October 2023

Biggest Mass Timber Logistics Centre

Posted on 26 October, 2023 by David Priestman

Global fashion company Bestseller and architecture studio Henning Larsen have unveiled the concept design for a new ground-breaking logistics centre to be built in the Netherlands. The centre will be the biggest of its kind in Europe made with mass timber, and the companies aim for the building to reach ambitious standards for design and sustainability.

Located in Lelystad, 60 km east of Amsterdam, the 155,000 m2 logistics centre will be built over the coming years. Logistics Centre West (LCW) as the building is known, is being built by the fashion company BESTSELLER, and it was designed by the architecture firm Henning Larsen. When completed in 2026, it is expected to be the largest logistics centre built using mass timber in Europe.

“We are happy to be able to unveil the design of our new logistics centre, for which we have very big ambitions. Not only because it strengthens our opportunities for future growth, but also because it was designed to excel in sustainable construction through, not least, the choice of mass timber in the construction. We wanted the building to demonstrate our desire for aesthetic design, and we are very proud of what we have succeeded in jointly with Henning Larsen,” said Allan Kyhe Kjærgaard, Logistics Director at BESTSELLER.

In addition to the striking mass timber construction, the building will also be equipped with 23,000 square meters of solar panels.

Aesthetics and excellence

An important part of the design process was creating a workplace that is both visually appealing and healthy for the almost 600 colleagues who are expected to be work at the centre. The team from Henning Larsen has, among other things, prioritised daylight and green areas as well as harmonising indoor and outdoor elements to promote employee well-being.

“The design of Logistics Centre West represents a fundamental change to the way we imagine how a logistics centre should look. It’s a result of a united client and consultancy team committed to creating a design that is visually stunning, carbon efficient and has a positive biodiverse impact,” says Eva Ravnborg, Country Market Director, Partner, Henning Larsen.

Promoting biodiversity

More than half of the total site is dedicated to its landscape. The majority of the area will thus be dedicated to wetlands and forest to protect biodiversity and help absorb CO2.

In order to preserve and protect the area’s animal and plant life, the construction will be surrounded by a constructed wetland, which will contribute to promoting microhabitats for native species. The centre will also have an optimised rainwater system that, among other things, protects against flooding and recycles rainwater from the roof.

“We are very aware that constructing new buildings affects the environment, the climate and the local community. Therefore, a very thorough process has taken place before we can now present the plans for our new logistics centre. There have been many ambitions which had to be united in one building, but we believe that we have succeeded – not least thanks to a good and close collaboration with Henning Larsen. We look forward to putting the logistics centre into use in 2026, says Allan Kyhe Kjærgaard.

Forced Labour Implications in Global Supply Chain

Posted on 26 October, 202331 July, 2025 by David Priestman

The battle against forced labour in global supply chains has gained momentum in recent times, not least thanks to coverage of the dramatic situation of the Uyghur population in the province of Xinjiang in China and the legislative proposals which have emerged in reaction, writes Thomas Lobert (pictured), Solutions Consultant Global Trade Intelligence at Descartes.

In the United States, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) has, for example, prohibited the import of goods manufactured in whole or in part by forced labour and originating from the autonomous region of Uyghur since June 21, 2022. At the European level, a much-debated bill will be voted on by MEPs with implementation expected at the start of 2024. In Germany the law on corporate responsibility in the supply chain came into force on January 1, 2023. Similar laws are in force or in preparation in other countries in Europe.

Meanwhile, in the UK, what are the implications of forced labour in the management of international supply chains? And what can businesses do to create more ethical and responsible supply chains in this regard?

1. Forced labour: reinforcement of UK regulation
Forced labour is considered a serious crime in the UK. In 2009, a standalone offence of holding a person in slavery, servitude or forced labour was included in section 71 of the Coroners and Justice Act, while a House of Lords private members bill was proposed in July 2021, that would have seen significant amendments to the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (MSA), significantly increasing accountability for abuses occurring in the supply chain of UK multinational corporations. Unfortunately, little seems to have happened since those amendments were tabled, and meanwhile, the UK’s risk rating for critical violations has increased, according to the Supply Chain ESG Risk Ratings Report 2023.

Despite this lack of regulatory enforcement, UK businesses cannot afford to maintain a ‘laissez-faire’ attitude to forced labour within their supply chains. According to research from Deloitte, amongst the changes consumers are making in their purchasing decisions, sustainable and ethical practices are becoming more important, with consumers actively choosing brands with ethical practices / values ; ceasing to purchase certain brands or products because of ethical concerns ; and even contacting brands to raise an issue regarding sustainability or ethics.

