FORWARDER magazine issue 64

FREIGHT TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY WILL CHANGE TRUCKING in six promising ways

WEBFLEET SOLUTIONS EXPANDS with new presence in Hungary

WORLDWIDE TRANSPORT TO DOUBLE ...emissions to rise further

PROGLOVE’S TAKE ON THE

HUMAN DIGITALTWIN ISSUE64

DIGITAL COUNTERPART TO THE HUMAN WORKER

FASTER LEANER CLEANER Great Annual Savings Group (GAS) has helped logistics businesses with cost efficiency for more than nine years. » » »

Reduce variable costs Create more time for core business activities Lower carbon footprint

Energy Procurement

Energy Management

EV Charging Points

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Business Telecoms

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ISSUE64

CONTENTS

elcome to

BREXIT BRIEFING

19 IDCOVOVERY K RECUNCING BAC

2

BO

AIR FREIGHT

18

SEA FREIGHT

26

ROAD FREIGHT

34

RAIL FREIGHT

42

PROJECT CARGO

48

AIR & SEA PORTS

54

TECH & DIGITALISATION

60

EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

80

CUSTOMS CLEARANCE

84

INDUSTRY SERVICES

92

TRAINING & RECRUITMENT

102

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

132

MEDIA & MARKETING

140

GIVING BACK NEW SECTION

148 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

3

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTS

making information flow…

4 FORWARDER magazine boxtop.net

ISSUE64

CRM

BOXTRAX

WAREHOUSING

WEB API’S

PO MANAGEMENT

WELCOME TO FORWARDER...

A WORD FROM

FORWARDER

MEET THE TEAM

W

elcome to issue 64, which has a slight leaning towards

CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

freight tech and digitalisation, which is becoming more and more relevant, powerful and interesting all the time.

craig@freightsolutions.com

ALAN EDITOR

We hear from industry stalwarts like Webfleet Solutions and ProGlove

editor@forwardermagazine.com

about new and improving gadgetry that's supporting logistics and driving

LUKE SALES MANAGER

the freight game forwards. The UK is, as always, at the forefront of the

luke@freightsolutions.com +44 (0)7368 976 852

technology movement. We don't just ride the wave...we are the wave.

DOM ADVERTISING

Enjoy the magazine and we'd love to hear from you...

dom@freightsolutions.com +44 (0)1454 628 794

Tim, Designer, FORWARDER magazine FREIGHT TECHNOLOGY MOVE IT LIKE... STEPHEN THOMPSON, MD, ACTION ROADWAYS POST-BREXIT EFFICIENCIES THE BREXIT SITUATION

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ISSUE64

1

BREXIT BRIEFING

We delve into the opportunities (and the challenges) presented by Britain’s departure from the EU. Related topics Global trade agreements Border control Import/export balance

Sponsored by

2 2 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

JUNE 2021

JOINT POLL REVEALS

EXTENT OF POST-BREXIT PROCESS PAIN

B

rexit has been thwarting the freight industry for four months now.

Forwarders on both sides of the UK/EU border are still adjusting to the new Brexit arrangements, with further problematic rule

changes and restrictions pending in just a few months’ time.

In particular, there is considerable pressure being imposed upon workers due to the extra requirements for importing and exporting, which is causing long hours, stress and anxiety.

It is estimated that businesses will need to process an additional 200 million customs declarations each year, compared with roughly 55 million before Brexit. It’s these cumbersome processes that are contributing to the significant disruption to our supply chains.

FORWARDER magazine teamed up with vector.ai to ask freight forwarders in the UK and EU how they are adapting to the new trading requirements post-Brexit.

It revealed a number of findings, including...

48% ~33%

have had to hire more staff to handle the changes in UK-EU customs trading since 1st January don’t think they will have enough staff to handle the extra checks later this year – including the pre-

notification and export health certification for animal products which will be required from 1st October 2021

80%

don’t think the government is doing enough to fill the gap in the number of workers required to handle the

change in customs process and additional paperwork

57%

are worried they or their staff are close to burnout as a direct result of the new customs requirements and

increase in paperwork

39%

say their business has taken a financial hit or loss because of the additional strain from Brexit

To say our industry is worried is an understatement. If left unchecked, this post-Brexit process pain will severely impact forwarders’ longterm operations and damage workers’ mental health. Without some sort of further, extensive trade agreement, the problem will not go away.

One would think we could work towards the introduction of a global standard for all documents. However, in a highly fragmented market, no single party holds the power or permission to dictate a new, singular digital standard, so this idea seems unlikely. We therefore must look for ways to help freight forwarders manage the new Brexit arrangements. Reassuringly, our survey shows we are stepping in the right direction after 75% of freight forwarders agreed that technology could remove some of the burden on their staff. The latest AI technology, for example, has the power to automatically analyse incoming documents and email, identify relevant information and instantly assign actions. What’s more, it can automate the entry of data required to fill in customs and freight documents – saving hours of time and stress.

James Coombes, CEO, vector.ai For more information on how AI can help freight forwarders, visit vector.ai FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

ISSUE64 ISSUE64

3

BREXIT BRIEFING NEWS

‘SCEXIT’ ...THE FREE FLOW OF GOODS AT SCOTTISH BORDERS 11 MAY 2021

IS VITAL IN ANY INDEPENDENCE PLANNING

T

he Scottish Nationalist Party’s (SNP) victory in the Scottish

a situation that is still unravelling. The UK Government was forced to

Parliamentary elections could pave the way for a second

unilaterally abandon the introduction of the (legally required) second

referendum, as pro-independence parties now hold the

phase of the Northern Ireland protocol agreement planned for April,

majority in Holyrood.

which would have resulted in increased certification and the end of waivers on customs declarations. This move was met with a furious

The international delivery specialist ParcelHero says that many Scottish

reaction from the EU, which has taken Britain to court over the issue.

nationalists believe the result clears a path not only for Scotland to become

For now, FM Sturgeon has pledged to concentrate on the battle with

independent of the United Kingdom but also for it to re-join the European

Covid. However, she has also vowed to introduce a referendum bill in

Union (EU). ParcelHero is urging that the free flow of goods at Scottish

the first half of her new term in office. If the UK Government does not

borders must be considered from the very beginning of any ‘Scexit’ planning

introduce a Section 30 order authorising a referendum, as it did back

process, to avoid the disaster of the Northern Ireland protocol.

in 2014, the future of Scotland’s second referendum is likely to end up in the courts. No one wants to see a repeat of the legal tussles that

ParcelHero’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks M.I.L.T., says...

resulted in the Northern Ireland protocol shambles. Everyone planning for potential Scottish independence and, perhaps, its reunion with

The people of Scotland have voted for a pro-independence

the EU needs to learn from the mistakes of Brexit and place the free,

majority in Holyrood. Strictly speaking, it’s up to the UK Parliament at

uninterrupted movement of goods at the top of their agenda. Indeed, as

Westminster to decide on whether “Indyref2” can go ahead. However,

an enthusiastic EU member, an independent Scotland might rejuvenate

Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, told Prime Minister Boris

trade between the EU and retailers and manufacturers from across the

Johnson on Sunday that a second referendum is a matter of when, not if.

British Isles.There are other, potential pitfalls to avoid when it comes

Of course, ParcelHero is entirely neutral on such an important issue,

to planning the delivery of mail and parcels to an independent Scotland.

but we do urge everyone involved in planning for independence – and,

Currently, the UK Government subsidises charges for traditional mail

perhaps, eventually reuniting Scotland with the EU – to prioritise the

deliveries to the Highlands and Islands. Holyrood’s planners will need

free flow of goods at potential English-Scottish borders. There was

to investigate what the impact of independence would be on the cost

an abject failure by every side to thoroughly plan for the unrestricted

of traditional postie deliveries to remote and offshore locations.

passage of goods between Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the

Couriers already include a surcharge for these deliveries. ParcelHero

Republic of Ireland after the Brexit vote was passed. That failure now

will be proud to continue serving Scotland, no matter what its future

haunts us, with 44% of retailers and 31.5% of manufacturers reporting

holds. Anyone anxious to ensure Scotland avoids the Northern Ireland

a collapse in the amount of goods they ship to Northern Ireland after

Brexit protocol trap should read ParcelHero’s new EU-UK e-commerce

the fiendishly complex Northern Ireland protocol was introduced. It’s

report at parcelhero.com/research/brexit-study

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C

ovid and Brexit have hit transportation and storage harder

latter half of May, only 1.6% of eateries and hotels reported they had

than any other sector, as Government report reveals that

closed their doors permanently; 15.1% remained closed temporarily

9.6% of firms have closed permanently

and 83.3% had resumed trading.Likewise, even the Arts, entertainment and recreation sector fared better, despite long periods of lockdown.

The latest Government Business Insights report reveals that the

No entertainment companies contributing to the report said they

transportation and storage sector has been hit hardest by Covid and

had closed permanently, although 14.3% were still temporarily

Brexit. ParcelHero says the shock result shows that more supply chain

shut. An impressive 85.4% of arts and entertainment organisations

companies have closed and fewer surviving firms are currently trading

are now open again. Both the arts and the accommodation and

than in any other sector.

food sectors actually reported worse financial performances than transport and storage firms, but significantly fewer organisations

The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) Business Insights report

actually failed. The report is obviously grim news for transport and

reveals the shock news that the transportation and storage industry

storage companies. It also strikes a warning note for anyone hoping

has been hardest hit of all sectors by Covid and Brexit. The home

to see evidence of an economic recovery. The logistics sector is an

delivery expert ParcelHero says that even hotels, food services, arts

indicator of the economy. When manufacturers and retailers are

and entertainment have fared better.

doing well, their transport providers are busy; similarly, when UK companies begin to struggle, transport and warehousing is the first

ParcelHero’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks, who is a Member

sector to show an immediate decline. The root of the problem is

of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport, says the logistics

that freight transport companies are particularly exposed to the

and supply chain sector is a trusted barometer of the economy and that

impact of Brexit. This is on top of issues caused by the pandemic.

these results come as a shock:

It’s extremely concerning that Customs problems have not got any better since Brexit regulations first hit in January. Says the report:

The report – Business insights and impact on the UK economy

“The proportions of businesses experiencing challenges in importing

– reveals that, between 17-30 May, 9.6% of Transportation and storage

and exporting are broadly unchanged since January 2021.” That is a

category companies reported they had now closed permanently;

damning indictment of current Government policy. During the period

15% were still temporarily shuttered and just 75.4% had resumed

3-16 May, 38.2% of exporters reported increased challenges around

trading. These trading status figures are grim reading and highlight

additional paperwork; 26.8% reported challenges with new Customs

the double whammy of the pandemic and Brexit on the transport and

duties; 15.2% indicated reduced demand for products and 8.6%

supply chain sector. To put the results into context, we might have

complained of disruption at UK borders. Brexit issues remain a hurdle

expected the Accommodation and food service activities sector to have

for exporters and their transport providers. ParcelHero’s own in-

been significantly more damaged by lockdowns than transportation

depth analysis of the ongoing EU-UK trade problems and, in particular,

and storage. After all, no one was able to go on holiday or eat out

the powder keg Northern Ireland Protocol agreement can be seen at:

for months. That proved not to be the case, however. During the

parcelhero.com/research/brexit-study

7 JUNE 2021

COVID & BREXIT HIT TRANSPORT & STORAGE HARDER THAN ANY OTHER SECTOR, AS

9.6% OF FIRMS CLOSE FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

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BREXIT BRIEFING NEWS 7 MAY 2021

UK IMPORTERS ARE STILL REELING FROM INCREASED BREXIT COSTS & DELAYS WARNS PARCELHERO

N

ew Government figures released yesterday (6 May) revealed

with the nightmare of increased paperwork. Changing tax rules and new

many businesses are still overwhelmed by the impact

proof of origin forms have proved difficult for many companies, both

of Brexit. Over 39% of importers reported they are still

large and small. Additionally, a slew of other Brexit difficulties had not

struggling with new customs duties and 38.6% were battling with

been ironed out by April. Nearly 7% of importers said their suppliers

increased transport costs.

were still not Customs ready, while 4.5% of British importers said their regular suppliers had stopped trading with the UK entirely in April, as

The international delivery specialist ParcelHero said the latest Office for

the full impact of Brexit bureaucracy hit home. Smaller importers have

National Statistics (ONS) Business Insights’ results, covering the period

been hit disproportionately by the cost of Brexit. In April, 25.3% of SME

5-18 April, show that there are still significant difficulties in importing

importers experienced disruption at UK borders, as opposed to just

goods from the EU post-Brexit. It warns that, inevitably, the increased

14.4% of large companies, and 38% of smaller companies wrestled with

costs will have to be passed on to consumers.

transport costs, as opposed to 30.5% of larger importers. The basic problem is that EU manufacturers and sellers are no longer fighting

April’s figures on the importing and exporting challenges facing British

to get their goods into the British market. The UK is no longer seen

businesses are pretty dire. The Government can no longer hide its head

as an easy and profitable market. European transport companies hate

in the sands of Britain’s coastal borders. There was a huge flaw in the

the new duties, delays and the fact that goods are still being turned

Government’s final trade deal struck just before Christmas, and it’s

away at ports because of incomplete paperwork. Those companies that

seemingly insoluble. Under the Brexit so-called “free trade” deal, goods

continue to serve the UK are increasing their prices to compensate.

arriving in the UK from the EU that are sourced and manufactured in

Importers are bearing the brunt of these changes for now but, before

Europe don’t pay tariffs. But how many products are entirely sourced

long, these increased costs will have to be passed on to the beleaguered

and made in a single area in today’s world of global supply chains? The

British shopper. The challenge of Covid may at last be subsiding but, for

answer is very few. Electronics incorporate components from across

Britain’s retailers and manufacturers, the impact of Brexit is not going

the globe, while clothing can include materials from many continents.

away. Our fear is that there could be even worse to come. Let’s not

That’s why importers are paying more duties, customers are finding

forget that some of the most complex new EU border regulations have

unexpected charges on items ordered from EU traders, and transport

been postponed, unilaterally, by the UK Government. It remains to

costs are rising because of mounting delays and returns. This latest ONS

be seen what their impact might be on these already worrying import

Business Insights assessment, in the section entitled “Exporting and

figures once they are imposed.

Importing Challenges”, reveals that 41% of importers are still struggling

David Jinks MILT, Head of Consumer Research, ParcelHero

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O

NS statistics revealed that a combination of COVID-19 and Brexit have caused UK trade in goods with EU countries to decrease by 23.1% in

Q1 2021, compared to Q1 2018.

In response to the findings, please see below a comment from Atul Bhakta, CEO of One World Express. I hope this is useful, but pleased don't hesitate to contact me if you would like any further information or commentary.

Brexit and COVID-19 created a perfect storm for a trading slump. A complex web of travel bans, new administrative processes and social distancing measures have driven many businesses to pause cross-border trade – in fact, 64% of UK businesses found 2020 to be their most challenging year ever, according to research from One World Express. Positively, however, the UK could be turning a corner. The successful vaccine rollout, coupled with a better grasp of post-Brexit customs regulations, seems to be reigniting trading activity.

Adding to this, we are seeing a growing demand for “Brand UK” in markets such as South East Asia, as well as promising trade deals with the likes of Australia in the offing, which will add to business confidence. Clearly, the UK’s trading levels have some way to go before returning to pre-pandemic levels.

Yet promising trading opportunities – particularly ones beyond the EU – are continuing to present themselves. As such, I predict that the outlook for UK exports, and business growth more generally, will begin to look increasingly positive over the coming months.

Atul Bhakta, CEO, One World Express 25 MAY 2021

IMPACTS OF COVID & BREXIT

ON UK TRADE STATISTICS - EXPERT COMMENTARY FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

7

COVID-19 RECOVERY

Hopefully the most short-lived section of FORWARDER, we'll bring you word on how the industry is recovering from this crisis and focus on positive stories about a world bouncing back.

Related topics SARS-CoV-19 coronavirus Government measures Industry reactions

8 8 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

17 MAY 2021

ANTONOV AIRLINES TRANSPORTS

70 TONNES OF OXYGENPRODUCING MEDICAL EQUIPMENT FROM ISRAEL– INDIA

A

ntonov Airlines has safely transported 70 tonnes of oxygen concentrators from Tel Aviv, Israel to Delhi, India for its Indian general sales agent Flywell Aviation Pvt. Ltd., and

supply chain Service(s) provider, Delhivery.

The journey from Tel Aviv included a technical stop in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) for refuelling.

The 2,500 concentrators were loaded on board one of Antonov Airline’s seven AN-124-100 aircraft with a payload of up to 150 tonnes.

This flight was successfully completed during unprecedented times working with Antonov Airlines. Flywell, through its offices in India, the

Antonov Airlines is well prepared when it comes to transporting

UAE, the Netherlands, and Romania, provides the airlift of essential

urgent medical equipment within a short time frame thanks to our many

items such as oxygen concentrators and cryogenic containers to

years of working on humanitarian aid programmes and disaster relief

transport oxygen between cities in India.

projects. Our AN-124-100 aircraft provided rapid loading and unloading

Anil Bal, Managing Director, Flywell Aviation Pvt. Ltd.

of this urgent cargo with its ramp access and large cargo capacity.

Andriy Blagovisniy, Commercial Director, Antonov Airlines

During these unprecedented times, Delhivery is extending its full suite of logistical services to bring in emergency and essential medical

Oxygen concentrators work by collecting and filtering the surrounding

loads to support the critical situation on the ground in India. We have

air to produce up to 95% pure oxygen, which can then be administered

received the first lot of 2500 oxygen concentrators from Israel; our

to patients by nasal cannulas or oxygen masks.

efforts are well supported by Antonov Airlines and the Ministry of External Affairs for delivery to administrators, hospitals, and charities

Coronavirus cases in India are at their highest levels to date and there

around the country in the coming weeks.

is a severe shortage of oxygen for patients.

Ajith Pai, Chief Operating Officer, Delhivery Ukraine-headquartered Antonov Airlines cargo airline operates seven AN-124-100 “Ruslan” aircraft with payloads up to 150 tonnes, a 60-tonne payload AN-22, the unique 250-tonne payload AN-225 Mriya, which is the largest aircraft in the world, and smaller AN-74 and AN-26 aircraft.

FORWARDER magazine

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COVID-19 RECOVERY NEWS 5 MAY 2021

IAG CARGO AIRLIFTS 27 TONNES OF URGENT MEDICAL AID

FOR INDIA ON SPECIAL EMERGENCY FLIGHT

I

AG Cargo and its sister company British Airways, flew 27 tonnes of medical aid to Delhi. 1,349 items of aid departed on a B777-200 specially chartered by British Airways, supported by volunteers

from the airline to ensure life-saving supplies reach the country as soon as possible.

[Original press release, dated 5 May...] Charities contributing aid for transit on the flight include the High Commission of India, Khalsa Aid International and Neasden Hindu Temple (largest Hindu temple outside of India).

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), and its sister company British Airways will operate a relief flight to India transporting 27 tonnes of medical aid as the humanitarian crisis in the

While IAG Cargo and British Airways have maintained a vital air link

country worsens. The B777-200 will be loaded with emergency aid to

between London and India throughout the pandemic, sending aid items

Delhi to support the Indian government as the country continues to

on scheduled flights, this air lift is a special charter, fully funded by the

battle rising Coronavirus cases, with dwindling oxygen supplies.

two companies.

A special project team was formed to organise the flight, which is due to

We have all seen the terrible scenes in India of the deepening

leave London Heathrow on Wednesday May 5 at 5pm (BA257F), landing

humanitarian crisis that has impacted the lives of many of our people and

in Delhi at 5.45am (local time) on Thursday May 6, loaded with more

our customers. Thank you to the team at IAG Cargo, British Airways

than a thousand items from the High Commission of India and charities

and all the charities involved in this project – without their support this

including Khalsa Aid International and the largest Hindu Temple outside

special mission providing essential relief to communities in India would

India, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, in Neasden.

not have been possible.

John Cheetham, Chief Commercial Officer, IAG Cargo

The load includes hundreds of urgent life-saving oxygen cylinders and shipments of oxygen concentrators, respirators and blood oxygen saturation monitors. British Airways is also donating care packages for families in need.

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I

n the face of a grave medical crisis, Cathay Pacific Cargo is flying vital

We have been supporting efforts to relieve this current

relief shipments to India and it stands ready to do more. Although

crisis in India through the delivery of medical supplies on our

passenger flights have been suspended between Hong Kong and

freighters and cargo-only passenger flights. We are noticing a

India, in the past few weeks Cathay Pacific Cargo has been operating

sharp increase in the volume of enquiries from the Americas

freighters and cargo-only passenger flights, delivering to date more than

and closer to home from the Chinese mainland for space for

100 tonnes of much-needed humanitarian and medical supplies to some

humanitarian aid shipments to India, and we will do our best

of India’s major centres.

to accommodate these essential shipments. As a consequence, we are looking to maximise capacity by adding more cargo-

These include shipments of specialised oxygen generators, oxygen

carrying flights and will continue to work with the Indian

concentrators and ventilators to Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad. In

authorities to make this possible.

addition, there has been a sharp increase in volumes for shipments

George Edmunds,

of oxygen, surgical masks, sanitiser, personal protective equipment,

General Manager Cargo Commercial, Cathay Pacific

pharmaceuticals and vaccines over the past few weeks.

Cathay Pacific Cargo operated 24 pairs of cargo-only passenger flights to India in March and 29 in April to satisfy demand and supplement freighter operations.

With its dedicated Boeing 747 freighter fleet, Cathay Pacific Cargo stands ready to support relief efforts with its capacity to deliver large humanitarian cargo shipments where they are needed and whenever they are required.

7 MAY 2021

CATHAY PACIFIC DELIVERS MEDICAL SUPPLIES FOR INDIA’S HEALTHCARE EMERGENCY

PLEASE GET IN TOUCH & SEND US YOUR NEWS

FORWARDER magazine editor@forwardermagazine.com

ISSUE64

11

COVID-19 RECOVERY EXPERTS

A

the total business population at the start of 2020 — and

How have logistics services have helped businesses rapidly adapt?

this is the reason why thriving SMEs remain the backbone

Over the last year, even between lockdowns, there has been a radical

of rebuilding our economy. Across the UK, SMEs are getting back on

change in consumer behaviour. People have changed their shopping

their feet, employing workers and providing important services which

habits, preferring to order goods and services from the comfort of

fuel our local economies.

their sofa rather than take an unnecessary trip out. The unprecedented

ccording to government data, SMEs made up over 99% of

demand for online sales now looks to become ‘the new normal.’

At the start of the pandemic, SMEs were one of the hardest hit groups in UK business, with many businesses losing their custom overnight as

SMEs had to make fast and furious changes and the function of logistics

the country went into lockdown. Yet it’s these same businesses that

became all the more important, moving towards the centre of SMEs’

are now bouncing back, with many on major recruiting drives. How did

relationships with suppliers and customers. Unfortunately, SMEs often

they do this, and what can we learn for the future?

don’t have the infrastructure to create and maintain the logistics of delivery efficiently, cost effectively and on time — and some make the

The SME small but mighty spirit is something to be proud of — they

mistake of trying to do it themselves. Often with no prior experience,

have been resilient because they have been innovative. News this month

successful SMEs sought assistance from logistics operators to handle

reported that 51% of small businesses have changed their operations

the entire process, from packaging to transportation and customs

in some way over the past year, including introducing online stores —

procedures. Without expert logistics help, their rapid change in business

that's millions of businesses who have successfully adapted in order to

would not have been viable.

flourish in the last year.

Freight exchange platform Courier Exchange has received feedback from But it’s not just continual adjustment and sheer grit and determination

members noting how crucial strong courier capability and advanced

which have got SMEs through the last year. The logistics industry has

technology was in helping their businesses adapt and thrive after the

played a huge role in helping these businesses with warehousing, inbound

pandemic hit. They have nearly 300 5-star TrustPilot reviews. At a

and outbound transportation, materials handling, order fulfilment and

time when SME owners were feeling uncertain about the future and

inventory management, to name just a few areas.

vulnerable to losses that they couldn’t recover from, logistics companies were coming to their aid behind the scenes. The Transport Exchange Group has been providing expertise, and through that — moral support.

One reviewer explains how invaluable this has been: When Covid and lockdown hit in March 2020, we lost all our work overnight, the entire industry shut down, and still a year on it is nonexistent, putting my business in a very, very tight spot...thanks to being a CX member, I have managed to not only keep my company afloat by pivoting what we do, but also grow the same-day transport side of the business, which we will now continue to grow alongside our specialist work as that starts to slowly come back this year.

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Without the resilience, flexibility and agility of SMEs, the future of our economy would look stark. Lyall Cresswell CEO of Transport Exchange Group says...

Recovery from the global pandemic offers a chance for SMEs to adapt and reset their ways of working for profitable and sustainable growth. Due to increasing demand, high-quality transport and logistics partners will be at the forefront of this as they help businesses to deliver products on time to satisfied customers. The more efficient the logistics, the more profit an SME can make for accelerated growth. At Transport Exchange Group we aim to provide the digital tools and access to a massive pool of loads that a courier or haulage business needs to adapt and to thrive in the future.

The benefits of effective logistics services for small businesses • Improved customer experience — delivering orders accurately, sales and sales through recommendations • Enables growth — solid management of inventory, transport and delivery practices helps businesses scale up to fulfill a higher quantity of orders • Prevents loss — reduced risk of damage to products through optimal transport conditions and tracking • Technology streamlined process — for complete supply chain visibility, real-time tracking, risk assessment, reporting and improved customer communications and service Lyall Cresswell, CEO, Transport Exchange Group

IN THE LAST YEAR?

quickly and on time increases brand trust and encourages repeat

HOW HAS THE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY HELPED SMALL BUSINESSES SUCCESSFULLY PIVOT

How can logistics services continue to support small businesses?

FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

ISSUE64 ISSUE64

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COVID-19 RECOVERY EXPERTS

G

lobal transport activity will more than double by 2050,

It will be immediately followed by the Opening Plenary featuring,

and traffic emissions will rise by 16% compared to 2015

among others:

- even if existing commitments to decarbonise transport

are fully implemented.

• Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Secretary of Transportation; • Andreas Scheuer, Federal Minister of Transport and Digital

Any currently expected emissions reductions will be more than offset by the increased demand for transport.

Infrastructure, Germany; • Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport, United Kingdom;

However, transport CO2 emissions can be cut by almost 70% over the 2015-50 period with the right policies.

A reduction of this magnitude will bring the goal of the Paris Agreement

• Adina Vălean, European Commissioner for Transport.

FACTS & FINDINGS

to limit global warming to 1.5˚C into reach. It requires to...

Based on 2015 figures, today:

• put in place ambitious low-carbon policies now;

• urban mobility generates 40% of all CO2 emissions from the

• reinforce positive behavioural changes caused by the pandemic • gear stimulus packages towards decarbonisation.

movement of people • non-urban transport is responsible for the remaining 60%; • 75% of all emissions from urban passenger transport come

These are the key findings of the ITF Transport Outlook 2021, the biennial flagship report of the International Transport Forum, a sister organisation of the OECD. The report presents three main scenarios for the future of passenger

from private cars • freight emits more than 40% of all transport CO2; its share is growing slightly If current policies remain in place between now and 2050:

and freight transport, and all transport modes. The scenarios include detailed projections for transport CO2 emissions under different conditions, allowing an assessment of the potential impacts of future transport activity on climate change.

• passenger transport activity will increase 2.3-fold (measured in passenger-km) • freight transport activity will grow 2.6-fold (measured in tonne-km) • emissions from urban mobility will fall very slightly, by 5%

The report will be launched at a press conference on 17 May at

• freight CO2 emissions will grow by 22%

12:00 CEST (register here) with Ireland’s Minister of Transport, Eamon Ryan, and ITF Secretary-General Young Tae Kim. The press

Under ambitious policies that also lock in CO2 reduction

conference also opens the Annual Summit of Transport Ministers,

windfalls from Covid-19:

held remotely from 17 to 28 May 2021.

• cities could cut CO2 emissions from urban mobility by as much as 80% to 2050; • regional passenger transport (e.g. by air, rail, bus) could more than halve its CO2 emissions; • freight emissions could be 72% less

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SIX RECOMMENDATIONS

Support innovation to accelerate the technological breakthroughs needed to decarbonise transport

The report gives six recommendations on how governments can set

Technological advances are critical to effectively decarbonise

the world on a path towards sustainable mobility, achieve the goals

transport, especially in otherwise hard‑to‑decarbonise areas such

of the Paris Climate Agreement and support the UN Sustainable

as aviation and long-haul road freight.

Development Goals:

Shift the priority to improving accessibility Align Covid recovery packages to revive the economy, combat climate change and strengthen equity

Transport planning tends to conflate increased capacity with

Recovery from the Covid-19 crisis offers a singular chance to

mean citizens have easy access to where they need to go. Transport

combine economic development with shifting mobility behaviour and

planning that serves citizens considers their desired destinations and

scaling up low-carbon technologies while increasing opportunities

focuses on how well transport options connect them.

improved accessibility. Yet travelling more and further does not

for citizens by improving access.

Implement much more ambitious policies that will reverse the growth of transport CO2 emissions

Intensify collaboration with non-transport sectors and between public and private actors Transport decarbonisation is inseparable from developments

Governments must set ambitious targets in the 2021 revision of the

in other sectors. Sustainable mobility is only possible with clean

Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement,

energy. In turn, low-carbon transport is central to sustainable trade

underpin them with concrete policies, and reinforce them by

and tourism.

leveraging Covid-19 recovery packages to accelerate and deepen transport decarbonisation.

I am proud to present the 2021 edition of the ITF Transport Outlook. It provides policy makers with insights from cutting-edge

Target different transport sectors with strategies that reflect their specific decarbonisation potential and challenges

ITF research on the three major challenges of our time: the Covid-19

Not all strategies to 'avoid, shift, and improve' are applicable across

an effective and equitable transition to sustainable mobility on an

the sector in the same way.

urban, regional and global level in the wake of the pandemic.

pandemic, climate change and inequality. It shows how they are linked, but also identifies actions - actions that are critical to ensure

Young Tae Kim, Secretary-General, ITF

WORLDWIDE TRANSPORT ACTIVITY TO DOUBLE ...EMISSIONS TO RISE FURTHER FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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15

COVID-19 RECOVERY EXPERTS

A

ccording to ONS data, total online retail sales increased

Keeping one step ahead

by 46.1% from 2019 to 2020, the highest annual growth

Space and supply have provided two of the biggest challenges in scaling

reported since 2008. The demand for warehouses in the

up. When business more than doubles overnight it’s hard to keep up.

UK has rocketed along with the surge in e-commerce. So, how can

Fortunately when it came to the pandemic we could see the direction

you optimise your businesses to stay on top of this demand while

the wind was blowing before lockdown actually occurred.

adhering to the ongoing Covid safety restrictions?

