fully involved with the sales process of automotive exports at a senior level as well as leading a team of up to 30 individuals through a few direct reports.

My client already works with some of the largest automotive manufacturers across the globe and their footprint continues to grow.

Applicants must have a background dealing heavily with the automotive sector. Experience within automotive manufacturing or in other aspects of the auto vertical would be considered a major plus.

On offer is:

•• $150-175K •• Annual bonus •• Relocation Package •• Housing allowance •• Schooling if applicable The initial contract will be a three-year term with the chance to extend or move onto other things.

You can be relocating from anywhere across Europe or the US.

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

95

RECRUITMENT FOCUS POWERED BY

NATIONAL BUS. DEV. DIRECTOR

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

London, UK | Ref. 122279FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

London, UK | Ref. 122278FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

•• 10+ years with current employer •• 28 years’ experience in the industry •• Developed market segments and contract from £20K

•• Senior level business Sales Director •• 25 years’ experience in the industry •• Proven track record of developing business

•• Surpassed 2015 Target (50,000 TEUS) by 3%

•• Accountable for more than £8m in turnover

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

London, UK | Ref. 122280FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

Liverpool, UK | Ref. 17823PK jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951

10+ years with current employer

•• Immediate pipeline worth £60k year profit •• 9+ years’ worth of experience selling road, ocean

to over £10M in revenue

(51,500 TEUS); £35m in revenues 2016 Target: +30%

•• Employed by a global freight forwarder for 8+ years •• Developed market and core clients in industrials segments UK wide

in Automotive, Defense and Engineering of business between 2015/2016

& air freight

•• Was generating £15k–£18k month profit in last freight forwarding BDM role

•• Promoted to UK Business Manager overlooking all road •• Achieved targets in region of £850K GP in 2016

•• Available immediately

AIR & OCEAN IMPORT OPERATOR

OPERATIONS MANAGER/DIRECTOR

Coventry, UK | Ref. 1125547RD jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951

Liverpool, UK (will relocate) | Ref. 1125322CR jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951

•• Over 19 years’ experience in air/ocean imports,

•• Increased auditing accuracy from <75% to >95% •• Decreased import freight spend from >€80,000 per

working for just one company •• Professional training in Hazard Awareness, Movement of Dangerous Goods & Manual Handling •• Experience in customer service, bookings, spreadsheets, buy & sell rates, HMRC correspondence and invoicing

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March 2018

month to <€6,000 per month

•• Experience in logistics (3PL/4PL), operations,

manufacturing, freight forwarding & supply chain

•• Available immediately

CANDIDATES ROUTE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

ROUTE DEV. MAN./PRODUCT DEV. MAN.

National | Ref: 1126510FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

Heathrow, UK | Ref: 1126495FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

•• Target hitter - £250-270K GP •• 6 years’ experience as a US Trade Lane Manager •• Trade lane development between the UK and USA •• Verticals: automotive, retail, industrial, pharmaceutical

•• Strong sales management experience •• 50% Air 50% Ocean •• Great knowledge of air and sea contacts nationwide •• Verticals: retail (wholesale, technology, garment),

and aerospace

•• Great knowledge of Air and Sea contacts Nationwide

FMCG , pharma & general cargo •• Trade Lanes: US, UK, Far East, M.E., Africa, Australasia

AIR & OCEAN BDM

SALES MANAGER / BDM

Heathrow, UK | Ref: 12904FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

East Midlands | Ref: 1126425FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

•• 10+ years international air & ocean freight sales •• £120K GP in Last 12 months •• Air 60% ocean 40% •• Trade lanes: Far East & US •• Verticals: retail & general cargo

•• Over £1m turnover for last of the 5 years (NB only) •• Strong in automotive, aviation, high-security

SENIOR KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER

ROUTE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

West Midlands | Ref: 1126410FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

North West | Ref: 12904FM ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787

•• Looks after roughly 50 accounts •• Accounts vary in size from £1m–£15m turnover •• Works on margins of 18%–25% •• No restrictive covenant in place

•• Exceed trade lane growth target by over 200% •• 10 years’ experience in logistics •• Currently manages Ocean Freight

& pharmaceuticals

•• Experience with air, ocean & road •• 3 employers since 2000

(FCL & LCL – all verticals)

•• Open to a new route, mode or vertical

FORWARDER magazine

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97

Fill your vacancies

Back oďŹ&#x192;ce

Let us assist with your company's growth...

