Industry insiders launch new supply chain consultancy: NovaChain

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

NovaChain, a new consultancy dedicated to “Transforming logistics and empowering people,” has officially launched. Founded by senior leaders with decades of hands-on, lived experience in global shipping and supply chain logistics, NovaChain focuses on delivering practical, people-first transformation for organisations navigating complex change.

Unlike traditional strategy and consultancy firms, NovaChain is led by executives who have lived & breathed the industry from the bottom up, bringing deep commercial and operational expertise to help empower businesses to unlock their potential, overcome challenges and ultimately, to win.

Co-founders Samantha Brocklehurst and Gary Jeffreys bring together decades of senior leadership across major players in global shipping and logistics.

Samantha has a strong record of achievement in leading and delivering large-scale transformation programmes, consistently driving growth while building a strong, authentic customer-centric culture.

Gary is a proven industry leader with a track record of steering major logistics organisations through rapid expansion, operational change and cultural evolution. Together, they combine strategic vision with hands-on operational experience, giving NovaChain a unique edge in helping businesses deliver real, lasting change.

“Our difference is simple,” said Samantha.

“Whatever you’re up against, chances are we’ve lived it. We know the pressure, complexity and opportunity inside logistics businesses and we help leaders make change happen for real.”

Gary added:

“In a volatile market, the businesses that succeed are those that put people and customers heart of decision-making. Our strength lies in bringing a fresh perspective to problems and in helping leaders reimagine what’s possible to build organisations that can thrive through uncertainty.”

NovaChain’s services include business consultancy, supply chain optimisation, procurement strategy & management, offshoring & outsourcing strategy and executive coaching – all delivered with a people-first, results-driven approach.

www.nova-chain.com 

LTS Global Solutions gains HMRC approval to boost e-commerce fulfilment

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

LTS Global Solutions has been officially approved as a registered fulfilment house under HMRC’s Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme.

This approval comes at a time when the global eCommerce market is experiencing rapid growth, with revenue projected to reach $3.66 trillion in 2025 and rising to almost $5 trillion by 2030.

Introduced under the Finance Act 2016, the Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme is a mandatory requirement for businesses storing goods imported from outside the UK or EU prior to their sale to UK consumers.

The government-led initiative was created to prevent overseas sellers from exploiting fulfilment services to evade tax.

By joining the scheme, LTS has demonstrated that it meets HMRC’s rigorous standards of compliance, ensuring that goods stored on behalf of non-UK sellers are managed securely, transparently, and in line with UK tax law.

For ecommerce companies, working with a non-compliant fulfilment provider can carry significant risks, including financial penalties, stock seizure, and disrupted supply chains.

LTS is now able to safeguard its customers within the ecommerce space against these issues through a robust compliance framework that includes maintaining six years of audited compliance records, ensuring everything is in order before fulfilment begins by carrying out stringent client due diligence, and employing dedicated compliance staff trained to verify documents, maintain accurate records, and escalate issues promptly.

These measures also ensure that VAT obligations are fully met, preventing overseas sellers from facing unexpected tax liabilities.

In addition to its compliance credentials, LTS offers a comprehensive range of fulfilment services including storage, pick and pack, co-pack and despatch – all designed to support efficiency and growth in a highly competitive market for customers.

With studies showing that 85% of consumers will not shop with a business again after a poor delivery experience, the importance of reliable and transparent fulfilment cannot be overstated according to Dave Hands, Managing Director of LTS Global Solutions, as any compromise on this has the capability to have a big impact on a company’s success. 

To further support its approval under HMRC’s Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme, LTS’s onboarding process, which it has established to deliver a smooth and compliant transition for e-commerce clients entering the UK market, allows businesses to scale confidently without the risks of non-compliance and any operational disruption.

This onboarding process features detailed risk screening, verification of documentation, WMS integration, and pre-launch test cycles for goods receipt, picking, labelling, and customs procedures, which help identify potential issues early and minimise any potential operational disruptions.

Dave Hands commented:

“Getting approved under HMRC’s Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme is a big step for us as a business and for our clients. It means businesses, especially those in the ecommerce space, can trust that their goods are handled properly and in full compliance with UK tax law.

“Our focus has always been on making fulfilment simple, reliable, and stress-free, so our clients can concentrate on growing their business without worrying about unexpected issues, while we take care of the paperwork and processes behind the scenes.