Working as closely as we do with suppliers in China, we were aware Dan Marchant, director of Vape Club, saw an unprecedented growth

of it before it was considered serious in the UK. We had already

during lockdown, peaking at nearly 300% above their normal run

started to bolster supply, and moved from a six-week order pattern

rate. Here he provides his insight on how other companies can

to 12 weeks because we were worried about supply continuity.

continue to grow alongside increasingly higher expectations to stay on top of warehouse demand:

Maintaining a safe environment Ensuring a Covid-secure workplace means looking at every aspect of

Warehouse and employee management

the space – and every part of the working day. Staggering break times

Dispatching 2-3 times the usual orders while maintaining social

helps to ensure canteens and break rooms are not overcrowded and

distancing rules proved to be a real challenge, and it was necessary

staff can physically distance (also it’s a good idea to limit the seating

to shift the warehouse layout so that picking and packing zones

and clearly mark where people can sit).

were in separate areas.

We keep shutters open as much as possible to allow the fresh air We were able to utilise unused areas of our warehouse to install

to circulate. If possible, designate a separate entrance and exit, so

additional packing desks which were spaced over two metres apart

people leaving the building do not have to cross paths with people

and had plastic sheeting separating each area.

entering the building.

Of course, if anyone was able to work from home we encouraged

Being unable to employ more people within the warehouse in order

them to do so, in order to create even more space in the warehouse

to meet demand created a headache for the business and required

itself. By moving a large chunk of our office staff to home working we

some creative solutions.

could bring in additional warehouse staff into the building without making it feel cramped.

We were doing more business than ever, but had to reduce the number of people in the warehouse at any one time to be able to

We also implemented a one-way system in the warehouse for the

ensure we kept to the physical distancing guidelines. And when

pickers, meaning that all traffic flow was in the same direction and

you have set collection times from couriers, there is always a very

that pickers could maintain physical distancing of two metres easily.

concrete deadline.

We were able to ensure picking lists would print in the correct order

Using warehouse technology

of the aisles, so that the team did not have to do multiple laps of the

We rotate our stock 10-12 times per year, so that means a lot of

warehouse in order to pick one order. Very high volume SKUs were

inbound deliveries from suppliers and a 2-week order cycle with

spaced out appropriately, and had secondary positions put in place, so

150 other suppliers.

as to eliminate bottlenecks and hold-ups as much as possible.

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We have developed a suite of bespoke stock management tools

Prioritising the customer experience

to help us automate ordering of products based on patterns,

It is crucial to set up systems so that customers can get the

highlighting any anomalies in sales patterns so the purchasing team

information they need and have their questions answered at all

can react proactively. All purchase orders are managed through the

points in their purchasing journey.

e-commerce platform which gives full visibility of stock movement to finance, management, warehouse and customer service.

Our mission during covid has been to ensure that all new customers get to experience the usually high levels of service we provide. This

Smoothing supply chain operations

means customers can speak to us via telephone, live chat and email

Optimising supply chain operations allows you to plan for surges in

during working hours and orders are dispatched the same day if the

orders ahead of time.

order is placed before 7pm. In order to maintain those levels, we had to quickly recruit and train a number of new customer service

Stock takes, stock purchases and sourcing of packaging supplies

operatives to bolster our team and continue the high levels of service.

have all stretched our existing teams during the last year. Instead of relying on one supplier for a range of products, we often had to

Customers are your best marketing asset, especially in an industry

buy from three or more suppliers at different times of the month

like ours where PPC (Pay Per Click) advertising is prohibited. Our

and all with different prices.

loyal customers referred a lot of their family, friends and colleagues to Vape Club once the stores locked down. The customers knew

In order to ensure we always have enough stock to meet demand

they could confidently recommend our service as we’ve looked after

and keep our supply chain operations running smoothly, we use

our customers for many years.

proprietary stock movement and monitoring APIs that show us daily and weekly sales per stock keeping unit.

Dan Marchant, Ecommerce Retailer & Director, Vape Club

HOW CAN E-COMMERCE COMPANIES COPE WITH WAREHOUSE DEMAND WITHIN COVID RESTRICTIONS? FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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AIR FREIGHT

A system of transporting goods by aircraft.

Related topics AOG (aircraft on ground) OBC (on-board couriers) Air charter

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ANTONOV AIRLINES SAFELY TRANSPORTS DISMANTLED JET 25 MAY 2021

FROM BRAZIL TO THE USA AT SHORT NOTICE

A

ntonov Airlines has transported parts for an aircraft in

Antonov Airlines has been involved with transporting other modes

cooperation with DB Schenker Brazil from Viracopos,

of transport over the last thirty years, including racing yachts for the

Brazil to Miami, USA, with one week’s notice for planning

America’s Cup, helicopters, and even maglev trains for metro systems.

and executing the project.

Antonov Airlines operates seven AN-124-100 with up to 120-tonnes payloads

The cargo was dismantled into consignments with dimensions that met

– two with a payload up to 150 tonnes, the largest turboprop-powered

the AN-124-100 aircraft specifications filling six wooden crates.

aircraft AN-22 with a payload up to 60 tonnes, as well as the 250-tonnes payload AN-225 'Mriya', the largest cargo aircraft in the world.

They included 15 m long wing sections and two sections of fuselage measuring 12 m long.

To handle the dimensions of the cargo, special loading equipment designed and manufactured by Antonov Airlines was used in conjunction with two external cranes as well as forklifts to ensure smooth and safe loading and unloading of the cargo.

Thanks to the expertise of our in-house engineers, strong communication channels with the customer, and the flexibility of both parties on the solutions for cargo transportation, Antonov Airlines was able to plan and deliver this cargo within the tight deadline to the highest safety standards.

Ivan Bozhko, Commercial Executive, Antonov Airlines It was a really challenging operation due to cargo size and delicacy itself, as well as the short amount of time we had from receiving the demand to accomplishing its required necessity. But thanks to the exceptional DB Schenker Airfreight team along with the expertise of Antonov Airlines' professionals we were able to deliver such a reliable and successful service to the final customer.

Alvaro Zanella, Airfreight Bus. Dev. & Ops. Manager, DB Schenker FORWARDER magazine

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19

AIR FREIGHT NEWS 4 MAY 2021

SAMSKIP EXTENDS ONE-STOP GLOBAL LOGISTICS SHOP WITH

LAUNCH OF SAMSKIP AIR

S

amskip has established a dedicated air freight business,

adding significant new options to a service portfolio that already includes rail, road, shortsea and inland waterway links

throughout Europe and global cargo logistics solutions.

On May 1, 2021 Samskip Air opens its doors at new offices at Schiphol Airport, tasked with growing the air freight volumes Samskip already books, establishing new routes and developing opportunities for cooperation with Samskip’s pan-European multimodal network. The ‘one stop shop’ logistics options already available to Samskip generate 850,000TEU in container traffic each year, as well as sizeable general, breakbulk and project cargo volumes.

Samskip Air will be managed by Hans Blauw, whose 35-year resumé reads like a Who’s Who of air freight, including executive positions with KLM, Hellman Worldwide, FedEx, TNT and ALM (Aircraft Load Management). Joining Samskip as Airfreight Manager after four years

While Covid-19 brought a dip in 2020 traffic, recent years have seen

of running Fairways Group to support Aeroméxico and DHL Aviation,

annual freight volumes handled by Dutch airports stabilise at between

Blauw reports to Mon Verstegen, General Manager Freight Forwarding,

1.6 million and 1.8 million tonnes. Around 93% of this freight is handled

Samskip Logistics.

at Schiphol, Europe’s no.2 airport for freight.

As a career logistics professional, the opportunity to help Samskip

Schiphol is a global gateway for air freight business with China, the

Air become a force in airfreight logistics was too good to miss, in a

United States, South America, Russia, the Middle East and Africa, and

market that is currently under-served on quality. The group has

provides a European gateway to Samskip’s multimodal network of trucks,

exceptional skills in temperature-controlled goods, pharmaceuticals,

trains, barges and short sea vessels. Hans’s track record speaks for itself

electrical goods and automotive parts, and there is always room for

and we are delighted to welcome him aboard as the entrepreneurial

services that offer reliability, cargo handling expertise, security and

engine driving Samskip Air. We look forward to consolidating our

robust documentation. With 47 offices in 35 countries, Samskip has the

leading logistics role in Scandinavian fisheries exports and working with

network, the local staff, the customs knowhow and the digital booking

our global offices to develop other volumes and links at other airports.

systems to flourish in offering airfreight services for high value cargoes,

In the weeks ahead, we will be presenting Samskip Air and explaining

pier-to-pier and door-to-door.

how, as a major transport group, Samskip has the negotiating power that works to the advantage of its airfreight customers and the support network to de-risk the air freight supply chain.

Martijn Tasma, Director Global Forwarding, Samskip Logistics

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C

ontinued market uncertainties and (extended) public holidays

CLIVE’s ‘dynamic loadfactor’ for May of 69% – based on analysis of both

contributed to a -4% drop in global air cargo demand in May

the volume and weight perspectives of cargo flown and capacity available –

2021 versus the pre-Covid level in 2019, according to the

was 7% points higher than in 2019, although this also presented falls of -2%

latest industry volume, load factor and rates analysis by CLIVE Data

points and -4% points versus April and March 2021. Available capacity in May

Services and TAC Index.

2021 was down -21% compared to the level of May 2019. This shows the gap in airline capacity is widening again compared to pre-pandemic market

To offer a meaningful perspective of the air cargo industry’s performance,

conditions following the -18% figure in April and -14% for March. May 2021

CLIVE Data Services is continuing to focus on comparing the current

data versus the same month of 2020, when Covid restrictions caused severe

state of the market to pre-Covid 2019 volume, cargo capacity and load

disruption to the global aviation market, show +41% growth in chargeable

factor data until at least Q3 of this year. This is being produced alongside

weight, a +42% rise in available capacity, and +1% point increase in dynamic

the 2020 comparison.

loadfactor. TAC Index says higher rates in May are in line with still elevated load factors because of the capacity reduction in the market but it has also

After more positive indicators for the air cargo market in the first four

seen a downturn in prices on key tradelanes in recent weeks.

months of the year, May 2021 data showed a less favourable trend, with the fall in demand joined by a second consecutive month-over-month

Airfreight capacity is still scarce on many key trade lanes, so prices

drop in ‘dynamic loadfactor’ and airfreight rates, which peaked in early

remain strong as economic activity picks up whilst passenger air capacity

May, falling away towards the end of the month.

remains constrained due to restrictions on international travel. The BAI (Baltic Air Freight Indices) increased by 3% in May over April, but

The global air cargo industry will now have to wait until the publication

this is marked slowdown on the 17% growth seen in April-over-March.

of June 2021 market data to determine if May’s public holiday disruptions

Pricing strength continues to be seen ex China and Hong Kong to the

explain the shift in demand or whether the positivity of April’s +1%

US and Europe and from Europe to the US with all 3 trade lanes seeing

growth versus the same month of 2019 created a ‘false dawn’ of a

price increases in May over April, although prices peaked in early May

sustainable growth recovery for the rest of the year.

and have fallen away in recent weeks. Even so, the airfreight market continues to be strong, particularly CN/HK to US, and is likely to

There were several (extended) public holidays in May which were

continue for some time as demand in several markets continues to

not present in May 2019 (China, Russia and Eid al-Fitr at the end of

outstrip supply as eCommerce traffic increases and economic activity

the Ramadan) which will have impacted the monthly growth rate in a

strengthens in many markets.

negative manner. By how much is hard to tell - so May 2021 is more

Gareth Sinclair, TAC Index

complex to qualify than to quantity. The monthly data leaves us with a question mark that is likely to go unanswered until we see June’s level of

US to Europe prices saw a decline in May over April levels, although

demand. There are signals in May’s data that may be a cause for concern

they did start to rise in the last 2 weeks of the month after an almost

– particularly the -9% decline in air cargo volumes ex Europe versus May

continuous decline since late March, TAC Index says. Comparing the

2019 – but it’s certainly far too soon to tell if we are seeing a structural

May 2021 average price levels to May 2019 shows the relative strength of

change in the recovery of the last few quarters. Nonetheless, there are

the 4 trade lanes with EU-US leading the way at +173% followed by CN/

several indicators in May that the path of growth may be slowing.

HK-US at 151%, and CN/HK-EU and US-EU growing at more modest

Niall van de Wouw, Managing Director, CLIVE Data Services

levels of 84% and 64% respectively.

4 MAY 2021

GLOBAL AIR CARGO VOLUMES DIP -4% IN MAY

LEAVING A QUESTION MARK OVER RECOVERY FORWARDER magazine

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21

AIR FREIGHT NEWS 13 APRIL 2021

ANTONOV AIRLINES DELIVERS

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS FROM ASIA TO THE USA UNDER OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT

T

he International Air Transport Association (IATA) released March 2021 data for global air cargo markets showing that air cargo demand continued to outperform pre-COVID levels

• Underlying economic conditions remain supportive for air cargo: › This is evidenced in the new export orders component of the manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) which stood at

(March 2019) with demand up 4.4%. March demand reached the highest

53.4 in March. Results above 50 indicate manufacturing growth

level recorded since the series began in 1990. Month-on-month demand

versus the prior month.

also increased albeit at a slower pace than the previous month with volumes up 0.4% in March over February 2021 levels.

› Demand for exports grew broadly in March. This was concentrated in developed countries during January and February.

Because comparisons between 2021 and 2020 monthly results

› Delivery times for manufactured goods are increasing which

are distorted by the extraordinary impact of COVID-19, unless

normally indicates increased demand for air cargo in efforts to

otherwise noted all comparisons to follow are to March 2019

reduce shipping time.

which followed a normal demand pattern.

› Global trade rose 0.3% in February – the ninth consecutive monthly increase and the longest continuous growth in more

• Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), was

than two decades.

up 4.4% compared to March 2019 and 0.4% compared to February 2021. This was a slower rate of growth than the previous month,

Air cargo continues to be the bright spot for aviation. Demand

which saw demand increase 9.2% compared to February 2019. A

reached an all-time high in March, up 4.4% compared to pre-COVID

weaker performance by Asia-Pacific and African carriers compared

levels (March, 2019). And airlines are taking all measures to find

to February contributed to softer growth in March.

the needed capacity. The crisis has shown that air cargo can meet fundamental challenges by adopting innovations quickly. That is how it

• Global capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers

is meeting growing demand even as much of the passenger fleet remains

(ACTKs), continued to recover in March, up 5.6% compared to

grounded. The sector needs to retain this momentum post-crisis to

the previous month. Despite this, capacity remans 11.7% below

drive the sector’s long-term efficiency with digitalization.

pre-COVID-19 levels (March 2019) due to the ongoing grounding of

Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA

passenger aircraft. Airlines continue to use dedicated freighters to plug the lack of available belly-capacity. International capacity from dedicated freighters rose 20.6% in March 2021 compared to the same month in 2019 and belly-cargo capacity of passenger aircraft dropped by 38.4%.

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March Regional Performance Asia-Pacific airlines saw demand for international air cargo drop

Middle Eastern carriers posted a 9.2% rise in international

0.3% in March 2021 compared to the same month in 2019. The slight

cargo volumes in March 2021 versus March 2019. Month-on-

weakness in performance compared to the previous month was seen

month, Middle East carriers posted the strongest growth of all

on most of the trade lanes connected with Asia. International capacity

regions, up 4.4%. Of the region’s key international routes, Middle

remained constrained in the region, down 20.7% versus March 2019. The

East-North America and Middle East-Asia have provided the most

region’s airlines reported the highest international load factor at 78.4%.

significant support, rising 28% and 17% respectively in March compared to March 2019. International capacity in March was

North American carriers posted a 14.5% increase in international

down 12.4% compared to the same month in 2019.

demand in March compared to March 2019. This strong performance reflects the strength of the economic recovery in the US. In Q1, US

Latin American carriers reported a decline of 23.6% in

GDP rose by 6.4% in annualized terms, up from 4.3% in Q4 bringing

international cargo volumes in March compared to the 2019

the country’s economy close to pre-COVID levels. The business

period; this was the worst performance of all regions. Drivers

environment for air cargo remains supportive; the new export orders

of air cargo demand in Latin America remain relatively less

component of the PMI rose to its highest level since 2007. International

supportive than in the other regions. International capacity

capacity grew by 1.8% compared with March 2019.

decreased 46.0% compared with March 2019.

European carriers posted a 0.7% increase in demand in March

African airlines’ cargo demand in March increased 24.6%

compared to the same month in 2019. Improved operating conditions

compared to the same month in 2019, the strongest of all regions.

and recovering export orders contributed to the positive performance.

Robust expansion on the Asia-Africa trade lanes contributed to

International capacity decreased by 17% in March 2021 versus March 2019.

the strong growth. March international capacity decreased by 2.1% compared to March 2019.

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23

AIR FREIGHT EXPERTS

G

eneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA)

I am always optimistic about aviation. We are in the deepest and

and Tourism Economics released a long-term view for post-

gravest crisis in our history. But the rapidly growing vaccinated population

COVID-19 passenger demand recovery which demonstrates

and advancements in testing will return the freedom to fly in the months

that people remain eager to travel in the short and long-term. To ensure

ahead. And when that happens, people are going to want to travel. The

that aviation can sustainably deliver its social and economic benefits as

immediate challenge is to reopen borders, eliminate quarantine measures

it meets this long-term demand, it is critical that governments step-

and digitally manage vaccination/testing certificates. At the same time,

up their support for more efficient operations and foster an effective

we must assure the world that aviation’s long-term growth prospects

energy transition.

are supported with an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Both challenges require governments and industry to work in partnership.

Forecast highlights include...

Aviation is ready. But I don’t see governments moving fast enough.

• In 2021 global passenger numbers are expected to recover to 52%

Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA

of pre-COVID-19 levels (2019) • In 2022 global passenger numbers are expected to recover to 88% of pre-COVID-19 levels

Short term: restart The damage of the COVID-19 crisis will be felt for years to come, but all

• In 2023 global passenger numbers are expected to surpass pre-

indications are that people have retained their need and desire to travel:

COVID-19 levels (105%) • By 2030 global passenger numbers are expected to have grown to

• Any possibility for borders to re-open is met with an instant surge

5.6 billion. That would be 7% below the pre-COVID-19 forecast

in bookings. The most recent example is the 100-percentage point

and an estimated loss of 2-3 years of growth due to COVID-19

spike in bookings from the UK to Portugal when the UK’s 'Green

• Beyond 2030 air travel is expected to slow, due to weaker demographics and a baseline assumption of limited market liberalisation, giving average annual growth between 2019 and 2039 of 3.2%. IATA’s pre-COVID-19 growth forecast for this period was 3.8%

List' was announced in early May • The economy is strong and can fuel growth in travel. February 2021 industrial production levels stood at 2% above February 2019 levels • Consumers have accumulated savings in the lockdowns, in some cases exceeding 10% of GDP

The recovery in passenger numbers is slightly stronger than the recovery in demand measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs), which is

• Vaccination rates in developed countries (with the notable exception of Japan) should exceed 50% of the population by Q3 2021

expected to grow by an annual average of 3% between 2019 and 2039.

This is owing to the expected strength of domestic markets like China with large passenger numbers and shorter distances.

This should be a clarion call to governments to get ready. The travel and tourism sector is a major contributor to GDP. People’s livelihoods are at stake. To avoid greater long-term economic and social damage, restart must not be delayed. Governments can facilitate a safe restart with policies that enable restriction-free travel for vaccinated people, and testing alternatives for those unable to be vaccinated. Governments must also be ready with processes to digitally manage the vaccine or test certificates—ensuring that a safe restart is also efficient,

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said Walsh.

Sustainability Aviation will grow because people want and need to travel. But we must be able to fulfil that consumer demand sustainably. Those are the ground rules for any business. It is no secret that this is more challenging for aviation than sectors with broader energy alternatives. But with the support of governments we will get there through a combination of means,

said Walsh.

Aviation is committed to cutting its net carbon emissions to half of 2005 levels by 2050. It already has a good track record of decoupling emissions and demand growth per passenger journey in half since 1990 through efficiency gains, but governments need to step up as well.

In addition to efficiency and technology gains, CORSIA (the first global carbon offsetting scheme for an industrial sector) is stabilizing emissions from international flights at 2019 levels. A low-carbon energy transition for aviation has commenced with sustainable aviation fuels that are powering flight today, to be followed by electric and hydrogen powered aircraft. And there is much more that can be done with infrastructure— airports and air traffic management—to operate with maximum efficiency and minimum emissions.

If we work in partnership with governments there is great potential in all these areas. But easy sustainability wins are being left on the table.

In Europe, which has led on many sustainability initiatives, why are we still waiting for the Single European Sky? This could immediately reduce emissions by up to 10%. There is no excuse as the technology has been here for two decades or more. The partnership with governments on sustainability must exist in deeds as well as words,

said Walsh.

OPTIMISM

WHEN BORDERS REOPEN FORWARDER magazine

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25

SEA FREIGHT

A system of transporting goods by ship.

Related topics Shipping lines Biofuels Ships' parts

Sponsored by

26 26 FORWARDER magazine

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11 MAY 2021

GAC ONBOARD FOR

SWEDEN’S FIRST INLAND SHIPPING SHUTTLE SERVICE

I

nland cargo shipping specialist Rederei Deymann has appointed GAC

The service is in line with the Swedish Government’s initiative supporting

Sweden AB as the port and booking agent for their new shuttle

the movement of goods by water, which has less impact on the environment

service linking the country’s capital and one of its key logistics hubs.

than transportation by road. It is the first example in Sweden of a regular

It will be Sweden’s first inland waterway container barge service.

Starting from 18 May, the 110m long barge ‘Emelie Deymann’ will carry

transportation service using smaller EU inland waterway classed vessels for a reliable, viable alternative to road transportation which helps reduce congestion and carbon dioxide emissions.

up to 208 TEU containers twice weekly between Stockholm Norvik port on the Baltic coast and Västerås 100km to the west in central

Johan Ehn, GAC Sweden’s Managing Director, says:

At a time when

Sweden. Västerås is one of the country’s main logistical hubs due to

sustainability is at the top of many agendas, we are delighted to play a

its central location in the densely populated Mälardalen region and

key role in this new, ecologically friendly solution using the country’s

excellent links to the road, rail and shipping network.

inland waterways. It is in line with our strategy to constantly offer proactive and innovative ways to serve our logistics customers in the

GAC Sweden will work with Rederei Deymann’s commercial

energy sector and beyond.

representative in Sweden, Barge Transport Sweden AB (BTSA), to run the service. BTSA will set rates for the service and GAC will handle

Lars Rexius, BTSA’s Marketing and Commercial Manager, says:

We are

bookings as well as provide ship agency and supporting services for

proud to be working with Deymann and GAC Sweden to offer Swedish

the barge at Stockholm, Västerås and along the route linking the two.

industry an alternative that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. We believe the timing is right and we have great support also from the ports involved.

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SEA FREIGHT NEWS 13 MAY 2021

NORSEPOWER ANNOUNCES INSTALLATION OF

5 TILTABLE ROTOR SAILS ON A VLOC CHARTERED BY VALE

We are delighted to be working with Vale, and supporting them to maximise the propulsive power of wind to reduce carbon and other emissions as well as protecting the sustainability of its value chain more broadly. The five tilting Rotor Sails will allow Vale to maintain flexible cargo operations while also saving fuel and emissions. Installing our Rotor Sails on the first VLOC demonstrates that our technology is adaptable across varied operational profiles and vessel types. As vessel operators

N

and charterers strive to decarbonise, the value of wind propulsion for

orsepower Oy Ltd., the leading global provider of auxiliary wind

both a retrofit and newbuild vessels is undeniable. The Rotor Sails can

propulsion systems, today announced the installation of five tilting

reduce a vessel’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and future-proof

Rotor Sails onboard a newbuild Very Large Ore Carrier (VLOC)

vessels against impending IMO Greenhouse Gas regulations as well as

chartered by Vale, the Brazilian mining company. The first installation of

against inevitable fuel price increases as new fuels enter the market.

Norsepower’s innovative Rotor Sails on a bulk carrier demonstrates the

Tuomas Riski, CEO, Norsepower

adaptability of the technology to reduce fuel consumption, fuel costs and reduce emissions across a variety of vessel types.

We are committed to supporting the adoption of clean technology solutions for shipping to ensure that Vale’s sustainability objectives are

The new vessel, a 325,000 dwt VLOC is owned by Pan Ocean Ship

achieved. Installing five Rotor Sails will maximise our fuel and emissions

Management and will be chartered by Vale after construction is completed

savings. We are working with Norsepower to ensure this new build

in China. To enable efficient cargo operations, the five 24m high and 4m

is as environmentally friendly as possible and can achieve significant

diameter Rotor Sails can be tilted by using hydraulic cylinders.

reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. If the pilot proves effective, it is estimated that at least 40% of the fleet will be able to use

With growing international and public pressure on the maritime industry

the technology, which would result in a reduction of almost 1.5% of

to move towards decarbonising their operations, the ability to harness

Vale's annual iron ore maritime transport emissions.

the wind to generate thrust, reduce fuel consumption and emissions,

Rodrigo Bermelho, Shipping Technical Manager, Vale

is a natural next step is becoming an increasingly viable option to meet imminent regulatory drivers such as EEXI and CII ratings.

The Norsepower Rotor Sail is the first third-party verified and commercially operational auxiliary wind propulsion technology for the

Norsepower has analysed the routes for the vessel chartered by Vale and

global maritime industry. The solution is fully automated and detects

estimates that its technology would be able to achieve an efficiency gain of

whenever the wind is strong enough to deliver fuel and emission savings,

up to 8% and a consequent reduction of up to 3,400 tonnes of CO2 per year.

at which point the Rotor Sails start automatically.

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I

nsurance broking specialist, Ascend Broking, is warning importers

Other pitfalls can relate to the coverage terms of a marine cargo

and exporters of the pitfalls of insuring goods in transit and being

policy which can be overly restrictive. Some may vary their terms in

over-reliant on other parties, in the event of a claim.

countries where there is a higher risk of war or terrorism. Cover may be invalidated if you are trading with a country where international

Ascend Broking says too many businesses rely on their own commercial

sanctions apply. Under the terms of some policies, the inland leg of a

combined insurance policy for losses associated with storage and

journey to or from a port will not be covered in countries with poor

distribution and on their suppliers’ and freight forwarders’ policy to

infrastructure or high levels of crime. Some countries also require the

cover risks associated with losses incurred during transportation.

payment of insurance locally. In all of these instances, Ascend Broking

With a noticeable rise in theft of goods in transit, the exposures are

can lend assistance.

even greater than they were.

The Ascend Broking team can also testify to the tenacity required to The reason for the warning is that hauliers’ or forwarders’ insurance

pursue some marine cargo claims. It has built its reputation on attention

policies are typically ones that will pay out in the event of any legal

to detail and unrelenting persistence and the team effectively and

liability on the part of the carrier. However, the amount that they will

efficiently pursues monies owed by third parties responsible for a client’s

cover is limited in value to a set amount per ton of cargo, no matter

losses during the transit of the goods insured. It strives to ensure that

what type of cargo is carried. This could lead to losses on the part of

those at-fault are not only forced to make the due payment but also

the importer or exporter.

cover the cost of other expenses incurred by its clients. This can be far from easy, but Ascend Broking’s systems help make the process highly

Similarly, the policy is only likely to cover any losses if legal liability can

successful, maximising the sums recovered for clients having to claim.

be proved and negligence has been at the heart of the loss. In many cases, this might not be true.

As many manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and distributors seek new global markets in the post-Brexit era, it is essential that they

Not being fully aware of the terms and conditions in the hauliers’ policy

understand the risks of relying on their freight-forwarder’s policy or on

on which you are relying can also be a mistake. Unbeknownst to you,

their own capacity to pursue a claim with an overseas or reluctant third

your supplier may actually not even be covering the goods, if they are

party. Marine cargo insurance is remarkably affordable and is for all sizes

sub-contracting the job out. You would be a further step removed from

of business, not just large ones. The losses that could incur, because

the chain, if you had to claim.

a company is over-reliant on a supplier’s insurance, are significant and the terms and conditions within those policies could be punitive, not

Should you be relying on the freight forwarding insurance policy of a

paying out when the expectation is that they would. Even in a best case

foreign client, you could also find yourself having to pursue a claim in a

scenario, where a haulier or carrier was proved negligent, the claim

different country, in a language that you do not speak and with a party

will be restricted to the set amount payable per ton of cargo. If you

with whom you have no direct relationship at all.

are transporting high-value or luxury goods, that may well be totally insufficient to cover your losses.

Matt Price, head of marine division, Ascend Broking 21 MAY 2021

MARINE CARGO INSURANCE SPECIALIST WARNS OF

PITFALLS OF CLAIMS OCCURRING IN TRANSIT FORWARDER magazine

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29

SEA FREIGHT NEWS

ARDMORE SHIPPING CHOOSES LEAN MARINE’S FUELOPT™ 18 MAY 2021

TO ENHANCE FLEET EFFICIENCY

S

wedish propulsion optimization experts Lean Marine have

We are confident that we can achieve great results by working

signed a contract with tanker operator, Ardmore Shipping

together with Lean Marine. When working to increase the vessel

Corporation, to install its FuelOpt™ propulsion optimization

efficiency of Ardmore Sealion, we achieved significant results in a very

technology across its fleet. This new agreement follows on the heels

short time, as we were able to take vital actions such as controlling

of the success of the FuelOpt™ installation onboard the MR tanker

the vessel’s fuel consumption using the FuelOpt™ system. We look

Ardmore Sealion in 2020.

forward to greener operations across our fleet once the systems are installed in 2021.

Lean Marine and Ardmore will also collaborate closely to enhance the

Garry Noonan, Head of Energy Transition Technologies, Ardmore

overall performance of the Ardmore fleet and help these vessels achieve more sustainable ship operations. Lean Marine will install its green

FuelOpt™ is exceptionally user-friendly and activation by the bridge

technology onboard the additional vessels over the course of 2021.

crew can be achieved with the push of a single button from the intuitive panel on the bridge once the command on engine power, fuel

Lean Marine has great experience with enhancing vessel efficiency and

consumption, speed or a combination thereof is set.

has been supporting us in identifying key achievable means for further saving fuel and reducing emissions on the already efficient and modern

Upon activation, the system dynamically controls vessel propulsion

Ardmore Sealion. Through this close collaboration, we will continue

based on the set commands, matching the vessel’s propulsion

to exploit the potential of the FuelOpt™ system and explore the

power to the changing environmental conditions. This stabilizes

integration of other vessel systems to maximize the overall operational

the shaft power required, removing costly variations in speed and

efficiency of our fleet. Ardmore Shipping’s energy transition is underway

output caused by human operational factors. The use of the system

and our collaboration with Lean Marine will play an important role in

ensures maximum power optimization, minimum fuel consumption

the delivery of Ardmore’s Energy Transition Plan.

and reduced emissions in real-time.

