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Day: 26 September 2022

Blume Global grows European network

Posted on by David Priestman

Blume Global, one of the leading supply chain technology providers, says it is on track to grow within the European supply chain market with its product offerings and technological advancements.

This year Blume Global expanded its network with new suppliers and customers in Europe. The company is doubling staffing levels in the region to support surging growth projections that will position Blume Global as a leading technology provider in the European market.

“Europe is one of the key markets for us as it forms a big part of the supply chain network. Increasing our employee base across Europe is a part of our overall growth plan as local talent understands the market psyche the best,” said Pervinder Johar, CEO of Blume Global.

“Rising energy prices and inflation, raw material shortages and logistical breakdowns are some of the key disruptions in the European market. With our deep domain knowledge, technology expertise and class-leading digital solutions, we will help customers achieve superior business outcomes and drive transformation in the area.”

Blume’s cloud-first digital operating system is focused on uplifting the entire logistics supply chain ecosystem through visibility, orchestration, and sustainability.

“Offering superior data quality and a network of over 250,000 carriers of all modes around the globe, Blume helps shippers, logistic service providers and carriers to navigate disruptions and create agile plans amid supply chain uncertainty,” said François d’Ivernois, Associate Vice President for Business Development, Blume Global, Europe.

“In Europe we currently have presence in France, Germany, Switzerland, and UK. As a truly global company, being locally present helps us to develop products that best suit each target market.”

The Blume Global team will be attending Gartner Supply Chain Symposium in London from 27 – 29 September 2022 at the Intercontinental London, UK. Blume is all set to enter this exciting phase with the right market analysis and solution, and it will only grow further from here.

Blume Global grows European network

Posted on by David Priestman

Blume Global, one of the leading supply chain technology providers, says it is on track to grow within the European supply chain market with its product offerings and technological advancements.

This year Blume Global expanded its network with new suppliers and customers in Europe. The company is doubling staffing levels in the region to support surging growth projections that will position Blume Global as a leading technology provider in the European market.

“Europe is one of the key markets for us as it forms a big part of the supply chain network. Increasing our employee base across Europe is a part of our overall growth plan as local talent understands the market psyche the best,” said Pervinder Johar, CEO of Blume Global.

“Rising energy prices and inflation, raw material shortages and logistical breakdowns are some of the key disruptions in the European market. With our deep domain knowledge, technology expertise and class-leading digital solutions, we will help customers achieve superior business outcomes and drive transformation in the area.”

Blume’s cloud-first digital operating system is focused on uplifting the entire logistics supply chain ecosystem through visibility, orchestration, and sustainability.

“Offering superior data quality and a network of over 250,000 carriers of all modes around the globe, Blume helps shippers, logistic service providers and carriers to navigate disruptions and create agile plans amid supply chain uncertainty,” said François d’Ivernois, Associate Vice President for Business Development, Blume Global, Europe.

“In Europe we currently have presence in France, Germany, Switzerland, and UK. As a truly global company, being locally present helps us to develop products that best suit each target market.”

The Blume Global team will be attending Gartner Supply Chain Symposium in London from 27 – 29 September 2022 at the Intercontinental London, UK. Blume is all set to enter this exciting phase with the right market analysis and solution, and it will only grow further from here.

New cross-dock terminal in heart of Europe

Posted on by Keith McKinley

DB Schenker, one of the world’s leading global logistics service providers, has moved into a new, sustainable cross-dock terminal in the greater Ulm area at Herbrechtingen. DB Schenker serves numerous customers in the economic region, particularly from the food industry, the building materials industry and mechanical engineering. At the same time, Ulm is an important hub in DB Schenker’s high-performance European land transport network.

The new terminal, which is located in the direct vicinity of the A7 autobahn as an important north-south link and the A8 in the Stuttgart-Munich connection, went into operation at the end of June 2022. On a site area of 40,000 sq m, DB Schenker in Herbrechtingen now has 7,000 sq m of logistics space for transshipment and 74 truck ramps. On 23rd September, the successful move was celebrated with employees, customers and representatives of local politics at the premises.

“We have achieved a very good density of our land transport network with our current premises in Germany and Europe,” says Ralf Többe, Head of Land Transport at DB Schenker in the Germany/Switzerland cluster. “Through modernisations, branch expansions and new buildings like the one here in Herbrechtingen, we are increasing our capacity and performance within this network, positioning ourselves for further growth in Europe.”

