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Day: 12 October 2021

Mitsubishi launches powerful new electric forklift

Posted on by David Priestman

Changes to fuel subsidies, enhancements in battery technology and increasingly stringent emissions regulations mean electric trucks are becoming the new favourite – even in industries where diesel was once considered indispensable.

And now electric trucks offer more capabilities than ever before with the arrival of the new EDiA XL from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.

Built with a wealth of unique and innovative features, Mitsubishi says its EDiA XL is the perfect alternative to IC engine trucks, having been designed to outperform not only its electric rivals, but also any diesel forklift.

Stewart Gosling of RDD, the exclusive UK importer for Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks, explains: “The new EDiA XL will do everything a diesel can do… only better. It is the first electric to fully overcome every issue that may have stopped some owners of IC engine trucks from making the switch to electric.”

Available in 4-5 tonne models, EDiA XL will handle heavy-duty applications with ease.

“In the past many industries favoured diesel for its brute strength, but electric forklifts like EDiA XL offer power like never before,” adds Gosling.

Take for example, the AutoBoost feature. This kicks in automatically to provide torque and acceleration boosts where and when they’re needed, like on ramps and steep inclines, so power drops are a thing of the past.

Even harsh environments are no match for EDiA XL. Its Electric Differential Lock feature gives the truck better traction and control both indoors and out.

“EDiA XL is an exceptionally intuitive forklift,” says Gosling. “Handling is smooth and precise, high lifts are rock-steady, while Four Wheel Steering enables a 100° lock delivering the smallest turning circle on the market – perfect for working in tight spaces. There’s no challenge the EDiA XL can’t overcome.”

Operator comfort has been placed front and centre with EDiA XL. With its ergonomic, adjustable seat, and its range of advanced control options, EDiA XL helps operators stay productive. Not least because noise levels inside the cabin are extremely low at just 65dB, and microvibrations are minimal thanks to the rubber-mounted cabin.

Gosling concludes: “The placement and design of the mast means operators have unparalleled visibility while working in a comfortable, stress-free environment, giving them the confidence to work efficiently and safely. Every detail has been considered in the EDiA XL. It really does set a new standard for forklift trucks.”

Mitsubishi launches powerful new electric forklift

Posted on by David Priestman

Changes to fuel subsidies, enhancements in battery technology and increasingly stringent emissions regulations mean electric trucks are becoming the new favourite – even in industries where diesel was once considered indispensable.

And now electric trucks offer more capabilities than ever before with the arrival of the new EDiA XL from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.

Built with a wealth of unique and innovative features, Mitsubishi says its EDiA XL is the perfect alternative to IC engine trucks, having been designed to outperform not only its electric rivals, but also any diesel forklift.

Stewart Gosling of RDD, the exclusive UK importer for Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks, explains: “The new EDiA XL will do everything a diesel can do… only better. It is the first electric to fully overcome every issue that may have stopped some owners of IC engine trucks from making the switch to electric.”

Available in 4-5 tonne models, EDiA XL will handle heavy-duty applications with ease.

“In the past many industries favoured diesel for its brute strength, but electric forklifts like EDiA XL offer power like never before,” adds Gosling.

Take for example, the AutoBoost feature. This kicks in automatically to provide torque and acceleration boosts where and when they’re needed, like on ramps and steep inclines, so power drops are a thing of the past.

Even harsh environments are no match for EDiA XL. Its Electric Differential Lock feature gives the truck better traction and control both indoors and out.

“EDiA XL is an exceptionally intuitive forklift,” says Gosling. “Handling is smooth and precise, high lifts are rock-steady, while Four Wheel Steering enables a 100° lock delivering the smallest turning circle on the market – perfect for working in tight spaces. There’s no challenge the EDiA XL can’t overcome.”

Operator comfort has been placed front and centre with EDiA XL. With its ergonomic, adjustable seat, and its range of advanced control options, EDiA XL helps operators stay productive. Not least because noise levels inside the cabin are extremely low at just 65dB, and microvibrations are minimal thanks to the rubber-mounted cabin.

Gosling concludes: “The placement and design of the mast means operators have unparalleled visibility while working in a comfortable, stress-free environment, giving them the confidence to work efficiently and safely. Every detail has been considered in the EDiA XL. It really does set a new standard for forklift trucks.”

