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Month: September 2025

Advanced Sorting Solution for Johannesburg DC

Posted on by David Priestman

City Logistics, a logistics partner in South Africa, have selected automation and software supplier FORTNA, to design and implement a new state-of-the-art material handling and sorting system at its Johannesburg distribution centre. The solution is designed to significantly boost speed, accuracy and productivity.

With a robust distribution network across the Southern African region and strong partnerships with leading retail brands, City Logistics continues to invest in infrastructure to meet increasing customer expectations and market demands. Efficient sorting and shipping operations are central to the City Logistics service model, and the new system will enable them to scale their capabilities with confidence.
The FORTNA solution is designed for high-speed, high-volume environments, empowering City Logistics to optimize its parcel operations. The automation system will not only boost throughput and efficiency but will also ensure accuracy and reliability in every delivery.

Capable of handling both standard parcels and non-conveyables — items traditionally difficult to automate — the system will reduce manual touchpoints while ensuring full item traceability throughout the process.

“We selected FORTNA after a robust review process of several solutions. Factors that we considered were the overall solution design, experience in retail logistics, which is core to City Logistics’ strategy, and global experience successfully implementing large-scale sortation projects. Our team is looking forward to working with FORTNA on this project,” says Ryan Gaines CEO, City Logistics.

“This solution enhances performance and drives operational efficiency, supporting City Logistics’ position as a trusted logistics partner for leading brands across the region,” says Thomas van Workum, President, International at FORTNA. “In a competitive and evolving landscape, adopting robust and future-proof technology is essential to staying ahead.”

Leveraging global expertise and deep regional insight, FORTNA will also provide comprehensive after-sales support to ensure continuous system uptime and sustained long-term performance. With a strong local presence, the company aims to be a trusted partner, bringing the capacity, expertise, and end-to-end solutions that help customers.

Hauliers Urged to Stay Focused on ICS2 Customs

Posted on by David Priestman

Hauliers should not become complacent about Import Control System 2 (ICS2) Phase 3, despite many EU members delaying the introduction of the cargo information system, according to Colin Robb, Head of Operations & Sales at Derry Bros. He warns that the latest postponements have resulted in a fragmented implementation for road freight, which has caused confusion in the cross-border freight marketplace and left many road-based operators unprepared for the changes.

“There is certainly some nervousness about how best to tackle the new requirements, and latest delays have only added to the uncertainty,” explains Robb. “We now have a situation where compliance is still mandatory for some EU countries, while others are waiting for the end of 2025. However, a wait and see approach is not an option, so hauliers need to adapt their IT systems, update shipping processes, and train teams to handle the changes.”

ICS2 is an EU customs initiative to enhance border security for goods entering the EU, Switzerland, and Norway that has undergone a phased rollout since 2021. The focus of ICS2 is on earlier and more comprehensive data submission, enhanced risk assessment, and shared responsibility with customers and partners. It is designed to improve supply chain visibility, facilitate faster risk assessment and clearance, and support early and coordinated intervention for unsafe goods.

“It will be crucial for hauliers to get to grips with the ICS2 requirements, because failure to comply is expected to lead to stricter fines and penalties, as well as refused entry of goods and delays at EU borders. We are offering guidance and support to help operators adapt customs processes or software integrations, so they can avoid any supply chain disruption,” adds Robb.

In addition, Derry Bros new self-service customs solution, SelfClear, can also generates Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) for ICS2 and the company has introduced an AI assistant that simplifies error messaging and then provides options to rectify the issue. The tool has been developed to simplify customs requirements for the movement of goods across UK and EU borders, which is helping users to mitigate administrative issues and avoid non-compliance.

Derry Bros has more than 60 years of experience in the freight and logistics industry, serving the UK, EU and beyond. With a comprehensive range of managed booking, customs and consultancy services, it is helping businesses to navigate some of the most complex challenges facing cross-border trade and transport. The company’s success and proven track record is underpinned by award-winning technology systems, developed in-house, including the all-in-one digital customs solution, Digicom.

