17th February 2025 - Analytiqa's complimentary weekly bulletin to assist you to stay ahead of all the latest news and developments across the global supply chain
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Welcome to the latest edition of Analytiqa's weekly Logistics Bulletin reviewing the calendar period of 10 February 2025 - 14 February 2025
This week’s Logistics Bulletin reports on record revenue for both Q4 and full year 2024 at GXO Logistics. The Company accelerated organic growth sequentially throughout the year and closed more than US$1.0 billion of new business wins for the second consecutive year, with an average contract length above its long-term average of five years. It won its largest-ever contract, of US$2.5 billion lifetime value, in health sciences and finished the year with about 60.0% more new business won in eCommerce year over year.
The Company also saw over 40 existing customers, including Boeing, Guess, Michelin and Nespresso, expanded into new geographies with GXO. Germany is now the Company’s fastest-growing market, growing its revenue there by 60.0% year on year.
Looking ahead, GXO’s 2025 financial outlook anticipates organic revenue growth of 3.0% to 6.0%, reflecting its confidence in core business growth, the phasing of start-ups, the impact of foreign exchange, and current expectation of the timing of the Wincanton regulatory review. The strength of the Company’s pipeline and the pace of new business wins continue to benefit from structural tailwinds such as outsourcing, automation and eCommerce.
Corporate & Market News | Service Developments | Outsourcing News | Warehouse & Distribution Centre News | Technology | Fleet & Environmental | Personnel & HR Developments
14-02-2025
Japan Post has published its results for the nine-month period to 31 December 2024. Consolidated ordinary income for the nine months amounted to ¥8,325,991 million (down ¥106,615 million year-on-year), of which the postal and domestic logistics business segment (Japan Post Transport, JP Rakuten Logistics and JP Logistics Group) accounted for ¥1,550,619 million (up ¥66,032 million year-on-year). The post office business segment accounted for ¥767,117 million (down ¥11,659 million year-on-year).
The international logistics business segment (Toll Holdings) accounted for ¥396,924 million (up ¥62,678 million year-on-year).
The real estate business segment accounted for ¥63,555 million (down ¥10,011 million year-on-year); the banking business segment accounted for ¥1,910,178 million (down ¥23,914 million year-on-year); and the life insurance business segment accounted for ¥4,334,362 million (down ¥226,384 million year-on-year).
Consolidated net ordinary income amounted to ¥702,594 million (up ¥182,265 million year-on-year) as a result of net ordinary loss of ¥36,189 million in the postal and domestic logistics business segment (net ordinary loss of ¥37,185 million in the same period of the previous fiscal year); net ordinary income of ¥30,559 million in the post office business segment (down ¥17,138 million year-on-year); net ordinary income of ¥2,748 million in the international logistics business segment (net ordinary loss of ¥549 million in the same period of the previous fiscal year); net ordinary income of ¥11,683 million in the real estate business segment (down ¥4,419 million year-on-year); net ordinary income of ¥441,128 million in the banking business segment (up ¥74,185 million year-on-year); and net ordinary income of ¥222,465 million in the life insurance business segment (up ¥97,066 million year-on-year).
At the Postal and Domestic Logistics Business segment, the volume of items handled was roughly on par with the same period of the previous fiscal year. Mail decreased but parcels increased. Operating income increased by ¥65.1 billion due to an increase in income from parcels, in addition to an increase in income from mail resulting from the revision of postal rates. The net operating loss was at the same level as in the same period of the previous fiscal year due to increases in personnel expenses and other expenses, despite the increase in revenue.
At the International Logistics Business segment, operating income (revenue) increased by ¥62.7 billion due mainly to an increase in income from the Global Forwarding business. Net operating income (EBIT) was at approximately the same level as in the same period of the previous fiscal year.
13-02-2025
PostNord has reported its results for the Q4 and full year periods of 2024. For Q4, the October–December 2024 period, net sales totalled SEK10,018 million (10,441), a decrease of –4.0% (–5.0%) in fixed currency for like-for-like units. Parcel volumes increased by 6.0% (–4.0%) as mail volumes decreased by –19.0% (–12.0%). Operating income (EBIT) totalled SEK385.0 million (124) and adjusted operating income (adjusted EBIT) amounted to SEK498.0 million (328)
Looking at 2024 as a whole, the Group has improved its results in every quarter. For the full year January–December 2024 period, net sales totalled SEK37,797 million (39,301), a decrease of –3.0% (–4.0%) in fixed currency for like-for-like units. Parcel volumes increased by 1.0% (–2.0%). Mail volumes decreased by –15.0% (–13.0%). Operating income (EBIT) totalled SEK135.0 million (–564) as adjusted operating income (adjusted EBIT) amounted to SEK961.0 million (500).
In Q4, Price increases for mail products offset the decline in mail volumes to some extent. Sales were also negatively impacted by the discontinuation of most of the operations in the Group’s Danish logistics business. The improvement in income was mainly due to the fact that improvement programmes continue to deliver as planned.
In addition, Increased parcel volumes, combined with a reduced per-parcel cost, had a positive impact on income. These developments were particularly evident at PostNord Sweden, which contributed significantly to the Group's earnings performance. Additionally, there were lower depreciation costs in the quarter as a result of impairments in the Danish operations in previous periods.
PostNord holds a strong position in the Nordics, thanks to a comprehensive infrastructure of terminals and parcel distribution points, combined with home deliveries. Improvement programmes in the parcel business are intended to create the conditions for profitable growth, moving forward. This includes developing and strengthening the Company’s Nordic offering.
During the quarter, the Company continued to expand its network of parcel distribution points in all countries. While investing in its network and the offering to drive continued growth, it is focusing in parallel on reducing costs, and within the Group there are a number of programmes in progress to improve efficiency at terminals and in transportation.
PostNord's sustainability agenda includes the goal of fossil-free transportation and operations by 2030. In Q4, the Company continued to pursue its climate goals by investing in biofuels and electrification. Also, it continued during the quarter to develop its customer offering: PostNord Sweden's Nordic Swan Ecolabel for eCommerce logistics shipments are now available on digital platforms in the second-hand market.
12-02-2025
GXO Logistics, Inc. announced results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024. In 2024, GXO delivered record revenue and adjusted EBITDA, and drove strong operating return on invested capital. It also accelerated organic growth sequentially throughout the year and closed more than US$1.0 billion of new business wins for the second consecutive year.
The Company reported that organic revenue growth accelerated sequentially each quarter in 2024. It closed more than US$1.0 billion of new business wins for the second consecutive year, with an average contract length above its long term average of five years, and won largest-ever contract, of US$2.5 billion lifetime value, in health sciences. GXO also finished the year with about 60.0% more new business won in eCommerce year over year.
The Company’s customer satisfaction scores are at an all-time high, and GXO was particularly proud that more than 40 existing customers, including Boeing, Guess, Michelin and Nespresso, expanded into new geographies with GXO.
In 2024, GXO completed the acquisition of Wincanton, which will accelerate its growth in key verticals, and it also expanded in new geographies like Germany, which is now the Company’s fastest-growing market, growing its revenue there by 60.0% year on year. GXO’s pipeline is up 15.0% year over year, and the pipeline in the Americas is up 20.0%.
Fourth quarter 2024 results saw revenue increase to US$3.3 billion, up 25.0% year over year, compared with US$2.6 billion for Q4, 2023. Organic revenue grew by 4.0%. Net income increased to US$100.0 million, compared with US$73.0 million for Q4, 2023. Adjusted EBITDA increased to US$251.0 million, compared with US$193.0 million for the Q4, 2023. GXO generated US$186.0 million of cash flows from operations, compared with US$215.0 million for Q4, 2023. In Q4, 2024, GXO generated US$127.0 million of free cash flow, compared with US$151.0 million for Q4, 2023.
Full year 2024 results saw revenue increase to US$11.7 billion, up 20.0% year over year compared with US$9.8 billion for 2023. Organic revenue grew by 3.0%. Net income was US$138.0 million, compared with US$233.0 million for 2023. Adjusted EBITDA was US$815.0 million, compared with US$741.0 million for 2023. GXO generated US$549.0 million of cash flows from operations, compared with US$558.0 million for 2023. GXO generated US$251.0 million of free cash flow, compared with US$302.0 million for 2023.
Net income to average invested capital and operating return on invested capital ratios were 14.0% and 46.0%, respectively, for 2024.
As of 31 December 2024, cash and cash equivalents (excluding restricted cash), debt outstanding and net debt were US$413.0 million, US$2.6 billion and US$2.2 billion, respectively.
GXO’s 2025 financial outlook is as follows:
> Organic revenue growth of 3.0% to 6.0%;
> Adjusted EBITDA of US$840.0 million to US$860.0 million;
> Adjusted diluted earnings per share of US$2.40 to US$2.60; and
> Adjusted EBITDA to free cash flow conversion of 25.0% to 35.0%
The Company’s guidance for 2025 reflects its confidence in core business growth, the phasing of start-ups, the impact of foreign exchange, and current expectation of the timing of the Wincanton regulatory review. The strength of the pipeline and the pace of new business wins continue to benefit from the structural tailwinds – outsourcing, automation and eCommerce – at its backs.
12-02-2025
Ryder has reported fourth quarter and full year 2024 results. It delivered strong results in 2024 and year-over-year earnings growth during the fourth quarter, despite ongoing freight market headwinds.
This marks the first quarter in the last eight with year-over-year comparable earnings growth. These results were driven by double-digit earnings growth in each of the segments, reflecting the strength of the Company’s contractual lease, supply chain, and dedicated businesses. The ability to generate ROE of 16.0% during this extended freight cycle downturn continues to demonstrate consistent execution and the resilience of Ryder’s transformed business model.
Supply Chain Solutions (SCS) delivered record fourth-quarter earnings which benefited from higher volumes and optimisation efforts in the omnichannel retail vertical. In Fleet Management Solutions (FMS), lease earnings growth more than offset headwinds in rental and used vehicle sales, resulting in solid pretax earnings as a percentage of operating revenue of 11.6%. Dedicated Transportation Solutions (DTS) also delivered record fourth-quarter earnings reflecting strong performance in the legacy business and the Cardinal acquisition.
Q4, 2024 total revenue climbed to US$3.2 billion, up 5.0%, and operating revenue (non-GAAP) reached US$2.6 billion, up 7.0%, reflecting acquisitions. Earnings from continuing operations climbed 9.0% to US$135.0 million.
Full-Year 2024 saw total revenue of US$12.6 billion, up 7.0%, and operating revenue (non-GAAP) of US$10.3 billion, up 8.0%, reflecting acquisitions. Earnings from continuing operations climbed 21.0% to US$489.0 million.
In Q4, 2024 FMS total revenue remained consistent and operating revenue increased 3.0%. Operating revenue reflected higher ChoiceLease revenue, partially offset by lower rental demand. FMS EBT reached US$152.0 million, up 13.0%. Used vehicle results were US$18.0 million compared to US$22.0 million in prior year, as used truck and tractor pricing declined 12.0% and 13.0%, respectively, from prior year, and declined 3.0% for trucks and 2.0% for tractors, sequentially from Q3, 2024.
SCS total revenue and operating revenue increased 3.0% and 4.0%, respectively in Q4, 2024. Total revenue primarily reflects increased operating revenue. The increase in operating revenue was driven by acquisitions, partially offset by lower sales activity. SCS EBT of US$90.0 million was up 58.0%. EBT growth primarily reflects stronger omnichannel retail performance from higher customer volumes and improved productivity.
DTS total revenue increased 39.0% and operating revenue grew 46.0% in Q4, 2024, with the increases due to acquisition. DTS EBT reached US$34.0 million, up 10.0%, due to acquisition benefits. The results continued to benefit from strong performance of legacy business.
Looking ahead, Ryder expect the positive momentum in its contractual businesses to continue into 2025, contributing to higher earnings in all business segments. The high end of the 2025 forecast range assumes continued contractual earnings growth and a very modest improvement in rental demand later in the year. The Company is confident that secular growth trends continue to support long-term revenue and earnings growth. It is anticipating 2.0% growth in total revenue in 2025.