FedEx grows to meet Saudi Arabia demand

Posted on by David Priestman

FedEx Express has announced its transition to a direct-serve presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to meet the country’s growing international shipping demands. The company will invest more than SAR1.5bn (c.US$400m/€345m) into the country’s economy over the next 10 years through talent management and local operations and infrastructure.

This investment will reaffirm the company’s commitment to the country’s non-oil economic growth, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, and the ‘National Industrial Development and Logistics Program’ which seeks to increase non-oil exports to more than SAR1tr (c. US$266bn/€230bn).

FedEx Express has been facilitating trade in Saudi Arabia since 1994, offering international solutions and connectivity through local service providers, most recently through SAB Express. This announcement and the company’s direct presence in the country will further help local businesses trade with ease and expand their reach into the more than 220 countries and territories FedEx serves.

Jack Muhs, regional president of FedEx Express Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa, said: “Our customers will be able to take advantage of FedEx digital tools and a wider service portfolio. This strategic expansion in the Kingdom will help Saudi-based businesses connect to new markets and customers around the world, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to diversify the national economy.

“In addition to our commitment to the Saudi economy, we see FedEx Express playing an important role in developing the small and medium enterprise environment in Saudi Arabia, which forms the backbone of the economy, and represents 99% of Saudi Arabia’s private sector.”

FedEx Express will continue to work closely with SAB Express to provide pickup, delivery, and customs clearance services across the country.

Sheikh Salah Al Bluewi, chairman of SAB Express, said: “We’re happy to continue supporting FedEx Express in Saudi Arabia with their growth journey, and join them in playing a critical role in developing Saudi Arabia’s logistics infrastructure, in line with the country’s coordinated efforts and strategy in diversifying the economy. The logistics sector is a key contributor towards employment, investment, and overall economic growth in our nation.”

Under Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom is committed to increasing its total air cargo capacity. With nearly 50 years of experience, specialised services, and advanced technology solutions, FedEx will support the trade requirements of the healthcare, e-commerce, technology, energy, aerospace, automotive, and petrochemical sectors.

FedEx grows to meet Saudi Arabia demand

Posted on by David Priestman

FedEx Express has announced its transition to a direct-serve presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to meet the country’s growing international shipping demands. The company will invest more than SAR1.5bn (c.US$400m/€345m) into the country’s economy over the next 10 years through talent management and local operations and infrastructure.

This investment will reaffirm the company’s commitment to the country’s non-oil economic growth, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, and the ‘National Industrial Development and Logistics Program’ which seeks to increase non-oil exports to more than SAR1tr (c. US$266bn/€230bn).

FedEx Express has been facilitating trade in Saudi Arabia since 1994, offering international solutions and connectivity through local service providers, most recently through SAB Express. This announcement and the company’s direct presence in the country will further help local businesses trade with ease and expand their reach into the more than 220 countries and territories FedEx serves.

Jack Muhs, regional president of FedEx Express Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa, said: “Our customers will be able to take advantage of FedEx digital tools and a wider service portfolio. This strategic expansion in the Kingdom will help Saudi-based businesses connect to new markets and customers around the world, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to diversify the national economy.

“In addition to our commitment to the Saudi economy, we see FedEx Express playing an important role in developing the small and medium enterprise environment in Saudi Arabia, which forms the backbone of the economy, and represents 99% of Saudi Arabia’s private sector.”

FedEx Express will continue to work closely with SAB Express to provide pickup, delivery, and customs clearance services across the country.

Sheikh Salah Al Bluewi, chairman of SAB Express, said: “We’re happy to continue supporting FedEx Express in Saudi Arabia with their growth journey, and join them in playing a critical role in developing Saudi Arabia’s logistics infrastructure, in line with the country’s coordinated efforts and strategy in diversifying the economy. The logistics sector is a key contributor towards employment, investment, and overall economic growth in our nation.”

Under Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom is committed to increasing its total air cargo capacity. With nearly 50 years of experience, specialised services, and advanced technology solutions, FedEx will support the trade requirements of the healthcare, e-commerce, technology, energy, aerospace, automotive, and petrochemical sectors.

DHL’s Driving Ambition aims to help solve shortage

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Supply Chain has announced Driving Ambition, a new training programme which aims to tackle the national driver shortage in the UK with a long-term solution by providing fully funded training for applicants to qualify as LGV drivers.

