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Month: February 2025

Last Mile Parcel Locker Collaboration

Posted on by David Priestman

With a strong ambition to grow its existing footprint, smart locker network Bloq.it has a product portfolio and company culture to fuel that growth. Peter MacLeod caught up with its founder.

Portuguese smart locker company Bloq.it is catching the eye with its leading-edge smart locker solutions and enlightened approach to the market. As it enters a year when it is aiming to strengthen its position in the unattended delivery solutions sector, its Founder & CEO Miha Jagodic spoke with Logistics Business’s Editor Peter MacLeod to tell him more about the company and what looks like an exciting future.

Logistics Business (LB): Miha, please tell me more about Bloq.it, its background, capabilities, growth, and its offerings.

Miha Jagodic (MJ): Bloq.it was born from a simple beach smart locker concept and evolved into a logistics powerhouse by seizing opportunities created by the Covid pandemic and the eCommerce surge that followed. Founded in 2019, our mission is to reshape the eCommerce parcel delivery experience through smart locker technology. Our end-to-end solutions modernise and enhance last-mile logistics, making parcel deliveries more efficient, cost-effective, and convenient.

Over the past year, we have experienced exponential growth, with deployments skyrocketing from 1,289 in 2023 to 4,789 in 2024, representing a 279% increase. Our locker network expanded from 2,300 locations to 6,700, reflecting a 290% growth. This rapid expansion is also supported by our flagship product, Bloq.it NEXT, which has set a new benchmark in the industry with its
advanced off-grid, battery-powered, and uncompromised capabilities. NEXT offers unprecedented flexibility with its autonomous functions, featuring advanced elements such as 10” colour touch screens, QR and barcode scanners, and label printers, making it a game-changer for deployment in areas without complex infrastructure needs. With revenue growth of over 101% year over-year, Bloq.it has established itself, in such a short time, as the backbone of this industry.

LB: Where has that growth come from?

MJ: Our growth is fuelled by our ability to innovate and adapt to market shifts, such as transitioning from beach lockers to logistics solutions in response to the eCommerce boom during the pandemic. A significant milestone in our journey was the Vinted Go partnership, which started with installations in Paris in 2022 and has now expanded to over 4,000 lockers across France. The pilot in France has been so successful that an expansion to other countries is in the works for 2025. Additionally, the rise in consumer demand for convenient and sustainable delivery options has
accelerated the adoption of smart lockers, positioning us as a key enabler of eCommerce logistics.

LB: Who are your customers, and how do you work with them to achieve success?

MJ: We began working with leading global logistics providers early on. Heavy hitters such as DHL eCommerce and Vinted Go have been in our portfolio since 2022, and we have recently announced our partnership with GLS, one of the major parcel services providers operating in Europe. Our approach is deeply collaborative – we work closely with our partners to design customised solutions that optimise their delivery networks and enhance the end-user experience. By leveraging real-time data analytics, AI-driven routing, and seamless API integrations, we empower our customers to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and achieve sustainability goals.

We have been active also in the postal sector, working with operators such as PPL in the Czech Republic, and LockerItalia, in Italy. This year, we are also launching our entry into the Open
Network segment, with DeinFach (formerly known as OneStopBox), in Germany. While our customers initially choose Bloq.it for our industry-leading smart locker solutions, our ultimate goal is being met with them choosing us also for our company culture, collaborative attitude, and forwardthinking philosophy.

LB: How do you collaborate with your partners, and to what effect?

MJ: At Bloq.it, collaboration is at the core of our success. We believe that working alongside industry players, including those traditionally considered competitors, drives mutual growth and
innovation. A good example is when a major operator in Europe wanted some very customised lockers to be deployed in rural areas. Where most might go to look for solutions elsewhere, here at Bloq.it we are confident to dive in no matter the circumstances, and our customers are well aware already. Our partnerships are built on trust, flexibility, and shared goals. Whether it’s developing
customised locker solutions for Vinted Go or integrating with DHL eCommerce existing logistics operations, we ensure that our technology seamlessly complements their existing infrastructure, delivering tangible benefits such as faster deliveries, quicker diagnostics, and growing customer satisfaction.

LB: How does Bloq.it balance working with competitors while maintaining a unique value proposition?