12-02-2025
DFDS has reported ferry – freight total volumes in January 2025 of 3.3 million lane metres, 1.4% below 2024. North Sea volumes were below 2024 due to mainly lower automotive volumes. Mediterranean volumes were below 2024 following increased competition in one corridor. Channel volumes were below 2024 due to docking timing differences. Baltic Sea and Strait of Gibraltar volumes were both above 2024.
For the last twelve months 2025-24, the total transported freight lane metres increased 7.4% to 41.5 million from 38.6 million in 2024-23. The increase was 2.5% adjusted for Strait of Gibraltar added from January 2024.
On the Ferry – passenger side of the business, the number of passengers in January 2025 was 12.4% below 2024 and down 4.7% adjusted for the sale of Oslo-Frederikshavn-Copenhagen. The adjusted decrease was driven mostly by docking timing differences. The number of cars was 8.5% below 2024 and down 4.1% adjusted for route changes.
For the last twelve months 2025-24, the total number of passengers increased 42.7% to 6.6 million compared to 4.6 million for 2024-23. The increase was 2.9% adjusted for route changes.
DFDS reports monthly ferry volumes for freight and passengers to provide insight into the development of volume trends in its European route network enabling trade and travel in and around Europe. The February 2025 volume report is expected to be published on 12 March 2025.
12-02-2025
A.P. Moller Capital has signed a binding agreement to acquire a 51.0% stake in BERGÉ, a port infrastructure and logistics company of Bergé y Compañía, through a fund vehicle incubated by A.P. Moller Holding. This partnership aims to support the growth and development of BERGÉ to become the leading multipurpose port infrastructure company in Iberia and Latin America. Both partners have agreed to capitalise the Company to invest in new opportunities in the coming years to enable the expansion of port activities in both Iberia and Latin America.
BERGÉ is the leading operator in logistics services and solutions, integrating the entire supply chain to facilitate the global transportation of goods. It is a leader in Spain, with a presence in most relevant ports in Spain and Bayonne, focused on the handling of bulk, breakbulk, automotive and general cargoes. BERGÉ also operates in Mexico and Colombia. It has a wide operational, technical, and human structure, and a portfolio of services that includes stevedoring, ship agency, customs, maritime, air, and land transport, chartering, freight forwarding, project cargo, regular lines, as well as warehouse management, procurement and supplies, production support, and order management. It offers logistics solutions for various sectors such as agri-food and fertilisers, paper, steel, automotive, eCommerce, and food distribution, among others.
Both partners are committed to driving the long-term growth of BERGÉ and have agreed significant future investments to strengthen its position as a leading ports infrastructure and logistics company in Iberia and Latin America and meet growing demand.
The partnership between A.P. Moller Capital and Bergé y Compañía will permit BERGÉ to expand further in its growth trajectory with the added support of a strong partner like A.P. Moller Capital with deep experience in the wider logistics industry. BERGÉ will continue to grow in the multipurpose port sector in Iberia and Latin America and benefit from the combined industrial and financial expertise of both shareholders.
Under this agreement, the new Non-Executive Chairman of BERGÉ will be Joe Nielsen, representing A.P. Moller Capital. Jaime Gorbeña will be the Non-Executive Vice-Chairman, representing Bergé y Compañía, and Juan Aguirre will continue in his role as CEO.
The transaction is subject to approval by the relevant competition and regulatory authorities.
12-02-2025
Imperative Logistics Group announced the acquisition of DTH Expeditors, Inc. (DTH), a premium, high-touch domestic expedited services provider based in Atlanta, Georgia, US. DTH will become part of Imperative’s ASAP Expediting service offering, further enhancing its capabilities in the domestic expedited market, particularly in next-flight-out (NFO) services.
DTH specialises in high-touch, time-critical solutions for customers in healthcare, aerospace and aviation, and advanced manufacturing. Founded in 1999, DTH has built a reputation for excellent customer service, responsiveness, and reliability.
Mike Winslett, President and CEO of DTH, will continue to lead the business. DTH’s premium, high-touch service profile aligns perfectly with a commitment by Imperative Logistics Group to providing best-in-class critical logistics solutions. Expanding with DTH, it is enhancing its next-flight-out capabilities and strengthening its presence in key sectors like healthcare and aerospace.
Imperative Logistics Group remains committed to providing high-touch, time-definite logistics solutions across critical industries. The acquisition of DTH further strengthens its position in the domestic expedited services market, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of customers with excellence and reliability.
12-02-2025
Gebrüder Weiss is simplifying global supply chains for industrial and commercial companies in the Nuremberg metropolitan region. At the beginning of the year, the Company completed the integration of the air and sea freight forwarder B+A, which it acquired in 2023.
The new Air & Sea department is now integrated into the Nuremberg branch of Gebrüder Weiss, which previously focused primarily on land transport and logistics. Importing and exporting companies in the region will now benefit from a single point of contact for their international transport needs, thereby achieving greater stability for their supply chains.
With this step, the Company has developed Nuremberg into an all-round logistics location in one of the country's economically strongest metropolitan regions. An export quota of almost 50.0% shows that the goods produced here are in demand worldwide. It was therefore a logical step to combine all national and international transport services – including land transport, logistics solutions, air and sea freight – under one roof.
The Nuremberg Metropolitan Region is an urban agglomeration in Bavaria that includes not only Nuremberg, but also cities such as Fürth, Erlangen, Bamberg, Bayreuth and Hof, as well as numerous rural districts in the region.
In the Air & Sea sector, Gebrüder Weiss in Nuremberg specialises in weekly container crossings by ship from Asia. Groupage freight containers (LCL) loaded with goods for several consignors or consignees are shipped from Asia to Hamburg and then transported by rail to Nuremberg, where they are picked and delivered to regional companies. The same process applies in reverse.
Gebrüder Weiss has been operating in Nuremberg since 2017, employing a total of around 200 people at the location. The Company offers its air and sea freight services at central transhipment points throughout Germany: Hamburg, Bremen, Bremerhaven, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Munich.
11-02-2025
Aramex announced its audited financial results for the fourth quarter (Q4’) and full year (FY) ending 31 December 2024. Aramex achieved double-digit growth, with revenues increasing 11.0% YoY in the full year 2024 as well as Q4, 2024, reaching AED6.3 billion and AED1.7 billion, respectively. The growth was driven by strong contributions from all product lines – Consolidated Express (International Express and Domestic Express combined), Freight Forwarding and Logistics, as the Company’s integrated solutions catered to evolving consumer demands.
Gross Profit for the quarter grew 3.0% YoY to AED398.6 million and Gross Profit for the year grew 6.0% to AED1.5 billion with a corresponding GP margin of 24.0% for both periods, led by good contributions from consolidated express and logistics, which offset the decline in freight forwarding profitability. Net Profit for the year was AED142.0 million, up 10.0% YoY. EBIT for the Q4, 2024 period was AED89.0 million, representing a decline of 16.0% compared to Q4, 2023. As a reminder, EBIT in Q4 2023 was positively boosted by a one-time settlement of approximately AED15.0 million. For the full year period, EBIT grew 11.0% to AED297.0 million with a corresponding margin of 5.0%. Aramex ended the year with AED142.0 million in net profit, representing a growth of 10.0% in 2024 compared to 2023. For the Q4, 2024 period, net profit was AED66.0 million, down from AED77.0 million reported during the same period last year.
GCC and MENAT both grew double digit YoY in revenue and gross profitability in 2024. Oceania continued its turnaround journey, delivering almost 50.0% YoY growth in revenues and gross profitability in 2024.
Businesses continue to streamline supply chains by positioning inventory closer to key markets. As a result of this nearshoring trend, Aramex has seen an increase in domestic express and intra-regional cross border express activity, in addition to warehousing and fulfilment services. Aramex is well positioned to capitalise on this growing demand through its integrated solutions across its product portfolio, which plays a key role in shaping the company’s operational strategy.
With the strength of the topline and further gains in market share, Aramex continues to invest in technology and automation, which will contribute to further efficiencies and help unlock more value in its business. The Company continues to maintain a robust financial position with a cash balance of AED513.0 million and a Debt to EBITDA ratio of 2.9X (including IFRS16) as of 31 December 2024.
The devaluation of foreign currencies, and in particular the devaluation of the Egyptian currency had a material impact on the Company’s financial results. Excluding the EGP devaluation impact, Q4, 2024 Revenue was AED1.72 billion, Gross Profit was AED406.0 million with a corresponding GP margin of 24.0% and Net Income was AED68.0 million. Excluding the EGP devaluation impact, FY 2024 Revenue was AED6.4 billion, Gross Profit was AED1.53 billion with a corresponding GP margin of 24.0% and Net Income was AED144.0 million.
The International Express business reported Q4, 2024 revenues of AED615.1 million, a 6.2% decline YoY as the business has seen the flow of volumes from international express into domestic express, reflecting the ongoing nearshoring trend. The Company expects to see the impact of nearshoring volume flows from existing customers to continue throughout the first half of 2025. The FY 2024 performance remained robust at 5.0% revenue growth compared to FY 2023, with shipment volumes increasing by 20.0% to 28.0 million. Gross profit declined 14.0% in Q4, 2024 to AED194.9 million and was stable at AED780.8 million for the full year period. The gross profit margin declined from 34.0% to 32.0% for both the quarter and the full year, due to changes in customer profile and trade lanes adjustments with less long-haul and more cross-border activity taking place intra region in GCC and MENAT, reflecting the nearshoring trend.
The Domestic Express product delivered a strong performance with both revenues and volumes reporting double-digit growth in Q4 as well as the full year, underscoring the growing preference for local and regional logistics. Revenues for the fourth quarter climbed 33.0% YoY to AED480.7 million and 18.0% YoY to AED1.7 billion for the full year period. Growth is driven by strong volume growth of 17.0% YoY in Q4, 2024 to 31.0 million, with full-year volumes growing 11.0% YoY to 111.3 million. Growth is attributed to volume flows from international express, as well as significant volume growth from new and existing domestic express customers. Robust performance was reported from Oceania too, with both revenues and gross profitability increasing almost 50.0% YoY in 2024 on the back of the strategic actions and network consolidation implemented last year. Gross profit for Q4, 2024 increased by 45.0% YoY to AED113.6 million with a margin of 24.0%. For the full year period, gross profit increased 27.0% to AED398.4 million and a gross margin of 24.0%, up 200 basis points compared to 2023. The margin profile of the domestic express business benefitted from the change in business mix resulting from the nearshoring volumes flowing through the business. EGP devaluation impacted the financial profile of the Domestic Express Product. When excluding the EGP impact, Q4, 2024 revenue was AED487.0 million, gross profit was AED116.0 million and the gross profit margin was 24.0%.
Freight Forwarding demonstrated resilience, with revenues increasing by 21.0% YoY to AED464.5 million in the last quarter of 2024 and 15.0% for FY 2024 on the back of volume gains across all modes of transportation. The product continues to face margin pressures, with the gross profit margin softening both in the quarter and fiscal year, due to increasing competition and pricing pressure in the industry. Corporate initiatives are underway to enhance margin stability and build a stronger profitability profile for 2025.
Revenues for Contract Logistics grew 11.0% YoY to AED122.7 million in Q4, 2024, fuelled by new client acquisitions and expanded warehousing capacity. Full year revenues also grew by 6.0% in 2024, to AED455.3 million. Gross profit remained stable at AED21.0 million, with a corresponding gross profit margin of 17.0% for Q4, 2024, while the full year 2024 margin remained stable at 15.0%. Contract Logistics was impacted by currency exchange (FX), and in particular the devaluation of the Egyptian pound. Excluding the impact of the EGP, Q4, 2024 revenue was AED128.0 million, gross profit was AED23.0 million and the corresponding gross profit margin was 18.0%. Contract Logistics remains a core pillar of Aramex’s growth strategy, supporting the industry's shift toward regionalised supply chains.
In 2024, the Company’s diversified business model and disciplined cost management ensured financial stability despite macroeconomic challenges and increase in investments associated with its expansion strategy. Looking ahead, 2025 will be about smart, efficient growth, scaling the business while maintaining operational discipline and driving innovation across its network.