The Driving Ambition programme removes a key barrier to a career in logistics by providing company-funded driver training, opening a door to an industry that has proved itself essential during the Covid-19 pandemic. One of the main aims of the programme is to encourage a wider pool of diverse candidates to consider a driving career.

Driving Ambition offers candidates free driver training worth up to £3,000 to obtain either a Category C licence (Class 2) to drive rigid trucks, or licences C and E (Class 1) to drive artics.

Ian Clough, MD Transport at DHL Supply Chain UK, said: “The supply chain industry is facing a huge shortage of drivers. One of the most important steps we can take to solve this for the long-term starts at grass roots by encouraging and enabling people to pursue a career in logistics. By investing in someone’s future, and offering them the opportunity to be trained and ultimately become a qualified LGV driver, we’re hoping to attract as broad an audience as possible.

“New recruits will be welcomed into the wonderfully diverse DHL family and we’re very much encouraging applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, as well as those underrepresented in the industry, such as women and the ex-military.”

Roads Minister Baroness Vere added: “This is a fantastic initiative and I fully support DHL as they encourage UK workers to kick-start a rewarding and lucrative career in our vitally important road haulage industry. We will continue to do all we can to help industry leaders boost driver recruitment numbers, improve job opportunities right across the country, and address the problems caused by this global issue.”

Recognising the need to create a long-term flow of driver candidates, Marks & Spencer has backed the programme and is inviting colleagues and partners to take part in the opportunity to retrain.

The programme is open to anyone looking to become an LGV driver, or those wanting to upskill from a Class 2 licence to a Class 1 and step into one of DHL’s 1,000 training vacancies. Driver roles will be available across the UK, with dedicated transport training centres in the South East, Avonmouth, Crick, Worksop and Bellshill.

As the global logistics leader, DHL is committed to offering rewarding, flexible, long-term career opportunities for the widest possible range of people. The programme is a fantastic opportunity for veterans, school leavers and career changers looking for their next challenge.

Robert Boateng, 59, from London, has recently completed Driving Ambition and is now a qualified LGV driver: “I used to drive vans but I wanted to have a specialist qualification and develop a career. The programme is really good – you get lots of support, so I’d recommend it to anyone else thinking about a career change.”

The programme has been trialled with internal candidates and to date 250 people have completed the training programme. All new employees will be invited to join DHL’s pension scheme, along with accessing a range of exclusive wellbeing benefits such as mortgage advice, online tutoring for kids and a free online GP service, plus retail and supermarket discounts of up to 10%.

As part of its aspiration to achieve zero-emissions logistics by 2050, the company is investing in the latest low emissions trucks and recently opened its industry-leading Transport Development Centre at Crick to teach safe, environmentally responsible driving techniques.

DHL’s Driving Ambition aims to help solve shortage

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Supply Chain has announced Driving Ambition, a new training programme which aims to tackle the national driver shortage in the UK with a long-term solution by providing fully funded training for applicants to qualify as LGV drivers.

The Driving Ambition programme removes a key barrier to a career in logistics by providing company-funded driver training, opening a door to an industry that has proved itself essential during the Covid-19 pandemic. One of the main aims of the programme is to encourage a wider pool of diverse candidates to consider a driving career.

Driving Ambition offers candidates free driver training worth up to £3,000 to obtain either a Category C licence (Class 2) to drive rigid trucks, or licences C and E (Class 1) to drive artics.

Ian Clough, MD Transport at DHL Supply Chain UK, said: “The supply chain industry is facing a huge shortage of drivers. One of the most important steps we can take to solve this for the long-term starts at grass roots by encouraging and enabling people to pursue a career in logistics. By investing in someone’s future, and offering them the opportunity to be trained and ultimately become a qualified LGV driver, we’re hoping to attract as broad an audience as possible.

“New recruits will be welcomed into the wonderfully diverse DHL family and we’re very much encouraging applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, as well as those underrepresented in the industry, such as women and the ex-military.”

Roads Minister Baroness Vere added: “This is a fantastic initiative and I fully support DHL as they encourage UK workers to kick-start a rewarding and lucrative career in our vitally important road haulage industry. We will continue to do all we can to help industry leaders boost driver recruitment numbers, improve job opportunities right across the country, and address the problems caused by this global issue.”

Recognising the need to create a long-term flow of driver candidates, Marks & Spencer has backed the programme and is inviting colleagues and partners to take part in the opportunity to retrain.