“The growth of the ecommerce market is there for all to see but the infrastructure needs to keep pace with that growth. With more businesses seeking to expand their presence beyond their domestic borders, this allows us to adapt to what is becoming a rapidly expanding market. Equally, thanks to our central location within the Golden Triangle, which sits within a 4-hour journey for around 90% of the country, we feel well placed to provide reliable and fully compliant fulfilment services to both domestic and international e-commerce businesses.”

Palletways and Transland Group extend partnership with new 10-year deal

Date: October 22, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Palletways has announced a renewed 10-year partnership with Dublin-based Transland Group, strengthening one of the longest-running collaborations in the UK-Ireland logistics sector.

The partnership, which first began in 2008, underlines both companies’ shared focus on service excellence, innovation and sustainable freight transport.

To mark the renewal, Transland has taken delivery of two new dual-branded trailers that will serve its international routes between Ireland and the UK.

The new fleet additions – a standard double deck trailer and a bespoke split double deck trailer – are designed to handle varying pallet sizes and mixes that characterise cross-border freight flows.

Both trailers carry the Transland and Palletways logos, symbolising the visibility and strength of their long-term alliance.

Founded in 1993, Transland started out transporting newspapers and magazines between Ireland and the UK before diversifying into palletised freight in 2002.

Over the years, it has become one of Palletways’ most reliable international members and has been recognised with multiple Palletways Platinum Awards, the network’s highest service quality accolade.

The company was also named Best Performing International Member 2023 at the Palletways Network Conference in Lisbon.

Transland has made steady progress on its sustainability agenda, investing in eight bespoke double deck trailers compliant with Ireland’s 4.65m height limit to maximise efficiency and reduce emissions.

The company has also transitioned its car fleet to hybrid and electric vehicles, installed EV charging points, and is advancing plans to introduce solar energy at its depot.

Rob Gittins, Managing Director UK at Palletways Group, said:

“We are thrilled to be extending our long-standing relationship with Transland for another decade.

“These new dual-branded trailers are a visible symbol of our strong partnership, and a clear demonstration of Transland’s continued investment in delivering high-quality, efficient freight services.

“Their dedication to innovation, sustainability and service excellence mirrors our own values and plays a vital role in maintaining the high standards our customers expect across Europe.”

Kieran Conlon, Managing Director at Transland Group, added:

“The arrival of these two new trailers is a proud moment for us.

“They not only represent our brand on the roads, but also our deep-rooted partnership with Palletways and our shared focus on adapting to customer needs.

“Whether it’s managing mixed pallet types or ensuring smooth cross-border delivery, these trailers give us the flexibility and capacity to continue growing and exceeding expectations.

“This renewed agreement is about ambition, innovation and raising the bar for palletised freight.”

Logistics UK launches logistics “treasure map” for innovators

Date: October 22, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Technological solutions aimed at the logistics sector are not always grounded in real operational needs and can be “solutions looking for a problem”. So says business group Logistics UK as it publishes its Logistics Innovation Opportunities Map (LIOM).  The roadmap challenges innovators to develop creative and technological solutions to real world problems that will have material benefits for the logistics sector and wider UK economy.

Logistics UK Acting Chief Executive Kevin Green said:

“We call our report an Innovation Opportunities Map, but we could equally call it a Treasure Map: the challenges identified represent significant financial opportunities for the developers and entrepreneurs that can solve them.”

The LIOM is designed as a resource for technology developers, infrastructure providers, investors, policymakers and logistics businesses and rather than prescribing specific solutions it identifies practical logistics problems that innovation can help solve.

Green continues:

“We want to tap into the entrepreneurial spirit and creativity that businesses thrive on to find solutions. There will be approaches that we are not aware of which is why the report does not seek to specify solutions, rather it acts as an invitation to innovators to share their wisdom.”

The LIOM captures operational challenges looking at three use cases from across logistics: long-distance and depot-to-depot trunking; urban logistics and last mile; and off-road, site-based and private-network operations. 

For trunking, the roadmap identifies challenges including optimising hub location; the need for smoother multimodal transfers between vehicles and modes; managing vehicle mix, availability and maintenance; and delivering efficient return journeys and border crossings. The report identifies potential innovation opportunities in this area including tools to accelerate planning engagement; the use of robotics and containerisation; and how blockchain solutions can be applied to border data sharing and enable real-time electronic documentation.