11-02-2025
Röhlig Logistics experienced growth in revenue, freight volume and gross profit in 2024. Despite a volatile market environment, the Company achieved gains in sea freight, air freight and contract logistics. This development was the result of the consistent implementation of Röhlig’s growth strategy, leading to market share gains in all business areas.
In the 2024 financial year, gross profit rose against the market trend by 5.0%, from €218.0 million to €229.0 million. In addition to the core markets of China and the US, Australia and Mexico contributed significantly to this growth. Moreover, the logistics company increased its shipment volume by 13.0%, following a 6.0% increase in 2023, further strengthening its market position.
Despite a continued challenging market environment, the Company achieved another strong result in the 2024 financial year, with an EBIT of €17.5 million. This confirms that, as a globally oriented and service-driven company, it is becoming increasingly attractive to large customers.
The positive business figures confirm the success of the strategy programme "#Connected for Growth", launched in 2024 to drive Röhlig’s growth strategy forward. The strategy is based on three key pillars: People, Network and Sales. This holistic approach ensures that Röhlig remains agile and, despite significant competition, remains ambitiously focused on sustainable growth.
Due to the continued demand for logistics services in Southeast Asia and Oceania, Röhlig has expanded its local capacities in Thailand by opening a logistics centre in the free trade zone in Rayong, near the port of Laem Chabang. Additionally, the Company has doubled its warehouse space in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Furthermore, Röhlig will open a 19,000 m2 logistics centre near Melbourne Airport, Australia, in spring 2025.
Following its market entry into Brazil and Japan in the previous year, Röhlig further expanded its network in 2024 by entering Canada and Ireland. After more than 20 years of successful collaboration, Röhlig acquired a majority stake in its long-standing partner AirOcean Ireland on 01 August 2024. Since January 2025, the Company has been operating under the name Röhlig Ireland. Röhlig is now present in 34 countries and in nearly all of the world’s 20 largest economies.
Looking ahead, the Company will continue to focus on growth in its core business, as well as expanding its sales and digital capabilities. Specifically, this means investments across all areas: in employees, in the training and development of the workforce, in operational systems, and in expanding its global network.
10-02-2025
Raben Group has acquired 100.0% of the shares of Dutch company DGO Express, which is part of Sent Waninge Group. The agreement was signed on 06 February 2025. Under this transaction, Raben takes over the DGO Express location based in Hoogeveen in the province of Drenthe, along with a fleet of 80 vehicles. The Raben family will also be joined by 130 employees.
DGO Express is a Dutch family-owned company that is part of the Sent Waninge Group and provides groupage road transport and warehousing services. The Company is located on the A28 highway, near the Hoogeveen junction, a strategic location that serves as a gateway to the northern Netherlands and the Benelux countries.
Raben Group is also a family-owned company that originated in the Netherlands and has more than 90 years of experience in the market. In the 1990s, the Company decided to develop business in Europe. Today Raben has more than 160 of its own locations in 15 European countries, has about 1,800,000 m2 of warehouse space and the Company's annual turnover exceeds €2.0 billion. In the Netherlands alone, the Company already has four branches and the Dutch headquarter is located in Oss.
By acquiring DGO Express, Raben is enhancing its local road network in the Netherlands, thus solidifying its position in contract logistics and groupage transport. This acquisition will benefit DGO customers by providing them with increased development opportunities across Europe and access to a robust and stable local network. Additionally, DGO employees joining Raben will enjoy new opportunities for growth and development.
10-02-2025
Press reports suggest that US vehicle logistics provider Jack Cooper is set to close its business after 97 years, following the loss of two major customer relationships. Already in 2025, it was reported that Ford had ended its approximate 40-year relationship with the Company and now General Motors, its biggest customer, is said to be following suit.
After the announcement of the contract termination with Ford, Jack Cooper had been negotiating with GM to agree a continued business relationship. The Company had been GM’s “Supplier of the Year” three times in the past 15 years, but last week the automotive manufacturer reportedly stopped loading new cars onto Jack Cooper trucks. There have been subsequent accusations from both parties as to which side caused the relationship to end.
Jack Cooper and GM had reportedly been in discussions for three months regarding GM supporting Jack Cooper’s capitalisation, though it would not have taken an equity stake. It has been suggested that GM was asking that Ford also take a role in strengthening Jack Cooper. However, the Company’s contracts with Ford did not allow it to make such a request. After GM’s approach to Ford on the subject was dismissed, Jack Cooper was said to have secured investment elsewhere, but GM is said to have used its veto power to reject that option.
Jack Cooper has asked its employees not to return to work, unless contacted by management. GM has reportedly found a new supplier to manage the work that was previously undertaken by Jack Cooper.
10-02-2025
The global economic landscape in 2024 presented both challenges and opportunities. The year began with stable margins supported by consistent demand. However, rising costs, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and shifts in global trade patterns affected profitability as the year progressed. Bertschi Group achieved in 2024 a turnover of CHF1.01 billion, representing a turnover growth of 5.0%. Last year, a considerable CHF90.0 million was invested in global expansions, in the construction of new multimodal logistics infrastructures in Antwerp and Rotterdam as the two major European ports, and in digitalisation. Bertschi Group achieved a positive financial result – however at a significantly lower level compared to previous years.
In Europe, the chemical industry faced in 2024 weak demand from key sectors such as construction and automotive, alongside persistently high energy costs. This contributed to Europe's continued shift from a net export to a net import market and significantly altering supply chain dynamics. Chemical production in major European markets has significantly dropped over the past two years, with a considerable number of permanent plant closures announced in 2024. With its global presence, Bertschi was able to offer customers agile and cost-efficient door-door-solutions from worldwide diversified sourcing points into Europe’s receiving markets.
Bertschi made significant strides in addressing the worldwide evolving chemical logistics landscape. The newly built Antwerp Zomerweg Terminal, opened in August 2024, has become a powerful hub for chemical imports to Europe from overseas. Strategically located in Europe’s largest integrated chemical cluster, the 60,000 m2 terminal focuses on the storage of Dangerous Goods (DG) and non-DG products in Tank Containers and Trimodal Services by rail, barge and truck. Equipped with state-of-the-art storage, heating, and multimodal transport solutions, the terminal was designed with global Supply Chain resilience in focus, integrating energy-efficient processes and modal shift from road to rail and waterways.
Complementing this investment, the significantly expanded Bertschi Rotterdam Botlek facilities now offer an additional 30,000 tonnes of DG Isotank storage capacity, integrated rail and barge connectivity, and enhanced operational efficiency. The significant infrastructure investments in Isotank-Farms at the two leading European seaports support the shift of chemical imports into Europe from drums and parcel tankers to tank containers, substituting also classical warehouses and port storage tanks for the more flexible, sustainable and cost-efficient storage of specialty chemicals in tank containers.
In Asia, adding to Bertschi’s existing global Isotank operations in Shanghai, Tianjin, and Singapore, and the Supply Chain Solutions Hubs in Singapore and Zhangjiagang (China), the Group expanded its footprint by launching new operations in Japan, Korea, and India. A new Joint Venture in Tokyo with Japanese partner Uyeno Group and a wholly owned subsidiary in Seoul were opened in the first half of 2024. They have already delivered promising results, with increasing global ISO tank transport volumes and deeper customer relationships. In addition, a strategic partnership with the Samsara Group has been successfully initiated in India.
Bertschi is ideally positioned to manage the increasing global trade flows of chemical products. Looking ahead to 2025, Bertschi aims to further expand its presence in support of the global growth strategy. With its global Isotank and supply chain solutions network, Bertschi can leverage its strengths to successfully position itself with innovative solutions for the rapidly changing flow of goods resulting from the new geopolitical situation.
Bertschi has significantly enhanced its customer service capabilities by automating its quotation, order tracking, and invoicing processes. This enables teams to focus on personalised customer engagement, improving reliability and strengthening customer relationships.
To enhance the industry’s gender balance, Bertschi co-initiated the Women in Logistics (WIL) consortium with 10 partners from the chemical and chemical logistics industry. Recognising the measurable benefits of diverse teams on decision-making and operational outcomes, the consortium is actively working to increase diversity in its operations and leadership.
Bertschi strengthened its focus on the transport and storage of decarbonised chemical products. Supporting the chemical industry’s shift from fossil fuels to recyclates and renewable raw materials, the Company is enabling its customers to align with global climate goals, including those set by the Paris Agreement.
Through its Bertschi Renewables initiative, the Company provides innovative logistics solutions for sustainable chemicals like SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), and pyrolysis oil. These products are critical for decarbonising industries and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Bertschi offers insetting options, such as deploying certified e-trucks and implementing a mass balance approach to further sustainability efforts. With over 90.0% of European container transports executed via rail or barge, Bertschi continues to lead the shift from traditional road transport to intermodal solutions, reducing carbon emissions in European distribution by up to 85.0%. Additionally, the gradual rollout of HVO- and electric-powered trucks for first- and last-mile delivery of containers from rail terminals further reduces the emissions within the supply chain.
The economic situation is likely to remain challenging for Bertschi in 2025, influenced by geopolitical and economic developments. The current shifts will pose some risks but also offer opportunities. The Group’s global business is working on positioning itself to take advantage of the expected stronger geopolitical fragmentation. It is focusing its growth on “bridge countries” in between major blocks, as these might rather develop economic advantages from the new situation.
A continuation of China’s export strategy of chemical products to global markets is anticipated. Through its strengthened presence in Asia, Bertschi is able to offer resilient Intra-Asian Isotank logistics and serve customers with comprehensive solutions in these markets. The US, with its favourable feedstock-costs, will remain a key focus of Bertschi’s strategic development. As the trade between the US and China will most probably undergo certain import tax related disturbances, Bertschi is prepared to provide sufficient and competitive door-door solutions through ‘bridge countries’. The Company’s global organisational integration of both Sea- and Land- transportation will ensure an efficient route and inventory management avoiding the need of safety stocks in receiving markets.
In Europe, many of the announced chemical plant closures as a result of Europe’s non-competitive high energy costs will be executed during 2025. In consequence, Bertschi’s European organisation will focus on the logistics of chemical import flows into Europe, which are expected to grow considerably, compensating for the European production losses. It is expected that the significantly expanded storage and multimodal transportation infrastructure in major ports in combination with the dense intermodal rail network across the European hinterland will compensate for the transport volume losses resulting from European plant closures.
Sustainability will be another key topic in 2025. Bertschi plans to expand its leading position in logistics for Renewable Chemicals and Energies. And the Company is planning next steps towards its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. Electric trucks may become available in the market from 2026, with approval to transport Dangerous Goods in tank containers by road in Europe. Bertschi plans to prepare the electric loading infrastructure at its first European company site to accommodate during 2026 for this new sustainability opportunity.
08-02-2025
SG Holdings has agreed with Morrison Express Holdings Corporation to acquire all the shares of Taiwan-headquartered global freight forwarder Morrison Express Worldwide Corporation through its subsidiary, SG Holdings Global. (SGG) or a newly established wholly-owned subsidiary of SGG, and has resolved to enter into a share purchase agreement.
In order to realise the Company’s corporate philosophy, the Company aims to ‘achieve consolidated operating revenues of 2.2 trillion yen in fiscal year 2030, using businesses other than parcel delivery services as growth engines, and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.’ In order to realise this long-term vision, the Company has formulated its medium-term management plan, SGH Story 2024, which is based on the basic policy of ‘creating a next-generation competitive advantage to realise sustainable growth’ and has been working on ‘strengthening international and overseas services’ as one of its key strategies.
Morrison and its affiliated companies (Morrison Express) is a leading global freight forwarder offering comprehensive logistic solutions including international freight forwarding, contract logistics, domestic transportation and customs clearance services. With a global presence spanning 94 offices and a network that supports operations in over 100 countries, Morrison Express is widely recognised as a top performer in the air freight forwarding sector.