Iris Steiner, Head of the Land office at the Herbrechtingen facility, adds: “By doubling the terminal area to 7,000 sq m, we have optimised our loading and unloading processes. This ensures particularly fast and punctual handling and at the same time creates better conditions for employees and, of course, our drivers. After just a few weeks of operation in the new terminal, we were able to achieve a significant increase in throughput. We are ideally prepared for upcoming new customer business.”

Sustainable performance

The relocation of the land transport office in Ulm to the new multifunctional cross-dock terminal in Herbrechtingen creates the best conditions for further growth. Great importance was attributed to sustainability in the construction of the new building. The new terminal is DGNB Gold certified. The photovoltaic installation is currently being planned. Several e-charging stations are available for e-transporters as well as for employees’ vehicles.

Socially sustainable is above all the design of the infrastructure for employees. With 2,000 sq m of office and social space as well as around 15,200 sq m of paved outdoor areas and generous social rooms, the facility is also an inviting and comfortable base for drivers. The premises employs 100 people.

New advanced stackers join UniCarriers line-up

Posted on by David Priestman

UniCarriers has extended its product line with the addition of 16 new pedestrian stacker trucks. Available in models ranging from 1 to 1.6 tonnes, the MSF and MSW stackers excel at picking, loading, unloading, shuttling and stacking up to 5.4 metres.

The MSF features a damped fold-down platform making it ideally suited to tasks where operators are required to travel over long distances. Several MSW and MSF stackers also come with initial lift which allow high ground clearance for ramp work. On 1.6-tonne models, side stabilisers keep the truck steady to enable operators to safely lift heavy loads to a higher height. For optimal productivity, some models are available for double pallet stacking using the initial lift on the support forks.

MSF and MSW stackers feature an advanced tiller head that is fully weather and IP65 protected for use in all climate conditions. Large, ergonomic buttons mean handling is easy and comfortable throughout long shifts helping to reduce fatigue and ensure the operator can stay focused. The tiller is also placed at an optimum height for better visibility and safer handling.

Powerful and enduring

Minimal maintenance and downtime are key factors in the hard-working MSF and MSW stackers. The robust chassis is built to endure heavy-duty tasks in the toughest conditions while protecting components to prolong service life. The narrow truck width also offers exceptional manoeuvrability when working in tight spaces.

The new MSF and MSW stackers utilise AC drive motor technology which delivers more torque for greater efficiency, smoother handling, supports easier control resulting in less damage, and ensures a longer lasting battery. For reliable power, these new stackers have the option of high-performance lithium-ion batteries, which offer opportunity charging for complete operational flexibility.

Standard features include an LCD display on all stacker models to show truck mode and error codes. Optional features are also available including accessory racks, load backrests and PIN code login.

As part of UniCarriers’ full-maintenance site support, all stackers utilise a modular build using fewer components for faster repairs and servicing.

 

New advanced stackers join UniCarriers line-up

Posted on by David Priestman

UniCarriers has extended its product line with the addition of 16 new pedestrian stacker trucks. Available in models ranging from 1 to 1.6 tonnes, the MSF and MSW stackers excel at picking, loading, unloading, shuttling and stacking up to 5.4 metres.

The MSF features a damped fold-down platform making it ideally suited to tasks where operators are required to travel over long distances. Several MSW and MSF stackers also come with initial lift which allow high ground clearance for ramp work. On 1.6-tonne models, side stabilisers keep the truck steady to enable operators to safely lift heavy loads to a higher height. For optimal productivity, some models are available for double pallet stacking using the initial lift on the support forks.

MSF and MSW stackers feature an advanced tiller head that is fully weather and IP65 protected for use in all climate conditions. Large, ergonomic buttons mean handling is easy and comfortable throughout long shifts helping to reduce fatigue and ensure the operator can stay focused. The tiller is also placed at an optimum height for better visibility and safer handling.

Powerful and enduring

Minimal maintenance and downtime are key factors in the hard-working MSF and MSW stackers. The robust chassis is built to endure heavy-duty tasks in the toughest conditions while protecting components to prolong service life. The narrow truck width also offers exceptional manoeuvrability when working in tight spaces.

The new MSF and MSW stackers utilise AC drive motor technology which delivers more torque for greater efficiency, smoother handling, supports easier control resulting in less damage, and ensures a longer lasting battery. For reliable power, these new stackers have the option of high-performance lithium-ion batteries, which offer opportunity charging for complete operational flexibility.