With urban logistics, the LIOM cites challenges including identifying optimal locations for urban warehouses, competition for kerbside space and insufficient access to suitable public charging. For these areas, it highlights the potential for data-driven tools and systems such as bookable kerbside bays and shared charging infrastructure.

Off-road logistics includes private networks, yards, ports and depots and challenges identified include managing energy use across complex, multi-operator sites and providing secure, hygienic and accessible on-site facilities for drivers and staff. For this use case, the LIOM suggests potential for innovation around site energy management systems; the use of satellite and sensor data and in-yard autonomous vehicle applications.

For each challenge, the LIOM identifies whether a solution would generate a direct commercial benefit such as better asset utilisation, a public benefit such as emissions reduction or a shared benefit such as workforce retention. The report also identifies strategic insights to guide efforts to enhance the adoption of innovation in the logistics sector, and groups them into three themes: focus on foundations; system thinking; and understanding shared value and responsibility.

Green concludes:

“This map is a conversation starter – not a solution manual. The challenges identified are the challenges that the industry is facing every day, and we are inviting technology developers to explore how they can address them.  Collaboration will be critical, and policymakers and regulators also have a vital role: ensuring the infrastructure, trust frameworks and incentives are in place to enable innovation to flourish. Together we can turn the insight uncovered in our report into action that increases efficiency and drives profitability and growth across the country.”

To download a copy of Logistics UK’s Logistics Innovation Opportunities Map, and to discover how organisations can get involved in supporting collaboration to drive innovation in the logistics sector, visit: Logistics Innovation Opportunities Map  (https://logistics.org.uk/research-hub/reports/the-logistics-innovation-opportunities-map)

CLdN selects Qargo as partner for a new multimodal Transport Management System

Date: October 22, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

CLdN Cargo has selected Qargo as its technology partner for the implementation of a new Transport Management System (TMS) to support and enhance its operations.

Scalability and automation are at the heart of CLdN Cargo’s strategy. By adopting Qargo’s innovative cloud-based platform, CLdN Cargo will further enhance planning and execution across its multimodal transport network covering sea, rail and road logistics. The solution will provide customers with a seamless digital connection to CLdN Cargo and real-time visibility into the status of their orders.

“Efficiency, transparency, and flexibility are central to our customer offer,” said Stijn Gheyle, Chief Operating Officer at CLdN Cargo.

“Qargo’s intelligent platform provides the scalability and automation we need to further enhance our multimodal services and deliver an even better experience to our customers.”

Qargo’s Co-founder and CEO Adriaan Coppens added:

“We are proud to partner with CLdN, a company that shares our commitment to innovation and operational excellence. Together, we will enable smarter, data-driven transport management that supports CLdN Cargo’s growth and helps reduce environmental impact.”

Bretts Transport launches major solar panel installation

Date: October 22, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Distribution and storage specialist Bretts Transport has kick started the first phase of a major renewable plan with a large solar panel installation at its Guyhirn site in Cambridgeshire. 

The move demonstrates a significant step in its ongoing sustainability journey as the business continues to introduce measures to drive down its carbon emissions.

Representing an investment of in excess of £150k the installation is expected to generate 229,310 kWh of renewable energy each year, enough to cover 25% of the site’s current annual consumption of 685,849 kWh.

Estimated to be fully operational by the end of this month, the system is projected to save approximately £33,585 per year for Bretts, representing a 28% reduction in energy costs.

It will also offer a 22% internal rate of return and a payback period of just over four and a half years.

Designed for efficiency, the installation will achieve 77% self-consumption, with 22% of the generated energy exported back to the grid and only 1% lost due to Distribution Network Operator restrictions.

Each year, the system will also help the business avoid around 108 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

The installation also comes as the company accelerates its carbon reduction efforts, having recently converted its entire forklift fleet to 100% electric and invested in a new baler to improve the collection and recycling of cardboard and plastic waste within its warehousing facility.

The company is also currently conducting a review of its fleet operations, and how best it utilises its vehicles across its 70-strong fleet.

By stripping operations back to the basics, Bretts is identifying areas where assets may be underused and exploring opportunities to operate more efficiently and sustainably, with findings set to be completed in the coming months.