Established in 1972, Morrison Express has transformed from a Taiwan-based regional forwarder into one of the world’s top 20 players in the air freight market. The success is built on a proven track record of strategic growth and operational excellence. Morrison Express plays a pivotal role in the high-tech industry by providing its logistics expertise across the highly complex value chain. Morrison Express serves a marquee customer base consisting of the world’s best-known technology companies, including semiconductor foundries, makers of semiconductor equipment, and branded mobile devices companies. This broad customer base underscores Morrison Express’ leadership and commitment to providing premium service in high-tech logistics.
In relation to the Company’s freight forwarding business, Morrison Express’ strength in air freight and high-tech verticals will be complementary with the ocean freight forwarding and commercial verticals (apparel and consumer goods) in which Expolanka, the Company’s core company, has its strengths. The decision regarding the Transaction was made based on the judgment that the Transaction will significantly contribute to the enhancement of the Company’s corporate value from the perspective of stretching the business domain in air freight forwarding business and strengthening the global logistics network centred on Asia.
The Company will acquire all shares of the Target Company from the Seller in cash through SGG or newly established wholly-owned subsidiary of SGG.
The Transaction is anticipated to complete in July. It will greatly contribute to the expansion of the Company’s international business in the future, but the Company expects that the impact the Transaction will make on the Company’s consolidated financial results for this fiscal year ending March 2025 is insignificant.
14-02-2025
Gebrüder Weiss has announced the opening of a new location in Phoenix, Arizona, as part of its continued growth in the US. This new facility will provide air and sea freight transport services including customs clearance and partial and full-load land transport.
The logistics company continues to expand its activities in North America, in particular to meet the demand for trade between the US and Mexico. Arizona is the most important state for transport to and from Mexico, while Phoenix itself is becoming increasingly important as a central transhipment point for trade across the southern border of the US. In 2023, nearly US$20.0 billion worth of cargo moved between Arizona and Mexico. Phoenix complements Gebrüder Weiss' existing Texas locations in El Paso and Laredo, which specialise in the cross-border transport of goods to and from Mexico.
The logistics services in Phoenix are a further building block in the development of Gebrüder Weiss and strengthen its position in this economically strong region. This allows it to offer customers greater flexibility in their transports and more reliable supply chains.
Gebrüder Weiss has continuously expanded its presence in North America in recent years and now operates a network of 17 locations. In addition to Phoenix, the Company recently opened a logistics terminal in Elgin, Illinois, as well as branches in Miami, Florida, Denver, Colorado and Dallas, Texas. In Salt Lake City, the company acquired the local freight forwarder Cargo-Link in 2024.
13-02-2025
In a new boost for Egypt’s automotive sector, DP World has successfully facilitated the first export shipment of passenger vehicles from the Ain Sokhna Port. The roll-on-roll-off (ro-ro) vessel ULUSOY 5 under the agency of KMA - Khedivial Marine Agency Egypt, recently departed for Jebel Ali, Dubai, carrying 498 locally assembled Nissan Sunny vehicles. The achievement underscores DP World’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s growing automotive industry and solidifying Sokhna’s position as a regional trade hub.
Having exported its first batch, DP World plans to ship as many as 10,000 vehicles this year to advance Egypt’s automotive sector and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
This first ro-ro export shipment is a significant step for Egypt’s automotive sector. It’s a testament to the collaborative efforts of DP World and Nissan Egypt. By leveraging its end-to-end capabilities to streamline customer supply chains, DP World is integrating Egypt into global trade networks. This helps local manufacturers reach new international markets and supports the long-term growth of the country’s economy.
As a comprehensive trade and logistics hub, DP World Sokhna is supporting Egypt’s growing automotive exports, and this milestone reflects DP World’s continued vision of unlocking trade value for the country as it gears up to play a greater role in regional and global supply chains.
Furthermore, DP World in Egypt offer customers integrated solutions from container handling, bulk, general cargo, project cargo, and passenger services, to logistics services, such as freight forwarding and 3PL solutions. This integrated approach allows manufacturers like Nissan to access seamless end-to-end logistics, connecting them to customers worldwide.
Over the past two decades, DP World has invested more than US$1.3 billion in modernising Ain Sokhna Port. Ongoing investments, including a network of freight forwarding offices, integrated 3PL services, and the development of a logistics park, are further enhancing Egyptian supply chains and facilitating efficient trade.
13-02-2025
Unipart has launched operations in Vietnam. Unipart’s capabilities in Vietnam include the provision of consultancy, logistics & transportation, planning & supply chain management, improvement technologies, and distributor & wholesaler products and services for customers.
Vietnam’s thriving manufacturing sector is reported by The World Bank to have grown by an average of 10.0% annually over the past decade. Vietnam’s eCommerce market is projected to reach US$56.0 billion by 2025. In January 2025, Foreign Direct Investment pledges, an indicator of future disbursements, increased by 48.6% from a year earlier to US$4.33 billion, according to the Vietnam Ministry of Planning and Investment.
Vietnam is Unipart’s 22nd market and sixth market in the Asia Pacific region. Unipart has extensive experience working with customers in this region for the past three decades, making supply chains more efficient, resilient and sustainable across a number of sectors including automotive, e-commerce, rail, and industrial.
Unipart Vietnam Territory Director Richard Nguyen will lead Unipart’s operations in Vietnam, bringing more than 20 years of experience in commercial, operational, and management roles within freight and logistics across Asia and Canada. He has a proven track record of successfully leading sales and customer service teams, along with extensive expertise in warehousing and distribution.
12-02-2025
FedEx has expanded FedEx International Connect Plus (FICP), its international, day-definite, eCommerce shipping service, in Malaysia. Already available for e-tailers operating within Asia Pacific, the service now empowers Malaysia-based e-tailers with a reliable and cost-effective shipping solution to key destinations in the US and Europe.
The expanded coverage of FICP aligns with the Company’s commitment to support the growth of cross-border eCommerce from Asia to the US and Europe. This initiative addresses the needs of Malaysian e-tailers who are increasingly seeking diversified and cost-effective solutions to meet their customers’ evolving demands. Malaysia’s eCommerce market is projected to reach approximately US$15.0 billion by 2027. Government initiatives such as the National eCommerce Strategic Roadmap and the establishment of Digital Free Trade Zones have played an instrumental role in empowering local small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) and facilitating cross-border eCommerce, fuelling growth in this sector.
FedEx provides end-to-end eCommerce solutions that make order fulfilment easy and efficient for merchants while offering convenience and reliability for customers receiving deliveries. FICP comes with the reliability of FedEx international, day-definite delivery service, coupled with its customs clearance expertise. It is further supported with capabilities including tracking, sending notifications to recipients, and flexible delivery options and visibility features via FedEx Delivery Manager International.
FICP also offers Picture Proof of Delivery to provide visual confirmation of delivery and reassure recipients that their package has been delivered, even when they may not be at home to receive it.
12-02-2025
Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) has stepped in to help minimise the impact of a series of scheduled strikes across Belgium that include air traffic control operators, handlers and security personnel. The Netherland’s second largest air cargo hub is set to welcome the extra passenger and cargo flights already scheduled, with MST prepared to manage further flights as demand requires.
National strikes across Belgium, planned for 13 February, have caused major disruption to passenger and cargo flights, with no flights planned to take off from or land at Belgian airports, including Brussels and Liège.
Ethiopian Cargo has also announced that it will be operating additional flights to MST in the coming weeks.
Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) is the second largest cargo hub in the Netherlands. Founded in 1945, the airport, in the province of Limburg, is a key import station for flowers and the handling of dangerous goods. The airport has no slot restrictions and full Fifth Freedom rights. It is IATA CEIV-Pharma certified, and has its own maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities.
MST reported an on-time performance of over 98.0% last year for cargo handling, which explained the speedy times of cargo handling at the airport, with the industry benchmark for a good performance standing at 95.0%.
11-02-2025
CLdN has announced an increase in frequency and freight capacity on its Zeebrugge-Teesport route. This increase is driven by growing customer demand for the service which provides direct and reliable access for freight units to and from the North East England and Scotland.
The increase will come into effect from the end of February and will be achieved through a combination of adding an additional round trip sailing per week and by deploying higher capacity ships on the route. The addition of two very large RoRo newbuilds to CLdN’s extensive and modern fleet later this year, allows for this rapid response to customer requirements.
This fleet expansion also further enhances CLdN’s ability to ship unaccompanied freight across the North Sea with lower CO2 emissions than any of its competitors.
CLdN is the leading provider of RoRo freight connections between mainland Europe and the East coast of the UK. At Zeebrugge, customers can place their cargo in one terminal hub and choose to ship to any one of CLdN’s terminals on the East coast of England: Purfleet, Killingholme (Humberside) and Teesport, offering significant ‘last mile’ logistics benefits.
14-02-2025
Maersk and Castlery, the Singapore-founded international furniture brand, have signed a 10-year ocean and integrated logistics service agreement, extending their strategic partnership as Castlery continues its global expansion.
With plans to enter new markets and strengthen its footprint in existing ones, Castlery is poised for significant growth in the coming years. As Castlery scales globally, the partnership with Maersk will be instrumental in supporting this next phase of growth. Maersk will provide end-to-end logistics solutions, covering ocean freight, intermodal transportation, and distribution, alongside strategically located warehousing in key markets. This ensures supply chain resilience, efficiency, and sustainability – key pillars in today’s unpredictable global environment – while enabling Castlery to deliver its furniture swiftly and reliability to customers worldwide.
The collaboration builds on years of working together, with Maersk’s solutions contributing to the optimisation of Castlery’s supply chain operations, inventory management, and last-mile logistics. With the introduction of Maersk’s new network under the Gemini Cooperation, Castlery is set to benefit from enhanced reliability and improved delivery lead times, allowing for leaner inventory and better cost efficiencies.
Beyond logistics, sustainability is a shared priority. Castlery has already begun leveraging Maersk’s Eco Delivery solutions for ocean freight and inland via electric trucking, aligning with both companies’ efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
13-02-2025
Arvato is expanding its long-standing partnership with the DOUGLAS Group. In the 25th year of the successful collaboration, the 3PL will now also handle the fulfilment for the DOUGLAS Group's customers and stores in Italy, Poland, Central Eastern Europe, and the Baltic countries, in addition to the DACH region.
The centre pieces of these services will be two new distribution hubs in Italy and Poland. The first one is a new 46,000 m2 distribution centre in Mszczonów, near Warsaw, Poland. The second site in Bologna will be taking care of warehousing and fulfilment for the complete Italian region on 18,000 m2 of warehouse space. Both logistics centres will be equipped with a high degree of automation technology and optimally support the DOUGLAS Group's omnichannel strategy.
Especially the new hub in Mszczonów will not only meet but exceed ESG standards. It will be one of only ten warehouse properties in Poland with a BREEAM certificate at the highest level “Outstanding”. This includes intelligent and consumption-optimised lighting control and the implementation of smart metering systems to monitor energy consumption. Heat pumps serve as an energy source for both heating and cooling and a photovoltaic system on the roof. Operations are expected to commence in the second half of 2025.
The new warehouses in Italy and Poland will, similar to the site in Hamm, fully function as omnichannel warehouses with a shared inventory for both B2C (eCommerce) and B2B (stores) orders. They thus optimally support the DOUGLAS Group’s omnichannel business: Europe’s leading omnichannel destination for premium beauty strives to improve the customer experience in both stores and eCommerce through, among others, better product availability and reduced shipping times. Both warehouses will initially only supply the domestic markets, with more countries to follow at a later date.
12-02-2025
ID Logistics is in charge of the logistics operations of Purflux Group, a major player in the manufacture of filtering equipment for the automotive industry. From September 2025, the ultra-modern Laronxe site, located near Nancy, France, will become the strategic distribution centre for Europe, the French Overseas Territories and Africa.
Faced with its rapid growth, Purflux Group decided to centralise its logistics operations on a larger and more efficient site. The choice fell on Laronxe, in the Grand Est region, thanks to its strategic location, its available surface area and its facilities already in place. This 32,000 m2 site, including 12,000 m2 dedicated to Purflux, will ensure from 01 September 2025 the reception of products from the factories, the preparation of orders and shipping, both in France and internationally.