Freight Forwarders Pro Gatwick Second Runway

Posted on by David Priestman

Gatwick’s second runway project is a £2.2 billion privately financed scheme that will see the airport’s existing standby runway shifted 12 metres north, enabling it to operate alongside the main runway for the first time. Alongside this change, the plans include new taxiways, expanded terminal facilities, and improvements to road and rail access, as well as noise and environmental mitigation measures.

The development is expected to transform Gatwick’s capacity, adding around 100,000 flights a year and increasing annual passenger numbers from around 45 million to 75 million by the late 2030s. For the freight community, cargo volumes are forecast to more than double, growing from approximately 150,000 tonnes in recent years to as much as 350,000 tonnes by 2047. This is seen as a major boost to the reliability and competitiveness of Gatwick as a hub for bellyhold cargo.

The British International Freight Association welcomes the news that London Gatwick Airport’s £2.2 billion second runway project has secured government approval.

This is another important step in the planning process, but BIFA notes that the project could be delayed if the Gatwick scheme is subject to a judicial review. Steve Parker, BIFA director general said:

“The airport has become an increasingly important hub for air cargo and volumes are expected to climb sharply once the second runway is operational. Hopefully, the additional runway capacity will strengthen the airport’s position as a critical gateway for time-sensitive goods that move via aircraft.”

Second Opinion

Alun Cornish, Managing Director Ramp and Gateways at FedEx Europe, told us:

“We welcome the Transport Secretary’s support for Gatwick’s expansion, we’ve seen first-hand how vital air cargo is to Britain’s growth – helping businesses in the South East expand overseas and tap into global markets. Air connectivity isn’t just a convenience; it’s the backbone of international trade and economic strength.”

“We support appropriate airport expansion to deliver economic growth to the UK, but to unlock its full potential, cargo growth must remain a priority alongside passenger flights. Air freight is critical to modern supply chains and Britain’s global standing. Policymakers must act to ensure the UK remains a trading powerhouse. We look forward to what the future holds.”

Stewart Wingate, VINCI Airports Managing Director for United Kingdom said:

“After a lengthy and rigorous planning process, we welcome the Government’s approval of plans to bring our Northern Runway into routine use, ahead of the expected deadline.

This is another important gateway in the planning process for this £2.2bn investment, which is fully funded by our shareholders and will unlock significant growth, tourism and trade benefits for London Gatwick and the UK and create thousands of jobs.

As we’ve said previously, it is essential that any planning conditions enable us to realise the full benefits of the project and do not impose unnecessary constraints that make it uneconomic to invest in. We now need to carefully examine the details of the planning consent. Once we have done that, we will be able to comment further.”

Strategically, Gatwick’s progress comes at a time when Heathrow’s long-debated third runway remains stalled. By moving ahead, Gatwick positions itself as the more realistic expansion option in the South East, offering a vital additional gateway for both passengers and freight in a region critical to UK logistics.

Cotswold Outdoor Appoints DHL Supply Chain

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Supply Chain has been appointed by Cotswold Outdoor Group in a new multi-year contract. The contract will see DHL provide expert warehousing and fulfilment solutions for the British company behind high-street brands Cotswold Outdoor, Runners Need and Snow + Rock.

Cotswold Outdoor Group’s warehousing and fulfilment will now operate out of DHL’s multi-user facility in Coventry. The new partnership will enable Cotswold Outdoor Group to benefit from newer facilities and technology, delivering a smoother, more efficient service for its customers and partners. Leveraging its industry expertise and extensive network, DHL will manage warehousing, e-commerce fulfilment and product distribution to 75 stores nationwide.

Entirely powered by renewable electricity, the Coventry facility was DHL’s first operationally carbon-neutral new build site in the UK, with a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ and an EPC ‘A’ rating, supporting the retailer’s sustainability pledges.

Natalie Frow, MD, eCommerce and Retail, DHL Supply Chain UK&I said:

“Through this new partnership, we’re proud to be supporting a growing British retailer, known for its quality and commitment to sustainable practices. With a wealth of experience in delivering optimised logistics solutions, we’re perfectly positioned to help Cotswold Outdoor Group drive operational efficiencies.”