2. Identifying forced labour: a complete ecosystem
Forced labour refers to situations where workers are forced or threatened in any way to work against their will, often in inhumane and abusive conditions. This can happen at any time in the supply chain: from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing products, including distribution. It is a serious violation of human rights and a form of modern slavery that affects millions of people around the world.

This concern is not limited to the practices of a company alone, but extends to its suppliers and external service providers. The entire chain must be able to be audited. We must be vigilant about working conditions and the location of the company and its suppliers. For a Chinese supplier, for example, is the production plant close to a Uyghur forced labour camp?

As global supply chains are infinitely complex and constantly in motion, establishing long-term, reliable risk monitoring and visibility is challenging. Additionally, government agencies do not publish lists of companies suspected of using forced labour, further complicating background checks on potential suppliers.

3. Take action NOW
Despite its perceived complexity, there are actions and practices businesses can put in place to bolster the fight against the use of forced labour within their supply chains:-
· Identify risks: be alert to the circumstances that may encourage the use of forced labour
· Diversify sources of information to understand working conditions within your supply chain (talk with your suppliers’ employees, examine your internal policies in detail, collaborate with NGOs, etc.)
· Always be aware of the laws in force on slavery and forced labour
· Review and implement internal compliance plans (ICP): the control measures required to monitor the compliance of exports and international trade are increasingly taken into account.

Thorough monitoring is essential in the fight against forced labour. Analysis firms like Kharon have developed their own research methods and their network of international experts to identify companies at risk, particularly with regard to forced labour. This information can then be implemented into a due diligence solution to continuously analyse all third parties in the supply chains.

Conclusion

Today, based on a list of 50 entities sanctioned by a government, it is possible to identify more than 8,600 companies associated with these 50 entities. Every company in the world should be able to guarantee that their supply chain is free of forced labour. This includes identifying at-risk suppliers, promoting fairer supply chains and implementing solutions to ensure all suppliers meet these working standards. Not taking action is no longer no option.

Forced Labour Implications in Global Supply Chain

Posted on 26 October, 2023 by David Priestman

Conclusion

The Power of Retail Logistics

Posted on 25 October, 2023 by David Priestman

Leading UK dedicated transport and logistics specialist LNH Transport’s share their thoughts on how B&M has successfully managed to fight through the retail landscape considering Wilko’s recent collapse.

After the recent news of the collapse of Wilko leaving 12,000 employees jobless and 400 stores out of business, the conversation surrounding the future of the retail industry has become a pervasive topic on everyone’s lips.

With the rise of ecommerce over recent years, and more people choosing to shop online than ever before, it comes as no surprise that many long-standing retail stores are collapsing. But how has a high street powerhouse like B&M not only withstood the test of time amongst all the competitors, but shot ahead to become one of the biggest high street shops of all time?

With 707 stores in the UK, B&M is the UK’s largest discount variety store operator.

Lucie Hyde (pictured), Managing Director of LNH Transport has commented on the rise of B&M and gives her thoughts on why the store might be withstanding the test of time:
“B&M’s current position in the retail landscape is very prominent. Operationally they are in a very good place, as they focus on price, value and high-quality retail standards. This is crucial in our current landscape, with the cost-of-living crisis at the forefront. To keep up with their competitors, B&M also clearly views their supply chain strategy as an important part of their growth.

“Logistics is a vital part of a successful business, and it looks like B&M will continue to invest in its supply chain, with them now operating in four key locations. From looking at recent responses from the biggest retailers carried out in a survey by Retail Week, B&M may also be focusing on solutions like increasing on-demand delivery, automation, responsiveness and flexibility to continue transforming their supply chain. Heading into retail’s busiest period and with product demand at its highest, managing supply chains, especially the logistics, transportation and storage of your products, will be key to a high-street retailers’ success during this challenging time.”

The Power of Retail Logistics

Posted on 25 October, 202331 July, 2025 by David Priestman

With 707 stores in the UK, B&M is the UK’s largest discount variety store operator.

LogiMAT Intelligent Warehouse Open

Posted on 25 October, 2023 by Keith McKinley

Officially opened in Bangkok this morning, LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse 2023 is a trade show for the South East Asian market. It is taking place from 25-27th October at the IMPACT Muang Thong Thani Hall 5-6, Bangkok, Thailand.