ID Logistics formulated a tailor-made solution, meeting Purflux's specific needs. The high-capacity warehouse will therefore offer state-of-the-art storage solutions, including a very high narrow rack (11.50 m), allowing an impressive densification of more than 9,000 SKUs and a storage capacity of 20,000 pallets. This large-scale project will mobilize 49 employees, trained in ID Logistics standards, to guarantee perfect integration from the first days of activity.
Innovation is at the heart of this collaboration. In fact, in order to ensure maximum precision in the management of small automotive parts and to perfectly meet the constraints of its customer, ID Logistics has deployed the latest generation technologies in Laronxe:
> Pallet Shuttles: these AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) provide automated storage and retrieval of pallets. Once the order is validated, the robot collects the pallet and places it directly in the shipping areas for quick loading into the trucks. AMRs optimise the export management of pallets awaiting customs procedure on the docks.
> Mini load robot: also known as "goods to person", it manages the low-turnover and low-depth stock references that are related to the legal obligation to ensure the availability of automotive spare parts over a long period of time. The robot puts the parcels in the racks and brings them back to the operator when they need to be shipped.
> Put to spot trolleys: these order picking trolleys are equipped with LED projection, allowing operators to immediately see where each parcel should be deposited and help them avoid picking errors in multiorders.
10-02-2025
Hanjin Logistics has partnered with the eCommerce platform Qoo10 Japan to streamline shipping for Korean businesses expanding into the Japanese market. Hanjin will serve as an official logistics provider for QooJapan, integrating its digital logistics solution One Click with Qoo10’s sales manager system. This will allow sellers to manage shipments more efficiently, from domestic pickup in Korea to final delivery in Japan.
Hanjin’s One Click platform is designed to simplify logistics by offering direct pickup services, removing the need for sellers to transport goods to warehouses. The Company will use its logistics network to offer competitive shipping rates, particularly for small-parcel deliveries.
The system also enables sellers to manage domestic and international orders through a single platform, improving operational efficiency. To accommodate businesses at different growth stages, Hanjin has introduced tiered service options, including One Click Pro for expanding businesses and One Click Global for international vendors. A volume-based pricing model will further reduce costs as shipping volume increases.
This partnership will support Korean businesses in expanding their presence in Japan by providing efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions.
08-02-2025
Ford Otosan and Mars Logistics are taking a significant step toward sustainable and environmentally conscious transportation. A new intermodal transport route has been launched to enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of logistics operations between Ford Otosan’s Craiova Plant in Romania and Türkiye.
Under this new system, production parts will be shipped from Türkiye to Romania, while vehicles manufactured in Romania will be transported to Türkiye via rail. This transition aims to reduce emissions by 63.0% compared to road transport, making logistics operations more efficient and cost-effective.
As Europe’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer and Türkiye’s first and only automotive producer with the capacity to roll out vehicles from two continents, Ford Otosan is launching a pioneering project with Mars Logistics to reduce logistics costs following the introduction of new model production at the Craiova Plant. As part of this initiative, an intermodal railway line has been established, operating four round trips per week between Ford Otosan’s first European investment, the Craiova Plant in Romania, and Istanbul Halkalı. This operation aims to facilitate the transportation of vehicles produced at the Craiova Plant to Türkiye.
The newly established intermodal railway line will operate four weekly trips to Istanbul Halkalı, enabling the transportation of approximately 12,000 vehicles per year to Türkiye. At the same time, this environmentally friendly logistics solution will ensure the efficient delivery of production parts from Türkiye to the Craiova Plant. The project will be carried out in collaboration with Mars Logistics and one of Türkiye’s leading railway transport companies. Thanks to this new route, emissions are expected to be reduced by 63.0% compared to road transport by the end of the year.
Since acquiring the Craiova Plant in 2022, Ford Otosan has been strengthening its European production network while enhancing trade relations between Türkiye and Romania. With the expansion of model production at the Craiova Plant, exports of production parts from Türkiye to Romania have significantly increased, benefiting both Ford Otosan and its suppliers.
With the new logistics model established between Romania and Türkiye, it will transport the necessary production parts to the Craiova Plant, which produces Ford Puma and Ford Courier models, some of which the Company now transports to Türkiye through this newly implemented logistics model. By leveraging the cost advantages of rail transport over road and sea, the Company is enhancing competitiveness while also making a strong contribution to its sustainability goals with an environmentally friendly logistics approach.
Beyond optimising its own production processes, the Company is also strengthening the entire ecosystem along with its supply chain. It procures parts from nearly 10 Turkish suppliers in Romania and collaborates with more than 60 suppliers in Türkiye for the vehicles produced at this facility. Most importantly, it is also exporting engineering expertise. With the engineering of models developed at the Sancaktepe R&D Center, the Company continues to be a key player in knowledge and technology exports. Ford Otosan is committed not only to optimising its own operations but also to creating a more efficient, sustainable, and integrated production and logistics network together with all its business partners.
Locomotives belonging to Pars Railway, one of Türkiye’s first railway transport operators, will be used for the specialised rail transport.
14-02-2025
Robert Bosch Power Tool has opened a regional logistics and distribution centre in Miskolc, Northeast Hungary. The 100,000 m2 automated logistics centre has the capacity to distribute as many as 204,000 pallets of goods a year, making deliveries to 26 countries. The investment was supported by around HUF7.0 billion from the Hungarian government.
14-02-2025
NewCold has opened the second phase of its Lebanon warehouse, doubling capacity to create one of the largest and most advanced facilities in the world. This US$300.0 million combined investment marks a significant milestone in NewCold’s mission to enhance the resilience and efficiency of the food supply chain. The expansion adds 100,000 pallet positions to bring the combined total in Lebanon to over 200,000.
The expansion in Lebanon underscores the Company’s commitment to supporting customers’ growth and strategic objectives. This new facility allows it to provide more reliable and sustainable solutions, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of producers worldwide.
The facility uses cutting-edge automation and advanced proprietary technology to boost operational efficiency and sustainability. By integrating cutting-edge automation and advanced proprietary technology, the Company is not only enhancing operational efficiency but also delivering unparalleled benefits to customers.
NewCold’s Lebanon facility is equipped with proprietary technology that enhances energy efficiency by approximately 50.0% compared to traditional warehouses. The facility is designed to operate 24/7 and aims to achieve greater grid independence through renewable energy sources.
13-02-2025
The manufacturer of fire brigade vehicles MAGIRUS Lohr is moving into Panattoni Park Graz South, Austria. By moving into the Panattoni Park Graz South, the Company is setting itself up for future growth. The new and state-of-the-art site offers the ideal conditions to store products for fire and catastrophe protection technology and the equipment for vehicles. That includes fire brigade vehicles, fire engines, rotary ladders, equipment and gear trucks, special solutions, pumps and portable pumps.
Magirus Lohr’s headquarters are not far; only 30 km away in Premstätten. Panattoni Park Graz South is located in Hasendorf in the market community Wagna, directly on the A9 motorway, approximately 16 minutes from the hub in Graz-West. The Company therefore profits from ideal connections to the local road network. With the construction of a bus stop, the connection to public transit has also been ensured.
Of the total approx. 8,400 m2 Hall A, Panattoni is leasing approx. 2,050 m2 of hall space, 240 m2 of office space and 170 m2 of mezzanine space to MAGIRUS Lohr.
Further uses are divided across three halls with another 48,000 m2 of industrial space and 7,200 m2 of office and social space. An on-site biomass power plant supplies all three halls with a heating capacity of approximately four kilowatts. Together with one of the largest rooftop photovoltaics systems in the region, nesting boxes and wildflower meadows created by the developer and a comprehensive, on-site well-being area for the employees, Panattoni Park Graz South meets the sustainability standards according to the EU taxonomy and qualifies for the gold standard certification from the DGNB [German Association for Sustainable Construction].
Schlager Immobilien GmbH is responsible for mediating between Magirus Lohr and Panattoni.
12-02-2025
P3 has announced the handover of a new, state-of-the-art logistics facility in Ebersbach to its tenant, Lidl in Germany. The property was developed on the site of the former “Südrad” plant, previously operated by a US automotive supplier.
The revitalisation of the former industrial site involved a nine-month demolition and decontamination process. To ensure compliance with the highest standards, the remediation of contaminated soils and materials was overseen by an external, globally active team of experts. The project stands out for its remarkable sustainability, with approximately 90.0% of the demolished materials being recycled on-site and repurposed, including for use in the reinforced ground structure.
The newly constructed logistics facility offers approximately 38,000 m2 of rental space, featuring 33 loading docks, including four ground-level gates, and a clear height of 12 meters.
The location benefits from its strategic position in a high-demand region with limited supply, just 30 km from Stuttgart. P3 is aiming for a BREEAM “Excellent” certification, highlighting its commitment to sustainability.
In the coming weeks, Lidl in Germany will gradually bring the site into operation as a temporary external warehouse.
12-02-2025
DP World is set to open a new multi-customer warehouse in Miami, US. Located in the suburb of Doral, the facility will provide customers with enhanced access to third-party logistics (3PL) services and seamless freight forwarding capabilities for the retail, eCommerce, medical devices, and dry food and beverage sectors.
Designed as a multi-customer shared space, the new warehouse supports inbound/outbound handling, storage, transloading, and specialised freight forwarding all under one roof, offering customers the flexibility to scale operations based on shifting market demands. The 10,030 m2 facility is expected to employ up to 40 full-time employees, subject to customer requirements.
Miami’s prime location near major airports, ports and road infrastructure reinforces its role as a key gateway to Latin America. The opening of this state-of-the-art facility underlines DP World’s commitment to offering tailored supply chain solutions for customers. By centralising freight forwarding and warehousing operations in one strategic site, it is enabling businesses to optimise throughput, reduce transit times, and increase overall efficiency.
Located a few miles from Miami International Airport, the warehouse will be a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Certified Cargo Screening Facility (CCSF), which screens cargo before it's transported by air. The warehouse is equipped with robust security measures, including 24/7 surveillance, screening checkpoints, and TSA-certified employees.
The facility allows DP World to provide customers with a comprehensive range of services, including loading, unloading and transloading of ocean containers and rail trailers; loading and unloading of air freight pallets and unit load devices (ULDs); onsite repack, overpack and crating; and short-term standard, bulk, and cool storage. Detailed on-handing services include weighing, dimensioning, labelling, and cargo sorting. The warehouse will eventually be certified to handle hazardous goods and be customs bonded.
The new warehouse will play a key role in solving a critical challenge for customers dealing with shipments bound for Latin America: staging pallets awaiting final commercial paperwork. By housing these shipments at the warehouse, businesses free up space at fulfilment centres, accelerate order throughput, and gain greater visibility and control over their global supply chains.
DP World anticipate that the new warehouse in Miami will be a game-changer for businesses needing efficient cross-docking solutions for Latin American destinations. From handling domestic shipments awaiting paperwork to finalising international consignments, it is streamlining a key bottleneck and boosting productivity in customers’ wider distribution networks.
The launch of the warehouse complements DP World’s broader expansion initiatives across the Americas, reinforcing its mission to deliver end-to-end supply chain solutions for a diverse range of industries. By extending its network of freight forwarding and warehousing facilities, DP World continues to empower customers with innovative, cost-effective, and secure logistics services worldwide.
12-02-2025
Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages (CCSWB), the local Coca-Cola bottler for Texas and parts of Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arkansas, has opened its new distribution centre at 2600 Texas Central Parkway in Waco, Texas. The 11,150 m2 facility is designed to enhance CCSWB’s day-to-day operations and services.
The distribution facility holds 10 docks for loading, shipping and receiving products, a secure parking area for staff and has enough warehouse space to house 10 days’ worth of products. CCSWB associates will also enjoy a new 835 m2 office space and a new amenity area for fleet mechanics and cooler services teams.
The new Waco distribution centre is the third facility Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages has invested in the past five years. In April 2020, CCSWB opened its state-of-the-art “Northpoint” facility in Houston, Texas. The Coca-Cola bottler also made headlines after announcing plans to upgrade its Fossil Creek bottling plant in Fort Worth, Texas. Each investment CCSWB has made is to address the rapid growth Texas is experiencing.