Jamie Kristow, CEO, Cotswold Outdoor Group, said:

“Making sure our customers and partners have an exceptional experience working with us is always a top priority. By partnering with DHL, we are ensuring our supply chain is strong and agile, while also delivering against our sustainability commitments.”

The new contract coincides with Cotswold Outdoor Group relocating its head office to Swindon.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 84.2 billion euros in 2024. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

CMA CGM Acquire Freightliner Intermodal

Posted on by David Priestman

The CMA CGM Group has today announced the acquisition of Freightliner in the United Kingdom. Freightliner, a leading provider of rail and road freight transport services, operates across the UK and Europe. The transaction includes its rail and road operations, inland terminals, as well as the Freightliner brand.

This acquisition underlines CMA CGM’s ambition to build a sustainable and competitive transport offering in Europe. By adding a long-standing name in UK rail freight, the Group reaffirms its commitment to supporting the modal shift from road to rail – a cornerstone of decarbonizing global supply chains.

The transaction is expected to close in early 2026, subject to the required regulatory approvals. Other Freightliner businesses – Heavy Haul, Rotterdam Rail Feeding, and Freightliner Poland/Germany – will remain under existing ownership. Freightliner operations will remain focused on its multi-user and multi-customer approach, and will be run independently with existing teams who have proven their expertise and dedication.

Rail freight is a major lever for reducing CO₂ emissions. With Freightliner UK’s expertise and know-how, CMA CGM aims to strengthen its ability to offer European customers seamless and integrated intermodal solutions including transport and terminal operations.

Strong synergies between two major brands

The addition of Freightliner opens the way to significant enhanced-value offerings: developing comprehensive intermodal offerings combining maritime, rail, and road; enhancing connectivity between Europe’s major ports and the UK hinterland through strategically located inland terminals; and driving shared innovation in decarbonized logistics solutions.

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, said:

“The acquisition of Freightliner, a leading rail freight operator, strengthens our intermodal presence in the United Kingdom, a strategic market for CMA CGM. It enables us to connect sea, rail and road more efficiently, delivering better solutions for our customers. It is also a concrete step in expanding lower-carbon transport options, supporting both their needs and the decarbonization of global trade.”

Commenting on the divestment, Tim Shoveller, Chief Executive Officer of Freightliner Group, said:

“This transaction marks an exciting new chapter for Intermodal and Heavy Haul, allowing each to focus on their distinct markets under separate ownership. The Intermodal business will become a stand-alone business within CMA CGM’s portfolio, with opportunities to collaborate with other arm’s length CMA CGM companies. Heavy Haul will continue its growth journey in the bulk materials sector under a new brand with a clear focus on strengthening its position as a key freight operator. Our customers will continue to receive the same high-quality leadership and operational teams, and we have robust plans in place to ensure a smooth transition of ownership.”

Conveyor Belts Driving Sustainability

Posted on by David Priestman

Sustainability has become one of the defining challenges for the logistics industry. Global supply chains are under growing pressure to reduce their environmental footprint, while at the same time ensuring efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Forbo Movement Systems is taking decisive steps in this direction with two innovative solutions that demonstrate how advanced technology and responsible material choices can go hand in hand: the Amp Miser energy-saving conveyor belt and the Transilon ECOFIBER conveyor belt line made from recycled PET bottles. Together, they highlight Forbo’s commitment to strengthening sustainable practices in logistics and material handling.

At the core of Amp Miser is patented Texglide technology, a special layer on the underside of the belt that significantly reduces friction between the belt and the conveyor slider bed. The result is up to 50 percent lower energy consumption, as verified by TÜV Rheinland, making Amp Miser the best energy-saving belt in the industry by far. This means that every conveyor running with Amp Miser consumes far less power than with conventional belts, directly translating into a reduced carbon footprint during daily operations. In large distribution centres where hundreds of conveyors are in constant use, the cumulative energy savings are substantial.

But sustainability is not only about saving energy in operation — it is also about making smarter use of resources in production. This is where ECOFIBER comes in. The tension members of Transilon ECOFIBER are manufactured from recycled PET bottles, giving new life to a material that would otherwise become waste. By integrating post-consumer plastics into durable, high-performance conveyor belts, Forbo reduces the need for virgin raw materials and lowers CO₂ emissions associated with belt production. ECOFIBER represents a clear step toward the circular economy by demonstrating how recycled resources can be transformed into advanced industrial solutions.