Mark Cameron, Executive Vice President & COO, Ardmore Shipping Ardmore Shipping’s decision to expand our collaboration shows their Lean Marine’s FuelOpt™ technology is designed to ease the technical

commitment to greener operations and their confidence in the results

burden of greener ship operations as it automates propulsion control,

that our FuelOpt™ system delivers. We are looking forward to working

thereby replacing the need for constant monitoring and manual

with their team not only to achieve substantial fuel savings but also

adjustments. When using FuelOpt™ on the bridge, the crew gets full,

unlock further potential for greener operations through integration

automated control of vessel speed, fuel consumption and/or engine

with other systems onboard the Ardmore fleet.

power, and are thus able to avoid potential overconsumption of fuel in

Mikael Laurin, CEO, Lean Marine

harsh conditions such as high swells and winds.

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T

HE first in a new generation of HMM ships which are among

The delivery of this vessel marks another major milestone in our fleet

the most environmentally friendly ever built has arrived at DP

expansion plans targeting one million TEUs in capacity by 2022. This new

World’s container terminal at Southampton this week.

class of ship is equipped with smart ship technology which connects them to HMM’s Fleet Control Center in Busan where vessel performance, location,

HMM Nuri is the first of eight 16,000 TEU class mega-ships to be

fuel consumption, weather, and cargo information can be monitored in

deployed on the Asia and North Europe tradelane with leading edge

real-time, and via digital-twinning technology offers an option for remote

technology to improve environmental performance.

control and inspection works. These ships are built as LNG-ready. Due to the latest energy efficient technologies employed, this vessel will exceed the

It follows the arrival of HMM Algeciras, the world’s largest container

IMO’s EEDI (Energy Efficiency Design Indicator) by 52%. Climate change is

ship, at DP World London Gateway last year.

a defining issue of our time, and HMM share a vision of a shipping industry that is a responsible part of sustainable supply chains and that supports

At DP World we believe in protecting our people and our planet

clean oceans, healthy port communities, and global climate goals. This is

through world-class safety and environmental standards and are

why, exceeding all current regulatory requirements, HMM have set the goal

therefore delighted to welcome HMM Nuri to DP World Southampton,

of reducing CO2 emissions in our container fleet in 2030 by 70% (cf.2008),

the second largest container port in the country. At over 30 percent,

and achieving net zero carbon emissions across our entire fleet by 2050.

Southampton has the highest proportion of containers moved by rail in

Peter Livey, Managing Director, HMM

the UK and the emphasis on rail at both our UK ports takes 300,000 trucks off the roads each year, bringing significant environmental benefits.

HMM Nuri’s port rotation includes Busan, Shanghai, Ningbo, Yantian,

We will continue to play our full part in helping the UK Government to

Singapore, Suez Canal, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Antwerp, Southampton,

meet its target of delivering the Net Zero 2050 policy.

Suez Canal, Yantian, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Busan. The ship has

Ernst Schulze, Chief Executive, DP World in the UK

arrived on its maiden voyage this week in Southampton where it discharged UK imports and loaded exports bound for the Far East.

24 MAY 2021

FIRST OF NEW CLASS OF GREEN HMM MEGA-SHIPS ARRIVES AT DP WORLD SOUTHAMPTON FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

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Ocean freight visibility at its best

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www.ocean-insights.com

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ISSUE64

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Improve your visibility with our solutions FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

33

ROAD FREIGHT

A system of transporting goods by road.

Related topics Groupage Couriers Last mile

Sponsored by

34 34 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

19 MAY 2021

DP WORLD SIGNS THREE-YEAR DEAL WITH MAJOR UK ROAD TRANSPORT OPERATOR FOR

DISTRIBUTION HUB AT LONDON GATEWAY

D

P WORLD in the UK today announces that it has signed an agreement with the leading road transport operator Swain Group for a 2.25 acre distribution facility at its London

Gateway freight and logistics hub.

Under the three year agreement, Swain Group will use the quayside site for the temporary storage of imported construction materials such as stone and ‘next generation’ offsite manufacturing to construct buildings faster, safer and to a higher quality before their onward distribution to the end customer by lorry. The location, 200 yards from London Gateway’s berth 7, will deliver significant cost and time savings.

Along with the Port of Tilbury and Ford’s Dagenham plant London Gateway will form Thames Freeport after being awarded freeport status by the Government earlier this year, further cementing its critical role in the UK’s international supply chain.

We handle over 100,000 tons of building materials a year on ships arriving at London Gateway and expect this figure to continue to grow

I am delighted that Swain Group have chosen to strengthen further

as construction in London and the South East picks up following the

their longstanding relationship with London Gateway. At DP World

pandemic. On arrival at the berth DP World will shunt inbound containers

we think ahead and create smarter trade solutions and this lease is an

to our facility, where our team will unpack the stone product, temporarily

outstanding example of the benefits of port-centric logistics. We aim to

store it where necessary, and then assemble outbound orders for

be a partner in our customers’ business success, providing fast, reliable

transport via our own fleet to destinations across Britain such as garden

and flexible links to international supply chains and markets. London

centres and builders’ merchants. This integration of the supply chain will

Gateway has almost 10 million square feet of land with planning consent

generate cost and time efficiencies both for us and our customers.

at the port and adjacent logistics park and I would urge companies

Matthew Deer, Managing Director, Swain Group

looking to expand to contact us to find out more about how they could benefit from being part of a freeport.

Founded in 1918, Swain Group is a fifth generation family-run business

Ernst Schulze, Chief Executive of DP World in the UK

which has grown to become one of the largest family-owned road transport operators in Britain. It has played a key supporting role in the development of London Gateway, with its heavy haulage division delivering machinery for the building of the port ten years ago.

FORWARDER magazine

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35

ROAD FREIGHT NEWS 21 MAY 2021

DB SCHENKER CHARGES AHEAD WITH

ZERO-EMISSION FUSO ECANTER LIGHT TRUCK

L

ogistics leader DB Schenker has taken another step forward in

The eCanter is certainly easy to use and our drivers like it. They’ve

its Europe-wide drive towards zero-emission urban deliveries

benefited from specialist training in the most efficient use of the braking

by commissioning its first UK-based, all-electric FUSO eCanter.

regeneration function, which is helping us to get the maximum available range from the driveline.

The new 7.5-tonner is operating from Bradford and works in and around the city centre. Its curtainside body is by En-Veco, the specialist electric

That training was provided by Senior TRUCKtrainer Alistair Colquhoun,

vehicle arm of West Midlands-based bodybuilder Bevan Group, which

from Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ Wentworth Park complex – the FUSO light

also fitted its 1,000kg Dhollandia tail-lift.

truck range is sold and supported by Mercedes-Benz Trucks in Great Britain.

The truck leaves DB Schenker’s depot each morning with its batteries

Dealer Northside Truck & Van will maintain the eCanter in its Bradford

fully charged, and will typically cover up to 90km while making as

workshop, under a four-year Mercedes-Benz Finance contract hire

many as ten deliveries and a similar number of collections during

agreement. Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK Key Account Manager Brent

each round. The eCanter returns to base at the end of the day, its

Manning assisted by arranging for Stratford Energy Solutions, of

laden weight only rarely having dropped below 6.0 tonnes, and is

Stratford upon Avon, to supply and install a 22 kW charging point at

then recharged overnight.

DB Schenker’s depot.

With its compact footprint and impressive manoeuvrability, the

This vehicle is one small but important part of a much bigger picture

eCanter is clearly well suited to inner-city deliveries. Not only does

for our business. We’re keen to explore any avenue that can help to

this vehicle offer the reliability and competitive running costs we need,

reduce the impact of our operations on the environment, and the

but as legislation moves on, and ultra-low emission zones become

eCanter potentially has a significant role to play.

more widespread, as well as stricter, it can help us to future-proof our delivery operation.

The Bradford-based eCanter is one of 36 that are being delivered to DB

Dave Shepherd, Fleet Manager, DB Schenker

Schenker distribution centres across Europe, to support the operator’s sustainability strategy and its leadership in the field of emission-free

The eCanter is the world’s first fully electric light-duty truck to enter

urban logistics. With five eCanters in service in France and Germany,

series production and represents a major advance in the battle to

DB Schenker is already FUSO’s largest electric fleet customer.

improve air quality in towns and cities. Its electric drivetrain features six 13.8 kWh lithium-ion batteries, giving a total power output of 82.8

Electric power is a new departure for us, so we’re still working out

kWh (66 kWh usable). The permanent-magnet motor delivers 129 kW

the most effective way to use the vehicle and will be monitoring its

(180 hp) via a single-gear transmission in the rear axle.

performance very closely. The early signs are certainly promising, though.

As well as the obvious environmental benefits, on the evidence of what we’ve seen so far we expect it to prove highly economical to operate.

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A single charge gives the battery-powered FUSO an effective operating

DB Schenker’s Bradford operation runs a fleet of 36 vehicles, ranging

range of more than 62 miles (100 km), which is ample for many urban

from 3.5-tonne vans to 44-tonne artic units. The overwhelming

delivery applications. The eCanter is already well proven – the UK’s first

majority are by Mercedes-Benz – of the five that are not, four are due

10 examples were delivered to three operators in 2018, with a further

to be replaced shortly with new-generation Actros 2545 tractor units

six supplied to other customers the following year, and worldwide there

supplied by Northside Truck & Van.

are now more than 200 in operation.

FORWARDER magazine

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37

ROAD FREIGHT NEWS

SHORTAGE OF HGV DRIVERS PLACES BUSINESS RECOVERY AT RISK 21 MAY 2021

FINDS LOGISTICS UK REPORT

A

lmost one in ten logistics businesses (9.8%) say the recruitment

The report also identified that staff shortages are expected across

of drivers is an ‘extreme barrier’ to the recovery of their

a range of operational roles in 2021, including fitter, mechanic and

business, according to a report released today (21 May 2021)

technician vacancies: 37% of respondents anticipate being unable to fill

by business group Logistics UK: The Logistics Report 2021. With the

vacancies for these jobs this year.

UK facing higher unemployment – predicted to be at least 5.5% this year – Logistics UK is urging the government to take immediate action to

The Logistics Report 2021 also shares insights into the UK’s

unlock access to these careers for new recruits to the sector, in order

competitiveness, international trade, connectivity, costs, sustainability,

to support the recovery of UK PLC.

and safety and innovation. A summary of the report is attached to the email, with the report available to download from the Logistics UK

Our report shows that 29% of logistics businesses anticipate that they will be unable to fill vacancies for HGV drivers this year; a further 14.5% expect long delays before filling a role. With the logistics industry in urgent need of these workers, Logistics UK is urging the government to provide interest free loans or grants to train or reskill potential employees and help recruit them into the logistics industry. The business group is also urging the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to maintain its fast-track programme to catch-up on at least 30,000 driving tests that were postponed due to COVID-19 between March and December 2020; this has left thousands of potential HGV drivers waiting in the wings when the UK needs them most to support every facet of UK PLC. With almost one in ten (9.8%) of logistics businesses reporting that the recruitment of drivers is an ‘extreme barrier’ to the recovery of their business, the nationwide shortage of HGV drivers is stalling businesses’ recovery from the pandemic. With a large pool of potential candidates available – owing to the nation’s higher unemployment – we urge the government to make driver training affordable, accessible and attractive for all.

Alex Veitch, General Manager for Public Policy, Logistics UK

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website from 12pm on Friday 21 May 2021 at www.logistics.org.uk

Managers can use WEBFLEET to check in remotely with engineers who have not made contact or have deviated from their work schedules. In an emergency, they can use WEBFLEET to create a geofence around an incident to identify and communicate with any employees at risk, and dispatch support workers if necessary.

L

eading technology company Telent is leveraging its telematics

These measures play an integral role in safeguarding our workforce

solution in a drive to support the mental health and wellbeing

and ensuring their health and wellbeing needs are not only being met

of its 1,000-strong mobile workforce.

but exceeded.

added Anmarie Landi.

The Warwick-based company, which delivers communication networks

Telent also uses WEBFLEET’s OptiDrive 360 functionality to target

and services for the UK’s digital infrastructure, is using Webfleet

unsafe driving behaviour.

Solutions’ fleet management system WEBFLEET as part of its mental health and wellbeing strategy for field engineers.

Line managers receive weekly WEBFLEET reports and engineers who score below the safety threshold for three consecutive months are

As well as training line managers on recognising and addressing staff

offered guidance to improve driving style.

mental health issues and providing employees with dedicated self-care resources, Telent is using data insights from WEBFLEET to support fatigue

Since implementation, collisions per million miles have reduced by an

management, improve driver wellbeing and enhance driver security.

average 25 per cent year-on-year and in a three-year period, the company has seen a 20 per cent reduction in fault-related vehicle incidents.

At Telent, we know the health and wellbeing of our employees is central to the success of our business and we are firmly committed to addressing

WEBFLEET is also helping the company achieve its sustainability goals

the challenges our workers face. Armed with valuable telematics insights

by identifying early opportunities for cost-effective electrification of

from WEBFLEET, we can better identify and prevent incidents of fatigue,

fleet vehicles.

improve driver behaviour and safety and protect our lone workers.

Anmarie Landi, QEHS Director, Telent

Telent has harnessed the power of telematics technology to not only drive efficiencies but improve the working lives, health, safety

As long shifts are often required when dealing with emergency situations,

and security of its field employees. This is a great example of the full

WEBFLEET alerts have been set up to manage driver hours and help

capabilities of the WEBFLEET platform.

prevent fatigue. The system issues automatic alerts when it identifies an

Beverley Wise, Sales Director, Webfleet Solutions UK & Ireland

employee is approaching the 12-hour door-to-door working time limit.

A dynamic risk assessment process follows, with next steps including a hotel booking or replacement engineer.

TELENT BOLSTERS DRIVER HEALTH & WELLBEING 20 MAY 2021

WITH TELEMATICS SOLUTION FORWARDER magazine

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ROAD FREIGHT NEWS 12 MAY 2021

LOGISTICS FIRM TUFFNELLS INVESTS IN

£500,000 VEHICLE SAFETY PROGRAMME WITH SM UK

S

M UK, a growing auto-engineering business that specialises in improving safety for HGVs, vans and other commercial vehicles, has won a £500,000 contract to upgrade Sheffield

parcel delivery firm Tuffnells’ fleet of 230 brand new vehicles by installing state-of-the-art safety equipment.

SM UK, which recently announced it will open a new £4m, 35,000 sq

Tuffnells are a leader in the vehicle safety arena and they have adopted

ft Leeds headquarters and northern workshop this summer, along with

a no-expense-spared approach to ensuring their vehicles are equipped,

a drive to recruit 30 new engineering and office staff, began the work

pre-registration, with the full range of safety enhancements that we

for Tuffnells in March.

are installing for them now and over the coming months. Although the first Tuffnells vans and HGVs equipped with the new kit are only just

The new contract involves fitting safety systems designed to protect

starting to hit the roads, the new safety system will enable their drivers

cyclists and other road users and help prevent accidents. The firm’s

to easily negotiate narrow streets and ensure they have the technology

Type Approvals status, awarded by the Vehicle Certification Agency on

to deliver their parcels safely and efficiently.

the basis of its technical expertise, equipment and facilities, authorises

Steve MacDonald, Founder & Managing Director, SM UK

SM UK to work on vehicles pre-registration to ensure they are fully equipped from their first day on the road.

Sheffield-based Tuffnells specialises in delivering large, long and heavy parcels and has a network of 33 UK depots.

The installation involves mobile digital recorders fitted to capture footage from 360-degree cameras and monitors; cycle sensors installed

We see this process with SM UK as future-proofing our vehicles and

down vehicles’ near-sides and alarms to alert drivers of any obstruction,

creating a stress-free environment for our drivers so that they can carry

while cyclists and pedestrians are warned when a vehicle is about to

out their roles in safety and comfort. Safety is paramount for us and the

make a left turn.

bottom line is that it’s also fundamental to our success and continued growth as a logistics business.

The high-tech equipment installed by SM UK also includes a white-noise

Simon Parsons, Fleet & Services Director, Tuffnells

alarm activated when a vehicle reverses, and work lamps to provide additional lighting for people working around a vehicle at night.

The safety systems installed by SM UK ensure Tuffnells’ vehicles meet the requirements for Transport for London’s Direct Vision Standard to operate in the Greater London area. SM UK, whose clients range from blue-chip companies with large fleets of HGVs, to individuals with a single van, currently employs 70 staff across its sites in Leeds and Tamworth.

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ISSUE64

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www.HDFORWARDING.co.uk Congleton • DONCASTER • Bristol FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

41

RAIL FREIGHT

The use of railroads and trains to transport cargo, as opposed to human passengers.

Related topics Belt & Road Initiative HS2 Rail terminals and depots

Sponsored by

42 42 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

17 MAY 2021

METRANS DOUBLES NUMBER OF

CONTAINER TRAINS ON THE NEW SILK ROAD

H

HLA rail subsidiary Metrans is one of Europe’s leading

Customers can now select numerous destinations across China as their

provider of intermodal container transportation in seaport-

start and end points. Currently, 60 to 80 Metrans trains per month

hinterland traffic and is one of the pioneers of the rapidly

connect Europe with key economic centres in the People’s Republic,

growing railway transport along the New Silk Road. In the past year,

including Zhengzhou, Xi’an and Jinhua. Together with partners, Metrans

Metrans has increased the number of container trains travelling between

assembles the block trains in China that are taken over by traction

Europe and China by 114 percent.

operators at the various hubs of the Eurasian rail corridor. These hubs are the Polish border terminal Malaszewicze (near the Belarusian city of

The volume and frequency of rail freight traffic between Asia and Europe

Brest) and the Slovakian terminal in Dobra (near the Ukrainian border).

has increased significantly in recent years. The coronavirus pandemic

The containers are then distributed throughout the entire Metrans

and resulting capacity bottlenecks in shipping have given an added boost

network. The key hubs for the rail cargo flows between Europe and

to rail transport links. According to the estimates of management

China by Metrans are its hub terminals in Budapest, Prague, Ceska

consultancy Roland Berger, around 878,000 standard containers (TEU)

Trebova, Poznań and Dunajska Streda.

were transported along the various rail corridors of the New Silk Road in 2020. The international railway organisation UIC assumes this

The Port of Hamburg represents the central hub of Sino-German

number could double by 2025.

trade, for both the continental and maritime Silk Road. More than half of Germany’s foreign trade with China is handled via the Free and

HHLA subsidiary Metrans is also benefitting from this trend. The

Hanseatic City of Hamburg. The lion’s share of this figure is seaborne. In

intermodal company operated 913 trains in 2020 (2019: 426 trains) that

2020 alone, more than 2.4 million TEU were handled on the quaysides

originated in or went to China. This is an increase of 114 percent, with

of Germany’s largest seaport. 15 liner services connect the Free and

imports recording the largest growth (+131 percent). The transport

Hanseatic City of Hamburg with Chinese ports. In Hamburg, the

volumes of Metrans on the New Silk Road are thus approximately

quayside and rail facilities are in close proximity to one another. As

30,000 TEU.

Europe’s largest railway port, Hamburg also offers a dense network of wagon load traffic as well as shuttle and block train connections. Every

30 years ago we began transporting sea freight containers to the European hinterland. Metrans offered the first regular shuttle train

week, almost 1,960 train departures to and from Hamburg are offered, including more than 230 weekly connections with China.

connection between Hamburg and Prague. Since this time, our network between European ports and its hinterland has grown every year.

Additionally, we are one of the largest providers in the fastest growing market: rail transport between Europe and China.

Peter Kiss, CEO, Metrans

FORWARDER magazine

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RAIL FREIGHT NEWS 10 MAY 2021

FCC ENVIRONMENT CELEBRATES ONE YEAR

FROM CRICKLEWOOD RAIL FREIGHT TERMINAL

F

CC Environment, one of the UK’s leading recycling and waste

Aggregate and waste terminals like the one we operate at Cricklewood

management companies, is celebrating a successful first year

play an important role in the capital’s construction market, taking an

operating from DB Cargo UK’s rail freight terminal for construction

estimated 1,000 lorry journeys off the capital’s congested road network

spoil at Cricklewood, North West London. The strategically located site

every working day.

enables FCC Environment to serve both the West and North London

Roger Neary, Head of Sales, DB Cargo UK

construction markets, which have seen an expansion in projects in recent years – including some of the country’s largest development schemes. Over

Cricklewood is FCC Environment’s third strategic soils hub in the

the past year, the Cricklewood site has received some 250,000 tonnes of

Capital that it operates with its principal rail partner, DB Cargo UK.

construction soil, mainly from projects such as HS2 and the redevelopment

The three sites handle and remove between 750,000 to 1 million tonnes

of Euston station, but also from new housing developments in the area.

of construction waste and soils each year for recovery/ reuse at FCC Environment’s Calvert facility.

The past year has been a year like no other, and we have encountered many challenges along the way. We had to close the site twice owing to

The facility at Cricklewood also stocks supplies of aggregates on site,

the pandemic – however, with thorough planning and resilience from our

allowing clients to ‘backload’ when dropping spoil at the site, helping

team, we have met client demand for the service, whilst taking in a quarter

to reduce the number of journeys made by HGVs through London and

of a million tonnes of soil from projects across North and West London.

cutting their carbon footprint.

Roland Williams, General Manager, FCC Environment

T

19 MAY 2021

LOGISTICS UK WELCOMES

WILLIAMS-SHAPPS REVIEW OUTCOME

he plans outlined in the Williams-Shapps Review are essential

on an equal footing to passenger services. It is crucial that this ambition is

for the future of rail freight, and the creation of a single body

delivered to enable the freight sector to grow and achieve its full potential.

– Great British Railways – will help to better embed freight

The industry needs a strategic vision for freight and Logistics UK hopes that

into decision making, according to business group Logistics UK, which

the creation of Great British Railways’ national freight co-ordination team will

represents the whole sector.

ensure this becomes a core priority. Logistics UK will now scrutinise the details of these plans and work with Great British Railways and the Department for

The creation of Great British Railways should lead to more unified decisions

Transport on the reform process. While some uncertainty remains over how

for freight, which has been disadvantaged by complex systems of decision making

the new body will work in practice, the rail freight sector will work together

involving various different rail bodies. The government’s planned ambition to

to ensure it meets the needs of logistics businesses.

promote the use of rail freight is a positive step towards putting freight services

Elizabeth de Jong, Director of Policy at Logistics UK

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he Government is set to unveil the Williams-Shapps Review of the Railway, which includes proposals to create a new body ‘Great British Railways’ to oversee track and train, alongside

FURTHER SPECIFIC COMMENT FROM TIM WOOD ON THE REVIEW On the opportunity for devolution:

plans for new service contracts and flexible fares.

The devil will be in the detail of how Great British Railways will

The North saw first-hand the effects of a fragmented rail industry

interact with Transport for the North – who bring essential evidenced

during the 2018 timetable crisis. The fact that Great British Railways

based local knowledge to decision-making on the region’s railways,

will bring track and train together as the guiding mind and put the

both today and in the future. If the principle of a strong interface with

needs of passengers first is a giant leap forward and something

and accountability through enhanced partnerships is embraced as

we’ve championed. This is a major national moment and a shift in

part of the new structure, then there’s real potential for it deliver the

how the railway is run. But this national approach must not be a

improvements and change we have long called for.

missed opportunity for further devolution, giving the North’s leaders greater oversight of services and infrastructure investment

On new fares and flexible ticketing:

to deliver more integrated regional networks that work for all. The

We welcome commitment to simpler and more flexible fares given

commitment to growing and investing in the railway over the next 30

the way people travel is changing. We laid the early groundwork in our

years only emphasises the real need for the Government to publish

region - funding trials of flexible tickets on key routes and delivering

the Integrated Rail Plan for the North and Midlands without delay,

tap-in-tap-out kit at stations across the North to support contactless

to give us much-needed certainty on delivery of major schemes like

payments. More flexible ticketing is a good start on the journey to

Northern Powerhouse Rail, HS2 and the Transpennine Route Upgrade.

creating a London-style pay as you go system, but fares in the North must

As an established and effective partnership in the North of England,

also offer good value if we’re to level up.

Transport for the North will collaboratively engage with Government as it begins to work through the detail and we stand ready to drive positive change in the interest of our passengers.

On future infrastructure investment: It’s promising to see the strategy re-emphasise the commitment to

Tim Wood, Interim Chief Executive, Transport for the North

growing, decarbonising and investing in the railway and investing of the coming decades. The delivery of billions of pounds of investment; new and reopened lines and more electrification can’t come soon enough. It is against this backdrop that we now desperately need the Government to published the Integrated Rail Plan for the North and Midlands, giving clarity of what projects will be delivered and when; and confidence that major investment is coming.

19 MAY 2021

TRANSPORT FOR THE NORTH REACTION TO

WILLIAMS-SHAPPS REVIEW OF THE RAILWAY FORWARDER magazine

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RAIL FREIGHT NEWS 27 MAY 2021

GOVERNMENT URGED TO PUBLISH

MULTIBILLION-POUND RAIL INVESTMENT PLAN FOR THE NORTH

T

he North’s leaders have called on the Government to urgently

It’s now critical that the Government publish the Integrated Rail Plan

publish a long-term plan for the region’s railways, to give

so the North can plan with certainty around the railway investment that

essential certainty on investment and delivery of major projects.

will be delivered. We can’t risk delays to Northern Powerhouse Rail and HS2 arriving in the North and the economic boom both would bring –

Through Transport for the North (TfN), the region’s political and

including up to 74,000 new jobs with NPR. Whilst the Government has

business leaders say the Government must publish the Integrated Rail

committed to delivering the projects, there are question marks hanging

Plan (IRP) for the North and Midlands as soon as possible to avoid

over the detail until the Integrated Rail Plan is unveiled. As a co-client

delays to delivery of schemes including Northern Powerhouse Rail and

of Northern Powerhouse Rail with the Department for Transport,

HS2 in the North.

Transport for the North is ready to work closely with Government to get spades in the ground on the project as soon as possible

They say it’s also critical to address congested hotspots on the North’s

Tim Wood, Interim Chief Executive, Transport for the North

rail network today, as well as addressing the short and medium-term projects such as the Transpennine Route Upgrade.

Earlier this year, the TfN Board reluctantly agreed to delay submission of the business case for Northern Powerhouse Rail until the IRP was

The IRP is seen as a key pillar of the levelling-up agenda. It’s anticipated

published. The Northern Powerhouse Rail network, including a mix

to detail the level of infrastructure spend over the coming decades; how

of new and upgraded lines connecting the North’s towns and cities, is

major projects will integrate; and when and how they’ll be delivered.

expected to...

TfN says the IRP is needed now to give confidence that promised

• Contribute £14.4 billion in annual gross value added (GVA) to the

schemes will be delivered, in turn creating thousands of new jobs,

UK economy by 2060

boosting the region’s economy to aid recovery from the pandemic. and

• Create up to 74,000 new jobs in the North by 2060

helping cut carbon emissions.

• Take the equivalent of 58,000 cars off the road Tim Wood added,

The IRP is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to

re-write the story of the North’s railways and address the legacy – and resulting problems - of underinvestment we’ve seen for decades. It will not only set the long-term trajectory for rail spending, but hopefully address the short and medium-term projects we need to tackle congestion today. We urge the Government to prioritise its publication so that work can progress on delivering the major components of a northern railway fit for the next century

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Comments from Transport for the North Board Members...

We need the Government to urgently publish the Integrated Rail Plan and commit to the Transpennine upgrade in full, Northern Powerhouse Rail with a city centre station in Bradford, the HS2 eastern leg on the

It is worrying that the Government has yet to bring forward their

same timetable as the western leg, and regional electrification. This

Integrated Rail Plan, as it is beyond time that major investments like

investment is essential to providing the rail services our communities

Northern Powerhouse Rail and HS2 begin to be delivered here in

need as part of a joined-up West Yorkshire transport system that

the North. In Greater Manchester we also need urgent progress on

connect people to jobs, education and opportunities.

plans for HS2-NPR stations at Piccadilly and Manchester Airport to

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire

be fully integrated with our local transport network. Ultimately, if the Government is serious about levelling up, then the IRP cannot allow

Our business case for Northern Powerhouse Rail is critical for

the ambitions of Greater Manchester and the rest of the North to

unlocking investments and business growth across west Cheshire.

be downgraded.

Combined with Growth Track 360 connections with North Wales, rail

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester

improvements play a major part in the future of our region, supporting jobs and playing a key role in tackling the climate emergency and wider

If we are to level up the North then better rail connections between our towns and cities is vital. But we can’t get on with delivering those

determinants of health through cleaner, more accessible transport.

Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West & Chester Council

improvements until we have the full picture of the Government plans in the Integrated Rail Plan. We’ve now been waiting for six months,

The Integrated Rail Plan is critical to our levelling up plans in

wasting time and holding up our efforts to renew our region and create

the north. As part of our ongoing work to transform transport

jobs as we emerge from the pandemic. This lack of clarity also prolongs

infrastructure in Hull, we need to ensure that our public transport is

the uncertainty for businesses and people living on the proposed HS2

efficient and reliable.The electrification of Hull/Selby and Hull/Sheffield

route. The Government must get on and publish their Integrated Rail

is an integral part of a modern, integrated rail network for the North.

Plan without further delay.

We would also wish for the electrification to connect our port as part

Dan Jarvis, Mayor of Sheffield City Region

of a commitment to decarbonisation.

Councillor Daren Hale, Leader of Hull City Council FORWARDER magazine

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PROJECT CARGO

The transportation of large, heavy, high-value or critical (to the project they are intended for) pieces of equipment.

Related topics Heavy lift Abnormal load OOG (out of gauge)

Sponsored by

48 48 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE64

AAL LIFTS ITS SAFETY & OPERATIONS STANDARDS 25 MAY 2021

TO NEW LEVELS

A

AL Shipping (AAL) has successfully achieved latest 2020 IMO Intact Stability Code standards with its heavy lift cargo handling procedures and new levels of sailings efficiency and safety

through its ground-breaking ‘Performance Optimisation Control Room’ (POCR), ensuring its multipurpose (MPP) services remain at their peak.

AAL holds a strong track record of operational integrity, engineering innovation, and cargo safety – maintaining schedule commitments on all services throughout the challenges of the COVID pandemic. Its reputation for dependability has helped AAL expand its portfolio over the past 12 months with a regular trade lane presence in the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East where monthly services run in parallel with its global tramp and well-established liner operations throughout Asia and Oceania.

The 2020 IMO Intact Stability Code is currently only mandatory for new vessels. Nevertheless, we decided to harmonise these new standards across our fleet and operations. In the past, carriers were free to set their own standards governing stability when lifting heavy cargoes and shippers either accepted them or not. Now the bar is pre-set, and carriers will need to prove in advance that the stability of their ships and heavy lift operations is guaranteed. This is a major step forward for setting higher safety standards within the sector and demonstrates the

The next step on our journey to enhanced sailings efficiency and

capabilities of one carrier compared to another.

lowered CO2 emissions is the implementation of a new ‘Motion

Nicola Pacifico, Head of Transport Engineering, AAL

Response Analysis’ (MRA) programme. The output of this programme coupled with machine learning tools afforded to us by the POCR, will

In terms of sailings efficiency, fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions

enable AAL to make even more efficient voyage calculations in terms

reduction, AAL is proactively undertaking a number of measures to

of fuel consumption and how to reduce the same. Our commitment

enhance its performance. Through its POCR facility – developed and

to this cause was also the driver for AAL’s recent adoption of next

operated by Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM) – AAL is harnessing

generation hull coatings to our fleet that will reduce resistance through

state-of-the-art routing, weather, and sea conditions technology to

water and thus lower the engine power and fuel consumption required.

remotely monitor and plan every aspect of each sailing from a remote

In combination with strict hull condition monitoring and maintenance,

facility manned 24/7 by a team of expert shipping technicians. Voyage

not only can sailing costs be achieved, but also a reduction to the fleet’s

recommendations are then returned periodically to each Master with

all-important CO2 footprint.

optimised routing, sailing, and fuel consumption recommendations.