11-02-2025
Chronopost, France's leading express delivery company for parcels weighing under 30kg, has announced a major expansion of its North Ile-de-France hub in Aulnay-sous-Bois (93). With a threefold increase in sorting capacity, reaching up to 35,000 parcels sorted per hour, it has become the most efficient site in the network. It also boasts the infrastructure required to efficiently handle the full range of Chronopost parcels (non-household parcels, non-standard parcels and temperature-controlled food and health parcels). Thanks to this investment, Chronopost now has a network capable of absorbing the estimated 45.0% growth in volumes between now and 2030.
Chronopost's volumes are growing steadily, rising from 248 million parcels handled in 2023 to 265 million in 2024, an increase of 7.0%, outpacing market growth of 4.5%. This dynamic growth is due in particular to the significant increase in out-of-home deliveries, B2B express deliveries and temperature-controlled parcels. Diversification activities account for almost a third of the Company's sales. Six years after it opened, the North Ile-de-France hub has undergone major work to increase its capacity and accommodate the very wide range of parcels handled.
After expansion, the hub opened its doors in September 2024 and has been 100.0% operational since November 2024, equipped with the latest technology. The €50.0 million investment covers site layout (mechanisation, sorters, etc.) and information systems. The work will enable employees to work under optimum conditions, thanks to improved processes and the latest generation of equipment.
With a sorting capacity of over 35,000 parcels per hour, compared with 10,000 before the works, it can handle up to 600,000 parcels per day at peak times, making it Chronopost's most efficient site (546,000 parcels per day at peak times for the historic Chilly-Mazarin hub, which will continue to play a fundamental role in the network).
This significant increase in capacity has been made possible by several factors:
> Almost doubling the surface area of the site (18,000 m2 now compared with 10,000 m2 previously) excluding offices;
> For sorting standard parcels, from October 2024, the number of sorters will be increased from 1 to 2, with higher throughput and 6-sided readers, enabling parcels to be scanned and analysed more quickly, regardless of their position on the sorting system;
> For sorting the growing number of small parcels, a new dedicated sorter will be fitted in November 2024 to handle around 70,000 parcels a day, as well as an automated bagging process to increase productivity when loading parcels;
For the sorting of non-standard parcels (> 1m30, fragile or with unusual dimensions), which are very often handled manually, a ‘mechanised’ handling system with automatic reading of parcel barcodes and capture of weight and volume data has been installed. It helps with sorting, thanks in particular to the use of light signals to identify the exit zone and avoid handling errors.
Furthermore, the geographical positioning of the North Ile-de-France hub means that more of the goods can be collected later (7pm instead of 6pm) for the many customers whose logistics warehouses are located in the north of the Ile-de-France region.
The North Ile-de-France site has more than 1,400 m2 of separate cold stores dedicated to Chronofresh and Chronopost Healthcare. Like a depot, it manages the sector's distribution of temperature-controlled food and healthcare products. With the cold stores in service, it can also be used as a back-up site to manage peaks in activity for temperature-controlled products, complementing the two temperature-controlled hubs at Chilly-Mazarin, which will open in 2023.
The new building has been awarded BREEAM Very Good certification for its high environmental performance, and its geographical location means that it can be used for around fifty collections by HGVs running on biofuel and biogas. In addition, Chronopost is working alongside local stakeholders to improve staff access to the site, which is located on a former industrial wasteland and is difficult to reach by public transport. Chronopost supports the Rêve Francilien inter-company association, which works to improve transport infrastructure.
The site has already created around a hundred direct and indirect jobs. The site's expansion over the next few years will lead to additional jobs as business grows.
10-02-2025
Likewise Group plc, the fast growing UK flooring distributor, has completed the purchase of a freehold logistics centre in Ivybridge near Plymouth. The consideration of £1.2 million was funded from internal cash. This increases the Group's freehold property portfolio to £23.3 million.
The new Logistics Centre will both establish Likewise South West and also enable Valley Wholesale Carpets to develop business with customers in Devon and Cornwall. Very importantly, this completes Likewise Group's comprehensive geographical coverage of the UK.
Following a successful 2024, Likewise has made a positive start to 2025, with total sales revenue increasing by 8.4% in January and Likewise Branded businesses increasing by 13.6%.
The enhanced logistics infrastructure combined with the substantial sales and marketing initiatives will allow the Group to take full advantage of the many opportunities presented in the UK flooring industry.
10-02-2025
Yusen Logistics (Deutschland) GmbH, together with Prologis and key stakeholders, including the government, the city of Bottrop, and its client Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V., celebrated the opening of its state-of-the-art logistics centre in Bottrop.
The celebration highlighted the Company’s deep-rooted connection to its Japanese origins. Hiroki Harada, Chairman and Representative Director as well as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Yusen Logistics Co., Ltd., travelled from Japan to personally participate in the event.
Covering an area of just over 100,000 m2 and offering a total storage capacity of up to 50,000 pallet spaces, including a 3,700 m2 mezzanine, the new centre stands as a prime example of modern logistics. The site consists of two distribution units (DC1 and DC2) with a total of 88 loading docks, 25 truck parking spaces, and 164 car parking spaces.
The location stands out particularly in terms of sustainability: Prologis revitalised the former steel industry site and integrated CO2-reduced building materials, Cradle-to-Cradle-certified components, and a photovoltaic system with a capacity of 3.6 MWp for the site. The sustainable building and the resulting optimisation of distribution processes and transport routes will enable Yusen Logistics to save more than 7,000 tons of CO2 annually. In addition, the building was designed with a strong focus on employee well-being and integrates numerous measures based on the Well Standards - an internationally recognised certification system for health-promoting work environments.
The new centre serves exclusively as the central warehouse for Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V., one of Yusen Logistics’ longest standing and largest clients. With 75 daily incoming and outgoing shipments, the centre optimises the entire supply chain, reduces environmental impact, and enables swift product turnover. The high-quality standards and client-specific services make Bottrop a benchmark project for similar initiatives worldwide.
The logistics centre creates jobs for 150 to 200 employees, integrating both existing professionals from the Duisburg region and new talent. Ergonomic workstations, heated warehouses, and green facades contribute to a pleasant working environment. Additionally, the site offers modern offices, comfortable break rooms, and excellent access to shopping and dining options, including a snack bar located directly on the premises.
The new site underscores Yusen Logistics’ global growth strategy and marks a significant step in the expansion of its European network. With Bottrop, Yusen Logistics increases its warehouse space in Germany by 57,000 m2 to a total of approximately 217,500 m2 – a 30.0% growth compared to previous figures.
08-02-2025
Swissport International grows its air cargo handling business further in Australia, serving airline customers and freight forwarders in new air cargo centres in Melbourne and Sydney. A newly acquired facility in Auckland, New Zealand, is scheduled to open in late March 2025.
The Company is significantly investing in the expansion of its air cargo handling capacity in Australia and New Zealand. Airline customers and freight forwarders will benefit from additional capacity at Swissport's three new locations, designed to enhance operational efficiency and provide tailored solutions for diverse cargo needs. This strategic move will allow Swissport to further solidify its position as a key logistics partner for the industry.
The new locations in Melbourne, Sydney and soon Auckland feature advanced temperature-controlled spaces, direct airside access, and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Swissport’s new location at Tullamarine Airport, Melbourne, is strategically positioned as the closest facility with direct airside access, offering a significant competitive edge for freight forwarders. Spanning a total area of 9,366 m2, including almost 5,000 m2 of warehouse floor space, the warehouse features temperature-controlled storage systems designed to handle perishables and pharmaceuticals, maintaining conditions of 2-8C and 15-25C – depending on the specific requirements of the shipments.
Also at Sydney Airport, Swissport has expanded its footprint with a newly renovated facility, increasing its total handling area to over 4,500 m2. The temperature-controlled air cargo centre is equipped to handle a wide range of products, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, mail, express shipments, and general cargo, ensuring seamless operations for diverse customer needs. It is fully licensed to meet all customs, biosecurity, and screening requirements for Regulated Air Cargo Agents (RACA).
Additionally, dedicated express delivery transport trucks, capable of loading airside, will enable swift delivery to freight forwarders within just 45 minutes of an aircraft's arrival.
Besides its expansion in Australia, Swissport is also marking its entry into the New Zealand air cargo market. Starting in late March 2025, its services will be available at Auckland Airport. The facility is equipped with the airport`s largest and most advanced X-ray machine, featuring high-penetration, dual-view technology and detection alerts for explosives and narcotics.
Swissport’s capacity expansion in Australia began just months ago, with Vietjet and Batik Air as its launch customers. Since then, its customer base has grown to include LATAM Airlines and a suite of freight forwarders. The Company’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction underscores its ambition to be the partner of choice for air cargo services in the region and beyond.
In Australia and New Zealand, Swissport has been offering airport ground services to 29 domestic and international airline customers at 18 airports. In 2024, the Company has served 10.16 million passengers and handled 226,358 flights. Swissport employs more than 3,600 aviation professionals across all business lines in Australia and New Zealand.
13-02-2025
DACHSER has expanded its research partnership with the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft effective 01 February 2025. As part of the DACHSER Enterprise Lab, which has been bringing science and logistics practice together in mixed innovation teams since 2017, the 3PL is now cooperating with both the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML in Dortmund and the Fraunhofer Institute for Intelligent Analysis and Information Systems IAIS in Sankt Augustin, near Bonn.
Fraunhofer IAIS is a leading scientific institute in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and big data in Germany and Europe. Its roughly 380 employees help companies optimise products, services, and processes, and they offer support in the development of new digital business models.
One key area of logistics where artificial intelligence could usefully be applied is in the processing of unstructured data or data in different formats. The industry offers many potential applications for optimising and automating complex processes in goods flows and supply chains or in customer communication. Looking to the future, AI solutions will become increasingly effective tools for people to use.
Together with the universities in Bonn and Dortmund, Fraunhofer IML and Fraunhofer IAIS are partners in the Lamarr Institute for Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, which was founded in 2022. The institute is one of five university centres of excellence for AI that receive funding from the German government.
DACHSER believes that logistics companies that don’t engage with AI today won’t survive on the market in the medium to long term. After all, customer requirements and the complexity of the conditions aren’t getting any less demanding, and that’s before we factor in the growing lack of qualified personnel.
Whether in the warehouse, in the transit terminal, or in the office, DACHSER is already using AI applications to provide employees with the best possible support in decision-making and to relieve them of monotonous tasks. This expansion of the DACHSER Enterprise Lab strengthens its expertise in the field of artificial intelligence.
12-02-2025
CJ Logistics America is redefining the gold standard of warehouse operations through its innovative partnership with OneTrack. Since the partnership began in 2019, CJ Logistics America has used OneTrack’s Warehouse Operating System to achieve significant improvements in safety, productivity, and quality across its North American network.
CJ Logistics America’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence has enabled them to serve their customers faster, safer, and with greater reliability than ever before. With over 40 locations in North America operating with the OneTrack WarehouseOS, they combine proprietary AI camera sensors, real-time video alerts, and customisable analytics to deliver complete visibility into their warehouses.
This partnership has led to remarkable outcomes, including:
> 73.0% reduction in potential safety events across the CJ Logistics America network (with some sites achieving a reduction of up to 98.0%).
> 11.0% average increase in Units Per Hour (UPH), driving efficiency and value-added services for customers.
> 60.0% decrease in product damage, ensuring better shipment quality and reducing operational costs.
At CJ Logistics America’s Romeoville facility, OneTrack even enables the team to resolve misplaced inventory in minutes, a task that previously took hours, allowing the team to focus on providing increased value to their end customers.
CJ Logistics America and OneTrack worked together closely to develop the latest advancements in labour management, yielding exceptional results. By integrating dynamic labour goals and Warehouse Management System (WMS) information, the AI monitors and analyses operational processes and issues real-time alerts when sites fall behind these benchmarks. These alerts highlight the three most help-needed employees of the day and include video footage pinpointing their slowest tasks for coaching opportunities and process improvements.