The environmental benefits of both Amp Miser and ECOFIBER are reinforced by their strong performance characteristics. Both belt types are engineered for durability, consistent conveying reliability, and easy integration into existing systems. This ensures that companies can adopt sustainable technologies without compromising productivity or facing additional downtime. In fact, the improved energy efficiency and reduced wear can even extend the overall lifespan of conveyor systems, leading to fewer replacements and lower maintenance needs over time.

For logistics operators, the introduction of these technologies means more than just environmental progress. It enables them to align with stricter regulatory frameworks, meet corporate sustainability targets, and respond to growing expectations from stakeholders and consumers who demand greener supply chains. The cost savings from reduced energy consumption, combined with the reputational benefits of implementing circular materials, create a compelling case for adopting these solutions across a wide range of industries — from e-commerce fulfillment centres to airport baggage handling and parcel distribution hubs.

Forbo’s approach reflects a broader philosophy: sustainability must be built into the very fabric of industrial innovation. By focusing on measurable energy savings, transparent certifications, and tangible use of recycled resources, the company demonstrates that ecological responsibility can go hand in hand with technological advancement. Amp Miser and ECOFIBER are not isolated products, but part of an ongoing strategy to deliver solutions that contribute to climate action, resource efficiency, and the long-term transformation of logistics infrastructure.

As supply chains continue to expand and global commerce accelerates, the importance of sustainable logistics will only increase. Forbo is committed to helping its partners navigate this challenge with practical, effective, and future-ready solutions. Amp Miser and ECOFIBER illustrate how the industry can move forward — reducing environmental impact, improving operational efficiency, and paving the way toward a logistics sector that is both economically and ecologically resilient.

Podcast: What makes a true Automation Partner?

Posted on by Will Priestman

In this enlightening episode of “Logistics Business Conversations,” host Peter MacLeod engages with Matt Harling, AutoStore Sales Manager for Kardex, to explore the intricacies of automation partnerships in the logistics sector. Recorded live at IMHX, the episode serves as an educational platform for listeners eager to understand the dynamics of true partnerships in automation.

Harling shares valuable insights into how Kardex differentiates itself by offering comprehensive solutions that go beyond mere product sales. The discussion emphasizes the importance of educating clients about the full spectrum of operational elements that can be optimized through automation. By engaging with both executive leaders and operational staff, Kardex ensures that its solutions are not only implemented effectively but also embraced by those who use them daily.

The episode delves into the flexibility of AutoStore systems, highlighting their adaptability to evolving business needs. Harling underscores the role of continuous education and partnership in fostering long-term success, encouraging businesses to view automation as a journey rather than a one-time investment.

Listeners are invited to learn from the challenges and successes shared in the episode, gaining a deeper understanding of how automation can drive efficiency and growth. The conversation also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating how automation has become a critical component in overcoming labor shortages and enhancing operational resilience.

By subscribing to “Logistics Business Conversations,” listeners can continue to expand their knowledge and stay informed about the latest trends and innovations in the logistics industry.

How AI is Reshaping Forwarding Services

Posted on by David Priestman

From AI-powered document processing and predictive maintenance to AI-driven route planning and warehouse robotics, research shows how logistics providers are already turning artificial intelligence from theory into daily operational results.

AI is rapidly reshaping forwarding services for logistics providers, with results that move well beyond theory and into everyday operations. Recent Log-hub research highlights concrete wins in process automation, route optimization, and predictive analytics, but leading case studies and market benchmarks encourage a deeper look at both opportunities and challenges.

Among the many promising AI applications, Log-hub’s research highlights Route & Load Optimization as one of the most valuable for logistics providers and freight forwarders. By combining solver algorithms with machine learning, AI systems dynamically plan the lowest-cost multi-stop routes, fill trucks more efficiently, and enable live rerouting in response to real-world disruptions. This approach directly cuts fuel consumption and driver hours by 5 to 15%, a meaningful boost to the bottom line and sustainability goals. Forwarders also benefit from improved delivery time predictions, with AI models increasing on-time accuracy by up to 25%, resulting in higher customer satisfaction.