MJ: We recognise that the logistics industry is an interconnected ecosystem where collaboration can drive overall efficiency. And that is crucial in our mind on the end-goal of bettering urban logistics and bringing it to the 21st century. Our technology is designed to integrate seamlessly with various logistics providers without compromising our competitive edge. Our focus on neutrality, scalability, and data-driven insights allows us to support all players in achieving their goals while maintaining our distinct market position.

LB: Can you share an example of how Bloq.it has successfully collaborated without compromising another client working within the same segment?

MJ: A great example is our partnership with multiple logistics providers in key European markets. Despite competing interests, we’ve implemented shared locker networks that allow multiple
carriers to benefit from our technology. This form of cooperation has led to increased operational efficiency, cost savings, and generated more interest for all stakeholders involved.

LB: What are the key challenges in collaborating with multiple clients from the same segment, and how does Bloq.it address them?

MJ: One of the biggest challenges is ensuring a level playing field where all partners feel they benefit equally. Bloq.it addresses this by providing transparent, data-driven insights and a modular approach that allows partners to scale operations independently while leveraging shared infrastructure. Our commitment to neutrality and technological flexibility ensures that collaboration is mutually beneficial.

LB: What geographic territories do you service?

MJ: Our smart locker solutions are deployed across multiple European markets, present in countries such as France, Czech Republic, Italy, and Portugal. We are now entering the Open Network segment by launching with DeinFach in Germany, starting in Berlin. Our most recent partnership with GLS will enable our presence in Spain, with plans also for a wider footprint in Italy. Our partnership with Vinted Go will also be expanding to other markets very soon. With our expanding partnerships and increasing demand, we are continuously growing our footprint to new regions, ensuring our solutions are accessible to a wider audience.

LB: What is Bloq.it NEXT’s differentiator, and how has its launch been received?

MJ: Bloq.it NEXT, announced last year at Deliver Europe and showcased in Parcel+Post Expo, represents the pinnacle of off-grid smart locker technology, offering enhanced security, modularity, and seamless scalability. It features state-of-the-art IoT capabilities, a user-friendly interface, and advanced reporting tools, making it the preferred choice for major logistics providers. Since its launch, NEXT has seen widespread adoption; even though coming in relatively late in the market, it managed to garner the interest of major logistics operators who were waiting patiently for a better solution to arise. This was the case of Vinted, which opted for NEXT although other locker providers had their autonomous solutions in the market for over a few years already. With over 12,000 NEXT lockers planned for deployment in 2025, this will contribute significantly to our overall market expansion.

LB: What stands Bloq.it as a company apart from other operators in the space?

MJ: What truly sets us apart is our end-to-end approach, combining cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of logistics operations. Our rapid deployment capabilities, data-driven insights, and commitment to always go beyond the norm make us a trusted partner for logistics companies worldwide. By offering superior technology, our unique approach ensures that customers resonate with Miha Jagodic showcased Bloq.it NEXT at the Parcel+Post Expo our values, attitude, and philosophy. We really do work hard to create long-term relationships based on trust, innovation, and our standard of excellence. Another differentiator that definitely impacts our leads is our flexible production network, with manufacturing units across Europe, allowing us to rapidly scale production based on market demand while maintaining quality and efficiency.

LB: Finally, what are your ambitions for 2025?

MJ: What a year it was in 2024! But that is already in the past and all of our attention is on the next few years. Looking ahead to 2025, of course we aim to consolidate our position as the world’s largest provider of unattended delivery solutions. Our focus will be on expanding our network further in Europe, enhancing our technology stack, and forging new strategic partnerships. As we continue our exponential growth trajectory, we want to ensure that customers not only recognise us for our products, but also embrace Bloq.it for our mindset, adaptability, and dedication to shaping the future of last-mile, thus becoming the backbone of the whole industry.

With exciting projects in the pipeline that we can’t name just yet, and with already planned launches with GLS and DeinFach, and the expansion of the Vinted Go network powered by Bloq.it, we are confident in our ability to continue growing and impacting more and more the development of urban logistics in Europe, and soon worldwide.

LB: Thank you, Miha, and good luck for the future.

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Experience the Future of Smart Logistics

Posted on by David Priestman

March marks a major milestone for SEER Robotics, as the smart logistics company gears up to showcase its latest intelligent robotics solutions at two of the world’s most influential logistics exhibitions—LogiMAT Stuttgart and ProMat Chicago.

As a global supplier of intelligent robotics controllers, SEER Robotics will present a comprehensive line-up of hardware and software solutions built around its industry-leading SRC series controllers, highlighting its cutting-edge automation technologies and innovation-driven capabilities.