Standard features include an LCD display on all stacker models to show truck mode and error codes. Optional features are also available including accessory racks, load backrests and PIN code login.

As part of UniCarriers’ full-maintenance site support, all stackers utilise a modular build using fewer components for faster repairs and servicing.

 

Save energy and money with thermal clothing

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Insulating the body, as opposed to a warehouse, is much more energy efficient. Our own bodies create heat, so wearing a thermal base layer, hat or lightweight jacket will help to regulate the body temperature when the external temperature is low, providing you with a simple and effective way to combat the energy crisis this winter.

FlexiTog, a leading global freezer workwear brand, has been in this market for over 43 years. Trusted by cold store companies all over world, with years of development in providing thermal clothing to people working at temperatures down to -40°C, it describes itself as the go-to company for your thermal workwear needs.

Based on an average UK warehouse size of 340,000 sq ft, it has been proven that by simply turning down the heating by 1°C you can save up to 10% of your heating costs. However, by adding a thermal base layer to your clothing, you can save up to 40% of your energy costs. FlexiTog already supplies the largest distribution companies across the UK for this exact reason. Amongst a vast range of thermal clothing solutions, FlexiTog has a combination of energy-saving kits, that include thermal base layers, hats and gloves that are readily available and can be purchased online for next-working-day delivery.

By investing some of the money saved into your staff who are working in cold temperatures this winter, you will be keeping them warm and comfortable, which in turn will increase productivity, efficiency, and create a constructive culture.

 

 

Save energy and money with thermal clothing

Posted on by David Priestman

Insulating the body, as opposed to a warehouse, is much more energy efficient. Our own bodies create heat, so wearing a thermal base layer, hat or lightweight jacket will help to regulate the body temperature when the external temperature is low, providing you with a simple and effective way to combat the energy crisis this winter.

FlexiTog, a leading global freezer workwear brand, has been in this market for over 43 years. Trusted by cold store companies all over world, with years of development in providing thermal clothing to people working at temperatures down to -40°C, it describes itself as the go-to company for your thermal workwear needs.

Based on an average UK warehouse size of 340,000 sq ft, it has been proven that by simply turning down the heating by 1°C you can save up to 10% of your heating costs. However, by adding a thermal base layer to your clothing, you can save up to 40% of your energy costs. FlexiTog already supplies the largest distribution companies across the UK for this exact reason. Amongst a vast range of thermal clothing solutions, FlexiTog has a combination of energy-saving kits, that include thermal base layers, hats and gloves that are readily available and can be purchased online for next-working-day delivery.

By investing some of the money saved into your staff who are working in cold temperatures this winter, you will be keeping them warm and comfortable, which in turn will increase productivity, efficiency, and create a constructive culture.

 

 

Europe set for nearshoring boom

Posted on by Keith McKinley

European businesses are looking towards Romania, Turkey and Morocco as alternatives to production in Ukraine and Asia following months of supply-chain disruption, according to the new ‘Supply Chain Disruptions’ report, from JLL.

According to the report, number of businesses operating within the retail and manufacturing sector have already decided to nearshore part or all of their production. JLL’s internal data shows that the primary beneficiaries of reshoring are Central Europe and Romania, while Turkey and Morocco are looking towards nearshoring.

The move comes after the pandemic resulted in a breakdown of distribution networks and severe bottlenecks at ports and airports, meaning companies started to prioritise nearshoring in a bid to address supply chain disruptions. JLL also expects a lack of land and labour shortages to push up demand in Central Europe from primary to strategically located secondary and tertiary markets.

Data from Flexport shows the average container journey from Asia to Europe has nearly doubled since 2019, while research from Buck Consultants International (BCI) found more than 60 per cent of US and European companies are planning to bring some of their production back to their own region.

Considering established transportation networks and gateways, markets along two of Europe’s distribution corridors: the traditional blue banana and emerging Black Sea banana, are most likely to experience rising demand from third-party logistics (3PLs). Furthermore, severe supply constraints in prime markets along these corridors will push demand to strategically located secondary and tertiary markets along these same corridors.

Guy Gueirard, Head of EMEA Logistics at JLL, said: “Rising wages in low-cost manufacturing locations and increased risk due to climate change, strikes, and accidents such as the Suez Canal blockage have fuelled discussions of nearshoring and growing diversification over the past decade. However, risk versus cost scenarios in combination with the consequent loss of manufacturing infrastructure in Europe after large parts of manufacturing moved to Asia, meant Asian markets continued to be favoured as trading partners and manufacturing bases for a large range of products – but things are changing.”