Meet the intralogistics solutions, warehouse, and process management from more than 90 leading-companies around the world. Special more than others with international key-players: China Pavilion and German Pavilion, high-quality seminars Orange Forum – Blue Forum from leading speakers, Product Demonstration, and the new zone “Food Logistics” to focus on innovative food logistics, cold chain solutions, temperature-controlled warehousing, and transportation services in Southeast Asia. To re-brand and launching the end-to-end logistics innovations trade show “LogiMAT Southeast Asia – LogiFOOD Southeast Asia” which will debut in October 2024.

Mr. Peter Kazander, Managing Director, Logistics Exhibitions GmbH, emphasized that “LogiMAT | Intelligent Warehouse 2023 goes beyond showcasing the current progress in the logistics industry. It serves as a symbol of the immense potential that future innovations hold, spanning intelligent warehouse systems, intralogistics technology, food logistics solutions, and a wealth of products, services, and knowledge presented by exhibitors and partners from various countries including Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, China, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, and beyond. Their participation is making this year’s trade show truly international, further elevating the stature of LogiMAT.

The event’s objective is to position Southeast Asia as a pivotal hub for intralogistics in the future. With over 6,000 professional visitors and exhibitors from more than 90 companies, it’s set to foster crucial business negotiations and facilitate the creation of strong networks, particularly through interactions with industry leaders from the China Pavilion and the German Pavilion. These leaders, buoyed by support from the German government, have contributed to remarkable innovations. Notably, as organizers, we are presenting cutting-edge technology in the Food Logistics zone, providing solutions for cold storage warehouse management to revolutionize the food logistics industry in ASEAN.”

LogiMAT Intelligent Warehouse Open

Posted on 25 October, 2023 by David Priestman

Advanced Packing and Sorting System

Posted on 25 October, 2023 by David Priestman

Conveyor Systems Ltd (CSL) helped a leading E-Commerce customer to upgrade its packing and sortation system to meet increasing levels of consumer demand. CSL designed and installed a start-of-the-art, multi-stage, high speed crossbelt system which assisted the company in sorting and packing over 180,000 orders a day.

The customer is a top E-Commerce retailer in the North West of England that processes online orders at a staggering rate of 7500 items per hour. The project involved handling a very diverse range of products such as cartons, cardboard envelopes, polybags and jiffy bags. All of these items were to be processed by 120 operators on a 24-hour shift basis so all upgrades had to be completed without fault and with minimal downtime.

Previously, the client faced challenges due to the extensive use of manual labour for packing and sorting items for shipment. This approach often resulted in delays to dispatching items or, even worse, occasional damage to products. After consulting with multiple solutions providers, the customer selected CSL as its preferred supplier.

CSL understood that a state-of-the-art packing and sorting system needed to effectively utilise floorspace whilst ensuring the speedy, secure delivery of products along this packing line. Additionally, the customer needed to be able to track and monitor the position of goods along the sortation line to make sure that all packages were delivered to the correct final destination.

To meet this challenge CSL worked with its customer to design a sortation system that featured eight product packing lanes, each outfitted with 15 packing benches. Packed products from each of these lanes were then transferred onto the main transit line using multi-speed metering belts and mitre belt merges.

The main transit line weaved its way through the building, taking a 90-degree turn before ascending to a height in excess of 2500mm. This arrangement allowed for operator movement beneath the system, maximising the efficiency of the flow of people and products.

Upon reaching the higher level, each product underwent scanning through a SICK scanner array. The relevant information was relayed to and from a cloud-based server, providing CSL with a precise destination lane for each item. The packages were subsequently indexed via a multi-stage belt system onto a high-speed vertical cross belt sorter. This sorter housed 44 destination chutes, including a run-out chute for barcode misreads and orders requiring special attention.

Using the sorter’s control system, the customer could assign a specific sort location to a dedicated chute. Each chute was fitted with an indicator beacon, which notified the operator about the chute’s status. If a chute reached 75% or even 100% capacity, the system could automatically redirect packages to a previously selected destination.

Other upgrades included adding two desktop PCs with Scada operator interfaces which allowed for remote, real-time system operation and the installation of two bespoke access platforms to maintain operator access to the main fire exits.

Mike Graham, Managing Director of CSL, explained: “We are overjoyed with the results we were able to achieve for our valued E-Commerce customer. The installation, testing, and commissioning of the entire system showed CSL’s commitment to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction as we were able to complete the project within a 19-week period and worked with our customer to ensure a seamless changeover to the new packaging and sorting system.”

