Davies Turner renews alliance with project44 to improve shipment visibility and drive innovation

Date: October 16, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Davies Turner has renewed its partnership with project44 for an additional three years.

This continued collaboration reinforces Davies Turner’s commitment to delivering best-in-class cargo tracking solutions across the company’s logistics operations.

Tony Cole, Ocean Director at Davies Turner said:

”Since the partnership began in 2022, project44 has played a pivotal role in enhancing Davies Turner’s ocean freight tracking capabilities, providing real-time updates from origin port to destination port.

“Over the past three years, this technology has enabled tracking for many thousands of containers handled by Davies Turner, significantly improving shipment visibility and operational efficiency throughout the supply chains we manage.”

The integration of project44’s platform has become a cornerstone of Davies Turner’s logistics infrastructure. It supports internal systems and external platforms such as FMS (Freight Management System) and P2D (Purchase to Delivery), ensuring seamless data flow and improved decision making for the company’s teams and customers alike.

Cole continued:

“Looking ahead, we are excited to continue building on this relationship, exploring new enhancements and capabilities that will further elevate our service offering.

“As technology evolves, so too will our commitment to providing the most accurate, timely, and actionable tracking data available.”

Global K9 selected by KLM to provide cargo screening at Schiphol

Date: October 16, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Global K9 (GK9) has been appointed by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM) to provide free running explosive detection dogs (FREDDs) at the airline’s hub, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).

A total of four canine teams have been stationed at AMS, where they will support KLM Cargo’s screening operations in compliance with EU and Dutch regulatory frameworks.

“We’ve been working closely with KLM’s compliance and safety team to develop a screening model that can seamlessly integrate within its cargo operations,” said Chris Daniels, Chief Commercial Officer, GK9.

“Consolidated FREDD teams is a preferred screening option for high-throughput cargo environments such as KLM Cargo at Schiphol, and a necessary step in bolstering security at one of Europe’s busiest cargo hubs.”

The agreement marks GK9’s first airline partnership in Europe.

“Our operations at Schiphol demand screening methods that can adapt to constant movement,” said Kester Meijer, Director Operational Integrity, Compliance & Safety, KLM Cargo.

“GK9’s FREDD teams offer the mobility and responsiveness needed to do this at scale, without interrupting cargo flows, and, more importantly, maintaining high security standards.”

The partnership also includes further training in Remote Explosive Scent Tracing (REST), using air sampling and canine detection to identify explosive traces in sealed or consolidated cargo without disrupting handling.

GK9 currently works with seven airlines across the US: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, DHL Aviation, LATAM Airlines, Lufthansa, United Airlines, and UPS Airlines.

This latest agreement builds on GK9’s European expansion strategy, following a strategic partnership with a Dutch screening provider, and the acquisition of a UK-based canine training company in late 2024.

D&M Logistics acquired

Date: October 16, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Raptor Logistics Group, which is made up of We Ship Global Forwarding and We Prep E-Commerce, has acquired D&M Logistics Group in Ipswich.

This will see the business take on another 15 to 20 employees, almost doubling its current workforce, alongside 75,000 square feet of storage for products

Fred Benfield, owner of Raptor Logistics said:

“With our three sites in Felixstowe, Ipswich and Stowmarket, hopefully we can attract the talent in the industry to work with us.

“We hope to employ a lot more motivated people who want to build a career in a proactive, forward-thinking group of companies.

“We have a strong foundation to build something really great.

“Our business is a pure people business.”

Palletline unveils senior management restructure

Date: October 16, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Palletline, the UK’s only member-owned pallet network, has announced a strategic senior management restructure to support continued growth and member development.

As the logistics industry continues to face economic uncertainty and shifting market demands, Palletline is strengthening its leadership team to reinforce its position as a market leader in palletised freight distribution in the UK.

Central to this next chapter is Palletline’s unique cooperative model — which places collaboration, accountability, and service at the very heart of its operations.

This structure empowers members to grow with the full backing of a network committed to delivering market-leading service, innovation, and sustainable support.

With a clear focus on fostering growth across the network, Palletline is investing in people and partnerships to help members drive their own individual business potential, develop their teams and unlock new opportunities across both the UK and Europe.

Leading this new initiative will be a team of experienced industry heavyweights, each bringing extensive knowledge and fresh perspectives to the business.