Where to Find SEER Robotics

LogiMAT 2025 | March 11-13 | Stuttgart, Germany | Hall 8, Booth 8D77
Showcasing: SRC controllers, intelligent stacker forklifts (SFL-CDD14-CE & SFL-CDD15-CE), pallet trucks (SFL-CBD15-CE), single-arm forklifts (SOF-300EU), RDS resource scheduling system, and visualization products.

ProMat 2025 | March 17-20 | Chicago, USA | Lakeside Hall, Booth E12013
Showcasing: SRC controllers, rotary lifting AMRs (SJV-SW600), single-arm forklifts (SOF-300EU), reach trucks (SSR-1400), RDS resource scheduling system, M4 QuickGo application, and visualization products.

Localized Innovation for a Global Market

With a commitment to localization and adaptability, SEER Robotics tailors its solutions to meet the unique needs of different markets, driving the intelligent transformation of global logistics. Visitors to LogiMAT and ProMat will witness region-specific solutions that have already been deployed by world-renowned enterprises, including Schneider Electric, Philips, Hisense, Haier, Gree, Bosch, Volkswagen, ABB, Walmart, and many more.

Philips Case Study

One standout example of SEER Robotics’ impact is its intelligent warehouse automation solution for Philips, designed in collaboration with local partners to optimize warehouse management and logistics efficiency. Watch the video here.

CE-Certified for the EU Market
• The SFL-CDD14-CE intelligent stacker forklift is equipped with SRC-3000FS safety controllers, meeting CE, UL, and ISO 3691-4 certifications—ensuring compliance with European safety standards for industrial applications.

Enhanced Safety & Human-Robot Interaction
• Given the frequent interaction between forklifts and personnel, SEER Robotics implemented a multi-layered safety strategy, integrating 3D obstacle detection, distance sensors, and 360° protection.
• Smart navigation optimizes forklift routes, pallet positioning, and operational timing, minimizing risk while maximizing efficiency.
• Dedicated safety zones enable instant response mechanisms in case of emergencies.

Compact Design for Narrow Aisles
• With a body width under 1m and a turning radius of just 1.2m, the SFL-CDD14-CE forklift is engineered for high-density storage environments, seamlessly maneuvering through tight warehouse spaces.

User-Centric Customization
• To improve operational efficiency, SEER Robotics customized a PDA-based interface for Philips, aligning with local user habits and simplifying order management.
• Comprehensive technical support and training ensure seamless adoption and ease of use.

Smart Power Management with Rotational Charging
• Limited charging space posed a challenge for Philips’ warehouse operations. SEER Robotics implemented a rotational charging system, ensuring an optimal charging sequence for all forklifts, balancing energy consumption, and extending battery life—ultimately enhancing efficiency and reducing energy waste.

Driving Efficiency & Safety at Scale

By integrating SEER Robotics’ SFL-CDD14-CE intelligent stacker forklifts, warehouse operations at Philips are now fully automated — from material transfers to fleet coordination. Employees can simply issue tasks via PDA, while the RDS resource scheduling system orchestrates autonomous fleet operations, charging cycles, and collaborative workflows. The result? Significantly improved warehouse efficiency, enhanced safety standards, and seamless adaptability to Philips’ production needs.

On Display at LogiMAT & ProMat

With a growing portfolio of proven real-world deployments, SEER Robotics aims to reshape the landscape of autonomous logistics — delivering next-level robotic intelligence, safety, and operational efficiency. At LogiMAT and ProMat, visitors will experience firsthand how SEER Robotics is breaking barriers in automation and accelerating the global adoption of intelligent robotics solutions.

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EVs Taking Charge

Posted on by David Priestman

Shell Commercial Road Transport’s Aleid van der Wiel discusses how the ‘chicken and egg’ scenario surrounding the future uptake of electric trucks can be solved with effective charging infrastructure.

Europe needs its commercial road transport (CRT) fleets to invest in electrification. And, to make the case for investment, fleet managers need to know they can continue to operate across their existing routes as cost competitively as possible with electric vehicles (EVs).

However, this is where they often come up against a ‘chicken and egg’ scenario: On the one hand, EV trucks are available, but customers are reluctant to invest because the charging infrastructure needed to support them is not fully in place yet and at scale; on the other, energy suppliers are hesitant to invest in the charging infrastructure required because there are not yet enough EV trucks in use to make it commercially viable.