The programme is open to anyone looking to become an LGV driver, or those wanting to upskill from a Class 2 licence to a Class 1 and step into one of DHL’s 1,000 training vacancies. Driver roles will be available across the UK, with dedicated transport training centres in the South East, Avonmouth, Crick, Worksop and Bellshill.

As the global logistics leader, DHL is committed to offering rewarding, flexible, long-term career opportunities for the widest possible range of people. The programme is a fantastic opportunity for veterans, school leavers and career changers looking for their next challenge.

Robert Boateng, 59, from London, has recently completed Driving Ambition and is now a qualified LGV driver: “I used to drive vans but I wanted to have a specialist qualification and develop a career. The programme is really good – you get lots of support, so I’d recommend it to anyone else thinking about a career change.”

The programme has been trialled with internal candidates and to date 250 people have completed the training programme. All new employees will be invited to join DHL’s pension scheme, along with accessing a range of exclusive wellbeing benefits such as mortgage advice, online tutoring for kids and a free online GP service, plus retail and supermarket discounts of up to 10%.

As part of its aspiration to achieve zero-emissions logistics by 2050, the company is investing in the latest low emissions trucks and recently opened its industry-leading Transport Development Centre at Crick to teach safe, environmentally responsible driving techniques.

The Information Factory launches Business Intelligence as a Service

Posted on by David Priestman

The Information Factory, an independent software vendor specialising in the logistics sector, has launched Business Intelligence as a Service, an end-to-end, fully managed data reporting and analytics system, available on a subscription basis and operating with cloud based technology.

Logistics is a data driven industry with many complex moving parts requiring monitoring and measuring in order to keep on top of costs, revenue and performance. The pressure on margins, time, customer expectation, service standards and shipment sensitivity increases the need to have oversight across the whole logistics process plus a detailed view on individual elements and support activities.

When harnessed effectively data helps people to improve decision making, identify problems (and solutions), optimise processes and identify trends & opportunities. This is what The Information Factory provides with its new Business Intelligence as a Service. The system connects to the client’s data sources, integrates the data into a secure cloud based warehouse & transforms it into simple to use dashboards, visualisations and detailed reports tailored to company and department KPIs.

The benefits of this service based approach to business intelligence / analytics can be classified in three main categories:

Customer/user experience. The end-to-end approach means that the complete package is provided, all the way from data extraction to reporting and ongoing support. Reports are customised to individual requirements, easy to use and need little user training. Data consulting is also provided to help customers make the best use of their data.

Business insights. Consolidating and managing data from different sources enables ‘one version of the truth’ to be created across the company. More people can access data and the insights it delivers when transformed into reports, charts and dashboards.

Productivity: Business Intelligence as a Service automates the analytics process, improves data quality and delivers at speed. This significantly reduces the time, money and resources needed to be spent manually producing reports.

Robert Jordan, CEO of The Information Factory, says: “We’ve built on our 15+ years of developing tailor-made data driven solutions to offer Business Intelligence as a Service specifically for the logistics, postal, parcel and ecommerce sectors. It’s a market we are very  familiar with and we’re excited at the opportunity to help even more businesses to harness the potential of their data.”

The Information Factory launches Business Intelligence as a Service

Posted on by David Priestman

The Information Factory, an independent software vendor specialising in the logistics sector, has launched Business Intelligence as a Service, an end-to-end, fully managed data reporting and analytics system, available on a subscription basis and operating with cloud based technology.

Logistics is a data driven industry with many complex moving parts requiring monitoring and measuring in order to keep on top of costs, revenue and performance. The pressure on margins, time, customer expectation, service standards and shipment sensitivity increases the need to have oversight across the whole logistics process plus a detailed view on individual elements and support activities.

When harnessed effectively data helps people to improve decision making, identify problems (and solutions), optimise processes and identify trends & opportunities. This is what The Information Factory provides with its new Business Intelligence as a Service. The system connects to the client’s data sources, integrates the data into a secure cloud based warehouse & transforms it into simple to use dashboards, visualisations and detailed reports tailored to company and department KPIs.

The benefits of this service based approach to business intelligence / analytics can be classified in three main categories:

Customer/user experience. The end-to-end approach means that the complete package is provided, all the way from data extraction to reporting and ongoing support. Reports are customised to individual requirements, easy to use and need little user training. Data consulting is also provided to help customers make the best use of their data.