Valentin Gherciu, Operations Manager, AAL FORWARDER magazine

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PROJECT CARGO NEWS 20 MAY 2021

DEUGRO DELIVERED

17,487 FREIGHT TONNES OF STEEL PIPES TO INDONESIA FOR A RENEWABLE ENERGY OFFSHORE PROJECT

d

eugro delivered 17,487 freight tons (FRT) of steel pipes in six part charters from Masan, South Korea to Batam, Indonesia.

The pipes were needed for the production of 15 jackets for

a renewable energy offshore project in Taiwan. deugro was awarded the delivery contract by PT SMOE Indonesia, a group company of Sembcorp Marine. deugro, in cooperation with dteq, both companies of the deugro group, developed a comprehensive shipment plan involving six part charters in line with the client’s production process to meet the tight fabrication schedule. At the Port of Masan, the steel pipes of various sizes were loaded using the ship’s crane and stowed under deck on the pre-installed

Because cross-country travels were not possible due to local restrictions,

timber blocks for the safe transport across 2,500 nautical miles to the

deugro’ s experts coordinated and supervised the operations remotely

client’s private jetty in Batam, Indonesia. The stowing was performed by

in collaboration with a subcontracted surveyor at the site to ensure

deugro in accordance with the lifting, stowage and lashing plans provided

deugro’s high quality standards and the client’s requirements were met.

by dteq, and based on the stacking limit due to the weight of the pipes.

This responsibility included the checking of vessel and crew certificates, reporting the cargo condition and quality at the time of loading and

Due to the worldwide restrictions imposed by COVID-19, port and

discharging, as well as ensuring safe loading and discharging operations.

vessel regulations changed frequently during the planning and execution phases. Strict requirements regarding the vessel selection guidelines,

Within six months, all shipments were delivered in time to meet the

handling procedures, documentation submission and approval had to

client’s fabrication schedule and despite the challenges due to COVID-19.

be considered. Therefore, deugro kept track of the changing quarantine requirements and adapted the planning in parallel to successfully meet the demanding schedule.

The frequently changing restrictions were challenging during this project. We continuously monitored the developments and ensured a secure and timely delivery.

Ankit Neema, Head of Business Development, Key Accounts & Specialized Projects, deugro

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ISSUE64

11 MAY 2021

KAMOR LOGISTICS COMPLETE

K

HEAVY TRANSFORMER SHIPMENT amor Logistics have completed the successful shipment of

The loading and stowage plans were meticulously planned by the team of

a heavy transformer from Balikesir in Turkey to Ashdod Port

experts at Kamor Logistics and performed by their agent in Turkey. This

in Israel.

shipment was another contract for the Israeli Electricity Company won over a bidding process and successfully executed by Kamor Logistics.

The shipment consisted of a 160mt transformer along with 16 wooden cases of accessories. The transformer had been sent for refurbishment in Turkey last year and was now being delivered back to its owner, the Israeli Electricity Company. All the cargo was loaded onboard MV. Altius, a small general cargo coaster vessel chartered by Kamor Logistics for the mission.

The transformer was brought to the Port of Aliaga in Turkey by a heavyduty low-bed trailer. In Ashdod, it was discharged using 2 hydraulic cranes employed by Kamor Logistics for the purpose.

12 MAY 2021

PINTO BASTO HANDLE

DOOR-TO-DOOR SHIPMENT OF 20m TANKS

P

into Basto are pleased to report a recent door-to-door shipment between Portugal and Angola. The cargo consisted of two oversized tanks, both 20m in length.

They added value to the successful operation as the whole project from pick-up and direct loading to direct discharge and delivery to final destination was handled by the Pinto Basto Group in both Portugal and Angola.

This year, Pinto Basto are celebrating their remarkable 250 year anniversary with the slogan '250 years preparing the future'!

FORWARDER magazine

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PROJECT CARGO NEWS

OVER 160 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE 13 MAY 2021

AT PÉREZ Y CÍA IN SPAIN

W

e are pleased to report A. Pérez y Cía S.L. are new members

Pérez y Cía have handled many projects for ThyssenKrupp, sending

in Spain. The company have more than 160 years experience

passenger boarding bridges from Spain to destinations all over the world

in shipping, dating back to 1853. They are one of the largest

and taking care of the whole process. During the last 2 years, they have

shipping and logistics groups in the country with 22 offices across Spain and

loaded 24 projects so far with the count growing - 8 shipments to the

the Canary Islands and headquarters in Madrid and Barcelona.

USA, 5 to Brazil, 3 to Mexico, 3 to Guadeloupe, 2 to Algeria, 2 to Ghana and 1 to Bermuda.

Pérez y Cía are already working with and were recommended by several PCN members and are ISO, FONASBA and AEO certified, offering a full

In this case, the impressive video and photos below show the loading

range of project cargo, breakbulk, chartering, shipping, port, forwarding,

operations of a shipment from Gijon in Spain to Boston Logan Airport.

agency and customs services.

Their scope was from FOT Gijon to FOT Boston Airport, taking care of the inland transportation from the factory to Gijon Port, loading operations,

We are specialised in handling project, breakbulk and bulk cargo.

Our deep knowledge of the industry and an extensive experience and portfolio, along with specialised equipment, gives us the possibility to safely handle any kind of cargo with care. Our professional and efficient team provide tailor-made intermodal logistics solutions. Through our participation in many major large-scale projects, we have gained unique expertise in a range of industries including oil and gas. We are looking forward to working with the good partners of PCN! Juan De Castro, Regional Manager, Pérez y Cía

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sea freight to Boston Port, unloading operations from vessel to quay and road transportation from the port to the final destination at the airport.

S

candinavian Logistics Partners (Scanlog) was commissioned

It took about two days from the start of the transport from Wuxi,

to quickly transport 80 tonnes of sensitive machinery from

south of Shanghai, until Scanlog was able to deliver the goods to the

Shanghai to Luleå on to Skellefteå. The solution was to use

customer's factory in Skellefteå, Sweden. Though, the strategic planning

the world's second largest aircraft, cross-border cooperation and a

actually went on for weeks prior.

straightforward and open dialogue between all parties.

We are talking about advanced robotic machinery here that are very

At the beginning of April, Scanlog received a request from a customer to

sensitive to both moisture and shock. It is with extreme care how you

ship goods consisting of a production line for battery cell manufacture.

stow and secure the load so that it can withstand all the forces it is

It needed to be put in place rather quickly so that the build-up of

subjected to, especially during take-off and landing. Through meticulous

production would not be delayed.

planning and close cooperation between all parties involved, we managed to package the cargo efficiently and safely, delivering on time

This delivery was already delayed since a while back, and in order for the

with impeccable sustained quality. We give credit to the success of this

entire operation not to halt, the cargo needed to arrive at the factory

mission to a strong partnership and open communication — something

as quickly as possible - without damage to the sensitive equipment, says

we always strive for.

Mathias Wideroth, Chairman and Founder of Scanlog.

Carbon offset air freight 'There were incredibly small margins'

Chartering the world's second largest aircraft from Shanghai to Luleå

Due to the size of the cargo, there was only one type of aircraft that

is a unique occurrence as the last time it landed at Luleå Airport was

could do the job: Antonov 124. The world's second largest cargo aircraft

ten years ago. Though it generates large emissions of greenhouse gases,

with a span of 73 meters, four jet engines and a weight of 175 tonnes. But

mainly carbon dioxide, it is compensated by Scanlog through its Always

despite its enormous size, it was a very close call making everything fit.

Carbon Offset Airfreight program.

It was definitely a challenge to fit everything as it was absolutely

Air freight is the least sustainable mode of transport. But, fast and

necessary that all parts of the production line be shipped at the same

efficient air cargo is still of great importance for our customers. In

time. We encountered a patrol and feared that it would not be possible

this case, the flight was absolutely necessary - without fast transport,

to load the plane as we had intended. But, thanks to a solution-oriented

our customer's business would have stopped waiting for the right

team and an open and straightforward dialogue between all parties; the

equipment. With that said, we as a leading logistics company have a

customer, our partners and the airline, we solved it. But there were

great responsibility to reduce the environmental impact of transport.

incredibly small margins — you wouldn’t have been able to fit an extra

Therefore, we compensate all air freight by investing in projects for, for

sheet of paper on board.

example, renewable energy production, energy efficiency and in projects that conserve forests.

23 MAY 2021

SCANLOG'S 80-TONNE MISSION:

TO CHARTER WORLD'S 2nd-LARGEST AIRCRAFT FORWARDER magazine

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AIR & SEA PORTS

Any place where persons and merchandise are allowed to pass, by water or land, into and out of a country and where customs officers are stationed to inspect or appraise imported goods.

Related topics Cargo handling Container terminals Drayage

Sponsored by

54 54 FORWARDER magazine

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17 MAY 2021

CONTAINERSHIP ‘HMM NURI’

MAKES FIRST CALL IN HAMBURG

O

n Saturday,15 May the ‘HMM NURI’, the first containership in a newbuild series total of eight for the South Korean shipping company HMM - formerly Hyundai Merchant

Marine – paid her first call in the Port of Hamburg. She was handled at HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai - CTB. ‘HHM NURI’ can transport up to 16,010 TEU - 20-ft standard containers.

The vessel has 1,200 reefer sockets for temperature-controlled cargo.

With a length of 366 metres and a breadth of 51 metres, the dimensions of ‘HMM NURI’ correspond to the maximum for navigating the new Panama Canal. Built at the Hyundai Heavy Industries - HHI - shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea, the vessel will initially be deployed in the AsiaEurope trade.

Photo: Port of Hamburg / © HHM / Hasenpusch Productions

On her first voyage, the vessel arrived in Hamburg in the Far East Europe 4 - FE4 - container liner service run by THE ALLIANCE. This

One of her sisterships will be named ‘HMM GAON’. That means ‘the

calls at Busan, Shanghai, Ningbo, Yantian, Singapore, Suez, Rotterdam,

middle’ or ‘the centre’. In Jan Baumgarten’s view, the name of the ‘HMM

Hamburg, Antwerp and Southampton. On the eastbound voyage, a call

GARAM’, calling Hamburg shortly, is very fitting for the Elbe. In Old

is also made at Hong Kong. “We are delighted that the ‘HMM NURI’

Korean, ‘garam’ means ‘river’. In Old Korean manuscripts, the river is

was able to complete her maiden voyage to Hamburg without technical

defined as the way along which water flows. It’s the way along which

problems. Release of the first stage of the fairway adjustment of the

rainwater flows from the sky into the sea. ‘That’s a very nice description

Elbe makes the approach by our mega-ships to Hamburg significantly

too of the Elbe flowing through Hamburg,’ says Baumgarten.

simpler to manage, and we can also plan more import and export cargo on our ships in the Port of Hamburg. For us and our customers,

Seven liner services connect the Port of Hamburg with South Korea –

these are important advantages,” says Jan Baumgarten, Global Key

three container, and four multi-purpose. Last year, 228,000 TEU were

Account Coordinator and Hamburg representative of HMM European

transported between the Hanseatic city and the South Korean ports of

Headquarters London in Hamburg.

Busan, Incheon and Gwangyang. South Korea currently holds seventh place among the Port of Hamburg’s top trading partners for container

All eight containerships of the newbuild series are equipped with

handling. Container services between Hamburg and Korea are currently

scrubbers to clean exhaust gas emissions so as to meet the environmental

operated by CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, HMM and ONE with their own

regulations in force since the beginning of 2020. Jan Baumgarten points

ships, and through slot capacities, also by Evergreen, OOCL and Yang

out that all the ships of this newbuild series bear names traditional in

Ming. In addition, shipping companies AAL, BBC, Chipolbrok and SAL

the history of Korean culture. ‘Nuri’, for example, means ‘the world’.

serve Korean ports with multi-purpose services.

FORWARDER magazine

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AIR & SEA PORTS NEWS

CONTAINER PRICES SURGE IN EUROPE 25 MAY 2021

AS CARRIERS FAVOUR LOADING EMPTIES

F

or European exporters looking to source shipping containers,

Since the beginning of May, average prices for 20 ft. dry containers in

existing shortages could deteriorate significantly in the coming

Europe softened slightly to $2249 from $2110 in April. However, prices

weeks, according to the latest data from Container xChange,

for 40 ft. dry containers have again increased this month, up 13% to

the world’s leading online platform for the leasing and trading of

$3112 from $2750 in April.

shipping containers.

In Container xChange’s Container Availability Index (CAx) an index

Most pricing and availability indicators now suggest carriers are

reading of below 0.5 means more containers leave a port compared

continuing to favour shipping empties back to Asia as fast as possible to

to the number which enter. Above 0.5 means more containers are

maximise yields on front-haul services rather than wait for less lucrative

entering the port.

backhaul loads.

At the port of Genoa, the average CAx reading for a 20 ft. box in 2021 The upshot for shippers is rapidly rising prices in Europe for containers

is 0.71, up from 0.26 through the first half of 2020. At Hamburg, in 2021

even though CAx availability readings point to higher availability of

the average CAx reading has so far this year is 0.75, compared to 0.39 in

boxes in European hubs – Container xChange figures do not track

1H 2020, while at Rotterdam the reading is 0.71 so far this year, versus

empty moves.

0.46 a year earlier.

The confluence of theoretical high availability and soaring prices

After a short dip in incoming containers to Europe due to the Suez Canal

for boxes strongly indicates that container lines are prioritizing empty

closure as measured by Container xChange’s Container Availability

containers over export cargo from Europe. There were signs of this

Index (CAx), inbound volumes are expected to increase again.

even before the Suez Canal closure in late March. The latest figures suggest the additional disruption this caused has exacerbated the

CAx readings for week 19 decreased by on average 4.5% to values of

situation and made it even harder for exporters to find empties.

0.85 across dry-container sizes in Hamburg, 0.79 in Rotterdam, and 83.5

Dr Johannes Schlingmeier

in Antwerp, indicating an ongoing surplus of incoming boxes.

The latest container trading data reveals that between January and April

According to Container xChange forecasts, an increase in incoming

average prices for used 20 ft. containers across Europe rose 57% from

shipping containers by 4-5% over the next weeks is likely to not

$1348 to $2119.

only increase CAx readings but also contribute to slowly decreasing container prices again. These are good times for equipment owners

In April, price increases for 20 ft. containers were especially severe. In

across Europe as indications are that even if container prices dip slightly,

Antwerp prices jumped by 30% compared to March. In Hamburg they

scarcity will remain until carriers change tack and start looking for more

rose by 16% over the same period while in Rotterdam they increased 12%.

backloads. As a result, container prices are likely to remain at elevated levels for some time, although we do think availability for exporters will improve in the coming months.

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G

EODIS announces the opening of a new 6,000 sqm site within

With this investment, GEODIS confirms its ability to provide a high-

the cargo area of Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport to provide

quality air cargo offering. Thanks to the strategic location of this new

certified services, especially for customers in the health and

cargo station, we are able to accelerate processing times for the flow

luxury goods sectors.

of goods, both for export and import, while ensuring rigorous safety standards for the products entrusted to us by our customers.

The new complex will have immediate airside access. It will be located

Massimo Norcaro, Director of Freight Forwarding, GEODIS

near Air France's main warehouse (G1XL) and other main service providers at the airport.

As part of GEODIS' ongoing commitment, this HQE Excellent certified building will ensure the highest environmental standards are met.

The latest generation of cargo handling technology, highly secure and certified CEIV1 and TAPA2 Level A, will offer a level of service excellence

The site will be operational in October 2021 and will have around

targeted at the pharmaceutical and luxury goods sectors. The complex

120 employees.

will be equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure for the processing of temperature-controlled products, including negative temperatures.

1

Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics

2

Transported Asset protection Association

18 MAY 2021

GEODIS OPENS AN AIRSIDE CARGO STATION

AT PARIS-CHARLES DE GAULLE FORWARDER magazine

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AIR & SEA PORTS NEWS

POSITIVE FIRST-QUARTER THROUGHPUT TREND 25 MAY 2021

IN PORT OF HAMBURG

T

he Port of Hamburg’s seaborne cargo throughput in the first

percent on transhipment throughput with the Scandinavian countries.

quarter exceeded expectations. The upward trend here was

Generally, the European sea trades reported a four percent downturn

powered by a steep increase in March, especially. Seaborne

in the first quarter,

says Mattern. Totalling 9.8 million tons, bulk cargo

cargo handling in the first quarter advanced by 0.4 percent, and therefore

throughput was up by 2.7 percent. Within this segment, grab cargoes at

better than in the same quarter of the previous year. Container handling

5.5 million tons performed well, achieving a 17.0 percent gain, ore imports

was 1.8 percent up on the same period of 2020. After a modest start

being the main contributor. Ahead by 36.1 percent at 2.7 million tons,

in the first two months, March brought a strong boost. Throughput of

these accounted for a large share of the excellent figure for bulk cargoes.

bulk cargoes was ahead by 2.7 percent.

Down 19.1 percent at 1.7 million tons and 5.5 percent at 2.6 million tons, both suction and liquid cargoes were below the previous year’s level.

The trend for the Port of Hamburg’s first-quarter seaborne cargo throughput was still affected by the lasting repercussions of the corona pandemic.

Trends differ for Hamburg’s top ten partners for sea-container handling

The month of March brought the crucial turnaround for container

On container handling, the first three months of 2021 saw very differing

handling. Compared to March 2020, this was ahead by 9.4 percent.

trends for the Port of Hamburg’s most important trading partners.

From March, we discerned a recovery in several areas of the economy,

On seaward container handling with China, Hamburg’s largest trading

stronger consumer demand, and renewed stability in the number of liner

partner by a wide margin, a 16 percent increase to 672,000 TEU was

services calling in Hamburg. With 697,000 TEU being handled on seaport-

achieved. With a 0.7 percent gain to 147,000 TEU, the USA, Hamburg’s

hinterland services by rail, a 5.1 percent gain, we achieved a fine result.

No 2, also remained on the growth path. Other Top Ten countries

Axel Mattern, Joint CEO, Port of Hamburg Marketing

with a positive first-quarter trend in container handling were Sweden – up 2.6 percent, Poland - up 6.0 percent, Brazil - up 9.8 percent and

First-quarter seaborne cargo handling in the Port of Hamburg

Denmark - up 3.2 percent. These satisfactory first-quarter trends in

Port of Hamburg terminals loaded and discharged 32.1 million tons of

other countries.

seaborne container handling were sufficient to offset downturns with

seaborne cargoes in the first three months of this year, representing a slight - 0.4 percent - increase on the previous year. At 22.4 million

Of Hamburg’s Top Ten trading partners in seaborne container transport,

tons, general cargo throughput was just slightly – 0.5 percent – lower

six were already on a growth path in the first quarter. Among the four

than in I/2020. The trend on container handling in Hamburg at 2.2

with downturns, we witnessed stabilization and a slight recovery. In our

million TEU – 20-ft standard containers – was also upwards, the gain

view, the continuing repercussions of the corona pandemic on worldwide

on the previous year being 1.8 percent.

Import and export container

transport and trading chains will gradually grow weaker this year. In the

throughput performance was almost identical. At 1.1 million TEU each,

present situation, 2021 will again bring growth for the Port of Hamburg.

both categories rose by 1.8 percent. The America, Asia, Africa and

Our first-quarter handling figures underline the first positive signs of a

Australia/Pacific container trades ensured upward throughput trends.

recovery in the Port of Hamburg’s seaborne cargo throughput.

On European sea trades, the only positive development was a gain of 3.7

Ingo Egloff, Executive Board colleague, Axel Mattern

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Strong growth for railborne container transport In the first three months of the year 697,000 TEU were transported on the Hamburg Port Railway network. That represents a 5.1 percent increase.

We are delighted that arriving and departing railborne

container transport in the Port of Hamburg is again growing, and proved able to increase steeply. Our pleasure is also undimmed by the fact that at 11.8 million tons, total railborne goods transport narrowly failed to

Clearance for passing box and deeper Elbe channel

match the previous year’s total. A downturn of 0.9 percent in liquid

Federal and Hamburg maritime authorities have also transmitted a positive

Railway daily guides over 200 freight trains of more than 5,500 railcars

signal for the Port of Hamburg with initial partial clearance at the beginning

along its high-performance track network with a length of around 300

of May for the new navigation channel depths and the passing box. At the

kilometres. With 10,798 TEU, on 24 March a fresh one-day record was

first stage, vessels can utilize around half of the total draft improvements

set for container traffic. In Ingo Egloff’s view, the system also proved its

gained. The ‘CMA CGM Jacques Saadé’ was the first containership in the

reliability during the corona pandemic.

Megamax Class to do this. With a length of 400 metres and a breadth of 61

we have discovered that even rail handling in the Port of Hamburg

metres, this LNG-powered containership is among the vessels immediately

can lead to temporary delays on account of the large number of late

able to benefit from 90 centimetres of extra draft. This enables her to bring

arrivals by ships. Terminal companies and rail operators try to avoid

around 1000 more containers to Hamburg.

clearance bottlenecks,

transport of oil was the main reason,

said Egloff. Port of Hamburg

Yet in recent days and weeks

adds Egloff. Among other factors, for example,

further progress was made with the utilization of container block trains.

Since the go-ahead for the new depths in the navigation channel

During the first quarter, 78.1 TEU per container block train was the

a few weeks ago, higher drafts irrespective of the tide have given us

third highest figure ever achieved. At 12.8 percent, the proportion of

considerably great freedom for manoeuvre in our traffic planning. In

empty railcars in container traffic reached the lowest level since records

addition, completion of the passing box now enables ever larger vessels

started to be kept. In the Port of Hamburg’s seaport-hinterland traffic,

to pass each other simply and safely. After the second and final stage of

track use was improved still further, and the rail share of the modal split

clearance in the second half of this year, we shall be able to fully exploit

for equipment deployed was increased. With a 50.7 percent share, last

the draft improvements.

year rail was already the leading carrier in overland transport.

Jens Meier, CEO, Hamburg Port Authority

Outlook for 2021 Depending on size category, vessels will then be able to exploit up to

For 2021, the Port of Hamburg’s marketing organization anticipates

1.9 metres of extra draft. Even now, it is already possible for vessels

a generally more stable run for seaborne cargo handling. With the

with a combined breadth of up to 104 metres to meet in the box. This

resumption of suspended liner services, and some new ones, and in a

has been widened to 385 metres along eight kilometres of the river

situation that we hope will be improving worldwide, throughput figures

between Wedel and Blankenese.

of 130 million tons and 8.7 million TEU should be attainable.

FORWARDER magazine

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59

TECH & DIGITALISATION Digitalisation: leveraging digitisation to improve business processes.

(Digitisation: converting information from a physical into a digital format. Digital Transformation: the use of new, fast and frequently changing digital technology to solve problems.)

Related topics Robotics Drone technology Cloud data

Sponsored by

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rones should be treated as a part of the whole transport system

This issue had received surprisingly little attention, Kim noted. Drawing

and of society more broadly. Only then will we all reap the full

a parallel to the electric scooters, which were promoted as green but

often turned out to be less so, Kim pointed out that The easiest way to take delivery bookings online

economic and social benefits from drone technology. This was

drones, too,

ITF Secretary-General Young Tae Kim’s core message in his keynote for

need to be judged on their life-cycle emissions. The benchmark for

Give new and existing customers a tool to book pallet deliveries directly, without picking up the phone. their carbon footprint must include the greenhouse gases generated in Take orders, manage assets and make money without lifting a finger!

the “Drone Enable” symposium organised by ICAO, the International Civil Aviation Organization, held online today, 13 April 2021.

production and scrapping. Policymakers will need to carefully evaluate and manage the environmental pros and cons of drones.

In his speech, Secretary-General Kim outlined five areas 'that should be at the forefront of our thinking when we consider how drones should be integrated' into the transport system.

Policymakers generally need to examine the use cases for drones, said Kim:

Join the 1% already doing business digitally.

By use case, I do not mean what engineers think possible, and

businesspeople hope they can monetise. I mean how drones can fill the The first area is the economics of drones, according to Kim: One of the questions policymakers need to think about is this: Is the

gaps in today’s transport offer in ways that serve broader societal goals.

He proposed that, as a basic principle, drones should not operate in

isolation but put to use where they are suited to fill gaps in the transport See your data, wherever you are. or not? Is it even necessary? system. Drones could complement existing services, for instance, by economic regulation of drones under the existing frameworks beneficial,

providing last-mile delivery or mobility, Kim explained. In others, they The second area Kim highlighted is how to create public acceptance

could be more efficient, or safe, or reliable substitutes for today’s

for drones.

transport options; and they may even create new forms of demand. fifthnew area forcustomers, policymakers to be attentive to is Infrastructure for Get accessTheto everywhere.

For citizens to embrace a new technology, the benefits need to be crystal-clear to them.

drones, Kim said.

He warned that if drones services were accessible to but a few, while

This will not be a big issue in rural areas, where drones can do

downsides like noise had to be borne by all, acceptance might suffer.

much to connect remote communities better – but in cities, it will be a

Policymakers should not skimp over the equity aspect if the aim is to

different story. Urban drone landing zones will require careful planning,

Future-proof your business.and they will not pop up overnight. Where access to drone services is

make drones an integral part of the transport system.

not equitable because some have landing hubs and others do not, there The third area for regulatory focus emphasized by the ITF Secretary-

may be a case for government funding or regulation.

General is drones’ impact on the environment.

e-gistics.com

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TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS 25 MAY 2021

PROGLOVE LAUNCHES

MARK BASIC STANDARD RANGE

FOR SHORT-DISTANCE BARCODE SCANNING

P

roGlove, the leader in ergonomic wearables for industry,

that are compatible with all MARK devices. In addition, ProGlove offers

launches a new wearable scanner. MARK Basic standard range

wearable solutions for left and right-handed people in standard industry

(SR) addresses the needs of organisations with a focus on short

sizes and the Reel, a clip or lanyard consumable.

distance scanning. Typically, this includes workflow documentations in retail and assembly processes. The new MARK Basic SR processes 1D

ProGlove Insight leverages MARK’s unique data capturing capabilities to add even more efficiency

and 2D barcodes, handles up to 5,000 scans per full-charge and works

MARK Basic SR – as all scanners of the MARK product family – is of course

best at a scan range of 10 to 80 cm. The latest addition to the MARK

compatible with ProGlove Insight. This new industry analysis software

family of products is available as of May 28th.

solution unlocks unprecedented efficiency potential by leveraging the

environments such as outbound processes like packaging, inventory in

MARKS' unique capability to capture metadata and contextualise it.

MARK Basic SR complements MARK Basic mid range (MR). Both

Initial customers report efficiency gains of up to 20 percent. These are

scanners mark an ideal entry for organisations into industrial barcode

due to improved processes, shopfloor visualisation, device management

scanning. Their deployment via plug & play is effortless and addresses

with zero touch updates and unique worker wellbeing features.

the industry’s increased need for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) options.

The ProGlove Gateway along with the ProGlove Insight Mobile App as

We want our devices to narrate the true story of the shopfloor.

well as the respective SDKs for iOS and Android allow for easy access

But to do that, it is necessary to provide the right solutions that are

to the corporate network.

in demand in the industry. The ProGlove MARK Basic SR is our offer to those industry customers who are looking for an optimal wearable

Aside from MARK Basic, ProGlove also offers the premium scanners

barcode scanner solution as a starter.

of the MARK 2 series. These wearable barcode scanners come with

Ilhan Kolko, Chief Product Officer, ProGlove

a battery charge that can handle up to 10,000 scans. MARK 2 SR and

proglove.com/products/wearable-scanners/mark-basic

MR also feature greater durability and the option to connect to the corporate network via radio frequency. The MARK Display with an integrated e-ink display is ProGlove’s top seller and rounds off its unique

ABOUT PROGLOVE

portfolio of wearable barcode scanners.

ProGlove builds the smallest, lightest, and toughest barcode scanners in the world, connecting workers to the Internet of

The wearable scanners of the MARK family of products are the smallest

Things. This promotes human-machine collaboration and drives

and lightest barcode scanners on the market. With the size of a matchbox

the digitisation of the shop floor. More than 500 renowned

and a weight of roughly 40 grams they are easily ten times lighter than

organisations in manufacturing, production, logistics, and retail

conventional barcode scanners. All MARK scanners fully charge in less

use these smarter workforce solutions.

than two hours. ProGlove provides two different Charging Stations

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G

reen Swan Partners LLC, a Pittsburgh, PA, based venture

In 2019 sHYp received a grant from PowerBridgeNY, a NYSERDA-

builder and sHYp BV PBC a Baltimore, MD based Hydrogen

supported proof-of-concept center, and was also included in the

(H2) technology startup, announced a joint business

World’s premier maritime accelerator www.PortXL.org. sHYp is on

development agreement as a precursor to a formal joint venture.

track for a first commercial pilot in Q4 of 2021.

sHYp’s unique membrane-less electrolyzer produces hydrogen from

If you look at the feedstock for this technology as being salt water

seawater or brine. Unlike other electrolyzers, desalination is not

and its need for energy to run the electrolyzer, the most natural co-

required. Further, it does not utilize a membrane, can be 3D printed,

location site would be off-shore and near-shore wind farms. Imagine

and is designed for modular generation at the point of use. This reduces

a wind farm island with sHYps technology deployed that can provide

Capex and Opex costs and the need for complex distribution pipelines

offtake for H2, CO2, clean water (a product of H2 combustion) and

when compared to traditional electrolyzer technology. The electrolyzer

synthetic fuels derived from reforming H2 and CO2! The technology

can be located at ports, offshore to harness surplus electricity generated

and its end-use applications are varied, including the production of

by wind, solar, and wave farms, and in the future, on-board vessels.

valuable chemicals.

Chetan Chothani, Partner, GSP

This technology is a game changer. It is a vast improvement over existing electrolysis technology as it requires no desalination and

In addition to generating H2, sHYp’s technology can simultaneously

results in no toxic waste. Green and Blue hydrogen technologies are a

produce valuable co-products such as magnesium hydroxide and

necessary and critical tool in our portfolio as we tackle climate change,

capture CO2 from sea water or modify water pH for water treatment

and we’re extremely pleased to be working with sHYp.

applications. These additional revenue streams are expected to greatly

Lala Faiz, Partner, Green Swan; sustainability expert

increase the gross margin of the overall process, allowing for hydrogen to be produced at a cost equivalent to or lower than hydrogen derived

Green Swan Partners is a strong team that brings a valuable execution

from methane.

and commercialization skillset to sHYp. Further, they have a unique business model that enables them to build new value for our technology

Under the terms of the Joint Business Development Agreement (JBDA),

in markets we may not or are not able to pursue alone. This is extremely

the parties will explore markets, verticals, applications, and geographies

attractive to a startup and should help us build, scale and grow faster

to deploy sHYp’s technology commercially. Once opportunities

than we could on our own.

are identified, the parties will form a joint venture to selectively

Carl Fischer, CEO, sHYp

commercialize the technology on a global scale.