So, how do we resolve this? We talked to Aleid van der Wiel, Head of Public eMobility & Power for Shell Commercial Road Transport, about the importance of effective charging infrastructure and how CRT businesses can access the solutions that meet their unique operational needs.

Logistics Business (LB): How is a lack of charging infrastructure preventing the acceleration of electrification?

Aleid van der Wiel (AvdW): Our research highlights that nearly two-thirds (64%) of CRT fleets believe the energy infrastructure needed for emissions reduction is currently not robust or reliable enough to support their operations. This undermines the business case for electric truck adoption while making it more difficult to justify the investment in charging infrastructure at scale. Conversely, having the right strategic infrastructure in place can help fleets to reduce their total cost of ownership (TCO) by increasing efficiency and managing energy usage (enabling them to charge at times when electricity prices are lower).

LB: How can CRT fleets access the charging infrastructure they need?

AvdW: It’s critical for them to work closely with expert providers to develop an effective charging strategy, supported by tailored solutions that meet their specific operational needs – now and in the future. At Shell, we’re working with CRT fleets to identify the right charging set-up for their needs – giving them peace of mind that they’re investing in resilient operations that drive efficiency today while supporting the ongoing growth of their EV fleet. This includes eDepot solutions that deliver seamless private charging for trucks – covering high-quality charge point hardware, software that enables fleets to manage their charging needs efficiently at scale, and on-site energy solutions.

We also have a growing on-the-go public charging network for CRT fleets that will build on our first heavy-duty public truck charging site, opened in 2023 at Eindhoven Acht in the Netherlands. Giving fleets access to 300kW charging bays, parking facilities and the ability to book guaranteed charger availability, the site aimed to show how fleets can operate their routes efficiently using EV trucks.

LB: How important is collaboration between Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and energy suppliers?

AvdW: It’s hugely important for us to collaborate with OEMs to drive the adoption of electric trucks. In terms of developing charging solutions, we’re working closely with OEMs to make sure our customers have the best user experience at the charge site.

For example, we’re collaborating to make sure our hardware connects seamlessly, allowing customers to recharge quickly, reliably and at the expected power levels so they can keep to their schedules. This includes investing in charge point technology designed to deliver interoperability and quality, as we have done through our acquisition of SBRS in 2022. It also includes testing the connection between charge points and trucks at our Hamburg lab to help us and OEMs develop better solutions.

LB: What is your vision for the future of CRT electrification?

AvdW: We see high-quality, high-speed and flexible charging as the future. But that’s not all about the infrastructure or the hardware. To make sure fleet TCO remains low, businesses need to
integrate those elements with fleet and energy management to drive efficient and cost-effective operations. Software (including AI systems) has a crucial role to play in this, linking fleet schedules to energy markets to help fleet managers develop routes that provide the cheapest and most reliable charging options – out on the roads or back at the depot.

It’s also important to show fleets what this level of integration looks like. That’s why we’ve developed our first Megawatt (MW) dual charger for commercial road transport and marine applications as a proof of concept at the Energy Transition Campus Amsterdam (ETCA). The aim is to show both industries how a fully integrated system for sustainable energy management (featuring its own microgrid and standardised connectors) can support their decarbonisation ambitions while helping businesses to remain cost competitive by operating efficiently.

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Professional Big Box

Posted on by David Priestman

Peter MacLeod asks directors of Tritax Big Box about some of the specific challenges facing the UK industrial property development sector.

Tritax Big Box Developments is making waves in the warehouse development sector. It describes itself at the UK’s largest logistics development platform with around 40 million square feet of
developable space, over 100 assets across the UK, and the UK’s largest portfolio of logistics investment assets. I fired questions at a few of Tritax’s senior directors to find out more about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the company, focusing initially on sustainability.

I asked Alan Somerville, ESG Director, Tritax Management, what denotes a sustainable warehouse, and what are Tritax’s customers seeking. He replied that the definition of a sustainable
warehouse is one that is energy efficient, low carbon, has a resilient power supply, features onsite renewables such as solar, has internal and external infrastructure for staff wellbeing, and one which is effectively connected by different forms of transport.

“Our customers are seeking buildings which are fit for their operations both today and tomorrow,” said Somerville. “Buildings which are cost effective, efficient, aligned to their own corporate
sustainability ambitions and the best possible workplace for staff.”