Real-World Impact

Industry giants and agile midsize forwarders alike have seen measurable gains by deploying AI. For example, XPO’s freight matching platform automatically matches loads without human intervention and yields a 15% reduction in transport costs, while Maersk cut vessel downtime 30% through predictive maintenance, saving $300M annually. Log-hub’s own pilots report 5–15% fuel savings and days off the billing cycle using AI route planning and document automation.

In a broader market perspective, DHL has achieved a 15% improvement in on-time deliveries and significant cost reductions using AI-powered demand forecasting and dynamic routing. Amazon uses over half a million AI-driven robots and vision systems in its warehouses to boost picking efficiency by 50% and reduce fulfillment costs by 20%. Walmart’s AI-driven inventory management reduced carrying costs by $1.5 billion annually while maintaining very high in-stock rates. These cases underscore how AI adoption across forecasting, warehousing, and transportation processes is producing real ROI for forwarders and logistics providers.

This direct impact is echoed in McKinsey’s benchmarks showing early adopters slash logistics costs by 15% and boost service levels by 65%.

Adoption Challenges and Unanswered Questions

Success with AI is not universal or instant. Many forwarders admit that adoption can be hampered by fragmented data, manual exceptions, scepticism on the front lines, and legal concerns around automated decision-making. Experts recommend piloting solutions in select workflows, maintaining manual fallbacks, and championing internal change for buy-in. AI brings agility and better decisions, but only when paired with robust change management, reliable data pipelines, and a commitment to measuring ROI.

While headlines often focus on industry leaders like Amazon, DHL, and Maersk, Log-hub’s research and roadmap demonstrate that even independent forwarders can achieve transformational gains. Automated customs compliance, predictive maintenance, and intelligent load matching are all in reach, delivering efficiency and resilience for organizations ready to embrace technology.

Critical Factors and the Road Ahead

Log-hub’s research does not ignore risks or open questions. It highlights both successes and ongoing adoption hurdles and presents candid feedback from frontline users and leaders. The company urges organizations to approach AI as a long-term transformation journey, start with clear ROI, iterate quickly, and keep people at the center. Those who combine integration with thoughtful change management will lead the future in forwarding services, not just survive it.

Demolition and Rebuilding for Storage Firm

Posted on by David Priestman

Through the company Immoloh, the real estate company of the JOACHIM LOH COMPANY GROUP, will continue to invest in the infrastructure of Arnsberg, Germany-based storage technology expert META by demolishing and rebuilding ‘Werk 2’ on Westring.

Back in 2017, after standing empty for long time, the former Selecta building was taken over by META as additional storage space. However, due to the outdated building structure, META faced insurmountable limitations with around 10,600 m² of building space – in terms of storage possibilities due to the building height and in terms of meaningful renovations of the building complex.

All stored products are currently being moved to the temporary rented storage facility on the Grabenstraße/Hüttenstraße. The demolition of the old buildings will begin now, including the management building on the Lucienstraße in Bruchhausen. The reconstruction will begin in January 2026 and continue until late summer 2026 with the goal to celebrate the implementing of the new and modern ‘Werk 2’ early 2027. The goals of the reconstruction are to create future-proof, optimized storage processes with a significant reduction in all consumption values in line with the sustainability targets that have been set.

“This is great news for all our colleagues currently.“ says Dr. Klaus Vatter, director of META-Regalbau. “This clear commitment to our location in Arnsberg demonstrates the confidence our owner Sebastian Loh has in the future of META. All to the motto of the company group: Investing in the future of generations.”

The result will be a high-modern logistics centre covering an area of almost 9.000m², which will lead to achieve maximum efficiency in terms of both logistics processes, including goods receipts and dispatch and energy consumption for META. In the future, truck traffic will be directed threw the corner of Westring/Klosfuhrstraße onto the site of the area, which results in reducing the traffic on the Lucienstraße/Westring. Closed loading tunnels in the goods receiving area and long goods loading area will further reduce noise emissions. The advantages of the new hall will result in a highly efficient flow of goods within META logistics.