4 MAY 2021

GREEN SWAN PARTNERS & SHYP, BV ANNOUNCE

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Shipping and Transport is the cornerstone of any economy Companies involved in international trade understand that and require partners that provide an efficient service coupled with economical pricing.

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65

TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS

GEODIS STRENGTHENS ITS AUTOMATISATION 25 MAY 2021

OFFERING

A

ntoine Pretin joins G EO D I S

as

The arrival of increasingly autonomous intelligent robots and a

Vice

constant search for competitiveness are paving the way for increased

President Engineering

automatisation. Such solutions provide great leverage to improve

Group. He will oversee the

performance and assist in order preparation in e-commerce warehouses,

growth in automatizing GEODIS’

reducing repetitive tasks, but also gaining quality and reactivity. I

service offerings to its customers.

am delighted to have joined GEODIS, a world leader in supply chain management, to support this development. The mobilization of all the

Antoine Pretin, 38, engineer,

existing skills within the Group and the team I am building will be a great

began his career in 2007 as

support for our customers.

a project manager at Sidel

Antoine Pretin, Vice President Engineering Group, Geodis

Cermex, first in Dijon, then in Atlanta, USA. After a few years at Fives Intralogistics, he joined Actemium Logistics, a VINCI Group company

GEODIS has around fifty automated sites worldwide.

specialising in automated intralogistics solutions, in 2014, where he was head of the distribution business.

ABOUT GEODIS

Faced with the acceleration of e-commerce and new consumer demands,

GEODIS – www.geodis.com

the automatisation of logistics warehouses is an essential response to handle growing flows in an ever-shorter timeframe. With his experience,

GEODIS is a top-rated, global supply chain operator recognized

Antoine will contribute to an open and constructive dialogue between the

for its commitment to helping clients overcome their logistical

GEODIS teams and the various players in the field of automatisation, to

constraints. GEODIS’ growth-focused offerings (Supply

serve the needs of our customers around the world.

Chain Optimization, Freight Forwarding, Contract Logistics,

Philippe de Carné, Executive Vice President Business Development,

Distribution & Express, and Road Transport) coupled with

Innovation & Business Excellence, Geodis

the company’s truly global reach thanks to a direct presence in 67 countries, and a global network spanning 120 countries, translates in top business rankings, #1 in France, #6 in Europe and #7 worldwide. In 2020, GEODIS accounted for over 41,000 employees globally and generated €8.4 billion in sales.

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C

data to drivers who can then take immediate action to resolve any issues before they become a serious problem.

Transport Genie sensors have been deployed in field trials across

anadian agri-tech start-up Transport Genie Ltd. is poised at

Canada, Europe and Australia helping producers and trucking companies

the forefront of the open data economy as it leads the first

protect the health and welfare of swine, poultry and cattle during

wave of companies to publish datasets on the Ocean Protocol

transport. The company is also exploring new opportunities in Mexico

data marketplace.

through the Mexico Ag-Tech Canadian Technology Accelerator.

Transport Genie’s smart-sensor system monitors microclimate conditions

Founded in 2017, Ocean Protocol is a blockchain-based platform

to ensure the safe and humane transport of farm animals. Earlier this

designed to allow businesses and individuals to unlock the value of their

year, Transport Genie was selected to join the first cohort of Ocean

data. The technology enables private data to be shared in exchange for

Shipyard, a three-month accelerator programme that helps start-ups build

cryptocurrency tokens without compromising control or security for

applications and tools for the Ocean Protocol blockchain ecosystem.

the data owner, while ensuring traceability, transparency, and trust for all stakeholders involved.

Transport Genie President and CEO Joel Sotomayor said Shipyard has been a rewarding collaboration that has helped fine-tune the Transport

Transport Genie is contributing to the growth of the Ocean ecosystem

Genie system to improve animal welfare and enable customers to

by providing new data from its IoT devices, improving the diversity

control and monetize their data.

of datasets within the Ocean Market. That data could be used by epidemiologists, AI developers, livestock genetics companies,

It’s been a great experience. Ocean is a top-tier blockchain

traceability experts and other stakeholders interested in animal welfare

company, and their developers and marketing team have supported us

or how transport conditions affect biosecurity, production rates, meat

with guidance about everything from best practices to improving the

quality and more.

capabilities of our sensors to marketing and managing social media. They really want us to succeed.

That information has value — and the people who own the data should benefit from it, Sotomayor said.

Transport Genie’s precision monitoring system uses rugged IoT sensors that monitor temperature, humidity and other environmental

Ocean is building an ecosystem that’s all about democratizing data.

conditions inside livestock trailers. The system collects real-time data

By working with Ocean Protocol, we can provide farmers with the

and employs blockchain technology to store and share that information

toolsets to monetize their private data by controlling access to their

along the supply chain. Transport Genie provides accurate real-time

information, how it is used and by whom.

13 MAY 2021

TRANSPORT GENIE RIDES WAVE OF SUCCESS

AS PART OF OCEAN PROTOCOL DATA MARKETPLACE FORWARDER magazine

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TECH & DIGITALISATION EXPERTS

S

Wearables: the basis for the Human Digital Twin

o, here we are in id e a

2 0 21: of

The digital

There is a great deal to win including more productivity, more

twins is catching on among

efficiency and worker well-being. For this to succeed, human

organisations who are looking

workers need the appropriate equipment.

for ways to improve their operations. Interestingly

Wearables, such as ProGlove’s smart glove scanners, can connect

e n ou g h ,

t he re

humans to the Internet of Things (IoT) and provide the interface

is a striking disconnect.

for human-machine collaboration. But that connection is not the

The concept of twins is

only crucial link. Organisations will need to go beyond that by

predominantly one that

leveraging the data that human workers generate. In other words:

pertains to human beings. And yet the human factor, thus far, has

Businesses need to contextualize the data and analyse it by means

not been represented adequately in this equation. This is even more

of a Human Digital Twin.

t h ou g h ,

surprising as experts assume that human workers account for 70 studies suggest that human hands will continue to play an important

Human Digital Twin in supply chain and production environments

role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0). It is time to

The Human Digital Twin is not about collecting personalized data.

build the Human Digital Twin. But how can businesses go about it?

Instead it relies on aggregated, anonymised troves of data to model

percent of the added value on the shopfloor. Alongside this, many

the human workers in their environment. Therefore, the Human

Technology cannot fully automate a single order in a warehouse

Digital Twin combines a virtual representation of the workers, a

‘Automation’, ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI)’ and ‘Digital Twin’ - the talk

actionable insights.

visualisation of the shopfloor, and an industry analyst to allow for

of future related scenarios can be quite scary. One controversial view is that within the smart factory model, robots will take over

The ProGlove Insight analytics platform enables this to take place

people’s role to execute work and reduce failures and errors. Aside

because employees wear a scanner that can capture more than just

from its social implications, there is another big problem with this

the conventional barcode content. This data includes timestamps,

notion: This idea of full automation is just not possible. Not now,

step counts, locations, temperature readings, the total scan time

and not in the foreseeable future. From today’s perspective this

and much more.

is a moon shot. Even technology pioneers like Amazon's Scott Anderson see it that way; and believe the technology is at least 10

Looking at how warehouse operators are currently trying to improve

years away from being able to fully automate a single order picked

efficiency by the help third party auditors; with stopwatches and

by a worker in a warehouse.

clipboards, it is an undeniable pointer as to why the Human Digital Twin can be a massive improvement. This former procedure is not

However, this does not mean there is no merit in these technologies.

only error-prone, it also depicts a process as wanted at best. It does

In fact, they can support humans and free up time for people to

not reflect the processes as they are. Needless to say: It totally fails

concentrate on more important tasks. So rather than focusing on

to capture the processes that workers come up with, when they do

replacing their employees, organisations need to promote human

not have somebody looking over their shoulder. Missing out on that,

machine collaboration.

however, eliminates a great potential for detecting best practices.

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Along those lines, human digital twins can also provide insight to organisations about the barcode quality. This turns out to be a recurring blocker as items often arrive with poor or damaged

What organisations need is a feasible way to enable reliable time-

barcodes. Problematic information can be passed to the supplier,

motion studies of employees in real time. For example: tracking

backed up by data, and rectified.

walking times in the warehouse, which account for around 30 - 50 percent of the effort involved in picking. This insight is an important

Add a bottom-up view to have the full picture

lever for optimisation, because it can save unnecessary walking.

The idea of the Human Digital Twin is ultimately about adding a critical perspective to make a difference. Yet it is important to stress

Such data also provides concrete information about hotspots,

that while this concept works as a standalone approach, businesses

identifies obstacles, and allows workstations to be compared.

can certainly integrate it into their existing systems. That way, the

Especially since data can be visualised in heatmaps. The bottom

data extends Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Enterprise

line: Insight collects data, contextualises it and derives executable

Resource Planning (ERP) or other enterprise applications. It adds a

recommendations for action from the bottom up. For example, if

bottom-up view to complement the top-down perspective of the

too many workers are deployed at one location or if staff are missing

latter solutions. This provides management powerful information

elsewhere at the same time.

about how to improve operations, health, and safety. Moreover, in a world where there is talk about machines replacing humans at work, human digital twins act as advocates for employees, showing how valuable people are.

Axel Schmidt, Senior Communications Manager, ProGlove

HUMAN DIGITAL TWIN

THE DIGITAL COUNTERPART TO THE HUMAN WORKER FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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TECH & DIGITALISATION EXPERTS

T

ruck drivers are the backbone of the economy. They

Other minor solutions, yet just as effective, include lane departure

transport goods for both consumers and businesses. While

warnings, stability control and assistance, real-time traffic alerts and

the fundamentals will likely never change, many modern

speed warnings. They can be the difference between a spaced-out

trucking trends are shaking up the industry. Nearly all trucks are

and exhausted driver getting in an accident, or moving swiftly on

monitored using real-time data reporting tools. Moreover, optimized

to their destination.

loads and collaborative shipping processes are now a possibility.

The thread that connects all these innovative solutions is modern

Of course, implementing these safety solutions can also go a long

trucking technology. What are the most common technologies

way towards improving company or fleet CSA scores. This is a safety

influencing the industry?

measurement system and standard that allows clients and providers

1

to reference a company’s track record, including driver records. A

Self-Driving Vehicles Autonomous and self-driving vehicles aren’t just for the consumer sector. Many auto manufacturers are either

developing or testing self-driving trucks on roadways. Recently, an autonomous driving system, called Plus.ai, was able to navigate a freight truck across the entire country without incident. While the ominous implication is that many long-haul truckers will be out of work, the reality is much more positive.

higher CSA score means more successful and safer deliveries.

3

Real-Time Monitoring Thanks to IoT sensors, data analytics and machine learning, logistics companies can keep a close eye on their

drivers and freight vehicles. They can see precisely where a truck is at all times plus estimated travel times, updated local weather and event details, and much more. Remote operators can even verify the security of goods in transport, helping to cut down on fraud

Manual drivers will still be necessary long into the future. These

and theft in the supply chain.

systems are designed for speed, precision and safety. They will likely take over — when ready — for tasks outside the realm of human

Most importantly, real-time monitoring solutions allow these

capacity. In other words, long road trips with no resting periods that

companies — and their drivers — to stay connected and in

have an incredibly tight deadline. They’ll vastly improve safety for

communication at all times. It empowers the advanced coordination

the drivers and other motorists. Moreover, they can make longer

of the entire fleet.

trips much faster because AI doesn’t need to take regular breaks or sleep. This will be an exciting development to keep an eye on.

2

Safer Trips For the vehicles that won’t be steered by AI, safetyfocused technologies can be installed to help improve

driver experiences.

4

Coordination and Collaboration Imagine a truck breaks down or gets stuck on a snowbank in the middle of a large blizzard. There’s no

getting it free, at least for some time, which means any goods or parcels stored in the trailer are going to be delivered late. That is unless, of course, remote operators can scramble a secondary vehicle to stop and collect those goods, eventually bringing them

Imagine a freight truck that gives a driver a brief break and keeps

to their final destinations.

the vehicle moving safely to its destination. Another might provide augmented-reality details right on the dash, like blind spot warnings,

That is exactly the type of solution that real-time data and

rear camera views, collision avoidance and much more.

communication systems afford. Thanks to the incoming flow of information, both drivers and their remote teams can find answers

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WANT TO KNOW MORE?

provides customers with a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s especially

6

helpful during the peak shopping seasons.

training. Moreover, the entire onboarding process can be carried

Further information can be found at revolutionized.com

to issues quickly and effectively. It creates a well-oiled freight operation that is no longer wrought with failures and setbacks and

5

Last-Minute Staffing During a massive influx of work, like the holiday shopping season, it can be incredibly difficult to organize and

acquire new talent. Mobile-friendly and online transportation job forums can help facilitate these recruiting and staffing issues.

It’s much easier to find qualified workers with all the necessary out remotely, with teleconference interviews, digital background

Faster Deliveries

checks and much more.

Similar to how consumers might use Google Maps or Apple Maps to navigate to a distant location, with

step-by-step navigation, fleet managers and drivers can use the

Now, companies can instantly boost their fleet numbers with a system that’s crowdsourced yet incredibly reliable.

technology to make faster trips. Before the trip even starts, the technology can help map out and plan a route to many destinations a driver must visit.

These trucking trends mean better and safer deliveries As expected, most innovative trucking technologies are designed

Planning tools can use incoming data to account for traffic,

to aid drivers by making their trips safer and more efficient, and

accidents, construction, weather, travel times and much more.

to improve communication between drivers and the logistics

Once a journey starts, the system can make minor adjustments

providers. Considering the current landscape is seeing increased

to avoid delays. This results in safer trips and faster deliveries due

demand everywhere, these technologies can provide the necessary

to highly efficient road routes.

planning, support and even rest times so drivers can make it from pickup to drop-off safely, efficiently and without incident.

Emily Newton, Journalist & Editor-in-Chief, Revolutionized

6 PROMISING WAYS

TECHNOLOGY WILL CHANGE TRUCKING

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TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS

WEBFLEET SOLUTIONS EXPANDS IN CENTRAL & EASTERN EUROPE 11 MAY 2021

WITH NEW PRESENCE IN HUNGARY

W

ebfleet Solutions, Europe’s leading telematics solutions

Transport Management Systems (TMS). The expansion into Hungary will

provider, is expanding its operations into Hungary.

be led by Dariusz Terlecki, Sales Director Webfleet Solutions Poland and

With new representation in Budapest, the Bridgestone-

Eastern Europe. His team in Warsaw, Poland will coordinate and oversee

owned company will offer tailored solutions and services to meet the

all activities in Hungary.

needs of the local business fleet market.

Our presence in Hungary – a country with a central location,

As a first step, the award-winning WEBFLEET fleet management

strong transport industry and huge development potential – will help

platform, the company’s flagship solution, is now available in the

strengthen our position throughout the region. In CEE countries, the

Hungarian language and has been integrated with the Hungarian

share of international transport is extremely high. Access to state-of-

electronic toll system HU-GO.

the-art telematics solutions to improve the efficiency of fleet operations and to help cope with emerging challenges will be welcome news for

The expansion reinforces Webfleet Solutions’ European market

local businesses, as well as the entire economy of the region.

leadership in the transport sector, with more than 200,000 heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) connected through its fleet management

The attractiveness of the Hungarian market is further reinforced

solution WEBFLEET.

by the strength of Bridgestone’s local presence. Bridgestone has its manufacturing plant, sales network and an extended distribution and

Road transport is seen as the largest contributor of freight movement

partner network within the country.

in Hungary. This is also supported by a well-developed infrastructure in the region. Being the market leader in connected transport solutions, we are

Joining Bridgestone, we gained new opportunities and a new

confident that business customers in Hungary will benefit from our telematics

development base. We want to leverage synergies wherever possible.

technology supporting their fleet digitisation and connected operations.

Entering the Hungarian market is a logical and natural extension of the

Taco van der Leij, Vice President, Webfleet Solutions Europe

Bridgestone portfolio in this market.

Webfleet Solutions is offering tailored solutions to transport companies

The expansion into Hungary marks the beginning of Webfleet Solutions’

that increase overall fleet efficiency and safety while supporting businesses

wider growth plans that will see the company bring its services to new

to stay compliant. This includes robust Android based Driver Terminals

regions, including the Americas, the Middle East and Asia.

that support drivers inside and outside the vehicle with truck navigation, order processing and external applications. Best-in-class remote download

As the impact of COVID-19 continues to accelerate digital adoption across

services for tachograph data help with compliance, next to the standard

almost all sectors and markets, with transport at the fore, the company

telematics offerings like trip and mileage monitoring. The WEBFLEET

is committed to serving the growing customer demand by offering its

platform can integrate with a company’s preferred solutions, including

advanced telematics solutions across more and more countries.

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Our people ...not ‘planes, ships or trucks...

deliver.

Air

Ocean

Road

Where time is of the

Where cost, not time, is of

Where the focus

essence, we certainly

the essence, we again

is Europe, we still

speak your language.

speak your language.

speak your language.

Download the new app

Just search for

Aspen Freight

for iOS, on the App Store.

Created by

...Android version coming soon.

+44 (0)20 3918 0500 commercial@aspenfreight.com aspenfreight.com FORWARDER magazine 1 Meadlake Place • Thorpe Lea Road • Egham • Surrey • TW20 8BF

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TECH & DIGITALISATION EXPERTS

T

industry is undeniable. In the face of COVID-19, and already

Poor delivery and its impact on recommendations

shifting consumer behavior, online retailers and couriers

Almost three quarters (72.5%) of poor deliveries will result in a

he growth of e-commerce and its impact on the delivery

across the world have had to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances.

customer likely to stop recommending the retailer.

At Circuit, we’re asking ourselves the questions our customers want

With a third of customers (33%) who shop online experiencing

to know: What impact does a poor customer delivery experience

an issue with package delivery over the past 12 months, this is a

have on online sales? How does it affect the chance of that customer

concerning figure.

shopping again? How does this alter their recommendations?

To determine what impact this would have on recommendations, We surveyed over 1,000 people to understand how consumer

we asked the same customers, 'How likely are you to stop

sentiment towards online retailers associated with poor delivery

recommending a retailer following a poor delivery experience?'

is likely to impact sales.

1 in 4 (23.9%) told us that they would be actively discouraged from giving a recommendation. This situation must be addressed

85% of those who shop online said they would shop either about the

for retailers who are tracking their Net Promoter Score and who

same or more often online over the next 12 months in comparison

rely on customer loyalty. Especially following such a difficult year.

to the previous 12 months. Although this offers a great opportunity for retailers, it also means that any issues in the e-commerce

The issues are broad in last-mile delivery. We found that 26% of people

experience will be greatly increased.

experienced a parcel arriving late or early, while 13.6% had a parcel left in an unsecured location and 13.4% received a damaged parcel.

Key findings at a glance • Poor delivery will drive down sales: almost three quarters

These three issues each pose their unique challenges and show

(72.5%) of poor deliveries will result in a customer likely to

that it is important for retailers and couriers to work together to

stop recommending the retailer

improve the customer experience.

• The problem is bigger than many retailers realize: nearly a quarter (22.5%) of recipients are unlikely or very unlikely to

The feedback gap

complain if they experience a delivery issue

Our results show that nearly a quarter (22.5%) of customers are

• Recipient communications are relying on outdated platforms: over half (54%) of those who order online choose text when

unlikely or very unlikely to complain if they experience a delivery issue – such as delays, damage to the product, or late arrivals.

given a choice of notification platforms This suggests that retailers may not even know that there has been an issue – missing an important opportunity to resolve it, give them a positive experience, and get the customer back onside.

Online retailers must encourage greater communication with customers and allow them to easily and simply give feedback on their experience. It is only through developing this conversation that the feedback gap will disappear.

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Customer Communication Preferences

Conclusion

We asked customers about their delivery preferences and how

Ultimately, retailers and couriers cannot afford the reputational

they like to be notified of deliveries. Over half (54%) of those who

damage that they’re currently facing and the risks associated with

order online chose text messages as their preferred communication

poor delivery.

method. This was followed by email at 29%.

Through enhanced technology and a deeper understanding of each While this data is interesting, it also shows how out-of-date delivery

audience’s specific need, those issues associated with delivery can be

communication methods are. We all know that text does not offer the

absolved – creating a convenient, quick, and affordable experience

same level of personalization, live updates, or tracking that technology

for all.

such as apps does – meaning that recipients do not benefit from tech innovation. Furthermore, texts are expensive. Delivery is lagging behind.

Retailers and couriers mustn’t let an increase in demand go to waste; customer satisfaction is integral to the success of any business and

The Future of Last-mile Delivery

it must be treated as such.

At Circuit, we believe that the way to solve these issues and give the best customer experience is through better communication. Right

If you need delivery management software for your business and

now, retailers, couriers, and customers each act independently.

you manage a team of drivers, Circuit is a cost-effective solution, sign up for a free trial at circuit.com

We want to make it easy for everyone involved in last-mile delivery (retailers, couriers, and customers) to seamlessly work together in

The findings disclosed come from a survey conducted on Google

one ecosystem. Removing the need for re-deliveries, surprise delays,

Surveys from 22 – 25 April 2021 and are based on responses from

and parcels left out in the rain – by offering value to each group.

1000 participants.

When doing this, we consider each unique audience need.

Circuit

Our route planner for delivery drivers makes repetitive tasks, (such

This article first appeared at...

as planning their fastest routes) easy and reduces time on the road.

getcircuit.com/blog/delivery-experience-customer-behavior

Meanwhile, for businesses, Circuit for Teams allows dispatchers to coordinate multiple drivers, capture proof of delivery (PoD), and send customer notifications.

HOW POOR DELIVERY

IMPACTS ONLINE CUSTOMER BEHAVIOUR FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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Building apps for the freight industry

We create tailor-made apps for freight and logistics companies, so you can communicate better with your customers and clients.

Increase your visibility to your clients and customers

Increase customer loyalty and engagement

Take bookings and orders directly from your app

Market your company more directly, saving money

Provide your customers with a social platform

Maximise your value to your customers

Build brand recognition

Stand out from the crowd

Some of the benefits of FreightApp 78

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Some of the functions Company profile Easy access to your company overview.

Employee directory Showcase the brains behind your business and have a searchable directory with profiles for each of your staff members.

Quote request

Allow your customers to request a quotation directly from the app.

Enquiries

A simple and user-friendly contact form to handle any customer enquiries.

Company news

The perfect feature for keeping your customers updated with latest news and posts.

Services

Air freight? Sea freight?

Include all your company services.

Get in touch with the team today...

Track & trace

Track your shipment’s location and delivery with your chosen third-party platform intergrated with your app.

Capacity & return loads

List your capacity / return loads with real-time notifications directly to your customer mobile devices.

Job section

Recruitment platform on which companies can post their latest vacancies. Candidates can apply directly from the app.

Booking form

Make it easy for clients to get in touch with their requirements directly from the app.

Push notifications

Schedule your notifications to be sent at specific times or send geofenced notifications to your clients based on their location.

+44 (0)1454 628 777 hello@freightapp.design FORWARDER magazine FreightApp.design

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EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS Opportunities to network and promote your services.

Related topics Conferences Expositions Networking

Sponsored by

80 80 FORWARDER magazine

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10 MAY 2021

LAUNCH OF PCN'S MEETING HUB

...‘THE MOST ADVANCED VIRTUAL MEETING PLATFORM IN THE INDUSTRY!’

W

e are delighted to launch our brand new Meeting Hub,

Face-to-face meetings

the most advanced virtual meeting platform in the

A new state-of-the-art 'Meeting Manager' so that our Members can

industry!

arrange all their meetings prior to arrival at our Annual Summit. Our new system has thought of everything so you will be fully prepared with

Good communication is vital in business and this has been exceptionally

all the necessary information including an easy to read schedule on your

important since the COVID-19 outbreak with many people working

mobile device to ensure the gathering is well-organised and productive.

remotely. Our bespoke system has been designed to enable our

Fingers crossed for Croatia in October!

Members to connect more easily so that they can maintain their strong working relationships.

The past year has been incredibly challenging and we have seen new ways of working emerge. It has become clear that the workplace

A project has come up and there is not time for a long back and forth

impact will not be a temporary one and that we need to adapt to

email trail? Our powerful new interface enables our Members to quickly

stay competitive and to ensure business continuity. With this new

schedule a virtual meeting with their PCN partners at a mutually convenient

Meeting Hub, we are ready to take on the new future together with

time (with time-zones automatically considered) via WhatsApp, Zoom,

our Members.

Google Meet or Skype directly from their mobile device.

Rachel Crawford, President & CEO, PCN

Member centre The powerful system contains a Member Centre where our Members can find a company by country or company name and then go to Staff and select who they wish to get in touch with. They will see full contact details and a box where they can click Request Meeting. The details will automatically appear in their Meeting Hub where it will remain red until the meeting is accepted.

Virtual meeting events Once a year, in-between our Annual Summits, the PCN team allocate a series of consecutive days where all Members are invited to participate in virtual meetings (at no extra charge). The perfect opportunity to follow-up their face-to-face meetings! The next event will be from 2830 June 2021 - a great opportunity to 'see' each other again after the challenges of the past year.

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EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS NEWS 27 MAY 2021

WORLD'S TRANSPORT MINISTERS AGREE TO

‘BUILD BACK BETTER’

AFTER THE PANDEMIC

M

inisters of transport from the 63 member countries of the

Eamon Ryan, Minister for Environment, Climate, Communication and

International Transport Forum at the OECD have agreed to use

Transport of Ireland, chaired the Council under Ireland’s Presidency of

recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic to transform transport.

the ITF. Commenting on the Declaration, Minister Ryan said...

In the Ministerial Declaration agreed unanimously in the context

I have joined with the Ministers responsible for transport in the

of their Annual Council of Ministers of Transport on 27 May 2021,

ITF member countries, under the Presidency of Ireland, to outline

Ministers note that,

the recovery from this pandemic offers new

our response to the challenges facing transport operations today.

opportunities to reshape transport systems and shift to more resilient,

In the context of climate change and the urgent need to fundamentally

efficient, sustainable and equitable mobility.

embrace

reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally, coupled with digitalisation,

commit to show

automation and the impact of Covid-19, our transport systems are

ambition, leadership and continued investment in the transition to

at a turning point. As we look to shift towards cleaner and efficient

greener and more efficient transport solutions.

transport networks, we must innovate and drive behaviour change to

the opportunity to build back better,

In order to

Ministers

ensure passengers and freight stay connected, in a sustainable manner, Among other things, Ministers undertake to:

to the communities and businesses which need them. The ITF Summit

• Promote urban mobility redesigns that build on the boom

has provided a much-needed opportunity for transport leaders from

for walking and cycling during the pandemic • Ensure that new technologies and innovative mobility options

around the world to join together and plan the pathway towards realising that vision.

foster equitable access for all citizens • Promote education and training and a more inclusive and fair workplace for all transport workers • Encourage the use of public transport • Foster automation, digitalisation and data innovation • Promote innovation in electrification, low- and zero-carbon fuels, hydrogen fuel cells and new-generation batteries • Promote intermodal transport and develop interoperability

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The Council of Ministers also discussed the coercive forced landing of a Ryanair flight by the government of Belarus on 23 May and the subsequent detention of Roman Protasevich and Sofia Sapega.

I

ndividuals from across the logistics and passenger transport sectors

Panel sessions at the conference will include HGVs – future

will soon gather at the Farnborough International Exhibition and

vehicles and future fuels; The power of data in transport and

Conference Centre for the biggest show of its kind launched in 40

Logistics; Attracting, developing, and retaining talent in the

years: the inaugural Innovation and Technology in Transport (ITT) Hub,

transport and logistics sector; Which business models will succeed

which will play host to Logistics UK’s Future Logistics Conference. With

in the future for logistics and transport; and Public sector support:

just one month to go, Logistics UK is urging anyone keen to explore

what help does industry need from government to achieve net zero?

the forces set to challenge the logistics industry to book their place to the free, two-day event now.

As well as an extensive exhibition featuring the latest developments in logistics and passenger transport, ITT Hub will

Taking place on 30 June 2021 and 1 July 2021, ITT Hub is set to showcase

also provide an outdoor vehicle display area and a unique series

the very latest developments in road and passenger transport, while

of 'ride and drive' experiences, to give attendees the chance

the Future Logistics Conference will provide an opportunity for those

to try the very latest in vehicle technology for themselves.

involved in or with the sector to discover and debate the influences

For further information about the conference programme at

which will shape the logistics world of tomorrow. Alongside keynote

the Future Logistics Conference, and to register for a free

speaker British astronaut Major Tim Peake CMG, the speaker line-

place, which will also provide access to ITT Hub please visit

up assembled for the Future Logistics Conference contains many of

itthub.co.uk/conference/programme

the leading names in transport and logistics, with representatives from key organisations including the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight, National Grid, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, DHL Supply Chain, Midlands Connect, UPS, Highways England and Innovate UK. Logistics and transport are at the heart of the nation’s economy and it is vital that our industry thrives if UK PLC is to succeed in its recovery from the effects of the pandemic. Conversations and debates taking place at Future Logistics Conference will help to set the agenda for the future of our sector and ensure that the UK’s logistics industry is ready for any challenges ahead. With a packed programme of expert speakers, the Future Logistics Conference promises to be an unmissable event.

Elizabeth de Jong, Policy Director, Logistics UK

28 MAY 2021

ITT HUB FEATURING

LOGISTICS UK’S FUTURE LOGISTICS CONFERENCE ...ONE MONTH TO GO! FORWARDER magazine

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CUSTOMS CLEARANCE

Documented permission to pass that a national customs authority grants to imported/exported goods so that they can enter/leave the country.

Related topics Bonded warehousing Customs brokerage Duties & taxes

Sponsored by

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MAY 2021

PML’S SOLUTION TO BORDER CONTROL DELAYS NOW OPERATIONAL

M

ay 2021: Following a delay of over three months caused by

was unwilling to risk the further disruptions anticipated post Brexit and

the pandemic, PML’s venture with FreshLinc to operate a

therefore joined forces with Fresh Linc – with whom it shares a long-

remote HMRC / DEFRA approved Border Control Post

standing and trusted working relationship - to provide a viable alternative.

(BCP) and ERT (bonded warehouse) facility has finally been given the green light and is now up and running.

It is unfortunate that the official opening of the facility at Spalding was delayed but of course, we are accepting that we are all working

Completed ahead of Brexit, the global perishable cargo specialist

under exceptional circumstances. We are delighted that we can now

partnered with transport and logistics company FreshLinc to run the

offer our customers the benefit of a safe and speedy transfer out of

operation at Fresh Linc’s Spalding HQ, to enable a speedier movement

the ports which should ultimately deliver a minimum of 24-48 hours

of product from the ports and therefore delivering an extending shelf

additional shelf life on perishable goods with no break in the cold chain.

life of up to 48 hours.