Accommodating Automation

Turning to Mark Fergusson, head of client engagement, Tritax Big Box REIT, I asked what considerations have to be taken into account to ensure a warehouse can handle today’s levels of automation. “There are a number of considerations we as a leading developer landlord are incorporating into our solutions for clients, recognising the increasing role automation is playing in their operations,” he replied.

“Specification – Automation requires a high-quality floor, whether that is for the additional load bearing to accommodate high bay cranes or facilitate the smooth movement of autonomous robots
supporting picking operations. We are also seeing clients demanding higher minimum eaves heights to either support high bay automated ASRS cranes or install mezzanine floors and conveyors
for co-pack and picking operations.

“Power – The increased levels of automation is also resulting in clients needing access to greater levels of power (ideally from sustainable sources) both to fulfil their existing requirements as well as catering for the likelihood of further automation and the additional power required in the future. This is accelerating the deployment of solar PV on our existing assets as well as it being a standard feature of all of new units to reduce the reliance on the grid.

“People – It is important that those warehouse operators deploying automation have access to skilled labour like engineers who can support the technology. We are seeing a number of clients partnering with local colleges and offering apprenticeships to increase the numbers of engineers with the right skills in the labour force.

“Flexibility – The types of operation and activities being automated is accelerating and the return on investment for the deployment of these solutions is looking increasingly attractive. It is therefore key we ensure the assets we develop and own provide our clients with the spec, power and access to people. This should ensure operations have the flexibility to accommodate new innovative
automated solutions deployed in the medium to longer term which will undoubtedly end up being a common feature in the warehouse of the future.”

Finally, with greenfield sites becoming harder to obtain due to both legislation and physical availability, I asked Jonathan Dawes, head of planning at Tritax Big Box Developments, how difficult this has actually become. He responded by saying: “Despite a continued Government focus on ‘brownfield first’, there are not enough brownfield sites to accommodate all development requirements and meet the Government’s growth agenda. As such, there will be a need for greenfield development for all use types. The current planning environment reform maintains a strong focus on residential development. We would like to see industrial and logistics development addressed in the same way as it’s essential that there is sufficient infrastructure in place to support these new homes.

“Local Authorities and statutory bodies are increasingly stretched and underresourced. The planning system is also increasingly being asked to consider more: Biodiversity Net Gain; Climate
Change; Energy; Sustainability. It is a very complex and challenging landscape to navigate, and the system as a whole is still not aligned with the Government’s pro-growth agenda.

“The devolution agenda adds a further layer of complexity/uncertainty, albeit for logistics, will hopefully address the ‘larger than local’ needs of the sector, with Spatial Development Strategies
recognising and meeting this – the key ask remains for a standard employment need methodology.

“It is not becoming harder to develop on greenfield sites per se: the challenges and timescales of achieving planning permission remain, such that an experienced development partner is essential to navigate this process, and in the short term at least, it is not going to get any easier as the planning reforms/devolution play out.”

Given its market position, Tritax is well-placed to comment on the sector. It remains a challenging yet ultimately worthwhile business to be a part of, as consumers continue to seek greater flexibility and availability of goods.

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Superconnector Hub Under Pressure

Posted on by David Priestman

Hong Kong’s name derives from ‘fragrant harbour’. Strategically located, yes, but does it still hold key supply chain advantages? David Priestman took an extensive tour, conducting a series of interviews.

Comprising just 1100 square kilometres of land, with over seven million people (the 4th densest population in the world) Hong Kong’s islands and peninsula territory have been a superhub for shipping, air freight (see pages 16-17) and logistics for decades. The city still buzzes and sparkles, for certain. GDP per capita is 17th in the world and the city still ranks 3rd as a global financial centre, with more ultra-high net worth individuals than any other city.

But competition has ramped-up, both from mainland China’s ports and megacities, plus other ‘superconnector’ hubs such as Singapore, Dubai and Busan (Korea). Hong Kong’s ranking as a container port has steadily slipped to tenth (of 700 worldwide), even though its total throughput TEU volume is returning to pre-covid levels. Over 6% of Hong Kong’s GDP comes from the port and logistics, employing 5% of the labour force – 175,000 jobs.