Business insights. Consolidating and managing data from different sources enables ‘one version of the truth’ to be created across the company. More people can access data and the insights it delivers when transformed into reports, charts and dashboards.

Productivity: Business Intelligence as a Service automates the analytics process, improves data quality and delivers at speed. This significantly reduces the time, money and resources needed to be spent manually producing reports.

Robert Jordan, CEO of The Information Factory, says: “We’ve built on our 15+ years of developing tailor-made data driven solutions to offer Business Intelligence as a Service specifically for the logistics, postal, parcel and ecommerce sectors. It’s a market we are very  familiar with and we’re excited at the opportunity to help even more businesses to harness the potential of their data.”

Logistics company encourages rewilding

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Warehousing and logistics providers Johnston Logistics UK is supporting its sustainability policy by allowing green spaces to blossom. The grassy areas, spread around Johnston Logistics UK’s 130-acre site in Norfolk, have been encouraged to grow with plants and foliage that support local wildlife.

As part of its focus on enhancing sustainability, Johnston Logistics is allowing its outdoor spaces to grow to benefit both the environment and its staff and visitors.

It has made changes including minimising its mowing routine and allowing plants to flower to create nectar for bees and other pollinators.

“We’re making the most of our green areas by encouraging nature to take over,” says Jane Bull, Head of Compliance for Johnston Logistics UK. “We’ve seen big improvements already including in our lagoon which is flourishing and has already welcomed back ducks and other visitors.”

Allocating green spaces for nature gives a number of benefits, including providing habitat for insects and wildlife, capturing CO2, reducing emissions by not mowing or using pesticides, improving biodiversity and encouraging native wildflowers.

Greener spaces also benefit Johnston Logistics UK’s employees as they are associated with better physical, social and mental health.

“It seems everyone is experiencing benefit from our re-wilding project,” continues Bull. “Whilst plants, birds and animals are clearly benefitting, it’s lovely to hear the insects buzzing and see the wildflowers blossoming again. Many staff have commented how it makes the working environment much more serene and tranquil.”

The Norfolk-based operation provides a full range of services including warehousing, supply chain logistics, contract packing, pick and pack and e-commerce fulfilment. With over 40 years’ experience, Johnston Logistics UK is trusted by major supermarkets, leading brands and growing companies alike to deliver their third-party logistics.

“Going wild has been a big success but we’re not finished yet. By encouraging the right species of native plants, we can encourage even more wildlife to re-enter our site and breathe life into our environment,” concludes Bull.

Logistics company encourages rewilding

Posted on by David Priestman

Warehousing and logistics providers Johnston Logistics UK is supporting its sustainability policy by allowing green spaces to blossom. The grassy areas, spread around Johnston Logistics UK’s 130-acre site in Norfolk, have been encouraged to grow with plants and foliage that support local wildlife.

As part of its focus on enhancing sustainability, Johnston Logistics is allowing its outdoor spaces to grow to benefit both the environment and its staff and visitors.

It has made changes including minimising its mowing routine and allowing plants to flower to create nectar for bees and other pollinators.

“We’re making the most of our green areas by encouraging nature to take over,” says Jane Bull, Head of Compliance for Johnston Logistics UK. “We’ve seen big improvements already including in our lagoon which is flourishing and has already welcomed back ducks and other visitors.”

Allocating green spaces for nature gives a number of benefits, including providing habitat for insects and wildlife, capturing CO2, reducing emissions by not mowing or using pesticides, improving biodiversity and encouraging native wildflowers.

Greener spaces also benefit Johnston Logistics UK’s employees as they are associated with better physical, social and mental health.

“It seems everyone is experiencing benefit from our re-wilding project,” continues Bull. “Whilst plants, birds and animals are clearly benefitting, it’s lovely to hear the insects buzzing and see the wildflowers blossoming again. Many staff have commented how it makes the working environment much more serene and tranquil.”

The Norfolk-based operation provides a full range of services including warehousing, supply chain logistics, contract packing, pick and pack and e-commerce fulfilment. With over 40 years’ experience, Johnston Logistics UK is trusted by major supermarkets, leading brands and growing companies alike to deliver their third-party logistics.

“Going wild has been a big success but we’re not finished yet. By encouraging the right species of native plants, we can encourage even more wildlife to re-enter our site and breathe life into our environment,” concludes Bull.

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