New recruit Carl White joins as Network Director, bringing over 25 years of experience across the parcels, pallets and general haulage sectors, having held senior roles at some of the UK’s largest and most respected transport firms. His strategic thinking and leadership will be key in driving efficiency, performance and value across the network.

Darren Batty, the newly appointed Regional Director South East, brings more than three decades of hands-on experience with some of the most recognised logistics brands in the country. His operational insight and commercial expertise will support members in delivering on-the-ground excellence.

Jon Fullarton who has been with Palletline since 2018, takes the role of Regional Director North & Scotland. With nearly 25 years in the pallet and parcel industry, Jon is deeply engaged with members, working closely to understand their needs and tailor support that helps them grow and adapt in a fast-changing landscape.

Reporting directly to Palletline COO Glenn Baker, this new leadership team will spearhead Palletline’s plans to evolve the business around emerging trends, seize new market opportunities, and ensure the company continues to set the benchmark for quality and reliability in palletised freight distribution.

Graham Leitch, Palletline’s Group Chief Executive Officer commented:

“These changes will enable Glenn to focus on the strategic direction of the business and the implementation of our recently announced 5-year strategic plan.

“They are a natural step in our mission to build on Palletline’s success and strengthen our position in the market. 

“Most importantly, they reflect our commitment to the ongoing growth and development of both the network and our members.

“We are the only member-owned network in the UK, and that brings a real sense of shared purpose. Our members are at the centre of everything we do, and I believe we now have the right team in place to work alongside them and lead Palletline into an exciting future.”

Founded on the principle of members working together for mutual success, Palletline continues to set the standard for performance, service and innovation in palletised freight distribution.   Its unique shareholder model is designed to put people first — providing a stable, collaborative platform for enabling its members to grow together, while maintaining the integrity, service excellence and core values that have defined the brand for over 30 years.

Victa Railfreight appoints Debbie Simmons as new Managing Director

Date: October 16, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Victa Railfreight has announced the appointment of Debbie Simmons as its new Managing Director, taking over from company founder Neil Sime, who will move into the role of Executive Chairman.

Debbie has been part of Victa for 13 years, including 10 years full-time, and most recently served as Contracts and Resources Manager. With extensive experience in business and people management, she has been a valued member of the senior management team for the past decade, bringing deep insight and expertise to Victa’s operations.

Speaking on her appointment, Debbie said:

“I am delighted to step into the role of Managing Director at such an important milestone in Victa’s history. Over the years I have seen first-hand the company’s dedication to innovation, safety, and customer service. I look forward to building on Neil’s legacy and leading our talented team as we continue to deliver specialist rail freight solutions for the future.”

Neil Sime, who founded Victa Railfreight in 1995 and has a distinguished 45-year career in the rail freight industry, will remain closely involved in the business. As Executive Chairman he will continue to support the management team, lead on Solutions Design as a consultant to the freight sector and remain actively involved in various industry forums and committees, including his longstanding membership of the Rail Freight Group board.

Neil said:

“It has been a privilege to lead Victa for the past three decades, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. Debbie has been an integral part of our journey and is the ideal person to take the company forward. We are confident she will lead the company into its next chapter with strength and vision, and I look forward to working alongside her as we continue to innovate and grow.”

The announcement comes as Victa Railfreight celebrated its 30th anniversary in September 2025, marking three decades of pioneering solutions for the UK rail freight sector. Since its founding, the company has built a reputation for tackling complex logistical challenges, driving improvements in safety, and developing opportunities for customers across commercial and heritage rail.

A celebration event held in September brought together staff, suppliers, and customers to commemorate this significant milestone. As the company looks ahead, Victa remains committed to delivering the high-quality, innovative, and reliable services that have defined its success for the past 30 years.

Logistics UK appoints new CEO

Date: October 17, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

The Board of Logistics UK has announced the appointment of Ben Fletcher as CEO. Ben joins on 1st December and will take on his full responsibilities from the start of the new year.

Ben joins Logistics UK after enjoying a highly successful career including, most recently, senior roles within Make UK where he held the role of Chief Operating Officer and was responsible for the public affairs, membership and the business arms of the organisation. Within this role Ben was at the heart of the successes Make UK has enjoyed over the last eight years.

In making the appointment, Phil Roe, President at Logistics UK said:

“In appointing Ben we are building upon the successful team we have at Logistics UK and looking to further improve our delivery for members in both public affairs and our business services. In particular, we expect to build our influence amongst policy makers and regulators to deliver improved outcomes for the whole logistics sector.”