Talk here, at the various conferences I attended, is of the ‘Greater Bay Area’ (GBA) superhub of the Pearl River Delta; Shenzhen (4th largest port), Guangzhou (8th largest and a big manufacturing and ship-building centre), Macau and Hong Kong. Combined, it is the biggest shipping hub in the world and now all connected by bridges such as the HZMB (HK-Zhuhai-Macao). Hong Kong’s container port has been operating for over fifty years and the city itself, of course, grew over 150 years of British rule from rural fishing villages into a high-tech metropolis. The GBA helps re-position Hong Kong as a key location but acknowledges the end of a unipolar approach and the further integration of the territory into China proper. The question is whether Hong Kong still has unique selling points?

Navigating the Fierce Competition

Victoria Harbour has natural advantages. It is iconic and was the foundation of the phenomenal success story. Container ships are turned around at the efficient port in less than one day here, to any of 300 onward destinations. A few years back Hong Kong was considered an obvious gateway to China, being designated a ‘special administrative region’ (SAR) since 1997. More than 9000 international companies with headquarters elsewhere have an office here. The market fundamentals remain strong, according to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), based upon experience in trading, commercial law and business rules, bilingual use of English and the large hinterland of 1100 port-related service companies, such as insurance brokers. Significantly, Hong Kong has an international maritime legal and arbitration centre for dispute resolution.

Hong Kong was a founding member of the World Trade Organization in 1995, and its government remains a staunch defender of free trade. It offers significant tax incentives to the shipping sector to operate here, which may be enhanced soon, and commodity traders are being sought after. The SAR’s Secretary for Transport and Logistics told me that the advantages of Hong Kong remain the competitiveness of the port, which has freeport status, and the high-value services of finance, law, leasing, insurance and ship ownership that are so well-provided and established here.
There is an action plan to increase inward investment, expand the local maritime network, promote maritime services and strengthen collaboration in the GBA, making good use of the HZMB. The plan includes releasing four new logistics development sites near the container ports, with high levels of warehouse automation deployed. Warehouse occupancy is currently at 90%. Hong Kong International Airport is having a third runway constructed, plus a new terminal and support facilities, increasing capacity there by 50% from 2035.

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, Dr Patrick Lau, told me that the emphasis is on newly regional trade lanes, supply chain diversification and multi-lateral co-operation. “Climate change really is true, and Hong Kong is committed to our net zero targets.” The mainland China market is the main target for inward investment in the SAR. “Hong Kong remains a gateway,” he added, “now we have more corridors. We know China the best because we’re part of it.” Recent events here have certainly demonstrated that. The focus used to be on getting products and cargo out of China, now it is also on importing goods as and when the mainland’s market is further liberalised.

Risk and Resilience in an Age of Disruption

Benjamin Wong (pictured), Head of Transport and Logistics for InvestHK, is responsible for encouraging inward investment in this sector. InvestHK helps with the onboarding of companies setting-up here with planning, advice, licenses, visas, IP and more. “We’re four hours by plane from Asia’s key markets and five hours from half the world’s population, so business day trips are normal,” he said. ‘One country, two systems’ was the motto for Hong Kong upon its return to Chinese rule, but I am not persuaded that this is still the case in practice. Wong says that it is an ideal business base, and that is true from a purely commercial point of view. Over 1300 companies have their regional headquarters here. “We’re efficient,” Wong emphasises. “Being just one city means there is only one layer of government, so bureaucracy is low and corruption very low.”

What of Hong Kong’s ranking as a business location? “There may be fluctuations but we’re still up where we have been,” Wong argues. For ship operators, income derived from the international operation of ships registered here are exempt from profits tax. The same applies for profits derived by qualifying ship lessors from leasing activities. For ship leasing management activities, the corporation tax is just 8.25%. Profits derived by direct insurers underwriting marine-related risk are also taxed at this low rate, as are profits for ship agents, brokers and managers. No wonder the shipping registry here is ranked fourth in the world.

Geopolitical Bifurcation

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is committed to the decarbonization journey. The drought in Panama last year, which restricted use of the canal, together with various port closures due to extreme weather, served to remind the shipping industry of the pressing need to get to net zero as soon as possible, according to ICS chairman Emanuele Grimaldi, speaking at a conference here. Dual fuel and green fuel ships present a challenge that can be overcome. Green hydrogen, methanol, ethanol and ammonia fuels are all being developed to add to LNG and the goal is to adopt a pricing mechanism for all fuels as they become available in greater quantities. Hong Kong is pitching itself as a ‘green shipping corridor’ due to its firm commitment to green bunkering – the supply of cleaner fuels to ships – though it is thankfully not alone in this provision.