As a business PML has always demonstrated forward thinking and is proactive in identifying innovative solutions to any challenge which

The BCP which sits on a 70,000 sq. ft site, should have been effective

threatens to impede its ability to deliver the effective, seamless service

from 1st January 2021 and represents a £400,000 investment. The

for which it is renowned.

impressive facility includes a purpose-built 10,000 sq. ft warehouse with

Nick Finbow, Sales Director, PML

the capacity to store 330 pallets and dedicated inspection areas for customs and DEFRA. Since this is a 24-hour operation, four new staff have been trained to ensure a seamless round-the-clock service.

The Spalding location is ideally placed for freight traffic coming out of Dover and Southampton docks and the move to set up a BCP away from the ports represents a solution to the delays and excessive queues which impede the onward movement of freight. For a company that stakes its reputation on the time efficient transfer of perishable cargo, PML FORWARDER magazine

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CUSTOMS CLEARANCE NEWS 5 MAY 2021

BREXIT BORDER ISSUES

TO HAVE WORKABLE WITH ELANDBRIDGE, HAROD SOLUTION ASSOCIATES PARTNERSHIP

E

landbridge, the provider of frictionless trade solution TruckPass,

expects to greatly improve the post-Brexit situation, particularly in

is today announcing its partnership with highly-respected

regard to the Northern Ireland border issues.

Harod Associates Borders and Security Ltd., trading as HABS

Customs (HABS), a customs brokerage and consultancy company.

HABS Customs have an exceptional depth of understanding when it

HABS, whose capabilities include a customs clearance facility to support

comes to border and logistics issues and it is significant for Elandbridge

the movement of goods between Great Britain and the European Union,

that they have been quick to see the potential our TruckPass brings

will work in partnership with Elandbridge to establish customs and

to these problems. Clearly, by working together we are able to bring

veterinary clearance facilities in Great Britain. This will enable the

a powerful and effective answer to the serious challenges facing the

friction-free movement of goods in sealed containers between the UK

haulage and logistic sectors, both now and into the future.

mainland, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Charles Le Gallais, CEO & Founder, Elandbridge

Benefits:

The timing of the partnership is ideal in resolving the post-Brexit

• Alternative way of managing the flow of goods between Great

challenges. Our combined experience, technology and focus provide

Britain and the island of Ireland, which reduces the visibility and

a real-world solution to the issues and problems presented by border

perception of a border in the Irish Sea

crossings, both at the EU/Northern Ireland border and elsewhere in the

• Maintaining an open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland

world. By intelligently linking the latest technology with our deep subject knowledge we are able to provide security, integrity and accountability

• Enabling the flow of goods between the Republic of Ireland and the

for every piece of cargo in every truck and, in effect, create a priority

EU mainland as well as the intra-UK land-bridge between the Port

lane at the border.

of Dublin and Northern Ireland

Martin Dubbey, Managing Director, HABS Customs

• Providing customs and veterinary data for SPS-certified goods to the appropriate authorities simultaneously and in real time.

Elandbridge is a consortium of border security professionals, haulage industry

• Warnings in real time if the seal has been broken or tampered with.

experts and leading IT specialists who have developed the post-Brexit border

• Real-time tracking of all consignments

technology system: TruckPass. TruckPass uses blockchain, real-time GPS

• Innovative customs controls have been working successfully across

tracking and IoT technology in a unique way to provide a frictionless and

the English Channel short sea and rail route for many years and

secure solution to getting freight across borders quickly, safely, and easily.

continue to do so. There is no reason why similar innovative solutions could not exist across the Irish Sea

HABS is the customs consultancy firm specialising in providing a dedicated advisory service to companies, including logistics operators

HABS is a specialist in the complexities of international supply chains

and hauliers who require declarations to be made to clear their goods.

and brings practical insights and best-practice experience to border

Formed by a group of ex-senior managers from HMRC, HABS is a

control. The company is currently prioritising the backlog of Customs

sister-company of Harod Associates, the leading global investigation

declarations building up in the UK and, working with Elandbridge,

and intelligence company.

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CUSTOMS CLEARANCE NEWS 26 MAY 2021

THE CLOCK IS TICKING FOR IMPORTERS AS

FIRST DELAYED DECLARATIONS DEADLINE LOOMS

U

K importers who made the most of the Government’s Delayed Declarations scheme in January of this year, now have less than a month to complete customs. That’s the

reminder from logistics specialist Rhenus UK, which is urging businesses to get their paperwork in order now so they don’t miss the rolling deadlines for customs clearance starting 25 June.

Following the end of the Brexit transition period, the UK Government introduced Delayed Declarations, giving businesses importing into the UK up to 175 days to complete their customs declarations. For anyone who took advantage of this measure on 1 January 2021, their first deadline is 25 June 2021 and it‘s fast approaching.

The Delayed Declarations scheme has been hugely welcome for The Government has extended the scheme to defer declarations to 31

importers following the end of the Brexit transition period and, for

December 2021 on a rolling basis, however it is important that importers

many, a real lifeline to keep business moving. It’s vital that now we’re

remain vigilant and ensure that their supplementary declarations are

reaching the first deadline for completing customs declarations that

processed as each 175-day deadline approaches. Missing the deadline may

this, and all subsequent deadlines, are met. For businesses that import

lead to an HMRC fine and removal of the right to delay future declarations.

regularly, there will now be rolling deadlines as the 175-day period for each import they’ve made from the start of the year ends. Brexit has

Rhenus recommends businesses submit their supplementary declarations

brought with it a lot of challenges for importers and I urge them not

in good time to avoid the anticipated surge in brokerage requests prior

to get caught out this far down the line. We’ve been working hard to

to the first deadline date.

support customers each step of the way on the Brexit journey and Delayed Declarations is no exception. We have a dedicated customs team that is providing an end-to-end service for customers to help ease the administration burden.

Gary Dodsworth, Managing Director Road, Rhenus UK To support customers with the implications of Brexit, Rhenus UK has invested in an extensive and dedicated customs division and support team, who are working closely with customers to support all their customs needs.

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he British International Freight Association (BIFA) is advising

Keen adds:

Whilst the Government has extended the scheme

its members to be very careful with any business that they are

to defer declarations to 31 December 2021 on a rolling basis, it

offered from traders that have taken advantage of HMRC’s

is important that any BIFA members undertaking this work on an

Delayed Declaration Scheme, but which have not taken out a CFSP

importer’s behalf remains vigilant and ensures that they have all the

authorisation in their own right and are now trying to find a Customs

information required to make an accurate supplementary declaration

Agent to undertake the work required to complete the process.

and that they don’t miss the first and subsequent deadlines. Any mistakes could be costly as, despite the ability to use direct representation, the

BIFA Director General, Robert Keen, says that UK importers that

authorised agent is still considered to be the owner of the procedure

took advantage of the scheme at the beginning of this year, now have

and responsible for a timely submission of correct declarations. Finally

until June 25th to complete customs formalities for declarations

as payment will need to be made against the Deferment Account of

delayed from early January, and many are looking for help from a

the CFSP authorisation, we are reminding our members to consider

BIFA member that has a CFSP authorisation to make a supplementary

the impact of potentially large sums that become due and the ability

declaration under the scheme.

of the client to meet their obligations.

We are reminding members that if they take on this work, it is their CFSP authorisation being used and they may have to pay any duties and VAT on behalf of the importer. So, it is essential that they ensure that their customers’ paperwork is in order and completely accurate, and if it is not, our advice is to not accept the responsibility.

The UK Government introduced the Delayed Declarations scheme following the end of the Brexit transition period, giving businesses importing into the UK up to 175 days to complete their customs declarations.

Any business that took advantage of this opportunity at the start of January this year, now has a deadline of June 25th (or 175 days from the original import) to make the declaration.

7 JUNE 2021

FREIGHT ASSOCIATION ISSUES ADVICE ON

DELAYED DECLARATION SCHEME FORWARDER magazine

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CUSTOMS CLEARANCE NEWS 1 JUNE 2021

UK CUSTOM & TAX FREEPORTS PRESENT

‘GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY’ FOR TRADE & MANUFACTURING

T

he government has selected eight new freeports in England as a

The eight freeports will create some 170,000 jobs in the coming five

means to boost trade, jobs and investment across the country.

to ten years. Within the Solent Freeport, Marchwood Port operated

The special taxation and customs rules for the freeports will

by Solent Gateway Ltd has been designated as both a customs site and

help businesses develop new facilities and operations to trade and

tax site.

manufacture goods more cost-effectively, countering the effects of other complications such as Brexit and Covid-19.

What are the tax incentives of freeports?

Within a freeport customs site, there are two principal benefits: firstly,

Early deliverability of opportunities for new businesses is key; Solent

Customs Duty and Import VAT are only charged on goods if and when

Gateway Ltd at Marchwood Port, Southampton will be leading the way

they are released from the freeport into the UK. This enables businesses

with 64 hectares of new space starting to come available from as early

to process, store and transport goods with greater flexibility, giving

as Autumn 2022.

them a cash flow benefit; secondly, duty paid can be on the final product rather than component parts if lower, also reducing the tax paid as raw

What is a freeport?

materials normally have a higher duty rate than the manufactured or

A freeport is an economic zone, typically encompassing a freight seaport

processed goods. Freeports can help businesses to improve processing

or airport, where typical VAT and customs rules don’t apply. This makes

time due to reduced transportation.

it cheaper and easier for raw materials or components to be imported to manufacturers, processed into manufactured goods and then imported

Freeport tax sites will benefit from greater capital allowances when

into the UK or exported. They can also have simpler planning rules,

purchasing plant and machinery or building new structures. Companies

helping businesses to quickly build or adapt premises in the area.

will be able to claim 100% enhanced capital allowances on the purchase of new and unused plant and machinery that is incurred for a trade

The locations of England’s eight new freeports were announced by the

being carried out at the freeport tax site. The purchase will need to

Chancellor at the Budget in March 2021:

be incurred before 30 September 2026 for the item to qualify for this

• Solent

benefit. Plus, qualifying expenditure on structures and buildings within

• East Midlands Airport

a freeport zone will qualify for Enhanced Structures and Buildings

• Felixstowe and Harwich

Allowance at 10% per year for 10 years on expenditure incurred before

• Humber region

30 September 2026. This is a significant increase on the current level of

• Liverpool City Region

3% per year for 33 years for non-freeport areas. There are also very

• Plymouth

appealing benefits around national insurance relief for up to 3 years per

• Thames

employee and business rates relief, with new or expanding business

• Teesside

being able to claim up to 100% relief for 5 years.

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The UK freeports plan is an excellent initiative to incentivise new

The Solent Freeport will also support levelling up across the UK

businesses to set up new operations in freeports – it presents a truly golden

– in particular in the UK's industrial heartlands of the

opportunity for both UK and foreign businesses. Solent Gateway is unique in

Midlands and North. The potential of significant government

its offering as it is both a customs and tax site, with high quality logistic space

investment in freight links between Southampton and the

starting to come available to new businesses from Autumn 2022. In terms of

Midlands will be realised through the connectivity to global

who will benefit most from operating in a customs and tax site such as ours,

markets that the Solent ports provide.

it is businesses that want to: develop new facilities and operations, thereby benefitting from all the incentives to attract new business; import goods

Solent Gateway Ltd, located at Marchwood Port,

and components to the UK; store goods for as long as they want without

Southampton is one of a very few locations in the UK that

facing customs duties after 90 days; and manufacture or assemble products

is both a tax site and a customs site. We are therefore

as import duties are paid on final product or component parts when they

tailor-made for the development of new facilities for import,

leave the freeport, whichever is cheaper,. If goods are exported after

manufacturing, assembly, storage, export or delivery into

manufacture inside a freeport, no customs duties will be paid, so I have no

the UK. Marchwood Port is a very high-quality port-centric

doubt that freeports are very attractive to manufacturers. Any organisation

logistics hub with outstanding sea, rail and road connectivity,

that wants to import, manufacture and export within a customs site will

and will have 64.3 hectares of new space available for

avoid all duties, so that is a great incentive. Any business that wants to store

commercial use starting in autumn 2022.

items for more than 90 days will also benefit.

Chris Anderson,

Richard Parkinson, Port Director, Solent Gateway Ltd

Head of Business Development, Solent Gateway Ltd

Solent Gateway is part of the Solent Freeport. Establishing the Solent Freeport will create 52,000 new skilled and semi-skilled jobs, including 26,000 direct jobs in the Solent and 26,000 in the wider UK supply chain.

COVID-19 has widened the opportunity gap for these communities and a Solent Freeport provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reverse these trends.

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INDUSTRY SERVICES

Organisations and bodies that provide essential support to the freight and logistics industries.

Related topics Warehousing Insurance & legal Vehicles & equipment

Sponsored by

92 92 FORWARDER magazine

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21 MAY 2021

LOGISTICS INDUSTRY RESILIENT IN THE FACE OF RISING COSTS

...LOGISTICS UK LAUNCHES ANNUAL REPORT

L

ogistics businesses have shown impressive resilience throughout

The logistics industry has proved invaluable to the UK economy

the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting their operations swiftly and

throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, with businesses across all modes of

efficiently in the face of extreme pressures to keep the nation

freight transport taking quick action to adapt their operations to meet

stocked with the goods and services it needs, according to Logistics

the needs of consumers. However, a reduction in supply of international

UK. But the business group has warned that the cost of moving goods

shipping containers, and ships to carry them, led to significant rises to the

and services is likely to increase in the short to medium term, as the

cost of moving goods and services internationally; by the end of 2020,

economy feels the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking on

shipping container rates had increased by 185% year-on-year and air freight

21 May 2021 at the group’s launch of its annual Logistics Report 2021,

costs rose significantly when cargo space was constrained due to the

Elizabeth de Jong, Logistics UK’s Policy Director advised caution:

grounding of passenger flights. Fuel prices collapsed at the start of the pandemic but have now recovered to pre-Covid-19 levels. This reduction may have helped to offset inflation in the short term, but rates charged for all modes of transport are expected to rise in 2021, which could drive increased prices across the economy. For many logistics businesses, already operating on very tight profit margins of only 2% – or just 1% for those in road transport – these rises will make it harder to find the funds they need to develop their operations by investing in green technology, such as in alternatively fuelled vehicles, upskilling the existing workforce or funding new recruits while continuing to pay wages and other business costs. These tight margins may mean businesses could be left with little choice but to pass these additional charges onto their customers, rather than focus on building upon the resilience the sector demonstrated in 2020. Logistics businesses face a myriad of challenges on the road ahead, with the cost of vehicle repair and maintenance also increasing in 2020, and cash flow restrictions remaining a barrier to recovery for 40% of logistics businesses.

The Logistics Report 2021 also shares insights into the UK’s competitiveness, international trade, connectivity, labour and skills, sustainability, and safety and innovation. A summary of the report is attached to the email, with the full report available to download from the Logistics UK website from 12pm on Friday 21 May 2021 at logistics.org.uk FORWARDER magazine

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INDUSTRY SERVICES NEWS MAY 2021

OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL

DISTRESS LOAD CAPACITY INCREASED

O

akland International has deployed further resources for their distress load management (DLM) solution across their UK sites at Redditch, Corby, and Bardon.

BRCGS AA accredited and an EHO approved solution for same day or next day treatment of distress loads, the company typically recovers more than 85% of product and is trusted by major insurers who can attend and witness the distress load management process to verify exact waste and consignment recovery levels.

By investing in a dedicated facility for distress load management,

With the onset of Covid-19 the company installed sanitising facilities which

which incorporates a CCTV monitored rework area as well as dedicated

offer additional reassurances for brand owners and removes the potential

multi-temperature chambers, means we can store work in progress

for secondary risks of pandemic transfer via stock, with instant digital

and in quarantine product. Brand owners and insurers are quite rightly

reports ensuring rapid information transfer flows to key stakeholders.

very aware of the potential risks associated with stowaways damaging or contaminating stock in transit, and the approach of simply throwing

Commonly accepted risks of clandestine infiltration increase sharply

away the whole consignment and then seeking to claim off insurers was

when trucks are queuing or stationary near to the ports of loading.

commonplace and resulted in an ever-increasing burden on insurers and

Delays in crossing times brought about by slower than normal border

hauliers with significant food waste, which otherwise would be fit for

control checks and customs entries may result in increased numbers

human consumption.

of clandestine activity, and with winter temperatures, the urge to

Lee Whiting, Chief Operating Officer, Oakland International

use trucks rather than risk sea crossings is compelling. Offering a debranding solution for brand owners allows stock to be re-distributed

Offering inspection and sorting of consignments where product safety

through to discount wholesale, foodservice and foodbanks so that good

is potentially challenged by stowaways or other contamination issues,

quality food does not go to waste.

Oakland International was the first DLM registered and recognised service which encompassed approved scientific methods for measuring

A total supply chain solutions specialist Oakland International offers

surface contamination, working with, and treating damaged loads, metal

contract packing, storage, picking, food distribution and is a brand

contamination, shot loads, temperature abuse and pest contamination

development support provider for ambient, chilled, and frozen food to

such as flies as part of its service offering.

the retail, convenience, discount, wholesale and food service markets in the UK, Ireland and via their partner in Spain. A double Queen’s Award for Enterprise recipient for International Trade and Sustainable Development, Oakland is working towards becoming the first carbonneutral business within their sector.

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otal supply chain solutions provider Oakland International has obtained BRCGS AA Grade accreditation across all three sites of their Group.

Retaining accreditation for well-over a decade, Oakland International Redditch has held certification since the introduction of the storage and distribution standard in 2006 and introduced to compliment the suite of global standards covering production, packing and consumer products. Oakland International Ireland has held certification since 2013 and Oakland International Corby since 2018. BRCGS (previously known as BRC British Retail Consortium) stands for brand, reputation and compliance global standard.

This is a fantastic result and no small achievement, and down to the

BRCGS version 4 will replace version 3 as of May 2021, when there will

dedication and hard work of every team member and so important

be significant changes in several clauses and encompassing staff training

in maintaining our quality standards, not just on audit day but all year

and most noticeably food safety culture, with Oakland International

round. Working within the supply chain, food safety is of paramount

already working to this new standard and prepared for V4 audit in 2022.

importance with BRCGS accreditation providing Oakland International with a recognised industry endorsement for food quality, safety and

Holding AA storage and distribution certification across all of

responsibility.

Oakland’s facilities provides confidence that the quality and safety of

Louise Smith, Head of Supply Chain Compliance & Accreditation,

customer products, whist in the hands of Oakland, will be maintained.

Oakland International

Securing BRC’s AA rating is a clear endorsement for customers and our supply chain partners that they can have absolute faith in every area of

One of the first businesses in their sector to achieve BRCGS accreditation

Oakland’s operation, from product safety to quality and legality, that

and internationally recognised as the ‘global standard’ for storage and

they won’t be compromised in any way.

distribution, the standard encompasses all actions undertaken that may affect safety, quality and legality of products handled and stored, with

Operating 24-hours/7 days a week, Oakland International is a D2C/B2C/

the standard viewed as a cross-function responsibility.

B2B specialist in contract packing, storage, picking, food distribution and brand development support provider for ambient, chilled and frozen food to the retail, convenience, discount, wholesale and food service markets in the UK, Ireland and via their partner in Spain.

MAY 2021

GLOBAL STANDARD BRCGS AA GRADE

ATTAINED BY OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL ESTATE FORWARDER magazine

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INDUSTRY SERVICES NEWS MAY 2021

KAUP AND B&B ATTACHMENTS CELEBRATE

40 YEARS IN PARTNERSHIP

K

AUP GmbH & Co. KG (KAUP), the world's largest

independent producer of attachments for forklift trucks, and B&B Attachments (B&B), the leading specialist in material

handling solutions in the UK and Ireland, are celebrating an major milestone together this year: the 40th anniversary of their partnership.

This began back in 1981 when the newly formed B&B set in motion an agreement with KAUP to be the exclusive agent for KAUP attachments in the UK and Ireland. Today, four decades later, B&B is the most important KAUP representative in the world.

The partnership between KAUP and B&B goes beyond the simple distribution of existing KAUP attachments. The two companies also work together to develop innovative new material handling solutions.

Mike Barton, Managing Director at B&B Attachments, recalls one of these projects:

The keg clamp is the result of a collaboration between

KAUP and B&B. This project began back in 1982. Our goal was to challenge the market for material handling in UK breweries. The keg clamp enables kegs to be handled without the use of pallets. To date (with the support of KAUP) B&B now has approximately 75% market share of the UK keg clamp market, making the UK the market leader for pallet-less handling in the brewing industry.

Trusting and openness as the key Besides innovation, what is the key to 40 years of successful partnership?

Reliability, trusting and openness in communication,

KAUP

Managing Director Holger Kaup answers the question. And moreover, B&B offers us a strong distribution network in the UK with an experienced sales team and strong service.

Mike Barton of B&B Attachments sums up,

Throughout our 40-year

partnership with KAUP, we have continuously strived to provide our customers with first-class service and support. We are honoured to be celebrating this partnership and are especially proud to continue it.

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L

eading logistics specialist Rhenus has opened a fourth site on

We are very proud to have secured a fourth warehouse on

Magna Park in Lutterworth this month, due to business growth.

Magna Park. This new site will allow us to meet the demands of our

The brand-new warehouse will be used as a dedicated solution

growing business and new client, enabling us to continue to deliver

for a new business win, a client in the machinery manufacturing sector.

our high-quality, personalised service. We’re very excited about our business expansion and are looking forward to finding further success

Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Lutterworth, formerly CML, has been

throughout 2021 and beyond.

operating on Magna Park for 22 years and already occupies three

Kerry Delaney,

warehouses on the park. This brand-new warehouse takes Rhenus

Managing Director, Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Lutterworth

to a total of just over 650,000 square feet (60,300 square metres) of warehouse space on Magna Park, with 70,000 pallet locations.

Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Lutterworth specialises in retail warehousing and distribution as well as contract management logistics. It

The announcement of the new warehouse follows a period of sustained

is part of the international, family-owned Rhenus Group, with 820 locations

growth for Rhenus. As the business continues to grow and find success,

worldwide, 33,500 employees and an annual turnover of €5.4 billion.

Rhenus is preparing for further expansion in 2022.

Magna Park is one of the largest distribution parks in Europe at 550 acres. It is located nearby to the M1, M6 and M69 motorways and home to some of the UK and Europe’s most recognisable brands.

19 MAY 2021

LUTTERWORTH LOGISTICS SPECIALIST

RHENUS SECURES FOURTH WAREHOUSE ON MAGNA PARK FORWARDER magazine

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INDUSTRY SERVICES EXPERTS

V

ehicle CCTV has proven valuable for fleet operators with

Choosing vehicle CCTV

many choosing to equip their vehicles with the technology

When choosing a vehicle CCTV system, the following questions will

to improve safety, support driver training and prevent

help to ascertain a product’s suitability:

fraudulent claims. The technology has been utilised across many sectors, including bus networks, delivery fleets and emergency vehicles.

• How is the vehicle CCTV connected, e.g. with WiFi or 4G? Which connection will be better for your requirements?

As well as supporting driver training, installing vehicle CCTV provides a

• How is data accessed? Will you physically need to go to the vehicle

range of other benefits. These include providing proof against insurance

to retrieve footage? Can it be downloaded automatically? Vehicle

claims, providing protection for drivers who may have been wrongly

CCTV with a fully managed cloud service, such as Brigade’s MDR

accused as the cause of an incident, providing irrefutable evidence in

and BRIDGE, allows fleet managers to remotely access vehicle data

the case of accidents and legal proceedings, and encouraging driver

at any time making it ideal for large and busy operators.

best practice, resulting in less vehicle damage and fewer accidents.

Additionally, vehicle CCTV also helps to deter vandalism and offers peace of mind for passengers and drivers.

• What are the recording capabilities? How many hours of footage can be recorded?

• Are there suitable trigger warnings? Will it notify operators of incidents or events? How quickly will this information be received?

For operators thinking about installing vehicle CCTV, there are a number

• Can trigger warnings be tailored to specific requirements?

of items that will need to be considered before making a commitment.

• How is footage backed-up?

Here, Emily Hardy, Marketing Manager at Brigade Electronics UK – a

• Is footage tamperproof?

market-leading provider of safety devices and solutions for commercial

• Can footage be searched by time, date and other important events?

vehicles and machinery, explains what to think about when choosing and

• How easy is it to export footage?

installing vehicle CCTV and the common pitfalls to avoid.

• How many cameras are required? How many can be connected?

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Installing vehicle CCTV Retrofitting vehicle CCTV might seem like a large project, but fortunately it is a relatively straightforward process for an experienced installation professional. Their expert knowledge of how the products work will ensure installation is a seamless process and completely hassle free.

Common pitfalls to avoid Often, the main issue with vehicle CCTV is that the device doesn’t fully meet the requirements of the operator or it is difficult to use.

For example, restricted field of visibility on cameras can limit a device’s capabilities, while difficulties downloading footage due to physically having to enter the vehicle can make an operator’s job arduous. Therefore, it is worthwhile fully investigating a product and its functionality before making any commitments. A good supplier will take a consultative approach to assess a customer’s needs prior to purchase and will offer a trial period for a product so that an operator can ensure it functions as it should and meets their requirements.

Speak to the professionals Speaking to a professional supplier and installer will ensure you get all the support and information you need to successfully install vehicle CCTV. Additionally, they will be able to provide ongoing support once the device has been fitted, including fulfilling warranty related requirements.

Brigade Electronics

HOW TO CHOOSE

VEHICLE CCTV FORWARDER magazine

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INDUSTRY SERVICES F.Y.I.

Building apps for the freight industry Get in touch with the team today... +44 (0)1454 628 777

hello@freightapp.design

FreightApp.design

F R E I G H T

Are you planning to buy or sell a freight forwarding company? +44 (0)1454 628771 • enquiries@freightmergers.com

UK | USA | Middle East |

Strategic recruitment for the freight industry +44 (0)1454 275 932 headfordgroup.com

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Call us on 01733 261131 Email us at headoffice@rha.uk.net

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING Organisations and bodies that provide and train staff for the freight and logistics industries.

Related topics Certification Organic growth Safety awareness

Sponsored by

102 102FORWARDER magazine

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12 MAY 2021

FIRMS URGED TO SUPPORT

IN-WORK SERVICE TECHNICIAN TRAINING

M

ember firms are being encouraged to embrace the

such as vehicles, construction plant, electrical and other mechanical

options for in-work training to support and certify MEWP

backgrounds. They perhaps start as 'check and test' or PDI Technicians

technicians via the Roadmap that was developed by the

and then pick it up along the way with a mixture of in-house training,

International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), as the first wave of

mentoring and learning by their mistakes. Our range of modular

candidates complete their level 2 and level 3 NVQs under the scheme.

training courses written specifically for the powered access industry gets back to basics and leads to nationally recognised Level 2 and

Richard Whiting, IPAF’s UK & Ireland Market General Manager, who led

Level 3 NVQ qualifications. Those qualifying have the ideal grounding

on developing the IPAF Roadmap, comments: “It is positive that, just

to enable them to diagnose faults, carry out servicing and undertake

as the UK Government announces major backing for in-work training

more complex repairs requiring an understanding of how things

and support for upskilling and retraining, many of IPAF’s member firms

work and engineering principles, such as structural designs, electrics,

are already taking advantage of these defined routes to certifying and

engines, hydraulic systems, safety and safe working principles.

training their employees in service technician and engineering roles.

Paul Robertson, Director, Learning for Hire (LfH)

“We are pleased that in conjunction with our member firm and

Jake Howard from Speedy Powered Access is among the first candidates

recognised training provider Learning for Hire, the first candidates have

to complete the six-day course to attain his Level 2 NVQ and is now

now completed their NVQs and are certified as service technicians.

on course for his Level 3 NVQ. He explains why he’s found the IPAF

They now have a number of options open to them to continue training

Roadmap so useful:

and are a step further along the route to IPAF Competent Assessed

worked for Speedy Powered Access for two years and three months.

Person (CAP) status. We urge all our member firms to consider how

The service technician course gave me the knowledge to progress with

they might be able to support their employees in this way through

my NVQ because the instructor, Paul Robertson, was fantastic, and

training and upskilling in the workplace.”

very patient. The training helped give me the foundation to build more

My current job role is a service engineer; I have

knowledge on the machinery – in places the Level 2 was difficult, but Acquiring and keeping good technicians and mechanics has never

I’m fortunate enough to work with some top-class qualified engineers,

been more of a challenge than right now. Based on recent research

who were more than happy to help. I was put at ease with the final

in the UK, we need to bring in nearly 600 new machinery technicians

assessment, thanks to Paul. I think the Level 3 NVQ in Testing, Inspecting

per year. That is a huge number for our relatively small industry,

and Thorough Examination will help me massively, as it’s specific to my

especially when the appeal seems limited or unheard of. Employers

job role and is vital in what I need for my end game. The qualifications

that engage with regional colleges to establish apprenticeship schemes

are very important in my career progression, and my long-term aim

work well, but this alone will not fill the current skills shortage. IPAF

is to become an IPAF CAP engineer. I’d recommend this course to

Service Technician training is another route for people already in the

anyone looking to get into this line of work who has little to no prior

powered access industry to upskill and get qualified. There is a huge

knowledge, because it breaks down all parts of the job in a way that’s

number of workshop staff that have come from other related trades

easy to understand. It is challenging, rewarding and interesting.

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING NEWS 1 JUNE 2021

ePAL APP SET TO

REVOLUTIONISE M.E.W.P. TRAINING CERTIFICATION

T

he launch of a new mobile app for operators of mobile

A typical year’s output in terms of IPAF PAL Cards and certificates

elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and mast-climbing work

issued used to amount to a 130-metre stack of printed plastic and paper,

platforms (MCWPs) aims to bring training certification into

shipped from supplier, to IPAF, to the IPAF Training Centre and then on

the digital era and reduce the environmental impact involved in issuing

to candidates. Then, after five years, the candidate would dispose of it

the International Powered Access Federation’s (IPAF) PAL Card and all

and start again! The new app will lead to us reducing the number of steps

training certification.

in processing a PAL Card and cut down on all that waste, as well as the expense, delays and carbon emissions involved in shipping items around

IPAF’s new ePAL app is free to use and features the first ever digital IPAF

the globe needlessly. Developing an operator app has been a key priority

PAL Card, operator log book and operator safety guide. It also allows

for IPAF since I took up post in 2019, and we were excited to team up with

operators to receive the latest best practice tips and safety information,

IPAF member Trackunit to bring its considerable technical expertise to

and means operators can share their qualifications with site managers

bear to roll this out. IPAF’s ePAL brings huge benefits for operators and

quickly and easily.