Finance

Europe +44 01454 275957 ryan@headfordgroup.com

98

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

Operations Sales Management

USA Sourcing market-leading talent.

www.headfordgroup.com

Your strategic growth partner.

Executive Search • Branch Startups • Senior Appointments • Mergers & Acquisitions

Considering a change?

More responsibility?

Fairer pay?

Better commission?

Send us your CV today...

Asia +1 404 592 6315 lewis@headfordgroup.com

Middle East +971 (0) 45 015 675 simon@headford.ae

FORWARDER magazine

UAE

March 2018

99

MARKETING FOCUS WITH

T

witter is by no means a new social media tool to many

that will he people perceive your business in a better light. The

businesses. If Donald Trump alone is anything to go by, it is

fact Twitter allows you to customise the look and colours of your

an incredibly powerful marketing tool to promote yourself

Twitter profile page, tells us that you really should. It is granting

or your business. Twitters real time activity set-up is unrivalled by

you an opportunity to provide additional information about your

any other social media platform currently in use. This means that if

business to everyone who checks out your profile. You can create a

you want immediate results, and to check the latest trends within

custom graphic and use it for your Twitter background, making you

your industry, then you really need to get tweeting.

stand out in the seas of social media.

With a plethora of tools and extensions that allow you to monitor

A SMART USE OF TWITTER

Twitter and gain insight on your competitions social media activity,

There are several ways in which using Twitter can used in a more

in the modern era of marketing, this is a free outlet that needs to

intelligent way. Using TweetDeck to monitor Twitter activity within

be taken advantage of. Whether it’s customer service responses,

your specific industry has become a vital tool for businesses around

business networking or research on potential clients / competitors

the globe. TweetDeck, for example, allows you to see exactly who

Twitter is very much still a tool that needs the attention of any

is Tweeting about freight forwarding and allows you to then respond

business, especially those within the freight forwarding community.

to them in real time.

Here are our top tips to help you become a triumphant Tweeter...

The impact this could have, if used correctly, on your business could be huge. If you were able to see every active Twitter user that is looking

FOLLOWERS

for freight forwarding services, worldwide, and respond to their

First impressions count, and the fact people can examine exactly

demand instantaneously, providing them with great online customer

who you follow on Twitter is many businesses first opinion on your

service and quality products, then why not use this free tool?

company’s social media profile. An easy way to help the visibility of your follower profile is to use one of the platforms often overlooked features, its lists. Twitter lists are on of its most powerful features.

ORGANIC POSTING

Many businesses now tend to post content directly from their

Lists allow you to group the important people you follow so that

webpage to Twitter. Whilst this is a time saving method of using

you don’t forget exactly who you want to follow and industry giants

social media, nothing with beat the engagement and reach of a well

that you can monitor. You can create separate lists for, customer

put together organic post. By using the right hashtags, incorporating

profiles, people in the forwarding industry, social media influencers,

the latest trends, tagging people in the post and through attached

professional organizations who you could collaborate with. This will

professional imagery, you will get a better result.

help you from following bots and inactive accounts.

BRANDING YOUR TWITTER PAGE

This may seem like a bit more effort than automatic posting from websites, however, these well-constructed posts will affect your

Staying with the idea of first impressions, the branding of your

SEO ranking and you will see the effectiveness of you Twitter

Twitter profile says a lot about your company. Colour schemes,

account skyrocket.

professional imagery, a well written and snappy bio are all things

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March 2018

TWEETING YOUR WAY TO THE TOP

FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

101

THE LAST WORD...

THE TEAM...

CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MATT EDITOR DAREN SALES MANAGER KATIE MAGAZINE ADVERTISING RICHARD MAGAZINE ADVERTISING DOM DIRECTORY ADVERTISING DARREN DIGITAL MARKETING TIM DESIGNER

A FINAL WORD FROM

THE EDITOR...