This detailed insight empowers supervisors to deliver tailored coaching, improving workforce efficiency and fostering a more accountable operational culture.
11-02-2025
In the highly competitive and dynamic building materials and systems industry, manufacturers need to drive strategic growth and financial performance to succeed. That’s why Knauf, a globally leading manufacturer of building materials and construction systems, has chosen to deploy Blue Yonder Demand Planning, a cloud-native solution with cognitive capabilities that utilises artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
The solution will enable Knauf to gain access to industry-focused insights that enable faster decisioning and more precise forecasting to further transform its supply chain demand planning capabilities. The solution deployment is led by Blue Yonder Professional Services.
Knauf has over 300 production sites in more than 90 countries. The Company’s product range – from drywall systems to plaster and ceiling solutions – and insulation materials enables sustainable and efficient construction projects worldwide. To realise its 2032 supply chain strategy, Knauf required a holistic approach to processes and technologies. This strategy aims to create an autonomous, end-to-end supply chain by digitalising, orchestrating, and automating all supply chain processes across its three global business units.
To achieve this, Knauf turned to Blue Yonder, its long-time supply chain solutions provider. The Blue Yonder solution will serve as the backbone of Knauf's supply chain transformation, enhancing forecast accuracy by considering dynamic external and internal variables, enabling causal simulations and automating processes.
By leveraging advanced AI and ML technologies, Knauf is not only enhancing forecast accuracy but also building a future-ready supply chain that delivers end-to-end operational excellence, sustainability, and an exceptional customer experience.
With Blue Yonder Demand Planning solution built on the Blue Yonder Platform, Knauf expects to achieve the following:
> Agile and integrated planning: Knauf will deploy adaptive demand plans by integrating real-time data and systems, enabling streamlined operations and enhanced responsiveness to market shifts.
> Advanced scenario planning: Knauf will optimise demand planning processes by orchestrating advanced scenario simulations to manage variability effectively.
> Enhanced forecast accuracy and inventory optimisation: By combining market intelligence with advanced statistical methods and ML models, Knauf will improve demand forecasting accuracy and optimise SKU levels, ultimately reducing excess inventory and working capital.
> Dynamic decision-making: Knauf will enable real-time demand scenario planning, shortening forecasting cycles and empowering faster, data-driven decisions to meet customer needs more effectively.
> Tailored and extensible demand planning solutions at scale: Knauf can design and implement tailored demand planning workflows to address unique business challenges while ensuring scalability across the business divisions.
Today, companies face challenges due to fluctuations in demand caused by unexpected supply chain disruptions, evolving customer habits, inflation and a growing demand for sustainable products and processes. These industry dynamics pose significant challenges for conventional forecasting methods. Blue Yonder Demand Planning solution, hosted on Microsoft Azure, addresses these challenges with AI-based capabilities, transforming how companies collaborate, predict, plan and make decisions.
11-02-2025
Barrett Distribution Centers has selected Enveyo technology to power its transportation management, logistics visibility, advanced analytics, and parcel auditing processes. As a 3PL provider for DTC and B2B brands that operates 25+ locations across the US, Barrett sought a technology provider that not only has substantial experience in supporting complex 3PL processes but also has the ability to scale with them as their customer segment of eCommerce brands grow and their needs evolve.
Barrett was looking for a technology platform that could:
> Streamline transportation management processes with a robust technology engine for the handling of multiple parcel carriers, rates and surcharges
> Support an infinite number of complex business rules, carrier rates, and processes
> Ingest any volume of data in any format from their business systems, carriers, and technology partners
> Enable real-time and easy access to a shipping data control tower with customizable dashboards
> Publish a white-labelled client portal delivering reporting and analytics on transportation spend in real-time
> Automatically audit carrier performance with extensive reporting on dispute reason, status, and results
> Display time in transit data across their network of carriers to gain visibility into package tracking and delivery status data in real-time
> Scale with Barrett and their customers' needs, at their pace
Barrett needed a technology partner with extensive knowledge of the complexities a 3PL of its size faces, who could also provide robust and holistic technology solutions that elevate its operations and strengthen client relationships.
10-02-2025
Culina Group has appointed Jaama as its new fleet and asset management software provider to support its extensive and rapidly growing operations. Jaama’s Key2 system will be deployed across the Group’s UK fleet, encompassing 4,000 trucks, 8,000 trailers, 500 vans, 300 cars, and 4,000 pieces of mechanical handling equipment.
Key2 will replace multiple legacy systems, consolidating all fleet data into a unified platform. This centralised approach will enhance operational visibility, streamline compliance, and improve safety management across 24 key areas of the fleet.
With the business experiencing substantial growth over the past decade, Culina’s fleet has expanded to nearly 17,000 assets. It had been searching for a robust software solution capable of meeting current and future needs, and Jaama’s Key2 platform has proven to be the ideal choice. Key2’s ability to handle the complexities of managing a large HGV fleet and in-house workshops made it a clear frontrunner.
The implementation of Key2 will support the management of Culina Groups extensive fleet, driver population, 14 nationwide workshops, and over 100 technicians. More than 1,200 employees will utilise the platform to ensure seamless operations.
Culina Group has significantly expanded in recent years through strategic acquisitions, including Fowler Welch, Eddie Stobart, and GreenWhiteStar Acquisition. These expansions have broadened its geographic reach and diversified its service offerings across retail, manufacturing, and food service sectors. As part of the Müller Group, Culina Group has evolved into one of the largest logistics providers in the UK and Ireland.
10-02-2025
In a successful cooperation between BMW Group Plant Dingolfing and Landshut University of Applied Sciences, students have developed an innovative solution for plant logistics. The new digital tool automates the counting of empty containers using artificial intelligence (AI), saving time and avoiding errors.
At the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, Germany, around 1,600 different types of containers are in circulation every day, transporting parts for vehicle production. Until now, these containers were counted manually, which was time-consuming and prone to errors. The goal was to automate empties counting as efficiently and simply as possible.
The idea of involving students from Landshut University of Applied Sciences in the project met with a positive response. Students bring in new perspectives and unbiased approaches and the collaboration began with the summer semester 2024.
Within three months, the eight-person team developed a cost-effective and efficient solution. A simple mobile phone video, taken while running through the rows with the containers, is sufficient to determine the exact number per container variant. QR codes are placed above the block storage lanes, which link to a database of container data. The AI analyses the video and calculates the number of containers.
The counting system is currently in the pilot phase to test its performance under real conditions. In the future, the solution will also be used in other areas of plant logistics. It is also planned to further automate the counting process by using autonomous Smart Transport Robots (STR) to record the videos.
10-02-2025
Open Pricer, a leader in pricing optimisation solutions, has announced its partnership with Loggi, a Brazilian company that is transforming logistics through technology. This collaboration will leverage Open Pricer’s advanced pricing platform to bring efficiency, consistency, and intelligence to Loggi’s commercial operations, marking another milestone in the Company’s journey to revolutionise logistics in Brazil.
As Loggi seeks to enhance its market positioning amid increasing competition and complex pricing dynamics, the integration of Open Pricer’s solution aims to transform their pricing strategy. With a vast territory to cover and a high volume of pricing data, Loggi is moving away from a traditional cost-plus pricing model. The goal is to empower sales teams with accurate and optimised pricing for each customer, eliminating the need to sift through numerous rate cards and reducing the sales cycle length.
The rapid influx of new competitors offering aggressive pricing, coupled with the necessity for continuous updates to service coverage zones, has underscored the urgent need for a data-driven pricing solution. Open Pricer’s machine learning-powered Fair Price model will provide Loggi with the ability to offer discounts tailored to specific customer profiles, ensuring that pricing decisions are fast, competitive and fair. Furthermore, the API-based integration will facilitate seamless connectivity with Loggi’s existing systems, establishing a unified and reliable source of truth for pricing.
Loggi is on its way to building a scalable and efficient delivery network that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving market. Partnering with Open Pricer allows it to reduce time to quote, and offer data-driven rates tailored to each customer.” said
The benefits of this collaboration are already becoming apparent, as Loggi’s commercial teams now enjoy greater control, visibility, and consistency over the prices offered to clients. This partnership not only aims to enhance operational efficiency but also positions Loggi for sustained success in the competitive landscape of parcel delivery.
13-02-2025
Kuehne + Nagel has renewed its strategic collaboration with Acer Europe to decarbonise sea shipments by using biofuel. So far, this partnership, now in its third year, has reduced emissions by 475 tons. It highlights both companies’ commitment to environmental sustainability.
Acer's inclusive approach to sustainability looks far ahead and focuses on shared responsibility.
In addition to supporting Acer’s reduction efforts with its certified Book and Claim solution for maritime biofuel, Kuehne + Nagel also provides advanced data-driven insights from seaexplorer as well as order-level emissions reporting. Acer’s SBTi targets include a commitment to reduce absolute Scope 3 emissions by 35.0% by 2030 (compared to 2020), underscoring the critical role of their transport partner to achieve that goal.
12-02-2025
One of the first, and the largest, DHL distribution centre in the Czech Republic, located in Prologis Park Prague-Jirny, is substantially reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. The building, with a storage area of 100,000 m2, now features a completely new heating system using heat pumps, which significantly contributes to enhancing the building’s energy efficiency.
In cooperation with its customers and partners, Prologis is implementing state-of-the-art sustainable solutions across all its parks, bringing it closer to its global goal of achieving the net-zero goal by 2040.
The installation of powerful heat pumps is the culmination of a long-term joint project aimed at supporting the building's energy efficiency and overall sustainability. The installation includes four outdoor air-to-water heat pump units, each with a performance of approximately 550 kW, and one indoor unit with a performance of 92 kW, providing heating for office spaces. The installation will limit the building's reliance on gas, which was predominantly used in order to provide heat before the heat pumps were installed.
Heat distribution is carried out via water in the primary circuit, air heaters, and destratifiers, which ensure even heating of the space, improve thermal comfort for employees, and maintain maximum efficiency.
Earlier measures aimed at energy efficiency include the installation of intelligent LED lighting, controlled according to daylight intensity and movement in both the warehouse and administrative areas, sealing of loading docks to minimize energy loss, and irrigation of the surrounding greenery using rainwater captured in underground tanks.
In recent years, basically every new Prologis building meets the BREEAM certification requirements and includes the latest ecological solutions and technologies. Sustainability and advanced technological solutions, however, do not have to be the privilege of new buildings. On the contrary, they can also be implemented in existing buildings, often without significant disruption to operations. Every year, Prologis invest a significant amount in the renovation and modernisation of its buildings.
12-02-2025
ANC Delivers has announced the integration of approximately 60 electric vehicles into its fleet, a key part of its wider sustainability initiative labelled ‘Project Spark’. Multiple constraints have made it hard to transition away from internal combustion engine vehicles. Currently, owner-drivers considering BEV trucks face higher capital costs, limited access to charging infrastructure, costly and complex charging options for larger format vehicles, and constrained revenue potential.
Project Spark aims to tackle these challenges head-on with initial support from ARENA, focusing on reducing the cost of BEV ownership and improving accessibility to charging options for owner-operators. This includes initiatives like bulk purchasing, flexible financing models, and strategic partnerships with insurers.
Project Spark, the sustainability initiative by ANC, was officially announced in June last year, and includes A$12.8 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s (ARENA) Driving the Nation Fund. As part of Project Spark, ANC has prepared strategies to overcome challenges in transitioning to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs.)
ANC manages a network of contracted owner-drivers to provide LMD services to high profile retail brands, including IKEA, JB HI-FI, The Good Guys, Bunnings, Who Gives A Crap, Temple and Webster, and William Sonoma.
To tackle the challenge of charging infrastructure, ANC has teamed up with several key partners. For example, Origin Energy has facilitated the transition for owner-drivers by installing at-home charging stations, making the switch to electric vehicles more convenient and accessible.
Project Spark leverages both commercial and technological strategies to lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) for BEV trucks, supported by key partners including Origin Energy, SpotLumos, Atecco, JAC, and others.