Simon Brett, CEO of Bretts Transport commented: “For us, sustainability isn’t just a tick-box exercise, it’s central to how we operate and how we plan for the future.

“Over the past few years, we’ve made a conscious effort to embed environmentally responsible practices across every part of our business, from our warehousing facilities to our fleet operations, and the installation of our new solar panels at our Guyhirn site is a significant step in that journey.

“With the investment generating a quarter of our site’s energy requirements, this will not only translate into reducing our carbon emissions, but also in delivering real financial benefits through energy cost savings year on year. It’s a practical, long-term investment that makes both environmental and commercial sense.”

Simon Brett continued: “We’ve also been on a journey over the last few years which involves us stripping back our operations to the bare basics and making changes that actually make us better as a business.

“Reducing are carbon footprint is of course a core element of that, but there’s little point in implementing these initiatives if it compromises on performance, so in conjunction with this we’ve also tried to look at ways to improve efficiency across the board.

“That’s why, alongside projects like the solar installation, we are also reviewing how we utilise our fleet and drivers to ensure every aspect of the business is working as efficiently and sustainably as possible.”

FlyUs appointed GSA for Riyadh Air in UK and Ireland

Date: October 25, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

FlyUs Aviation Group (FlyUs) has been appointed General Sales Agent (GSA) for Riyadh Air in the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland, effective 26th October 2025.       

The agreement coincides with Riyadh Air’s first scheduled flights into London Heathrow Airport (LHR), operated daily by the airline’s Boeing 787-9.  

“It is rare to see a new airline commence daily widebody operations into Heathrow, so being involved from the first departure is a real privilege,” said Carlo de Haas, President and Chief Executive Officer, FlyUs.  

“This appointment is a testament to FlyUs’s proven track record in cargo sales and our commitment to delivering market-leading representation.

“This partnership offers the market direct and reliable access into Saudi Arabia, a market of growing importance for manufacturing, e-commerce, perishable, and high-value logistics.”

Pravin Singh, Head of Cargo at Riyadh Air, said:

“The appointment of FlyUs marks the beginning of a strong partnership built on shared ambition and operational excellence. Their local expertise and proven track record will help us deliver Riyadh Air’s promise of dependable, customer-focused cargo solutions across the UK and Ireland.”

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, is set to play a pivotal role in supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions by connecting Riyadh with 100 destinations by 2030, facilitating trade and logistics growth across the world.       

Under the agreement, FlyUs will oversee sales, customer support, and capacity management for the UK and Ireland, with bookings routed via its local teams.       

“FlyUs owns and operates its own trucking fleet, providing daily temperature-controlled services to and from the Benelux and the UK,” added de Haas.       

“For our forwarder clients in Europe, this means they will be able to benefit from Riyadh Air’s new route to Heathrow via our road feeder services.”       

This appointment reflects FlyUs’ commitment to connecting national carriers with forwarders worldwide.

Separately,  FlyUs was named General Sales and Service Agent (GSSA) of the Year at the 2025 Air Cargo News Awards held in London, UK, on Wednesday 22nd October.

This is the sixth year in a row that the independent GSSA has won in this category.

“Winning this award once again reflects the strength of the partnerships we’ve built across our global network,” said James Gidlow, Group Commercial Director, FlyUs.

“Our teams consistently go above and beyond for our customers, and it’s their commitment that keeps FlyUs at the forefront of this industry.

“As the market evolves, so does FlyUs; we’re continually investing in smarter processes and customer-focused solutions to ensure our customers receive true long-term value, and this award is a testament to that.”

Anna Krzeczkowska, Customer Service Manager at FlyUs, was also shortlisted for the Young Airfreight Professional of the Year Award, a category launched last year to celebrate young talent across the industry.

DP World introduces groundbreaking container handling technology at London Gateway

Date: October 25, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

DP World is investing £170 million in cutting-edge container handling technology at its London Gateway logistics hub, marking a major step forward in the digitalisation and automation of port operations.

The new Empty Superstack represents a revolutionary approach to handling empty containers. Using High Bay Storage (HBS) technology, the system will store 20- and 40-foot empty containers up to 16 tiers high inside a fully enclosed, automated facility. The result is a dramatic improvement in yard capacity, safety and efficiency – operating like a giant vending machine for containers.