In accepting his new role, Ben commented:

“I am proud to be leading Logistics UK, one of the country’s most powerful trade associations and the driving force behind the world’s best logistics industry.

“Our sector is the backbone of Britain’s economy, connecting people, products and progress every minute of every day.

“As we confront once-in-a-generation economic challenges and opportunities, I am committed to ensuring our voice drives change at the heart of government, and that our members have the services, skills and support they need to innovate, grow, and lead the future of logistics.”

The Board also thanked David Wells for his commitment and service over the past 15 years, and Kevin Green for his excellent work as Acting CEO. Kevin will continue as Director of Policy, Marketing and Communications in the new year.

UK Logistics Week 2026: Powerful collaboration brings the entire logistics supply chain together

Date: October 17, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

In a landmark strategic move set to fundamentally reshape the UK logistics exhibition landscape, between 30 June to 2 July 2026, the UK logistics supply chain will converge like never before across two leading Midland venues – the NEC Birmingham and NAEC Stoneleigh to create UK Logistics Week — the UK’s annual destination for logistics innovation, collaboration and opportunity.

At the NEC, Multimodal, Warehouse., Yard. and eDX will co-locate in adjoining halls, linked by walkthroughs for effortless visitor movement. Meanwhile, shuttle buses will connect The Road Transport Expo at NAEC Stoneleigh with the NEC, creating a seamless visitor experience across both venues. Together, these events will attract a shared audience of more than 25,000 logistics professionals.

More than a collaboration of exhibitions, UK Logistics Week will be the undisputed epicentre of UK logistics innovation and commerce.

Robert Jervis, Event Director of Multimodal, described the strategic decision as a natural and necessary evolution, focused entirely on delivering maximum value to the industry.

“Multimodal has built a trusted, nearly two-decade-long legacy as the premier event for the movement of goods, connecting ports, shipping lines, air freight, rail freight, and the entire freight forwarding community. Our 2026 event was already on track to be a record-breaker, welcoming over 13,500 highly engaged visitors and hundreds of exhibitors. This collaboration reflects that same drive to excel – it is about enhancing the attendee experience and increasing tangible outcomes for our partners and exhibitors.

Nairn Foster, Managing Director of Warehouse. & Yard., comments:

“UK Logistics Week has been designed to offer unrivalled breadth and depth. Spanning every element of the logistics supply chain – from ports, freight, and warehousing to yard management, last-mile delivery and road transport – it gives visitors the ability to see how the entire ecosystem connects. Yet it also allows professionals to focus in on their specific area of interest, whether that’s automation, fleet innovation, digital transformation, or materials handling. Be seen where the industry gathers. Be part of UK Logistics Week.”

Vic Bunby, Event Director of Road Transport Expo added:

“We are delighted to be a core partner in UK Logistics Week. We know that being part of this initiative will not only give our exhibitors an enhanced experience – but all visitors to all the shows will benefit – which can only be good. More content, more exhibitors, more networking, and more time efficient for everyone. It’s a win-win.”

Multimodal: The established core for freight, transport, supply chain management, and logistics services.

Warehouse 2026: Focused on warehouse innovation, automation, intralogistics, and operational excellence.

Yard 2026: The world’s only event dedicated exclusively to yard operations, safety, site flow, and infrastructure.

E-Delivery Expo (eDX): The vital new addition under the Multimodal umbrella, targeting last-mile fulfilment, digital delivery innovation, and e-commerce logistics.

RTX: The UK’s leading road transport event – held at NAEC Stoneleigh – is firmly established as the premier tradeshow for the road haulage industry. The show features over 300 exhibitors and attracts over 14,000 visitors.

The combined platform is projected to offer unmatched access to over 30,000 logistics professionals, including an estimated 6,000+ cross-sector buyers actively looking to invest across every single link in the supply chain.

Further information can be found at www.logisticsweek.uk

Cargo First unveils new cargo handling facilities at Bournemouth Airport

Date: October 17, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Cargo First, the dedicated cargo division of Bournemouth Airport, has announced the completion and commissioning of major new cargo handling facilities, representing a step-change in the airport’s freight capability.