ANC has a medium-term goal of converting 30.0% of its fleet to zero-emissions vehicles by 2028. Additionally, ANC is exploring pathways to commercialise these efforts to accelerate the widespread adoption of zero-emission delivery solutions.
12-02-2025
Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, and DHL Express announced a landmark partnership in a bid to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from the air freight of highly specialised medicines manufactured in Ireland. Alexion is the first company in Ireland to sign up to a 100.0% switch from traditional aviation fuel to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This alternative fuel will reduce GHG emissions by over 80.0% on average compared to traditional aviation fuel. The greener fuel will be switched on all European air freight shipments across 19 European countries.
Provided through the DHL GoGreen Plus service, SAF is used as a substitute to conventional fuel and can readily be used as a drop-in replacement in aircraft without the need for modifications to aircraft engines. Produced from waste and residue-based feedstock, such as used cooking oil, SAF has improved sustainability compared to traditional fossil jet fuel which is primarily derived from crude oil.
Reducing the GHG emissions associated with the transport of medicinal products is an important part of AstraZeneca's wider sustainability strategy. This includes a focus on partnerships across the healthcare sector including supply chain decarbonisation. From 2030, the aim is to halve the entire value chain footprint (absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions), from a 2019 base year, on the way to becoming science-based net zero by 2045.
Countries receiving the medicines under the GoGreen Plus service include Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Guernsey, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK.
12-02-2025
DPD Germany dispatches over 350 million parcels every year. In order to make parcel shipping more sustainable, Germany's second-largest shipping service provider is now cooperating with hey circle. With its innovative shipping solution, the reusable pioneer from Munich offers an environmentally friendly and efficient alternative to disposable shipping packaging.
The reusable shipping boxes from hey circle offer great advantages for both customers and the environment. Customers benefit from an environmentally friendly, stable and reusable packaging material that protects their shipments more securely and produces significantly less waste thanks to its durability. The reusable boxes and bags can be used for numerous rounds between online retailers and their customers and partners - a clear advantage over conventional disposable packaging. The long service life means that costs can be saved in many cases, as packaging does not always have to be bought new. This applies, for example, to closed loops and retailers with high goods return rates.
DPD sees its role as offering customers innovative, environmentally friendly solutions that can be easily integrated into the existing shipping process. With the reusable shipping bags from hey circle, it is setting an example for more sustainable logistics.
As part of the sales cooperation, DPD Germany will act as an intermediary between hey circle and its own business customers. The cooperation will also be used to convince joint customers of the respective product offerings.
Hey circle is convinced that reusable shipping is the future of retail.
DPD and hey circle already tested last year how well the foldable packaging made of recyclable plastic fits into the logistics processes. There was also a test with the clothing manufacturer Trigema: 200 XL boxes travelled between the production site and shops in order to reduce waste and save costs.
Shipping with hey circle works in a similar way to cardboard boxes: companies rent or buy the bags and boxes. The goods are packed, a return label is enclosed and the packaging is sealed with a zip and security seal. For shipping to private customers, hey circle has a plugin that makes the reusable option visible in the checkout. The box or bag can be used without a deposit, but must be returned in any case, otherwise it will be charged. It is returned directly to the retailer with or without the goods, empty and folded or assembled. It can be given directly to the DPD delivery driver or taken to one of the more than 8,500 Pickup parcel shops across Germany. Back at the warehouse, it is checked and prepared for the next shipment. All shipping cases are covered with shipping bags and boxes up to partial pallet size.
11-02-2025
The leading all-electric parcel delivery company HIVED has placed an order for 11 Mercedes-Benz eActros as it expands the UK’s only end-to-end electric delivery network, covering middle and final mile.
HIVED has ordered nine eActros 600 and two eActros 400 from Mercedes-Benz Dealer partner, Motus Truck & Van. They will operate across HIVED’s nationwide middle mile network, collecting from retailer warehouses for delivery to end customers.
The eActros 600 will operate across HIVED’s middle mile deliveries as its large battery capacity of over 600 kWh means it can travel at least 500 km2 (310 miles) on a single charge.
In the next year, HIVED plans to install megawatt chargers, a rarity for the UK charging infrastructure, at its hubs in West London, the Midlands and Manchester. These megawatt chargers will allow the eActros 600 to charge from 20 to 80.0% in just 30 minutes and, in effect, level the playing field between diesel and electric HGVs.
In an industry where the status quo is to run a mixed fleet at best, HIVED is the first delivery company to operate an all-electric delivery network across the middle and final delivery mile. With the eActros, HIVED continues to redefine what a modern delivery company looks like with its expanded electric middle mile capacity.
10-02-2025
JYSK and Dania Connect have started a collaboration on the use of electric trucks between the Port of Aarhus and JYSK's distribution centre in Uldum. It will reduce CO2e emissions by up to 37.0%.
Every day, more than 50 containers are transported from the Port of Aarhus to JYSK's distribution centre in Uldum with goods such as mattresses, bed linen and garden furniture. Now, two electric trucks from Dania Connect have been deployed on the route, which will drive eight round-trip trips every day.
This is the first time JYSK is replacing diesel trucks with electric trucks in Denmark and JYSK expects to be able to reduce CO2e emissions with the replacement by 37.0%. In addition, the solution will also give JYSK valuable insights to expand the use of electric trucks on other routes in the country in the future.
In addition to the new electric trucks from Dania Connect between the Port of Aarhus and JYSK's distribution centre in Uldum, JYSK is implementing several initiatives in other countries to make the transport of goods more efficient and reduce the climate impact. Among other things, the Company is looking at how to pack pallets with goods optimally and how to get as many goods as possible into the transport. In addition, local solutions can often be found in different countries that do not necessarily work across the whole of Europe or the whole world.
Containers from the Port of Gothenburg to JYSK's distribution centre in Nässjö are transported by electric trains as far as possible, after which electric trucks drive the containers the last distance to the distribution centre. To get the goods from the distribution centre in Nässjö all the way to the shops in northern Sweden, containers are put back on electric trains instead of using conventional diesel trucks. From the train stations in northern Sweden to the local shops, the containers are delivered by trucks that run on either vegetable oil or biogas.
When conventional trucks running on diesel are the only solution, it is important to get as many goods as possible into the transport. One way to do this is to put two trailers on one truck, which is called High Capacity Transport or modular road trains. JYSK uses this solution to reach the stores in northern Finland. By having one truck with two trailers – instead of two individual trucks with one trailer each, up to 27.0% of emissions can be saved.
JYSK plans to test the solution with modular road trains in more countries as it becomes possible on longer distances in Europe.
10-02-2025
XPO Logistics is launching a project to enhance biodiversity around its sites in the UK and Ireland. The ‘Nature Network’ project is a key part of XPO’s ethos to improve sustainability by reducing CO2 emissions across the business and within the microclimates around each depot. The Company's headquarters at Crick in Northamptonshire will be the first site to implement changes through the project, with plans to roll it out across multiple sites in 2025.
Around 20 varieties of wildflowers are being sown across two acres of land at Crick, along with 50 trees, all of which are native to the UK. This includes blossoming trees, fruit trees like apples and damsons, and large canopy tree varieties to encourage nesting birds. Once available, any fruit grown onsite will be offered to the canteen.
XPO Logistics’ headquarters in Crick will soon have another benefit, honey made by bees in hives on the site. One hive is currently in place, but a maximum of five will eventually be on the site. The honey produced will be provided to the cafeteria and offered to staff and visitors.
Wildflowers and herbs, which will be available again for the cafeteria or staff to use, will be planted in 30 planter boxes and 20 wall box racks.
A wormery will also take care of some of the cafeteria waste, while bug hotels and hibernation houses will help insects and hibernating species find a safe home. The shrub hedge, which will run 80 metres along the fence line with neighbouring company sites, will also provide extra natural habitats and cover for animals and insects.
XPO Logistics Crick site is also beginning a new landscaping regime, which includes less cutting of grass and of the existing trees in the main car park area. This will also help to encourage wildflower growth. The pond area will also be enhanced to encourage amphibians, invertebrates, and insects to become part of a thriving ecosystem and ensure a Biodiversity Net Gain.
While each of these measures will improve the environment for the animals and insects in and around the site, it will also benefit the colleagues who work there, creating a more natural, relaxing atmosphere for them to enjoy during breaks. Staff are also encouraged to volunteer during the working day when appropriate to develop the ‘Nature Network’ project, meaning their time used to nurture nature on the sites will be covered by the business, providing an additional benefit.
Each of these initiatives is a small step to improving the local environment and habitat, whilst being another small step addressing the overall sustainability of the business.
13-02-2025
GXO Logistics is participating in the UK’s first ever Robotics degree-level apprenticeship, starting at MK:U, with two GXO colleagues joining the first cohort of apprentices in this critical new industry. GXO is one of the UK’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers with more than 1,500 apprentices complementing academic courses with hands-on experience in its warehouses, vehicles and offices.
The launch of this apprenticeship comes at a pivotal time for the UK as the UK robotics market is experiencing substantial growth. Figures predict that revenue in the robotics market is projected to reach US$2.15 billion in 2025, and of this US$1.9 billion will be in the service robotics market in the UK incorporating the logistics sector. Experts predict that robotics have the potential to contribute as much as £180.0 billion to the UK economy over the next decade.
GXO is at the forefront of using robotics and automation to drive innovation and transform logistics and supply chains globally. The combination of robotics, automation and AI are already enhancing productivity, easing challenges amid labour shortages, and creating more rewarding, safer jobs in the logistics sector. GXO has already seen up to 6x productivity improvements with employees supported by robots. However, implementing these technologies and deriving their full potential requires a workforce skilled and trained in robotics and automation.
The apprenticeship programme equips participants with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to excel in the era of automation and AI. Developed in collaboration with leading robotics companies, the three and a half-year course blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, equipping apprentices with the expertise to design, develop, and maintain robotic systems – all of which are essential for a rapidly evolving, tech-driven logistics sector.
The inaugural cohort includes Greg Matthews, an Automation Engineering Manager at GXO’s Daventry site and a former naval officer. Greg joined GXO from the military and is delighted with the opportunity to further expand his professional experience at GXO, through this degree apprenticeship.
GXO’s commitment to apprenticeships isn’t just at degree level. 1,500 GXO colleagues in the UK and Ireland are taking part in some form of ‘learn and earn’ opportunities across a variety of fields, including logistics, engineering, data and management – making up 3.4% of GXO’s UK workforce. Over the next several years, GXO is committed to ensuring this number reaches 5.0%, as part of the 5.0% Club – an initiative focused on raising people’s employable skills to ensure the UK has a society and economy which lifts its citizens out of poverty.
13-02-2025
Kinaxia has appointed Jane Cooper to National Sales Director to lead the sales and business development teams. Kinaxia Logistics has created a new role of National Sales Director to leverage its full-service offering and nationwide infrastructure to secure new business across its transport, warehousing and distribution portfolio.
Jane has been promoted to the post from her role as Kinaxia’s Regional Director for southern England. Her new position sees her lead the sales and business development teams to grow Kinaxia’s commercial pipeline, expand its customer base and strengthen client relationships.
The sales team targets the north west and the Midlands as a priority for growth. In both regions there are exciting commercial opportunities which are aligned to our end-to-end logistics services and can benefit from our reputation for delivering local market excellence.”
Jane has worked at Kinaxia for nine years and has risen through the ranks after joining as an account manager at Lambert Brothers in Eastleigh, which the Company had acquired. Before joining Kinaxia, she held roles at TNT and Nightfreight.
Kinaxia is committed to getting closer to its clients, building customer relationships and providing end-to-end logistics solutions tailored to their needs. At the same time, it is making greater use of AI and business intelligence to create and drive business development and commercial opportunities. A key pillar of the Company’s business development strategy is to use technology and sustainability to help customers decarbonise their supply chains.
Aligned with this, a focus on contract logistics and on offering more on-demand warehousing services, providing businesses with variable volumes with flexibility and agility to scale storage up and down, means it is well-placed to take advantage of the many commercial opportunities emerging in the marketplace.
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