Developed by BOXBAY, a joint venture between DP World and Germany’s SMS group, the fully electric stacker cranes can handle containers with precision, retrieving and delivering them automatically for onward transport. Designed to integrate seamlessly into existing port operations, the modular Empty Superstack system requires no changes to landside or seaside interfaces. By removing multiple tiers of empty containers from the automated stacking crane (ASC) yard, the system reduces rehandling and housekeeping, allowing ASCs to operate more efficiently and improving performance across the quay. The outcome: faster truck turnaround times and a more productive, sustainable terminal.

Installed at London Gateway’s new all-electric Berth 4, BOXBAY’s Empty Superstack will be capable of holding up to 27,000 TEU and will deliver significant gains in safety, operational efficiency, and environmental performance. The project will take just over two years to complete.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said:

“BOXBAY technology represents a leap forward in how ports manage container storage. It is scalable, automated and sustainable. By bringing this ingenious design to London Gateway, we are introducing advanced technology that will unlock faster throughput and contribute to higher safety standards.”

Stephen Whittingham, Executive Vice President, North Europe, DP World, added:

“This £170 million investment underscores DP World’s commitment to innovation at London Gateway. The BOXBAY Empty Superstack will boost reliability for our customers, minimise truck visit times in port, and create a safer, smarter working environment for our people.”

The BOXBAY system has already proven its capabilities through extensive trials at DP World’s Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, where nearly 500,000 TEU were handled using the technology. Its modular design and energy regeneration features make BOXBAY one of the most advanced and sustainable container handling systems in the world.

As global trade evolves, the introduction of BOXBAY’s Empty Superstack at London Gateway demonstrates DP World’s ongoing investment in intelligent logistics and its vision to set new standards for efficiency, sustainability and safety across the global port industry.

Swissport doubles capacity at Manchester Airport

Date: October 25, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Swissport International has opened its new state-of-the-art cargo facility – Box 4 – at Manchester Airport. This major development expands Swissport’s cargo handling capabilities at this key UK hub, doubling annual capacity to 110,000 tons and reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and innovation. The new facility increases Swissport’s operational footprint by 67% compared to the previous site and will begin full operations on 27 October, following an inauguration event on 23 October attended by representatives from airlines, airport and logistics partners, and the regional freight community.

“Manchester is a critical hub for the UK’s air cargo network, and this new facility reflects Swissport’s commitment to investing in infrastructure and technology to meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said Joe Bellfield, Swissport’s Chief Operating Officer Cargo UK&I.

“This expansion strengthens our ability to handle a diverse range of goods – from e-commerce shipments and perishables to pharmaceuticals and high-value products – with the highest standards of safety, security, and efficiency.”

Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said:

“We’re proud to connect the North, and that doesn’t just mean flying our passengers to the places they want to travel to, it also means fulfilling an important role as a hub for international trade. This new facility will allow our airlines to transport higher volumes of cargo, which will not only help businesses in our region to source the products they need and sell their own products abroad but will also create jobs and incentivise airlines to grow their schedules from Manchester.”

The facility integrates advanced cargo handling systems designed for the seamless transfer of Unit Load Devices (ULDs), improving operational speed, reducing manual handling, and increasing efficiency.

A dedicated Pharma Centre with cold rooms and temperature-controlled environments ensures precise handling of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and perishables. Specialized racking systems, dock levellers, and an open-plan layout optimize operational flow, while enhanced facilities for airline tenants and expanded pallet handling areas support efficient management of high-value, time-critical, and temperature-sensitive cargo.

The new hub demonstrates Swissport’s commitment to environmental responsibility and resource efficiency. The facility has achieved an ‘A’ Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, with intelligent energy-saving lighting and building systems throughout.

Infrastructure has also been installed to enable a full transition to electric-powered ground service equipment (eGSE), supporting Swissport’s target to operate a fully electric fleet at the site within two years. This initiative contributes to the company’s global sustainability strategy, which aims to electrify 55% of its GSE fleet by 2032 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050, reinforcing Swissport’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable operations across its worldwide network.

Manchester is a key logistics gateway connecting global trade flows. Swissport’s investment strengthens regional supply chain resilience, supports economic growth, and enhances the airport’s ability to serve evolving cargo needs — from e-commerce to complex freight solutions.