N

This allows for easier transport planning, and could result in more efficient ways abnormal loads being can be delivered from the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital. There have been some queries raised regarding the

ext month at FORWARDER we will be looking at

overall efficiency of this, calling into question whether this will have a

project cargo. From solar turbines to incredibly complex

detrimental effect on the environment, or if the heavy investments will

tunnel parts, abnormal loads are something that freight

make that much of a difference in the long run for freight forwarders.

forwarders must give consideration to.

The Benelux Union is a significant area for transport around

Along with this, we will also be looking at how customer delivery

Europe. The gateways to countries throughout the EU is in danger

obligations, maximum possible delivery cover, marshalling and

of becoming an unused wasteland if we are not careful with trade

relief points, worldwide material origins, mixture of lining and rent

agreement terms on the back of Brexit.

alternatives are detrimental to the process of project cargo.

Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg are all vital countries in This plethora of issues also extends to our regional locations for

terms of project cargo, due to the links to the UK, and to lose this

April, with a focus on the north east of England and the Benelux

connection could have an incredibly negative effect on our economy

union. With the north east of the country having significant

and the development of UK infrastructure.

investment in transport facilities, this could be a great advantage to anyone within the project cargo sector.

102

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March 2018

Matt Dailly, Editor, FORWARDER magazine

NEXT MONTH...

MONTHLY FOCUS

PUBLISHED BY

Project cargo & abnormal loads

REGIONAL FOCUS

UK: North East | Global: Benelux

MOVE IT LIKE...

We speak to another freight industry mover and shaker

INDUSTRY NEWS

More news and press releases from the world of freight

FOCUS ROUNDUP

Articles from the last 12 months relevant to the focus

ASK THE EXPERTS

Topical knowledge from the FTA and other industry experts

SITE STATISTICS

We detail a new freight depot, office or site

MARKETING FOCUS

We help you to get your message out to the industry

M&A FOCUS

More from the world of mergers & acquisitions in freight

RECRUITMENT FOCUS

Current jobs and candidates from Forwardingjobs.com

Please be aware, in this dynamic industry these topics and features are subject to change.

I

Freight Media Ltd Unit 8 Apex Court, Almondsbury Business Park, Bristol BS32 4JT twitter.com/ForwarderMag facebook.com/forwardermagazine linkedin.com/company/forwarder-magazine www.FORWARDERmagazine.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Craig Headford craig@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 275 946 EDITOR

Matt Dailly matt@forwardermagazine.com • +44 (0)1454 628 775 ADVERTISING

Daren Stainton (magazine) daren@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 275 946 Katie Elliott katie@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 628 771 Richard Booth richard@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 628 775 Dom Roberts (Directory) dom@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 628 794 MARKETING & DATA

f you would like your editorial to feature in next month’s magazine, please contact our editor, Matt, using the contact details to the right. If you would like to advertise in FORWARDER magazine,

full details of our rates and technical specifications can be found in our media pack. Please email us for a copy.

FORWARDER magazine is free in the UK. Please email for a subscription form.

Please visit us online at

www.forwardermagazine.com

Chris Tissier chris@freight-media.com DIGITAL MARKETING

Darren Glasspool d.glasspool@freight-media.com DESIGN

Tim Headford tim@forwardermagazine.com SUBSCRIBE

subscriptions@forwardermagazine.com When you’re finished with this magazine, FORWARDER magazine March 2018 please recycle it.

103

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

We're into our third year now and all of our issues are available on ISSUU.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just search 'Forwarder'. Of course, you can always read the latest issue on our website, at...

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European Logistics Expertise

With over 25 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; industry experience, we are a respected, market leading provider of premium UK and European logistics, and warehousing services.

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- Express Transport - Groupage - Part Loads - Full Loads - Specialist Transport - Warehousing - Dangerous Goods - Air Freight - Sea Freight - Insurance

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FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

105

INTIME INTACT INCONTROL

Balancing delivery cost and deadline GUARANTEED

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Dedicated European Express Transport

TIME

PREMIUM Consolidated European Express Transport

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106

T: 01543 241700 FORWARDER magazine

March 2018

/£

E: sales@espaceglobalfreight.com

PRIORITY

£

COST