Lisa Graham, Head of Industrial and Logistics Research, EMEA, JLL, said: “Two years of a global pandemic and the Russian-Ukrainian war are starting to shake things, after highlighting risks and resiliency gaps that outweigh cost considerations for all types of businesses. Businesses have realised that diversification strategies are essential for maintaining optimal inventory levels in European markets and this research proves that we’re seeing a disruption to the supply chain and we will continue to see this trend emerge.”

Europe set for nearshoring boom

Posted on by David Priestman

European businesses are looking towards Romania, Turkey and Morocco as alternatives to production in Ukraine and Asia following months of supply-chain disruption, according to the new ‘Supply Chain Disruptions’ report, from JLL.

According to the report, number of businesses operating within the retail and manufacturing sector have already decided to nearshore part or all of their production. JLL’s internal data shows that the primary beneficiaries of reshoring are Central Europe and Romania, while Turkey and Morocco are looking towards nearshoring.

The move comes after the pandemic resulted in a breakdown of distribution networks and severe bottlenecks at ports and airports, meaning companies started to prioritise nearshoring in a bid to address supply chain disruptions. JLL also expects a lack of land and labour shortages to push up demand in Central Europe from primary to strategically located secondary and tertiary markets.

Data from Flexport shows the average container journey from Asia to Europe has nearly doubled since 2019, while research from Buck Consultants International (BCI) found more than 60 per cent of US and European companies are planning to bring some of their production back to their own region.

Considering established transportation networks and gateways, markets along two of Europe’s distribution corridors: the traditional blue banana and emerging Black Sea banana, are most likely to experience rising demand from third-party logistics (3PLs). Furthermore, severe supply constraints in prime markets along these corridors will push demand to strategically located secondary and tertiary markets along these same corridors.

Guy Gueirard, Head of EMEA Logistics at JLL, said: “Rising wages in low-cost manufacturing locations and increased risk due to climate change, strikes, and accidents such as the Suez Canal blockage have fuelled discussions of nearshoring and growing diversification over the past decade. However, risk versus cost scenarios in combination with the consequent loss of manufacturing infrastructure in Europe after large parts of manufacturing moved to Asia, meant Asian markets continued to be favoured as trading partners and manufacturing bases for a large range of products – but things are changing.”

Lisa Graham, Head of Industrial and Logistics Research, EMEA, JLL, said: “Two years of a global pandemic and the Russian-Ukrainian war are starting to shake things, after highlighting risks and resiliency gaps that outweigh cost considerations for all types of businesses. Businesses have realised that diversification strategies are essential for maintaining optimal inventory levels in European markets and this research proves that we’re seeing a disruption to the supply chain and we will continue to see this trend emerge.”

Scottish transport industry sets fundraising record for Transaid

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Transport and logistics companies from across Scotland recently came together for the inaugural Scottish Transaid Dinner, held in memory of the late Jayne Gray of Stirling-based H & R Gray Haulage. The evening raised an incredible £105,110.50 and marked the largest sum of money ever collected for Transaid on a single night.

Delayed for two years by the pandemic, the dinner was organised by Transaid Chair and former Scottish Traffic Commissioner Joan Aitken, together with a team of Scotland’s next generation hauliers including Lynsey Mitchell from John Mitchell Haulage & Warehousing and Nicola Robertson (Malcolm) of The Malcolm Group.

Hauliers from across Scotland were invited to attend, with more than 200 people coming together at The Bothwell Bridge Hotel, in Bothwell. Funds were raised through ticket sales, sponsorship, and a special charity auction which included a horsebox which sold for £10,000, and a rare bottle of Macallan whisky fetching £4,500!

Speaking after the event, Joan Aitken said: “This was a stupendous show of support by the Scottish transport industry and a demonstration of fellow feeling towards those in Africa who do not have the benefits of safe transport.”

Florence Bearman, Head of Fundraising for Transaid, said: “We have waited a long time to enjoy this special moment with our supporters in Scotland, and the generosity they have shown towards Transaid is truly unprecedented. Every single penny will support our work delivering road safety and access to health projects.”

The evening included a touching tribute to Jayne Gray, and a chance to celebrate Transaid’s activities, which currently span nine countries across sub-Saharan Africa.

 

 

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