IPAF Training Centres alike, while allowing us to streamline and digitise our processes. We are monitoring the roll-out of the new app and are

The ePAL app is a major a step forward in IPAF’s ongoing drive to boost

already planning new functionality. These are exciting times.

sustainability, as it shifts away from issuing plastic, credit-card sized PAL

Peter Douglas, CEO & MD, IPAF

Cards via the post to every training candidate successfully completing or renewing an IPAF operator course.

This is a big step up for the industry when it comes to safety and efficiency. It has been long in the making, at least in terms of an industry

The new ePAL app also phases out paper certification of qualifications and

wish-list, and now it is finally here. The app allows IPAF to communicate

logging of machine time and replaces the printed paper version of IPAF’s

directly with operators and offers them a digital platform to record,

operator safety guide; it speeds up the processing time and resource

show and share their qualifications and operating experience worldwide.

required to issue training candidates with their PAL Card and certification.

ePAL is a commitment to enable collaboration between the operator and the digital ecosystem. We all know filling out paper operator logbooks and keeping them up to date can be a challenge. This app provides contractors and operators secure access to equipment and a convenient way to document machine activities. We can also use the app to encourage and make it easier to report an accident or near-miss incident through the new IPAF reporting portal. My hope is we can all contribute to building a safer, digital future for operators.

Søren Brogaard, CEO, Trackunit (IPAF member company and specialist in fleet management solutions for construction that helped develop the app)

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The introduction of ePAL and digital PAL Cards is another great integration of digital technology welcomed by VINCI Construction UK. As we embrace digital technologies we become many things: More sustainable; better connected; more engaging; and, ultimately, efficient.

Alan Woodage, Health and Safety Manager, Taylor Woodrow ePAL has been something we have been waiting for, for a long time.

Having a digital card, that can't be lost, broken or stolen, will cut down significantly on the admin demands of being an IPAF training centre, as well as being much more convenient for our customers.

Ben Hughes, Training Manager, Horizon Platforms IPAF ePAL app is available now in the UK and Ireland. It is initially offered in English with other languages to follow, and is available for Apple iOS and Android devices. The app will be updated with additional features as usage demands and developing technology allows.

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING APPOINTMENTS WELCOMING TO

ANNA GALONI

THORDON BEARINGS

IN THE POSITION OF

C.E.O.

A

nna Galoni has been appointed Chief Executive

As the company’s first female CEO, Galoni hopes the

Officer (CEO) of bearing and seal specialist

appointment will encourage more women to consider

Thordon Bearings Inc., a Thomson-Gordon

senior executive positions in the maritime and industrial

Group company.

manufacturing sectors.

Galoni joined the Burlington, Ontario-headquartered

A woman does bring a different viewpoint to the

company in 2007 after graduating from Queens University

Boardroom, but these industries are still male-dominated

with a Masters’ Degree in Epidemiology.

industries. We recently advertised a senior role but when I asked about the proportion of women that had applied

Prior to her appointment in April, she held a number

for the role, I was shocked to learn there were none.

of senior roles in various departments including Human

Maybe they might be more open to applying for jobs in the

Resources Director, New Product Development

manufacturing sector when there is a female at the helm, I

Director and, subsequently, Chair, Thordon Bearings – a

don’t know. What I do know is that these industries need

position she continues to hold. Her appointment follows

to be made more attractive to women. Boardrooms need

the retirement of Terry McGowan, who stepped down

to be diverse; they need to be open to different concepts,

after almost 14 years in the CEO role.

different perspectives, different ideas.

Galoni said:

I am very excited to be leading

Commenting on her appointment Thomson-Gordon

Thordon Bearings at this new juncture in its long and

Group Innovator and Thordon Bearings' Founder, George

illustrious history. I look forward to working with the

(Sandy) A. Thomson, said:

Senior Management Team to build on the work of my

the appointment of my stepdaughter Anna as our new

predecessor and to ensure the company remains at the

CEO. After three generations of family ownership, the

very forefront of environmentally focused maritime

Thomson-Gordon Group and Thordon Bearings is now

seal and bearing solutions. We have now completed

looking to a fourth-generation family member to safely

an internal restructure and finalised a set of business

navigate the company through the challenges of the

objectives designed to strengthen our leading position in

future. Anna has impressed throughout her years with the

our core market segments while creating opportunities in

company and is now beginning to implement a plan that

new ones, such as the forestry and mining industries. We

will see us expand and diversify the portfolio into other

are also close to unveiling new marine products, which

markets. Our philosophy, then and now, is to innovate and

are likely to result in more ship types returning to water

make systems and technologies that last a lifetime. This

lubricated propeller shafts. We are not a huge company,

will continue to be at the heart of everything we do.

but we make a significant difference in terms of customer value, customer service and in helping customers’ achieve

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their operating and environmental sustainability goals.

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I am delighted to announce

WELCOMING TO

MICHELLE RODER

PALLETLINE

IN THE POSITION OF

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

P

alletline is pleased to announce the appointment

innovation for our membership and customers. To be part

of Michelle Roder to the position of Group

of the leadership team driving that progress is exciting and

Financial Director. The appointment follows the

I am looking forward to tackling a new set of challenges.

departure of Mark McColl, who retired from the business in March this year.

Graham Leitch, Group Managing Director, said, We are delighted to welcome Michelle to the Palletline

Michelle, who has more than 17 years’ experience in

board. Her network knowledge, business acumen and

financial roles, joined the network as Risk Assessment

financial expertise are outstanding and I am confident

and Project Finance Manager in August 2014 and was

that she will continue to deliver exceptional results in

on a path to progression from day one; achieving five

the years to come. Looking internally for your future

promotions in seven years.

team leaders, managers or, in this case, directors ensures you retain and develop people with insider knowledge

Michelle now oversees a team of nine people across the

and enables businesses to recruit fresh talent at entry

Palletline Group and is responsible for facilitating business

level. Michelle’s journey with us is an example of what

growth through investment, whilst safeguarding the

succession planning looks like when it’s done well.

financial health of the company. She is the youngest person to hold the Financial Director position in Palletline’s history

With the logistics sector booming, recruiting the right

and is currently the only female on the board.

people to support business growth is vital. Palletline’s Employee Development Programme actively identifies

Her succession to the position was planned more than six

and supports those that demonstrate potential and are

months prior to the former Financial Director’s retirement,

looking to further their careers within the organisation.

enabling Michelle to work closely with Mark, shadowing him for three months, before he took a step back in January 2021.

The Group have also implemented a training programme to help tackle the shortage of fork lift drivers in the

I am really pleased to be appointed to the board.

logistics industry. Through a partnership with Juniper

I’ve been with Palletline for more than seven years and

Training, the scheme provides apprentices with a

will be using my experience to support the network’s

comprehensive training programme and the opportunity

entrepreneurial culture, whilst ensuring financial stability.

to join the Palletline team on a permanent basis. Six

Palletline is consistently reviewing its position in the market

people have already been recruited at Palletline’s central

and strategically re-invests to deliver sustainable growth and

Hub in Birmingham as a result of the scheme.

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING APPOINTMENTS WELCOMING TO

DEBBIE MCKINLEY

PALLETWAYS

IN THE POSITION OF

SALES MANAGER

P

alletways Milton Keynes has appointed a new

As part of the global Imperial business, service

sales manager, Debbie McKinley, to grow

excellence is one of our main priorities. Debbie brings

business in Buckinghamshire.

with her considerable knowledge of the logistics market; her appointment demonstrates the value we place on

Debbie brings with her great experience in the industry,

recruiting the best in the industry. Her early track

having worked for a range of parcel and pallet networked

record for providing a logistics solution for new clients

businesses, including 14 years with TNT, and more

show her experience in the industry, and is contributing

recently joining from Tuffnells. Debbie will support

towards the business’ goals. Debbie’s performance in

Palletways Milton Keynes in growing the business which

her first few months with Palletways Milton Keynes is a

has a diverse customer base.

brilliant achievement.

Rob Gittins, Managing Director, Palletways UK

Since joining last year, Debbie has made a significant impact on the business and her contribution has already

The firm is one of over 115 transport providers that are

been recognised, celebrating a strong sales performance

part of the Palletways UK network. They benefit from

in her first months in the job.

shared expertise and resources from within the group to deliver consignments of palletised freight to market faster

Debbie is a great addition to the team, who will support

and more cost effectively than ever before. The Imperial’s

our business to become stronger. Her experience in the

Palletways Group, renowned for its industry-leading IT

logistics sector has already proven to be a huge asset to the

developments and operational systems, comprises 450+

company, and bringing on new partners is a testament to

depots and 20 hub operations, through which it provides

Debbie’s ability to further develop our customer base. We

collection and distribution services across 24 European

have ambitious growth targets, and pride ourselves on the

countries, including the UK.

service we provide which is why we place such importance on hiring talented and highly skilled members of staff.

Terry Fouracre, Gen. Manager, Palletways, Milton Keynes

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WELCOMING TO

SEAN AUSTERBERRY

SOFTBOX

IN THE POSITION OF

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

S

oftbox, a leading global innovator and provider

cold chain industry, responsible for ensuring customer

of passive temperature-controlled packaging

satisfaction through well-designed, innovative, and high-

solutions for the pharmaceutical, life science

performance engineered products that meet high-quality

and cold chain logistics industries, has announced the

standards, both locally and globally.

appointment of Sean Austerberry as Research and Product Development Director.

I’m delighted to join Softbox as part of the global leadership team and lead product R&D to support further

Sean will be responsible for all of Softbox’s global

business growth. There are some exciting developments

R&D, product development and intellectual property

in the pipeline. There has never been a more exciting time

management. He will lead the technical teams and work

to be involved in temperature-controlled packaging.

closely with sales and commercial to drive product strategy and deliver robust product roadmaps for future

I’m delighted to have Sean join the Softbox Leadership

growth. Furthermore, Sean will also be responsible

Team. His extensive product design experience coupled

for the oversight of the company’s global network of

with his strong leadership in innovation and creative design

Qualification Labs and Technical Centres, ensuring Softbox

processes will ensure Softbox continues to develop and

maintains high-quality technical services and well-defined

deliver highly innovative temperature-controlled packaging

standards across all of its locations. His remit will include

solutions for our key markets and provide significant added

Manufacturing Engineering to ensure the new products

value to our customers. Sean understands the complexity

developed are consistently and efficiently produced across

of the cold chain industry and how to engineer the right

the company’s global manufacturing network.

solutions, he is a highly engaging customer facing design engineer that will inspire our regional design teams to

Sean has over 12 years’ experience in product design

develop “fit for purpose” packaging solutions for our

and development of award-winning products for global

customers around the world. He’ll be a great asset to our

markets, and provides technical leadership, with integrity,

company and our customers.

tenacity, drive, and focus. He has spent the past seven

Kevin Valentine, CEO, Softbox

years as Senior Design Engineer within the pharmaceutical

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING EXPERTS

T

he coronavirus pandemic has had an unparalleled impact on

What is the solution?

businesses across all sectors, but it has had a particularly

There are a number of ways that the haulage sector can avoid an

huge and varied impact on the haulage and logistics sector.

employee shortage in the future. Attracting new employees to your business to replace those who are retiring is essential, but it

Some businesses, like those who worked in B2C retail and

shouldn’t be the only weapon in your arsenal.

refrigerated food, were able to thrive in the face of increasing demands, using freight exchange platforms to win extra work.

One of the best ways you can fill a skills gap in particular is by

Others, particularly those supplying to sectors at a standstill like

retaining your existing employees. Not only are your existing

hospitality and construction, suffered and struggled to keep their

employees already experts on your business, it’s a great way to keep

wheels turning. All sizes of business have been affected, from owner-

them satisfied. And with the average cost of hiring a new employee

driver limited companies to large freight organisations, but smaller

sitting at £3,000, it’s a cost-effective way to fill your skills gaps.

companies have particularly felt the pinch.

Here, we cover why retaining your current staff is essential to filling The pandemic has shown how critical the sector is to the UK; without

your skills gap and how you can achieve this.

it, many would have been left without essential supplies. But the green shoots of recovery are starting to show and we’re in the process of

Offer internal moves and promotions

leaving lockdown. This means the sector can begin to resolve the next

With much of your employee base set to retire within a decade,

challenge to its operations: the skills and employee gap.

you’ll lose a lot of skills and knowledge about your company and processes. By retaining your existing staff members while adding

The pressing skills gap in the sector

new recruits, you’ll be able to keep these existing skills. This means

According to the CILT, 54% of logistics companies will see 'severe'

when it comes to filling essential skills gaps, you can tap into their

skills and worker shortages by 2024, particularly in back-office,

knowledge so newer employees can transition smoothly into

warehousing, and driving roles. This is driven by a number of factors,

these existing roles when staff begin to retire. As they’re existing

including an ageing workforce and around 80,000 EU nationals

employees, they won’t require as much training as new employees.

leaving the workforce in 2020.

This is also a great way to increase your employee satisfaction and The industry’s ageing workforce is one of the most pressing in the

retention. LinkedIn’s 2021 Workforce Learning Report shows that

UK, with an average age of 57 amongst drivers. A huge 81.1% of

employees with progression options stay at their businesses twice

transport managers are over the age of 45, with a third over 55. This

as long. This is also being recognised by HR professionals, with

means a significant proportion of the workforce will reach retirement

51% saying internal mobility is more important now than before

age within ten years, deepening the employee gap in the sector.

the pandemic.

For owner drivers, losing even a small number of key staff members

Address your staff culture

can have a huge impact. The good news is that now is the perfect

Because many of your people work separately, with drivers often

time to get your ducks in a row and put a plan in place to set your

completely isolated, company culture is critical. This gives your

haulage business up for future success.

employees a sense of belonging and allows them to feel connected not only to their colleagues but to their business.

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A good company culture is essential to keeping staff turnover low.

From back-office systems that eliminate duplicate data entry to

It’s one of the most important factors for employees, with 57%

online freight exchange platforms which can help you win more

of UK workers considering it more important than their salary.

work, implementing the right tech can be the difference between

What’s more, 27% of employees will leave a business due to a poor

a productive and profitable business and one that is falling behind

company culture. In the logistics sector, communication is key to

the competition.

ensure your employees, from those in the warehouse to drivers on the road, feel connected. In a similar vein, upper management

With an existing shortage of 76,000 workers and a large proportion

should lead from the front and work to create an environment

of workers creeping closer to retirement age, haulage businesses

where workers feel comfortable raising issues.

must address this as a priority to prevent any effect on their operations. Hiring new employees is a no-brainer, but this is a costly

Improve your technology

exercise both in terms of hiring and training. Tapping into your

Many employees find that the technology offered by their employers

existing pool of employees allows you to fill your most pressing gaps

is old, restrictive, and negatively impacts their ability to carry out

with people who are familiar with your business and its processes.

their jobs efficiently and effectively. This in turn causes a lot of stress

By implementing these three tips, you’ll improve your staff retention

and frustration, which negatively impacts employee satisfaction.

and prepare your business for the future.

Employees in the sector are finding that many processes are duplicated and key information can get lost.

Richard Bird, Regional Sales Manager, Returnloads

Dell and EMOTIV carried out studies on work subjects to determine how much bad tech affects employees, and the results were stark. Stress levels doubled when users encountered issues, and productivity dropped by 30%. Not only will offering modern,

WHY

STAFF RETENTION

working technologies improve your employees’ stress levels, enhance their satisfaction, and increase their productivity, but they can also help your business in other ways.

IS KEY TO SUCCESS IN HAULAGE & LOGISTICS FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING

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The leading job board for the global freight industry

Reimagined.

Redesigned.

Relaunched.

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

FEATURED POSITION WHAT WHO

TELESALES EXECUTIVE

FREIGHT SOLUTIONS CONSULTING

WHERE

BRISTOL, UK KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Making outgoing/incoming customer calls and processing new sales • Following up business leads and actively selling our products • Delivering a consultative selling approach • Maintain sales pipeline and build customer relationships • Display a positive and professional attitude • Up-selling value within our product range • Updates CRM system • Develops product knowledge and services sold • Contributes to the team performance by sharing and implementing best practice ideas

JOB DESCRIPTION Are you looking for an exciting new role, working with like-minded

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

hungry sales professionals? If your answer is yes, don’t let this amazing

• Previous experience in a fast-paced Telesales role

Telesales Executive opportunity pass you by. Working within a vibrant

• Able to build and develop lasting customer relationships

office, the successful Telesales Executive can expect an excellent working

• Able to work closely within a team and cross-department functions

environment, first-class management support and a clear career path.

• Excellent communication skills • Target-driven

Experience within a similar Telesales role would be preferred, however,

• Always looking to train and develop your skills to help you succeed

with the correct blend of ambition, drive and passion, you will receive all the training needed to be successful!

HOW TO APPLY

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

• Please apply in writing with a copy of your CV to

• Competitive Salary (up to £25K) • Excellent commission struc.

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luke@forwardingjobs.com • Flexible working hours • Company pension • 20 days holiday plus Bank hols

ISSUE64

VACANCIES Powered by

THE WELCOME TO TEAM WELCOMING TO

MURAAD OSMAN

FORWARDING JOBS

IN THE POSITION OF

TALENT CONSULTANT A LITTLE ABOUT THE APPOINTMENT Only a few months after bringing in John Gallivan to launch forwardingjobs.com’s new Talent Consulting service – an additional offering to clients of the freight industry job board – we are proud to say demand has been so high that Muraad Osman has become the latest member of our growing team.

Muraad has joined from a leading freight recruitment specialist and will use that experience to target specific candidates at specific competitors who may not be actively looking for new prospects. This proactive approach will guarantee that our clients get top-quality delivery every time.

We have no doubt that Muraad will prove to be invaluable, both to us and to our clients.

GET IN TOUCH... +44 (0)1454 275 936 muraad@forwardingjobs.com

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

FEATURED POSITION WHAT WHO

PET TRAVEL SPECIALIST

PBS PET TRAVEL

WHERE

CRAWLEY, WEST SUSSEX, UK

THE POSITION WOULD INVOLVE...

• Providing quotations, information and guidance to clients wishing to relocate their pets • Communicating with customers on a daily basis both over the phone and via email • Familiarising yourself with airline requirements, standard industry procedures and destination country rules and regulations • Making flight bookings with airlines and preparing travel documentation • Liaising with third parties such as boarding kennels, veterinary

JOB DESCRIPTION

practices etc.

• Meeting clients and their pets Key skills required

We are currently looking for an animal-loving, dedicated and enthusiastic

• Communication – A key part of this role is liaising with your

individual to join our team of pet travel experts, PBS have been relocating

customers and colleagues. It is essential that you have the ability to

pets all over the world for over 10 years and we pride ourselves on

successfully communicate with a vast variety of individuals via both

exceptional customer care and delivering a high-quality service to each and every one of our clients.

telephone and email • Cope well under pressure – we need someone who is pro-active and able to think on their feet

The vacancy is within our ‘Pet Export’ team at our Crawley branch.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills- you will be

Working as part of the pet exports team, your main role will be arranging

running your own desk and looking after your own customers, so it

the relocation of animals from the UK to anywhere in the world.

is vital that you can plan and manage your workload effectively • Attention to detail – This role comes with a large amount of

As a pet travel specialist, you will be required to provide advice, prices

responsibility! You will be responsible for organising a pet’s

and information on all aspects of pet travel to potential new clients, as

relocation from start to finish and it is essential that every aspect

well as making bookings and planning the pet’s journey from start to finish.

of the move has been planned for

Salary according to age/experience.

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• Dedication- Pet travel is an extremely sensitive service. This position requires someone who is committed to providing a high level of

customer care and compassion at all times, and someone who is willing to go above and beyond to exceed a customer’s expectations • Confidence – As pet travel specialists it is our job to provide reassurance and install confidence in our customers. You must be able to convey a positive, professional and caring attitude when dealing with clients face to face, over the phone and via email • Animal Lover – It is important that you have a love of animals or even better, have pets yourself. You must be able to use your experience with animals and pets to empathise with your clients and show an understanding for any concerns they may have.

KEY REQUIREMENTS • Experienced in Microsoft Word and Outlook (Microsoft Excel would be an advantage but not a necessity) • Previous experience in the pet travel/passenger travel/freight industry would be beneficial but not a necessity • Competency in English grammar, spelling and general literacy • Full UK driving licence preferred • Previous experience working in an office environment is preferred • Previous freight experience preferred, but we will consider suitable applicants without.

HOW TO APPLY Please apply in writing with a copy of your CV to

luke@forwardingjobs.com We will confirm receipt via email. If you have not heard back within 48 hours, please follow up with a phone call to ensure your email was received.

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

FEATURED POSITION WHAT WHO

GLOBAL OPERATOR

ARCHBOLD GLOBAL

WHERE

HEYWOOD, LANCASHIRE, UK

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • To plan and operate all full loads, part loads and groupage imports and exports • Take and complete all bookings as per customer requirements.

• Negotiate all rates to the benefit of the business • Monitor all movements to ensure all deadlines are met • Liaise with agents, customers, suppliers and subcontractors on a daily basis to ensure all deliveries/collections are actioned in a timely manner and in line with customer requirements • Ensure all documentation is completed in line with customer

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

requirements and legislation ie POD’s, Manifests, Dangerous Goods Notices, Customs documentation etc.

To ensure the efficient and profitable planning and operation of all our global full loads, part loads and groupage consignments.

• To deliver excellent customer service to all our clients and improve upon them on an ongoing basis including ensuring that customer KPI requirements are met

SPECIFIC WORK-BASED SKILLS

• Assist colleagues in providing cover with other roles within the

• Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing

• Ensure the protection and good care of all the Company’s assets,

department as and when reasonably requested by your Manager

• Conscientious worker

equipment, materials and intellectual property and that there is no

• Attention to detail

misappropriation of any by the job holder

• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team and be a ‘team player’

Safety, Quality Control, Human Resources, operational etc.

• Possess an adept ability to prioritise workload • Show proficiency and a good knowledge of European planning/freight forwarding • Have excellent geographical knowledge • Have excellent IT skills and be methodical in your approach

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• Adhere to all Company policies & procedures relating to Health &

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• Undertake any other duties to the benefit of the Company as reasonably requested by your Manager

VACANCIES Powered by

GENERAL COMPETENCIES

• Show commercial awareness in all tasks that you undertake ensuring maximum profitability • Relationships with others – demonstrate a positive and respectful attitude towards others.

• Behave in an honest, open and trustworthy manner • Teamwork – Work effectively as part of a team and contribute positively to building a team spirit. Share information, knowledge, ideas and experiences freely with others. Involve yourself with team principles that continuously endeavour to achieve quality, improvement & high performance • Communicate in a professional manner with external and internal contacts • Customer Service – deliver excellent customer service • Have an appreciation of what customers want and continuously strive to meet their expectations within the confines of the role • Health and Safety – work safely within Health and Safety and environmental guidelines and insist that others do the same • Job Performance - Achieve work targets and show willing to take on additional tasks/responsibilities. Contribute positively to performance management reviews to continuously develop • Demonstrate energy, enthusiasm and commitment

SPECIFIC PERSONALITY TRAITS • Organised • Mature and Responsible • Self Motivated • Reliable and Punctual • Offer flexibility in line with business demands • Trustworthy • Well Presented at all times

HOW TO APPLY

• Positive attitude towards work/colleagues

Please apply in writing with a copy of your CV to

• Good sense of humour

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

FEATURED POSITION WHAT WHO

F R E I G H T

M&A NEW BUSINESS CONSULTANT

FREIGHT MERGERS LTD.

WHERE

BRISTOL, UK

HOW MUCH?

£23,000 THE ROLE We are currently looking to bring on a M&A New Business / Deal Origination Consultant to work in the Bristol office.

The M&A New Business Consultant should thrive in a fast-paced environment and will be accountable for identifying and qualifying new business opportunities for the sales team.

The ideal consultant will enjoy prospecting daily and be skilled at qualifying new client opportunities. They will set up appointments for senior advisors and will be capable and resourceful in overcoming client queries and objections ahead of an appointment. The will also be responsible for introducing our services, conducting initial dialogue and confirming a business requirement.

THE COMPANY

As a growing organisation we have a clear and defined career progression

We are a leading provider of mergers & acquisitions (M&A) services

plan in place for high-achieving members of the team.

to the freight & logistics industry as well as the recruitment market.

We are a privately owned organisation with offices in Bristol and Dubai,

The new business team works with our prospective clients to educate

giving us the ability to cover the domestic UK market and all other major

them on our services and expertise that can aid them with either the

geographies globally.

purchase or disposal of a business.

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RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop a thorough understanding of our services and business • Actively search for new business daily through a combination of follow-up and proactive campaigns • Maintain a sales pipeline with documented activity reports • Efficiently manage own time to ensure KPIs are met • Conduct research through various media outlets in order to discover, qualify and offer our services to prospects • Understanding of key buying/selling signs and have the ability to discuss high-level business details with each client • Build long-term relationships with clients

QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE • Degree or equivalent industry experience • Ability to successfully prospect and influence over the phone • Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment • Experience with the Microsoft Office suite • Proven experience of meeting targets

HOW TO APPLY Please apply in writing with a copy of your CV to

alexander.jones@freightmergers.com

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

HGV CLASS 1 NIGHT DRIVER

CLASS 2 DRIVER

Your role • Making multi drops to secure locations on a nightly basis • You will be a key holder for each location • There is a large amount of manual handling involving cages

Your role • Carry out pre and after use vehicle checks in line

ROCHESTER, UK 42 HOURS/WK + OVERTIME, MON–FRI £12.80 PER HOUR

and larger items so you must be physically fit

Requirements • Full UK driving licence (with C+E entitlement), • No more than six penalty points on your licence and no DD, DR, IN, or CD endorsements

• A valid CPC and digital tacho card • Excellent knowledge of the UK road network john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1454 275 934

SWINDON, UK MON–FRI, A.M. START TIMES £28,000

with company policy

• To accurately and safely deliver to customers as directed by the Transport Team

• Monitor and report any vehicle defects and wear and tear • Complete all paperwork accurately and on time Requirements • A HGV Licence with C entitlements • An in-date Driver Qualification Card (CPC) • A Digital Tachograph Licence • Less than 6 endorsements (not IN, DR or DD) john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1454 275 934

OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR (L2, 3rd shift) ERLANGER, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES £ COMPETITIVE

Your role • Manages and coordinates Hub operational activities to ensure the safe, timely and cost effective processing • Implements and directs quality control for all operations • Directs and ensures compliance with established DHL corporate, hub, gateway or terminal warehouse Hub/ Gateway, and airline policies, procedures and standard • Communicates with: systems operations control, flight control, maintenance control, facilities maintenance, sort, ramp, airport police, fire & rescue, Customs and agriculture • Oversees the loading and unloading of any of the following: trucks, trailers, air containers, or airline pallets • Supervises the identification and segregation of non-conforming and dangerous goods cargo • Supervises 15-25 subordinates; responsible for hiring, coaching, training, and developing staff jeremy@headfordgroup.com • +1 646 933 1264

OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR MIAMI FLORIDA, UNITED STATES £ COMPETITIVE

Your role • Manages and coordinates Hub operational activities to ensure the safe, timely and cost effective processing

• Implements and directs quality control for all operations • Directs and ensures compliance with established DHL corporate, hub, gateway or terminal warehouse Hub/ Gateway, and airline policies, procedures and standard • Communicates with: systems operations control, flight control, maintenance control, facilities maintenance, sort, ramp, airport police, fire & rescue, Customs and agriculture • Oversees the loading and unloading of any of the following: trucks, trailers, air containers, or airline pallets • Supervises the identification and segregation of non-conforming and dangerous goods cargo • Supervises 15-25 subordinates; responsible for hiring, coaching, training, and developing staff jeremy@headfordgroup.com • +1 646 933 1264

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BUSINESS ANALYST

WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE

Overview

Overview

BIRMINGHAM, UK £ COMPETITIVE

As a Business Analyst, you will work within our UK Logistics Control Centre within our Integrated Logistics business unit. You’ll provide day to day support to our global Excellence Management community through reviewing and analysing monthly performance data, as well as preparing and creating data extracts and market intelligence for customer facing presentations.

Your role • Extract data from Tableau and analyse performance trends to identify issues regionally and globally

• Reach out to responsible parties for support to root cause issues on performance failures; analytical support to identify trends and re-occurring issues and manage causing parties accordingly • Provide support to the supply chain integrity function through assisting investigations into supply chain deviations and ensuring the global standard is adhered to across the Kuehne+Nagel regions and to the customer • Create PowerPoint presentations in line with the agreed Kuehne+ Nagel standards and working to the global calendar for presentation submissions into the monthly operational review meetings with our customer and into the monthly customer performance review.

• Manage the global action register and drive on time completion with the action owners.

• Work with the business managers and continuous improvement managers in each region to provide administrative support; as well as supporting the continuous improvement managers in the creation of business cases and pipeline • Provide support to the Excellence Managers with supply chain risk assessment and mitigation as well as providing support with collating global market intelligence and trends • Creation of the Kuehne+Nagel Snapshot monthly publication which is distributed internally and externally

DES PLAINES, IL, UNITED STATES £ COMPETITIVE

The Warehouse Associate performs various warehouse activities to ensure the full and efficient operation of the Distribution Center such as receiving, sorting, picking, packing, and shipping orders.

Your role • Use material handling (MH) equipment to unload • Verify and receive materials into inventory • Marks and inventories packages for storage or transit • May also include palletizing and shrink-wrap.

• Duties may include receiving, checking and storing • May be required to stack pallets and repeatedly lift up to 50lb • Use MH Equipment to move and store materials • Use MH Equipment to pick, verify and pack orders • Use MH Equipment or other designated means to load goods into trailers or other designated

• transport vehicles for distribution • Works from pick sheet or Radio Frequency (RF) Scanner to pull product or supplies.

• May be required to cycle count inventory • Check orders against pull sheets.

• Dangerous Goods”: when receiving dangerous goods, the necessary procedures must be

• followed and these shipments must be stored in the designated section of the warehouse.

• If/when applicable, ‘bonded’ cargo must be processed and handled accordingly, based on

• existing guidelines for this type of shipment • Maintain warehouse clean and free of debris at all times • Adhere to local, State, and Federal regulations inclusive, but not limited, to OSHA, DOT, EPA

• and other government agencies. Certification required to handle any hazardous material(s) jeremy@headfordgroup.com • +1 646 933 1264

tyler@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 780

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

SALES ADMINISTRATOR

WAREHOUSE TEAM LEADER

Overview

Overview

NOTTINGHAM, UK £18,000–£20,000

We are currently recruiting for a Sales Administrator to join us at our Nottingham branch. The shift pattern for this role will be Monday-Friday 9am-5:30pm, with an immediate start. You will be joining a fun, energetic and personable team that will provide fantastic opportunities for career development and growth!

The successful candidate will support the Account Managers through administrative duties to allow them to focus on new and existing business development. Along with general office admin this will also involve the direct communication with their customer base via email and phone.

Main responsibilities include...

• Manage the administrative duties related to the Account Managers customer bases.

• Speak with customers daily, dealing with issues and bookings and providing excellent customer service.

• Calculate and produce pricing/quotation for the customer accounts that you manage and communicate effectively.

• Utilise Europa Software and log any customer activity on our systems.