The new facility in Manchester is part of Swissport’s wider UK expansion strategy, with several new cargo hubs planned across the country. This investment underscores the company’s commitment to supporting regional economic growth, strengthening supply chain resilience, and meeting the increasing demands of global trade.

The facility also provides improved working environments for employees, including upgraded welfare areas, spacious offices, and modernized equipment. The site will initially employ 95 team members, all transferred from the previous location, with further recruitment planned as volumes grow.

This investment is part of Swissport’s global cargo growth strategy, building on recent expansions across Europe and Asia. It follows the company’s landmark partnership to manage the Digital & Intelligent International Cargo Terminal at Shanghai Pudong International Airport — a flagship operation in Asia and a key milestone in its digitalization and innovation strategy.

Together, these developments reinforce Swissport’s position as a trusted, reliable partner for airlines and freight forwarders seeking high-performance, future-ready cargo handling solutions worldwide.

BIFA reveals shortlist for 2025 Freight Service Awards

Date: October 30, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

Thirty-three freight forwarding companies have been shortlisted as finalists for the nine service categories of this year’s British International Freight Association’s Freight Service Awards, with seven of them making the finalist shortlists in more than one category.

Those shortlisted in the nine service categories of the awards, which are now in their 37th year, are as follows:

• Air Freight Forwarder of the Year (sponsored by IAG Cargo): Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics, James Cargo Services, KLN Freight, and Pro-Logist.

• Customs Compliance Services (sponsored by CNS): ALS Customs Services, EV Cargo Global Forwarding, Samphire Cargo, Seafast Logistics, and UK Customs Solutions.

• European Logistics Forwarder of Year (sponsored by TT Club): Brunel European, JPM Future, Simpex, and Transportify.

• Extra Mile (sponsored by Descartes): Carousel Logistics, Efret, James Cargo Services, Mercury Freight, and UPS SCS.

• Project Forwarding (sponsored by BT): Deugro, DHL Global Forwarding, DFDS, and Killick Martin & Co.

• Sea Freight Forwarder of the Year (sponsored by Port Express): Denholm Good Logistics and KLN Freight.

• Staff Development (sponsored by Albacore Systems): Ital Logistics, Metro Shipping, Neon Freight, Pro Carrier, and Unsworth UK.

• Sustainable Logistics & the Environment (sponsored by American Airlines Cargo): Baxter Freight, Carousel Logistics, DFDS, and Freight Systems Express (Wales).

• Value-Added Services (sponsored by Menzies LLP): Elite Logistics Consultants, HSM Global, IFE Global Group, and Uniserve.

In the two award categories for individuals, the finalists in the Apprentice of the Year category, sponsored by World Insurance Services Inc, are Dylan Cheesman, Unsworth UK; Joseph Duffy, Metro Shipping; Joseph Findlay, DHL Global Forwarding; Nathan Brooks, Unsworth UK; Peter Boyd, DHL Global Forwarding; and Veronika Litterova, Avocet Clearance Ltd.

In the Young Freight Forwarder of the Year category, sponsored by Virgin Atlantic Cargo, the following have been revealed as finalists: Josh Harbottle, cargo-partner; Nathan George, DSV; Rachel Townsley, Gravitas Worldwide; Mitchell Ward-Broadfield, Rohlig.

The finalists in each category will now go forward to the final round of judging with winners due to be announced at the BIFA Freight Service Awards Ceremony on Thursday 15th January 2026.

Host for the ceremony is TV presenter, adventurer, author, and conservationist Steve Backshall, who will present certificates to all the finalists and, alongside the category sponsors, award trophies to the winners in recognition of their outstanding achievements across the freight forwarding sector.

Tickets are now on sale for the event, which will once again provide a valuable opportunity for attendees to acknowledge both the finalists and winners, as well as networking with people from within the industry.

Further information relating to luncheon reservations can be obtained by visiting the BIFA website www.bifa.org/awards 

GXO announces organizational changes to accelerate growth

Date: October 30, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

GXO Logistics has announced organizational changes to accelerate growth, simplify its structure, and strengthen execution.

GXO CEO Patrick Kelleher said:

“In my first 60 days, I’ve seen firsthand the strength of our foundation and the extraordinary potential ahead – for our business, our people, and our impact in the marketplace. The changes we’re announcing today sharpen our focus on growth, simplify our structure, and lay the groundwork for stronger execution across the organization.”