The project, part of an ongoing major investment programme across the Bournemouth Airport estate by owners Regional & City Airports, has delivered three brand new ICAO Code E aircraft stands, a much larger Customs-bonded cargo operations centre, and a programme of landside works to improve access and truck servicing areas. The growing cargo operation now employs more than 80 staff.

The investment effectively doubles the airport’s cargo infrastructure and consolidates freight operations in a purpose-built zone on the northern side of the airfield, providing significant scope for future growth.

The new location, directly alongside the Airport’s 200-acre business park, also provides new opportunities for logistics organisations to benefit from co-location of landside warehousing.

Steve Gill, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport, said:

“The completion of these new facilities marks a significant milestone for Bournemouth Airport and Cargo First. They not only provide the infrastructure to support our fast-growing cargo business but also reinforce our position as a highly attractive alternative to congested London hubs. With record volumes already passing through the airport last year, this investment underlines our ambitions as the UK’s newest import/export air hub.”

Key features of the new facilities include:

• Airside works: three ICAO Code E parking stands for aircraft up to Airbus A340 size, 15,450m² of new concrete pavement, 7,000 tonnes of tarmac resurfacing, and associated airside works including airside roads, taxiway resurfacing and a new vehicle check point
• Customs-bonded cargo centre: a 3,000m² Customs-bonded warehouse (double the size of the previous facility) with a 450m² powered cargo transit system, personnel and cargo screening, office accommodation, airside and landside welfare facilities, and in-flight catering storage
• Landside access: 4,000m² new paved area delivered within a brownfield site, incorporating improved access, new truck parking bays and an enlarged landside service yard area

Cargo First handled a record 31,000 tonnes of freight in the 12 months to March 2025, ranking Bournemouth eighth among the UK’s airfreight airports – a 70% increase on the prior year. Growth has been driven by booming e-commerce imports and growing exports, with high-value UK-manufactured goods becoming an increasingly important part of the mix.

Iain Edwards, Chief Operating Officer at European Cargo, one of Bournemouth’s principal freight operators, said:

“The new facilities are a real boost to our business. Bournemouth Airport offers us the flexibility and speed that are critical in air cargo, and the expansion means we can look forward to handling even more volumes efficiently. It’s a huge advantage to operate away from the congestion of the London hubs, while still being able to deliver consignments into the London market faster than if we flew there directly.”

Located just 90 minutes from London’s freight corridor, Cargo First has established itself as a disruptor in the UK cargo market, offering streamlined handling and proven faster onward delivery than the capital’s airports.

Bournemouth Airport is undergoing a major investment by owners Regional & City Airports, spanning its cargo and passenger facilities. The airport recently received planning consent for a significant expansion of its passenger terminal and a new transport interchange.

PIK agrees new partnership with Beijing Capital Airlines

Date: October 18, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Glasgow Prestwick Airport has entered an agreement with Chinese carrier Beijing Capital Airlines, a member of Hainan Airline Group, to launch a regular freighter service linking Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) with Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO).

The first flight, operated by an Airbus A330-243 (P2F), arrived at Glasgow Prestwick Airport on Thursday 16 October, marking the start of a four-times-weekly schedule.

Beijing Capital is the third cargo airline to realise the opportunity that exists at Glasgow Prestwick in the last six months.

Each flight will carry e-commerce goods and general cargo inbound to the United Kingdom and premium produce including Scottish salmon and whisky along with other high value goods outbound to China.

“This third scheduled service underlines Prestwick’s position as one of the United Kingdom’s leading cargo hubs and demonstrates the strength of our e-commerce solution,” said Ian Forgie, Chief Executive Officer, Glasgow Prestwick Airport.

“Our new partnership with Beijing Capital Airlines expands capacity, increases frequency, and offers exporters throughout the UK a new destination in mainland China.”

The agreement marks another milestone in Prestwick’s long-term cargo development strategy, which focuses on building sustainable, high-frequency routes that connect UK exporters with major international trading centres.

Together, these services confirm Prestwick’s role as one of the UK’s key cargo hubs for China trade and e-commerce.

Unipart opens Trax Park facility in Doncaster

Date: October 20, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Unipart has formally opened its new facility, Trax Park, in Doncaster. The site was officially opened by the Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, at an event attended by local dignitaries, industry leaders, and Unipart partners.

The new multi-sector facility represents a significant long-term investment in the region and Unipart’s commitment to strengthening the UK’s domestic supply chain. While serving customers across all sectors, Trax Park will play a crucial role in supporting the UK rail industry, providing a hub to build a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable railway for the future.