• General office/administration duties as required.

We required experience: • Excellent telephone manner with a strong confident personality.

• An experienced background in customer service (essential).

• Good communication skills and the ability to prioritise and

CORBY, UK £20,150–£22,100

Europa Worldwide Group are looking for a Warehouse Team Lead to join their brand new, state of the art facility, in Corby.

YOU MUST BE AVAILABLE TO WORK AN ANY 5 FROM 7 ROTA Current shift patterns are: 6am–2pm, 2pm–10pm, 10pm–6am We are looking for people who have previous leadership experience, and have previously looked after a team within a Warehouse and have experience dealing with KPIs, return to work and disciplinaries up to a stage 1 level.

As our Team Leader you will be required to engage with your team and know how to get the best from people, efficiently leading them to produce the best outputs. You will also be looking after the attendance & sickness policy for your team as well as monitoring their performance through attitude, pick rates and accuracy.

Benefits: • On-site parking Schedule: • 8-hour shift Work remotely?

• No Please apply for this role on forwardingjobs.com

manage your time efficiently.

• Experience or a background in freight forwarding or logistics (desirable not essential).

• The ability to pro-actively deal with situations and use initiative to problem solve.

Schedule: • 8 hour shift • Monday to Friday • No weekends • No remote work

WHAT CAN EUROPA OFFER YOU? • Excellent salary package.

• Europa benefits scheme (on successful completion

Please apply for this role on forwardingjobs.com

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of probation period) –offers and discounts on latest technology, vouchers, gym membership etc.

• The opportunity to develop, progress and work within a global organisation which is rapidly growing.

• A fantastic working culture which promotes excellent work/life balance.

• Working closely with a team of talented individuals with a great work ethic who also love to have fun!

• 24 days holidays.

• Contributory company pension scheme.

VACANCIES Featuring...

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INTERNAL SALES ADMINISTRATOR

SALES ADMINISTRATOR

Overview

Overview

SUTTON COLDFIELD, UK £20,000

Europa Air & Sea are looking for an Internal Sales Administrator to join their team in Minworth, Birmingham.

This role is the perfect combination of customer service, administration and internal sales with a clear progression plan.

SUTTON COLDFIELD, UK £20,000

Europa Air & Sea are looking for a Sales Administrator to join their team in Minworth, Birmingham. This role is the perfect combination of customer service, administration and internal sales with a clear progression plan.

What does an Internal Sales Administrator do?

What does a Sales Administrator do?

What does our Internal Sales Admin look like?

What does our Sales Administrator look like?

• Previous experience within Seafreight or a passion to join

• Previous experience within Seafreight or a passion to join

Our Internal Sales Administrators price and produce quotations on import and export consignments for Europa Worldwide customers. You will also be involved in a range of administrative tasks related to the pricing process. As well as holding direct conversations with customers in relation to these quotations, gaining feedback and trying to convert them into bookings.

the industry.

• Previous experience within a sales associated function.

• A confident person with a desire to progress and a basic sales skill set.

• Time management skills are essential as are communication (verbal and written) skills.

• Good understanding of the basic functions in EXCEL, and other Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word) • is desirable.

• Someone with a high level of attention to detail is critical to this role.

• English and maths at GCSE level C or above are an ideal.

Benefits: • Casual dress • On-site parking Schedule: • Monday to Friday Work remotely?

• No

Our Sales Administrators price and produce quotations on import and export consignments for Europa Worldwide customers. You will also be involved in a range of administrative tasks related to the pricing process. As well as holding direct conversations with customers in relation to these quotations, gaining feedback and trying to convert them into bookings.

the industry.

• Previous experience within a sales associated function.

• A confident person with a desire to progress and a basic sales skill set.

• Time management skills are essential as are communication (verbal and written) skills.

• Good understanding of the basic functions in EXCEL, and other Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word) desirable.

• Someone with a high level of attention to detail is critical to this role.

• English and maths at GCSE level C or above are an ideal.

Benefits: • Casual dress Schedule: • Monday to Friday Work remotely?

• No Please apply for this role on forwardingjobs.com

Please apply for this role on forwardingjobs.com

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

BRANCH MANAGER NEW JERSEY, USA £ D.O.E.

Job summary

The Branch Manager reports to the Regional Manager and is responsible for the financial performance, profitability, service delivery, client retention, new business growth, and operational excellence of the branch while maintaining a clientcentric focus. This position requires an in‐depth knowledge of the industry, strong leadership and sales skills and the ability to successfully drive change and motivate employees.

Essential duties & responsibilities • Full P/L responsibility; manages costs within the branch and looks for efficiencies and improvements; delivers on the bottom-line budget commitment • Develops and maintaining branch sales efforts, including managing sales staff, managing sales leads to and from overseas offices, joint sales calls with sales staff at customer location, cultivating and targeting growth accounts, sales and maintenance calls with customer accounts • Develops and maintains positive relationships internally across all departments and functional areas, as well as externally with customers and key suppliers • Facilitates positive communication with foreign and domestic offices, Sales, department managers, upper management, and/ or clients regarding quality service and related issues that affect our ability to meet the client’s requirements • Maintains compliance with all regulations of USA Customs/ IATA/TSA and other governing bodies • Coordinates the operations for all departments, monitoring workflows and management of resources to ensure and verify timely and accurate operational processes • Ensures internal Quality System goals, including ISO standards, are consistently in focus and energies are directed to their achievement • Collaborates with Sales and Operations teams to maximize the company’s presence with the mutual goals of retaining all existing business and gaining significant new business • Has direct responsibility for operational personnel hiring, promotions, reviews, termination, and disciplinary actions • Collaborates with upper management and staff to provide a healthy, challenging, and positive work environment allowing for individual growth, achievement and accomplishment consistent with the company’s objectives

Desired skills and expertise • Demonstrated management skills on multi-dept. level.

• Strong negotiation and presentation skills, including professional demeanor and excellent written, verbal and communication skills.

• Highly motivated, sales orientated with proven track record of successful Sales experience.

• Skilled in exercising diplomacy when resolving customer inquiries and problems.

• Integrity and ethical qualities of the highest standard.

Education and/or work experience requirements • College degree or minimum 5 years’ experience in International logistics, Customs operations, freight forwarding, supply chain management, import/export, and/or closely related field • Proven sales knowledge and abilities • Strong sales closing skills • Demonstrated Management skills on multi-department level • Proven track record of successful Sales experience • Intermediate knowledge of computers and data entry • Legally eligible to work in the US • Licensed Customs House Broker strongly preferred

Benefits • Medical-including Health Savings Account and Health Reimbursement Accounts

• Dental plan • Life & AD&D • Long Term Disability • Company matching 401(k) and Roth K Plans • Two weeks’ vacation, sick and personal time, floating holidays • AFLAC • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Company profile Our client is a multinational, dynamic freight logistics company with approximately 400 employees and growing, has international offices, as well as offices in key US cities.

Our client has grown to more than 30 U.S. offices and 250 network locations in over 120 countries around the world. jeremy@headfordgroup.com • 001 646 933 1264

UK

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VACANCIES Featuring...

CUSTOMS MANAGER, FREIGHT FORWARDING LONDON, UK £50,000–£70,000 (neg.)

Overview

Our client, based in Europe and Ireland, has 50 years of history in Freight, Logistics and Supply Chain solutions.

They are a global company with an eye to the future and they are looking to hire a leader for their Customs department that can grow with the company.

You will be commercially minded and able to switch between being the source of internal customs operational knowledge and being customer-facing.

The role

Reporting in to the MD, you will be part of the leadership team, looking after a team of customs professionals that you can hire and develop.

• Building and leading a team of customs professionals • Commercially able to drive business to the department • Control P&L and daily management duties • Inspire and motivate your team • Daily point of escalation concerning all UK Customs matters including Brexit-related questions

• Timely and accurate clearances to the Customs in the UK. • Advise and execute proper limited fiscal representation services in the UK • Monitor all Customs clearances.

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OCEAN IMPORT CLERK

FRANCE, GERMANY, IRELAND, POLAND, SPAIN £ COMPETITIVE

Overview

Headford Group is pleased to be closely working with one of our top clients to find the perfect candidates for the great roles they are offering.

The client is keen to take on any/all suitable candidates and is happy to pay a salary that reflects previous experience.

The role • Obtaining freight rates and providing quotations • Arranging Ocean freight • Preparation of collection notes, booking confirmations, etc • Liaising with customers, partners, shipping lines and carriers

• Client reporting and KPI’s • Customs formalities including processing export and import declarations, arranging customs clearance, and duty deferment processing

Skills and Experience: • A minimum of 2 years of experience within a similar role • A solid knowledge of the import and export market • Extensive working knowledge and experience of customs procedures and documentation

• Confident and effective communications skills

• Good skills with digital Customs systems • Strong Leader

(verbal and electronic), with the ability to build relationships with customers • The ability to work independently as well as within a team • Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, etc.)

• Keen attention to detail • Strong administrative and organisational skills

michaela@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 779

michaela@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 779

Experience • Degree preferred • > 5 years’ experience within Customs activities as a Manager

UK

UK

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staff forwardingjobs is a global recruitment solution for the freight & logistics industry. » Specialist recruitment service for the freight industry » Dedicated talent consultant for your roles » Brand awareness on forwardingjobs.com

» +44 (0)1454 275 937 » info@forwardingjobs.com » 8 Apex Court, Woodlands, Bristol BS32 4JT

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forwardingjobs.com

» Specialist job board for freight & logistics » A dedicated consultant to guide you in your career » Alerts to your inbox whenever a suitable role is available

Looking for your next role in freight? browse on forwardingjobs & upload your CV.

work FORWARDER magazine

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Fill your vacancies

Sales

Let us assist with your company's growth...

Back office

Europe +44 (0)1454 628 779 michaela@headfordgroup.com

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Operations Finance Management

USA Sourcing market-leading talent.

www.headfordgroup.com

Your strategic growth partner.

Executive Search • Branch Startups • Senior Appointments • Mergers & Acquisitions • Media

Considering a change?

More responsibility?

Fairer pay?

Better commission?

Send us your CV today...

Asia +1 (646) 933 1264 jeremy@headfordgroup.com

Middle East +971 (0) 45 015 675 simon@headford.ae

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MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS The consolidation of companies or assets through various types of financial transactions.

Related topics Contracted partnerships Management buyouts Valuation

Sponsored by F R E I G H T

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SURVITEC ACQUIRES HANSEN PROTECTION 6 MAY 2021

STRENGTHENING ITS POSITION AS THE GLOBAL LEADER IN SURVIVAL TECHNOLOGY

S

urvival technology leader Survitec today announced that it has completed the acquisition of Hansen Protection, a leading European provider of personal protective equipment.

The transaction reinforces Survitec as the global leader for survival technology across the maritime, defence and government, energy, and aerospace markets. Survitec’s complete portfolio and its wide-reaching footprint creates a single partner for customers across the globe.

The addition of Hansen Protection, and its leading portfolio in personal protective equipment, protective rainwear, and technical textile solutions, fits perfectly within Survitec. Our acquisition strategy is intended to broaden and deepen our offering and enhance our ability to service

Headquartered in Moss, Norway, with additional locations in

customers and this transaction does just that. The global reach and the

Denmark, Germany, The Netherlands, Sweden and the UK, Hansen

combined company’s products and services will offer greater value to our

Protection specialises in the design, manufacturing, distribution, and

customers by providing one single supplier for survival technology across

servicing of personal protective equipment, protective rainwear and

a number of categories, including immersion suits, lifejackets, liferafts,

boat canopies and textile solutions for a variety of tasks in harsh and

marine evacuation systems, fire systems and servicing. Hansen Protection

cold-water environments.

has built an outstanding brand, with a strong reputation for the consistent delivery of excellent products and services, and we are committed to

As part of its strategic growth plans, Survitec recently announced the

maintaining the brand and supporting its growth.

finalisation of a £270 million refinancing agreement, showing strong

Ron Krisanda, Executive Chairman, Survitec

support and confidence from the company's shareholders and lenders.

Joining forces with Survitec is the next logical step for the growth of

Survitec’s co-controlling shareholders, Searchlight Capital Partners,

our combined business. Coming together means that we can offer our

a leading global private investment firm, and M&G Investments, an

customers greater capabilities and capacity, access to a larger portfolio of

international asset manager, supported the company in both the

survival technology and wider geographic reach. We are two companies

refinancing of the business and the acquisition of Hansen Protection.

with a very strong alignment in culture, with safety and innovation in our

Hansen Protection was previously owned by the IK VII Fund, managed

DNA. Working together, we will lead the way in engineering and providing

by IK Investment Partners.

world-leading solutions for our customers across the globe.

Terje Gorm Hansen, CEO, Hansen Protection FORWARDER magazine

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MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS NEWS

THE CROSBY GROUP ACQUIRES SPEEDBINDERS 17 MAY 2021

INNOVATIVE LOAD BINDERS FOR SAFER & MORE EFFICIENT LOAD SECUREMENT

T

he Crosby Group, a global leader in lifting, rigging, and load securement hardware, today announced that it has acquired Speedbinders.com (“Speedbinders”). US-based Speedbinders

is a designer and manufacturer of pioneering load binders for heavy duty load securement. The Speedbinders products not only provide faster tie-down and release times for drivers, but also safer load securement with reduced strain and injuries.

We are thrilled to expand our best-in-class load securement portfolio with Speedbinders. The Torque Drive technology’s dual focus on enhancing worker safety and improving productivity for drivers is a winning combination for the industry. Speedbinders will provide additional opportunities for our valued channel partners, and together, we will bring this innovation to end-users worldwide.

Robert Desel, CEO, The Crosby Group Speedbinders’ solutions include Torque Drive load binders which use a portable power drill to secure loads, eliminating the need for repetitive, manual operations common with lever and ratchet binders.

It has been an incredible journey to see this business from concept to significant adoption and now a partnership with a world leader in load securement. I can’t think of a better steward of my business going forward and I look forward to supporting the continued adoption of Speedbinders in the market.

Steve Helline, Founder, Speedbinders

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F

reight forwarding and logistics company NTEX continues

From 1 June 2021, transport and freight forwarding companies Scanroad

along the road of expansion by acquiring Scanroad Sweden and

Sweden and Scanroad France are part of NTEX, one of Sweden's largest

Scanroad France. These are the company's eighth and ninth

private freight forwarding and logistics company. These acquisitions give

acquisitions since 2017.

NTEX strategically important market shares in both France and Belgium, and with local representation the company can now offer customers an even more efficient and broader range of services.

Scanroad is a company with a good reputation and well-established contacts. I am very pleased to welcome them into the NTEX family, which has now become one of the largest Swedish freight forwarding companies on the French and Belgian market.

Thomas Ström, NTEX founder & CEO Scanroad offers road transportations, intermodal transport services, SECU traffic, terminal handling and warehousing. Following the acquisition, Thomas Ström will be taking over as CEO of Scanroad Sweden, and Joseph Chérian will continue his work in the company, stationed in France, to expand traffic to Scandinavia. Franz Durot will continue as CEO of the subsidiary, Scanroad France, which will be changing its name to NTEX. Scanroad Sweden was founded in Gothenburg in 1996 and has since then mainly focused on transportation between the Nordic countries, Belgium and France.

The Swedish company currently has 12 employees and a turnover of approximately SEK 150 million. The French company has a turnover of approximately SEK 75 million and is seated in Lille, a city in northern France, close to the Belgian border. In total, the office and terminal in Lille currently has 16 employees, including drivers. Scanroad France also has five tractor units of their own.

NTEX ACQUIRES SCANROAD SWEDEN & SCANROAD FRANCE 19 APRIL 2021

BECOMING ONE OF SWEDEN'S LARGEST FORWARDERS IN FRANCE & BELGIUM FORWARDER magazine

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MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS NEWS

C.H. ROBINSON ACQUIRES COMBINEX HOLDING 12 MAY 2021

TO EXPAND ITS EUROPEAN ROAD TRANSPORT FOOTPRINT

C

.H. Robinson (NASDAQ: CHRW) further expands its European road transportation presence with the

ABOUT C.H. ROBINSON

announcement of the acquisition of Combinex Holding B.V.

C.H. Robinson solves logistics problems for companies across

(Combinex). Combinex is one of the fastest growing forwarders in

the globe and across industries, from the simple to the most

the Benelux region, specialised in transport services for dry, fresh and

complex. With over $21 billion in freight under management and

frozen goods.

19 million shipments annually, we are one of the world’s largest logistics platforms. Our global suite of services accelerates trade

The acquisition is a great opportunity for C.H. Robinson and will

to seamlessly deliver the products and goods that drive the

strengthen our existing footprint in Europe, particularly our presence in

world’s economy. With the combination of our multi-modal

Western Europe. Combinex will also offer us additional haul capabilities

transportation management system and expertise, we use our

with a dedicated fleet, expanding our reach in the short-medium haul

information advantage to deliver smarter solutions for our more

market. I am excited to welcome Arie Troost and his experienced team

than 105,000 customers and 73,000 carriers globally.

to the C.H. Robinson family.

Jeroen Eijsink, President Europe, C.H. Robinson

Our technology is built by and for supply chain experts to bring faster, more meaningful improvements to our customers’

This is an exciting day for us at Combinex, as we bring together our

businesses. As a responsible global citizen, the company takes

strong offerings and incredible talent to compliment C.H. Robinson’s

great pride in contributions to support causes that matter to

services, technology and presence in Europe. Combining our diversified,

our company, our Foundation and our employees. For more

loyal client base, reliable network of transporters and dedicated fleet

information, visit www.chrobinson.com

and owned trailers with C.H. Robinson’s scale and expertise, will allow us to provide even better services to our customers.

Arie Troost, Founder & CEO, Combinex

ABOUT COMBINEX HOLDING B.V.

C.H. Robinson’s European road transportation business spans across

Combinex Holding B.V. was founded in 2006 by Arie Troost

all the major trade lanes in Europe. Its global freight forwarding division

and it is a freight forwarding company specialised in transport

offers global air, ocean, and customs services. This announcement

services for dry goods and fresh & frozen goods throughout

follows two recent European company acquisitions in 2019, including

Europe, providing both full truckload and less than truckload for

Dema Services, a leading provider of road transportation based in Italy,

dry goods, and full truckload for fresh & frozen goods.

and Space Cargo, a global freight forwarding group in Spain.

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@Catax_Group Catax Group

www.catax.com

Let Catax uncover the hidden value in your business today.

Uncover your hidden value If you are developing and refining your business, we can help you uncover thousands of pounds in tax relief.

Many freight businesses are eligible for government-backed specialist tax relief, but most aren’t even aware it exists.

Catax is the market-leading specialist tax relief consultancy, experts in Research & Development (R&D), Capital Allowances and more.

Research & Development tax relief rewards those innovating; if you have invested in anything from new systems, processes, products, materials, devices, or any changes to the way your business works, Catax could help you claim an average of over £61,000.

Our consultants have helped road and air freight distribution specialist, E-Gistics Ltd,

receive a £131,000 cash injection following the development of its revolutionary new online distribution platform for vendors and independent hauliers.

We are the trusted specialists for thousands of clients across the UK, offering a consultative approach to maximising your return on investment. So far, we have helped our clients uncover over a quarter of a billion pounds.

“From first introduction to completion, the entire process was managed very well providing us with a healthy claim.”

Geoff Hill, Rase Distribution Ltd Contact us today on: t: 0797 970 0003 e: richard.armstrong@catax.com

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M&A for the global freight & logistics industry enquiries@freightmergers.com +44 (0)1454 628 771 Freight Mergers are specialists in selling owner-managed freight forwarding, transportation and logistics businesses. For most company owners, selling their business is the most important financial transaction of their life. Therefore, we tailor our services to each individual client’s needs, utilising our mastered, proactive approach to selling businesses that connects strategic buyers with sellers who are aiming to realise the value of their business.

We have over ten years of experience in the sector and, due to our specialist approach and unparalleled network, we can put you in touch with international and domestic trade buyers.

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F R E I G H T

Are you planning to buy or sell a freight forwarding company?

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MEDIA & MARKETING

The promotion and dissemination of knowledge and information about products and organisations both externally and internally.

Related topics Website design Social media Promotional techniques

Sponsored by

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17 MAY 2021

TOP TIPS TO

SUPERCHARGE YOUR PRODUCT FEEDS

TO DRIVE MORE SALES THROUGH GOOGLE SHOPPING, FACEBOOK, PINTEREST...

Interactive workshop | 23 June 2021 | 2pm IRX Engage digital platform

N

owadays online shopping and marketing channels are your gatekeepers to the digital shelf - so are your product feeds getting past these gatekeepers?

Join other marketers and industry expert Matt Bailey at an interactive workshop on Wednesday 23 June at 2pm to get top tips such as: 1. Optimising your product data 2. Implementing complex custom label strategies 3. Using images to educate your customers.

4. Using third-party data to enhance your offerings such as competitor pricing, current weather or exact location co-ordinates You can also find out what other retailers are doing to cut through the competition and make sales.

Numbers are limited, so please reserve your place at the workshop today at internetretailingexpo.com!

PLEASE GET IN TOUCH & SEND US YOUR NEWS editor@forwardermagazine.com

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Deep sector knowledge.

Digital expertise.

Professional & friendly service.

b e W n g i s de e h t for ht g i e fr stry u d in

+44 44 (0)1454 628777 hello@freightwebsite.design

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m o r f es c i r P VAT

+ 9 4 9 £

ign s e ent d tion m b a p e s i o ort l W m e p i t v p p su b de gine o & e e W en anc n h e c t r ain ting Sea e m k , r ting ma a i d Hos me l a i Soc

We have unrivalled experience in web design, web development and SEO, along with web hosting, support and maintenance, giving you ultimate peace of mind.

As a part of Freight Solutions Consulting we are unparalleled when it comes to social media and digital marketing, meaning maximum brand exposure for your business.

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DO YOU NEED HELP WITH MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS? 144

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Freight Solutions is an outsourced marketing solution for the freight industry.

Traditional marketing

Digital marketing

App design

Print is not dead. Nor is the postal

The average adult spends most of their

The ultimate in customer engagement.

system. Both work perfectly well, so

day looking at a screen. Checking their

Mobile usage now outweighs desktop,

let‘s use them. In fact, in this digital

news feed, in front of their computer,

so give your audience a focused, useful

age, high-end print actually stands out

on social media, online shopping,

portal where you control the content

more than it used to.

watching TV. Be on those screens.

and they remain interested.

• FORWARDERmagazine.com

• FreightWebsite design

• FreightApp.design

• Advert design for your own use

• eShot campaigns

• Postal mailshots

• Social media

Book a meeting hello@freightsolutions.com +(0)1454 628 777 FORWARDER magazine

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F R O M F O R W A R D E R M A G A Z I N E • P O W E R E D B Y F R E I G H TA B A S E

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GIVING BACK

We know you're a generous, caring bunch in the freight world.

Let us help you get your message out there...

Related topics Charity Fundraising Environment

Sponsored by

148 148 FORWARDER magazine

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24 MAY 2021

IAG CARGO CONTINUES WITH

AID EFFORT TO INDIA WITH FLIGHT CARRYING 5000 ITEMS OF MEDICAL SUPPLIES

I

AG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG)

We all have a part to play in the continued fight against COVID-19, and

and its sister airline British Airways has transported further aid to

I am grateful that we are able to support our Indian friends again with a

India for the second time in two weeks. The total weight of the

further 26 tonnes of urgent medical aid during this very difficult time. I am

cargo-only flight was 18 tonnes, made up of five thousand pieces of

hugely grateful to all those who have worked hard to make this second

urgent medical aid as the crisis continues to grip India.

relief flight to India happen - IAG Cargo will continue to work with our

The B777-200 was loaded with PPE supplies and oxygen concentrators

partners to support India with much needed medical equipment.

John Cheetham, Chief Commercial Officer, IAG Cargo

for frontline hospital workers from charities including Oxfam, Khalsa Aid, Christian Aid and LPSUK. The flight departed London-Heathrow

IAG Cargo and British Airways have continued to keep a vital air link

at 5pm on Friday 21 May and landed in Delhi at 05:45 am (local time) on

open between London and India throughout the pandemic, sending aid

Saturday 22nd May. IAG Cargo and British Airways has worked with

on scheduled flights, but this is a special charter that has been funded

fuel partner, BP to ensure the flight is carbon offset.

by British Airways and IAG Cargo.

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GIVING BACK NEWS 7 MAY 2021

DRIVETECH ANNOUNCES ROADPEACE AS

NEW CORPORATE CHARITY PARTNER

D

riveTech, part of the AA, has selected RoadPeace as its charity

I want to say a huge thank you to DriveTech for selecting RoadPeace as

partner. The driver training specialist will be dedicating its fundraising

its nominated charity partner. We rely on donations to be able to make

initiatives and corporate donations to the national charity for road

a difference to those impacted by road collisions, so support of this kind

crash victims, with the aim to raise at least £5,000 over the next year.

from DriveTech will mean a lot to so many. I wish Colin and Des the best of luck when they join Andy Cox for part of his 200km challenge. It’s an

RoadPeace was selected by DriveTech due to the vital support it provides

incredible challenge that Andy’s undertaking, not only to raise money for

to injured road victims and bereaved families, as well as the work it does

our charity but further raise awareness of the issue of road safety.

to reform the justice system in relation to collisions and their victims.

Nick Simmons, CEO, RoadPeace

DriveTech is kicking off its support by joining Det Chief Supt Andy Cox

RoadPeace is a wonderful charity and I’m delighted that DriveTech

for part of his 200km challenge during UN Global Road Safety Week,

is able to support its work. We will be working hard to raise

from 17-23 May. Andy, head of crime at Lincolnshire Police, is running

donations, with DriveTech helping with match-funding along the way.

the distance from Crystal Palace, London, the site of the first ever

We’re also appreciative of the support of Road Safety Support (RSS)

UK road collision, to the RoadPeace Wood at the National Memorial

in helping to really raise the profile of this valuable challenge. I can’t

Arboretum, in Staffordshire. His aim is to raise an incredible £25k

think of a better way to launch our partnership than during the UN

for RoadPeace. Two of the DriveTech team, Colin Paterson, head of

Global Road Safety Week and getting behind the amazing challenge

marketing and Des Morrison, director of police & public sector business,

that Andy Cox is undertaking. We all wish him the best and hope

will be joining Andy for a day of his journey to help raise awareness of

Des Morrison and I can keep up!

the challenge and bring in the donations.

Colin Paterson, Head of Marketing, Drivetech

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I

n the race to the top for climate leadership, two regions stand out – the UK and the Nordics. Although the UK now has stronger climate goals, arguably the Nordics lead the effort to transform

OTHER LEADING STORIES:

• Sweden has retreated from climate goals, Thunberg claims • Nel enters hydrogen collaboration with America’s First Solar

industry, business and society. If British people want to understand

• Norwegian researchers, SINTEF, 'see giant market for hydrogen'

more what is coming down the pike, they need look no further than

• New Norwegian battery laboratory to provide start-up assistance

across the North Sea.

to battery manufacturers • Soros company invests in self-driving Swedish electric

Now, Mundus Nordic Green News is bringing you the latest on the green transition – free and direct to your inbox, each weekday.

truck maker, Einride • PowerCell Sweden and Hitachi ABB Power Grids deepen collaboration

Launched in the summer of 2020, Mundus Nordic Green News

• Quantafuel chief executive sees 4-6 pyrolysis plants in Germany

follows the green transition in the Nordics with curated stories for

• Equinor acquires Polish solar energy company

the media, businesspeople, policy experts and anyone who wants to understand what works and what does not. Our mission is to contribute

This month's content in Mundus Nordic Green News is brought to

to the exponential scale-up of climate trade, focusing on the green

you by BASF.

industrialisation of the economy. We identify and report the stories with the greatest international relevance - from clean hydrogen and CCS to Greta Thunberg.

Here is a snippet of our content…

Last week’s highlights The biggest story came from Finland, whose government has decided on clear measures to halve transport emissions by 2030. In addition to more walking and bicycling, Finland will rely initially on a large-scale take up of electricity and biogas, before new biofuels and “mobility services” come into effect later in the decade. Hydrogen development continues to receive a lot of attention, especially in Norway, as companies position themselves in the hope of becoming a winner. Meanwhile, last year’s stock market rockets, are falling back towards earth, given tricky times for market leaders, Vestas, Orsted and the Aker babies in Norway.

11 MAY 2021

INSIGHTS FROM THE

CUTTING EDGE OF THE GREEN TRANSITION FORWARDER magazine

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ith online shopping reaching new heights throughout

Offsetting Carbon Emissions

the various lockdowns in the last twelve months, we

Something that has become more popular over the years and which

feel confident that many of us reading this and beyond

many companies have begun offering their customers. Offsetting carbon

have had experience with shipping of some sort in recent times.

emissions is the process of enabling companies or organisations the opportunity to invest in environmental projects across the world as a

While it can seem challenging to think of how shipping goods worldwide

means of balancing out any carbon that might be produced within their

could be done in an eco-friendly manner, there are ways that companies

business processes.

big and small can do just this. However, what should you consider when wanting to establish a shipping business that focuses on being

Companies big and small have begun to invest heavily in this as an option

sustainable? Read on to find out more.

for their shipping and manufacturing processes, so it is undoubtedly worth considering in your own business proposal moving forward.

Sustainable Packaging Options

Taking responsibility for unavoidable carbon emissions will not only

One of the main ways to establish yourself as a sustainable shipping

give you the reputation of a business that cares but one that is leading

business is by providing your customers with an eco-friendly packaging

the way in tackling climate change.

option. With more interest in being environmentally friendly and opting for things that would be recyclable, or which could be broken down over time, this is undoubtedly an ideal place to start when wanting to be sustainable as a shipping business.

Packaging is at the heart of shipping goods worldwide, regardless of whether the product being sent is fragile or not. Eco friendly polythene is provided to interested companies such as yourselves, from businesses like Polythene UK. Learn more about Polythene here to understand how it could benefit your business.

Furthermore, you could also offer your customers the opportunity to return any packaging they may no longer want, in exchange for rewards or some sort of discount on a future order. Offering an incentive wherever possible is sure to encourage customers to take part and get on board.

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Ship Items in Bulk

While these are but a handful of the things that could be done

It goes without saying but minimising the number of vehicles that are

when wanting to establish yourself as an eco-friendly shipping

used to ship an item, or minimising the number of journeys that are

business in 2021. We hope you go forth with confidence that

taken to deliver a product, would drastically reduce the amount of

whatever you choose to do, is effective both long and short term.

carbon that is produced throughout the lifetime of that product.

Ella Woodward, Contributing Writer, businessella.com By making a conscious effort to ship items in bulk wherever possible, you would be killing two birds with one stone. You would be minimising the number of journeys taken to deliver a product while also halving the amount of packaging that is used.

Linking to our previous point, you could even offer a discount or incentive to customers who order products in bulk. This would be beneficial for both yourselves as a business but to the customer as a consumer. Pretty ideal, if you ask us.

HOW TO BE AN

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e hope you had a good read and were able to take something away with you...it was quite a big one.

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