Michael Jacobs, formerly Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, Ferguson Enterprises, Inc., has been appointed as President of the Americas and Asia Pacific, effective November 3.

Jacobs brings more than three decades of experience in all aspects of supply chain operations with expertise spanning consumer packaged goods, retail and industrial. At Ferguson, Jacobs led the transformation of its supply chain — improving service, increasing productivity through robotics and automation and enhancing demand forecasting and product transit predictability by leveraging AI. At Keurig, Inc., he led worldwide distribution and e-commerce fulfilment, achieving best-in-class operating levels. Prior, he led global supply chain operations at Toys “R” Us, Inc., across all divisions in 33 countries.

Kelleher continued:

“The Americas and Asia Pacific region is brimming with growth potential, and now is the right time to reenergize our approach to match its dynamics and opportunities. I am thrilled to welcome Michael to GXO. He brings a depth and breadth of experience across all aspects of supply chain and a proven track record of automation excellence and operational execution.”

Jacobs, who will be based in Dallas, succeeds Jorge Guanter whose leadership of the region since 2023 has set the stage for the next chapter of growth.

The Company also announced that it is simplifying its management structure to strengthen execution. Effective immediately, the UK & Ireland and Continental Europe regions, led by Gavin Williams and Paul Mohan respectively, will report directly to the CEO. As part of this transition, Richard Cawston, who has served as President of Europe and Chief Revenue Officer since 2024, will pursue new opportunities outside of GXO yet will remain until a new Chief Commercial Officer is appointed.

“Both Europe and the UK & Ireland have seasoned leaders with highly experienced teams,” concluded Kelleher. “Streamlining the regional management structure will accelerate decision-making in these important markets. I am grateful for Richard’s many contributions to GXO over the past few years and appreciate his willingness to stay on-board to ensure a seamless transition.”

Additionally, a new Chief Operating Officer role is being established, reporting to the CEO, with responsibility for driving operational excellence through standardized global execution.

ReFuels signs GBP 25 million debt facility to build three Bio-CNG refuelling stations

Date: October 30, 2025 By admin Categories: Uncategorized No comments

ReFuels has announced that CNG Fuels has entered into a GBP 25 million five-year debt facility with funds managed by the Foresight Group. Together with cash flow from operations, the facility will fund the construction of three new high-capacity Bio-CNG refuelling stations as part of the company’s strategy to double UK-wide dispensing capacity by the end of 2028.

“We are progressing the next milestones in our growth plan backed by rapidly increasing operational cash flows and the new debt facility. This enables us to capitalise on the fast-growing demand for Bio-CNG driven by fleet owners transitioning to 100% renewable biomethane to meet decarbonisation targets while reducing fuel costs,” said Philip Fjeld, CEO and co-founder of ReFuels.

The new stations include confirmed sites at Magor (South Wales) and Swindon (South-West England) and will increase the capacity of CNG Fuels’ network to more than 12,500 HGVs per day. They are further expected to unlock significant future orders from existing and new customers, including strong uptake of the new, larger 6×2 gas-powered trucks.

In total, CNG Fuels (40% owned by ReFuels) plans to build out at least nine high-capacity stations over the next three years, complemented by a fleet of additional Mobile Refuelling Units (MRS), bringing the total capacity to more than 20,000 HGVs by end-2028. The station roll-out towards the end of 2028 will be fully funded through cash flow from operations and the debt facility.

Biomethane delivers 85 – 90% lower CO₂ emissions and ~25% lower costs versus diesel and up to 40% lower cost compared to HVO biodiesel. CNG Fuels’ integrated platform combines access to renewable biomethane with ownership of the UK’s leading public access fuelling infrastructure, enabling decarbonising of fleets at scale. 2,100 HGVs currently refuel through the network, with more than 900 additional trucks expected over the next 12 months.

CNG Fuels has a clear path to reach an annual dispensing capacity of over 780 million kilograms of biomethane by the end of 2028, equivalent to 2 million tonnes of CO₂ savings per year compared to diesel.

The agreement with Foresight, who have an existing shareholding in CNG Fuels, follows a competitive market process. The facility was attractive due to its 9.5% fixed interest rate and flexible prepayment terms, providing a cost-effective solution today and enabling access to lower-cost funding for future developments.