The opening event showcased Unipart’s advanced capabilities, including demonstrations of UK-based manufacturing, digital signalling solutions, and predictive maintenance technology designed to improve safety and performance across the rail network.

Darren Leigh, Unipart Chief Executive Officer, said:

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Lord Hendy for joining us today and officially opening Trax Park. This facility is more than just a building; it’s a testament to our long-term commitment to our customers and to British industry. As our guests saw on the tour, our true differentiator is our unique culture, The Unipart Way. It empowers our people to drive the continuous improvement and innovation that is fundamental to building the resilient, efficient, and sustainable supply chains our customers, and the UK, needs for the future.”

Dr David McGorman, Managing Director, Unipart Rail and Technology, said:

“The technology and innovation showcased here today, from digital signalling to predictive maintenance, are not just concepts for the future; they are practical solutions we are delivering now to create a safer, more reliable, and modern railway for Britain. Trax Park is a hub where we turn that innovation into reality, ensuring the UK rail sector is equipped to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said:

“It was an honour to officially open this new Doncaster site, which represents a major milestone and investment by Unipart in our rail supply chain.

“This Government is supporting the supply chain through our forthcoming rolling stock and infrastructure strategy, and private investment like today’s is crucial to the British rail industry and the local economy of places like Doncaster.

“I am excited to see the work that has already happened on site and wish everyone at Unipart the best for the future.”

The event concluded with Lord Hendy formally cutting the ribbon to declare Trax Park officially open.

B&Q picks GXO again

Date: October 20, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

B&Q has appointed GXO Logistics to handle its newly acquired distribution hub in Wellingborough.

GXO won the contract to run the site, enabling B&Q to bring its bathrooms category sourcing inhouse from the second half of next year.

The move also allows B&Q to integrate customer order management within its existing resource and shift the category’s warehousing to the new distribution hub.

B&Q supply and logistics director Amelie Gallichan-Todd said:

“With a focus on improving customer experience, we are evolving our business at pace and regaining market share.

“We have reimagined our operations-seamlessly integrating our stores, apps, and online platforms – to provide home improvers with greater choice, faster service, and enhanced convenience.

“Changing how we manage our bathrooms fulfilment service during the second half of 2026 will be another step forward in our evolution.

“It will help us to simplify processes, to manage costs responsibly – leveraging our inhouse sourcing, logistics and merchandising expertise, and to prioritise investment in meeting changing customer needs.

“Our new distribution site is well located and suited for the distribution needs of our bathrooms category, and I’m pleased to announce that we’ve selected GXO Logistics to manage this new site, following a competitive tender.”

EWM Transport expands national footprint with new depot at Port of Felixstowe

Date: October 21, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

EWM Transport Limited has announced the opening of its third operational depot, strategically located at the Port of Felixstowe, reinforcing its presence across key UK container hubs and enhancing service capacity for customers.

The Felixstowe depot joins EWM Transport’s existing operations at Southampton and London Gateway Port and will support a fleet of 40 owned vehicles and dedicated subcontractors operating from the Suffolk coast. In total EWM Transport now operates over 100 container vehicles on a daily basis.

Greg Barr, Director at EWM Transport, commented:

“2025 has been a strong year of continued growth for the business, and the opening of our Felixstowe depot is a significant milestone. It positions us closer to one of the UK’s busiest ports and enables us to offer even greater flexibility and reliability to our customers.”

With locations now covering the UK’s key deep-sea container ports, EWM Transport provides nationwide import and export haulage solutions, offering reliable coverage from all major ports including Felixstowe, Southampton, London Gateway, Tilbury, and beyond. This extensive reach allows the company to offer efficient and responsive transport services tailored to the demands of international trade and UK logistics.

The expansion comes as part of a wider strategic growth plan that has seen a number of senior appointments in 2025, including Paul Kingsford-Bere and Jamie Rose joining the leadership team.

Paul Kingsford-Bere, General Manager, added:

“When I was approached to join EWM Transport, the opportunity was immediately compelling. The business has a strong track record for service delivery and operational excellence, and it’s exciting to help drive that further as we grow.”

With further investments planned and continued growth forecast for 2026, EWM Transport is strengthening its position as one of the UK’s fastest-growing container transport specialists.