Focus on sustainability

The topic sustainability also plays a leading role in this project, which will meet the german KfW Standard 55. Photovoltaic systems are planned for the entire roof area, enabling META to drastically reduce its external energy consumption and make an important contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions,

The heating and even the cooling of the building sections is provided by a highly efficient heat pump, which can also be used as an air conditioning system. In addition, so called direct beam panels (cold and warm – both are possible) will ensure more efficient energy use and a drastically less dust turbulence. This ensures a pleasant working environment on cold winter- and warm summer days.

For the demolition, sustainable solutions are also being used: the recyclable concrete is being crushed and fed into the circular economy. In this way, part of the former Selecta building could live on in the new ‘Werk 2’.

Safe Counts, Smart Lifts

Posted on by David Priestman

Yusen Logistics required a bespoke powered access solution that could support both routine stock-taking and safe working practices within a high-volume indoor environment at their warehouse site in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, UK. Given the valuable and sometimes fragile nature of the stock – which includes modern electrical goods – and the frequency of access required, a flexible and efficient method for working at height was essential.

Nationwide Platforms worked with Yusen Logistics to adapt the Dingli 1612PA electric scissor lift, already proven at its Northampton facility. Two key modifications were developed: tailoring the SkySiren PCS pre-crush sensing technology for use on this scissor model, and creating a safe method for digital stock-taking at height.

Challenges

Operators at Wellingborough routinely access high-level racking to perform stock counts. Traditionally, this meant raising the platform to view inventory, lowering to ground level, and then entering data onto a laptop, a repetitive process that slowed throughput and created room for error.


The process also carried inherent risks. Overhead obstructions such as beams and ducting created the potential for entrapment when manoeuvring in tight spaces. At the same time, there was no safe way to use laptops at height, meaning improvised workarounds were being used, exposing both operators and equipment to risk. Together, these factors highlighted a dual challenge: improving the efficiency of stock-taking while ensuring stronger safeguards against one of the most common accident types in warehouse operations.

Nationwide Platforms worked with Yusen Logistics to adapt its SkySiren® PCS™ system – long established on boom lifts – for the Dingli 1612PA scissor. SkySiren PCS uses ultrasonic sensors to monitor an operator’s surroundings in real time. If an obstacle is detected overhead or to the rear, the system automatically slows and stops the machine before contact, giving the operator time to reassess and manoeuvre safely. If the operator continues while a hazard remains, a pressure-sensitive bar mounted in front of the controls provides a secondary safeguard. If pressed, the bar cuts machine movement instantly, triggers a strobe light, and sounds a high-decibel alarm until the hazard is cleared.


This dual-layer protection is unique in that it works in both lift/lower and drive mode. For logistics operations, where repeated movements are needed for stock-taking in narrow aisles, this adds a continuous layer of assurance without disrupting workflow.

A second requirement was enabling operators to conduct digital stock takes directly at height. Working with Dingli, a dedicated laptop tray was designed and approved for mounting to the platform’s handrails. The tray secures devices safely, allowing operators to update inventory systems in real time without compromising stability.


Outcomes


The modifications enabled Yusen Logistics to deploy a single, multi-functional machine that improves safety and supports operational efficiency. Both innovations reflect a dynamic and bespoke response to specific customer needs, developed through direct collaboration between the OEM, the rental provider, and the customer.


Matt Parfitt, Head of Market Development at Nationwide Platforms, said: “This project highlights how collaboration is key for enhancing efficiency and safety on a project. It’s important to have pre-established features built into the machinery, but it’s also important to adapt our machinery to the needs of a particular project.


Krzysztof Bacanski, Warehouse Team Leader at Yusen Logistics, said: “The Dingli 1612PA has been a fantastic addition for our requirements, especially when there are space restrictions such as in a storage facility like this one. With the tailored enhancements, it’s maximised our productivity while enabling us to keep on top of our inventory. Sustainability and safety are essential to our strategy at Yusen Logistics, so being able to use a hydraulic-oil-free machine with an intelligent safety system aligns perfectly with our operational values.”

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