Advanced Packing and Sorting System

Posted on 25 October, 2023 by Keith McKinley

Danish 3PL Relies Visual Consignment Tracking

Posted on 25 October, 2023 by David Priestman

In a time of increasing demands on delivery speed and quality, it is crucial for logistics companies to keep track of all incoming and outgoing shipments. However, as the manual search for specific goods in trans-shipment halls is time-consuming and error-prone, seamless shipment tracking plays an increasingly important role in the everyday life of transport companies. For K. Hansen Transport AS, ensuring a high-quality logistics service is also of great importance, so the company chose the CargoVIS video management solution from DIVIS for shipment tracking powered by the Quuppa tracking system.

Spoilt for choice: numerous locating methods available

In the meantime, there are a number of technologies that provide location data for seamless tracking, but not all of them are precise enough or optimally suited for indoor use. While GPS is sufficient for rough tracking outdoors, much more precise tracking methods are required indoors. Technologies such as Wi-Fi, ultra-wideband (UWB), RFID, and Bluetooth are suitable here. Today, the Quuppa RTLS solution (Bluetooth direction finding) is one of the most proven indoor tracking systems and offers many advantages for logistics (see side box). But especially when used in logistics, this technology unfolds its full potential only in combination with a software-based video management system (VMS). Such systems make it possible to ensure seamless tracking of goods in a matter of seconds through camera-based parcel tracking combined with precise location data.

Above all, the value-creating combination of these technologies was one of the criteria for the Danish company K. Hansen Transport AS to select a video management system with tracking technology. In addition, the solution was supposed to also cover the outside area of the premises and, above all, to be intuitive to use so that it is integrated into the daily logistics routine of the staff. Through a recommendation from a DIVIS customer, the transport company became aware of the intelligent video management software CargoVIS from DIVIS and the Quuppa solution. Since the first impression of the software functions also convinced K. Hansen Transport, the choice was not difficult.

Seamless goods tracking indispensable

In large warehouse areas with a high throughput of consignments, visual parcel tracking is indispensable for quality assurance. Thus, in 2021, the video management software CargoVIS from DIVIS was introduced in six logistics halls of the Danish company. Another almost 8,000 square metres were equipped with CargoVIS and the tagless Bluetooth tracking with Location+ offered by DIVIS. “We have already achieved very good results in finding goods and lost shipments since the system was installed,” explains Jakob Wiborg Hansen, Director of K. Hansen Transport AS.

A special benefit of this tracking solution is that hardware tags are no longer needed: This solution means that tags (or “transponders”) – small transmitters that normally have to be mounted on the scanners – are now no longer necessary. The task of the tags is taken over by an app developed by DIVIS. When a pallet is scanned with the Quuppa system directly from the barcode scanners (via app), the Transport Management System (TMS) or Warehouse Management System (WMS) records the data from the scan. In turn, locators installed on the hall ceiling receive the Bluetooth signals from the scanners to show the position at the time of the scanning and the app then transmits the scanner’s position. The location data is also linked in the CargoVIS database with the recorded video material of the consignment. This creates a complete movement path of information for each good, which makes it possible to track the goods precisely based on the consignment or pallet number. Another benefit is the fact that the fast search entry via scan points speeds up loading and unloading. With Location+, the positions of even concealed objects can be clearly determined.

One platform, many possibilities

In addition to the Location+ plus feature, the DIVIS platform offers further plus modules for the respective needs of logistics customers which can be individually combined with the video software products CargoVIS or – in parcel logistics – ParcelVIS. K. Hansen Transport AS uses License-Plate+, another plus function of DIVIS. This database-supported system enables the automatic recognition of vehicle license plates via video camera and simplifies access and yard management. The stored data can be used for entry and exit control and for controlling vehicle movements in the yard to ensure that only authorised vehicles enter the company premises.

Thanks to the DIVIS and Quuppa solution K. Hansen Transport has significantly increased efficiency in their operation. Because of the tagless environment, locating failures and localisation errors can be largely avoided and costs for the purchase, repair, and maintenance of the small transmitters can be eliminated. All of this in turn not only allows for enormous increases in efficiency and cost savings, but also reduces unnecessary work steps for the staff. The strengths of the solution are also evident in logistical environments where a large number of scanners need to be located. All you have to do is install the DIVIS app on new devices and the scanners are integrated into the tracking system. Due to the extensive process optimisations, the solution pays for itself quickly.

The solution benefits several areas of the company at once from Location+ with tagless Bluetooth tracking – from the loading processes to claims management. The customers will also benefit from a higher quality of service. “The cooperation with DIVIS, especially with sales and service, has been very effective,” says Director Jakob Wiborg Hansen, praising the exchange with DIVIS. “We are very satisfied with the system,” he sums up.

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