Protectionism and unilateralism are re-emerging challenges. Geopolitical tensions and piracy in the Red Sea compound that as maritime issues become trade issues. Would new USA import tariffs on Chinese containers affect Hong Kong? Dialogue and partnership are required to protect the multilateral, rules-based global shipping sector. However, according to the International Maritime Organisation’s Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, “shipping is resilient and adaptable. There’s no complacency. Net zero by 2050 is difficult to achieve, we need to focus first on 2030 and all options must be considered. We want to be greener, safer, more secure, as well as to digitize the industry.” There are currently around 2600 new ships on order, with 50% of them being dual-fuel ready.

Maritime Cluster

Sandy Chan is Managing Director of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSA). It has 200 corporate members who collectively own over 2500 ships. HKSA has input to shipping regulations, as well as doing promotional work. The number of shipowners here helps attract more, plus insurers and other service providers.
“We have an edge in Hong Kong to being a bunkering hub,” Chan says. “China is becoming a major supplier of green fuels. Big progress in technology is required, though, because for all the new fuels you need greater quantities than for current ones. Only 1% of the world’s fleet can use green fuels today. Buyers should choose ‘ammonia-ready’ new ships. Crews will need re-training too as storage and usage is complex.”

No Shipping, no Shopping

Shipping volumes rose 2% last year and are forecast to climb by an average of 2.4% per year for the rest of the decade. But the attractions of a life at sea are not what they once were. Seafarers must be considered and their free movement permitted. Shipping gets it done, but headwinds make it tougher.

All supply chain companies need talent. More education and training are needed to be able to staff the sector sufficiently. Hong Kong has earmarked a marine and aviation training fund (MATF) to assist. MATF subsidizes internships and existing professionals in logistics can access additional training course funding. Nearby Shenzhen is one of many port cities that has a maritime university – the College of Life Sciences and Oceanography. But will it attract enough budding merchant navy officers? “Getting new talent into our industry is important, not just for seafaring,” Chan told me. “There is cadet training at the maritime school here and a student exchange programme.”

Quayside View

My tour was made complete by visiting Modern Terminals, based at berths 1, 2, 5 and 9 of the Kwai Tsing Container Terminal in Victoria Harbour. The privately-owned company was established in 1969 and built Hong Kong’s first purpose-built container terminal in 1972. Wharf Holdings, which owns the famous Star Ferry Company here, is the majority shareholder. It is one of five operators at Kwai Tsing, along with DP World, Cosco, Hong Kong International Terminals and Asia Container Terminals.

Elin Wong, Head of Corporate Affairs for Modern Terminals, provided the tour and told me that the terminal can accommodate the world’s largest vessels. “We have invested in berth deepening, gantry crane heightening and boom extending,” she informed. “Chinese manufacturers send export goods by barge across the bay to us, and vice-versa, so we’re now a transhipment hub.” The hope is that China will relax cabotage rules, which would enable international shipping carriers to operate between mainland Chinese ports, rather than this being restricted to just Chinese shipping lines.

Impressively, electric remote-controlled gantry cranes are now used here, and the company has an annual throughput capacity of seven million TEUs. It is also a shareholder in Shenzhen port. Modern Terminals describes itself as a progressive company, with a proud heritage. Wong explained that it has a strong emphasis on the cultural values of its employees, work-life balance and fulfilment. Trust, accountability and teamwork go hand-in-hand as the company is committed to operational excellence.

The formation of the Hong Kong Seaport Alliance by Modern Terminals and three neighbouring terminal operators in 2019, to jointly operate the berths at Kwai Tsing port, has been providing enhanced services to shipping line customers and delivering greater utilization efficiency through operational upgrades and the inter-terminal trucking of containers. “We aim to have no GHG emissions by 2030,” Wong stated.

Continuity, with Blurred Lines

The challenge for Hong Kong’s government and business community is, of course, as it has been since the 1997 handover: to maintain confidence and stability; for there to be no loss of nerve, even as the territory is haemorrhaging emigrants to live free in the west. Compared to living and doing business in Shanghai, for example, the contrasts are still visible, though increasingly less so. Given the choice, I know where I would choose to be based. The level of enterprise, enthusiasm and determination from the shipping and logistics community here is infectious. This place has always been the underdog. Don’t write Hong Kong off just yet.

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Logistics Business Welcomes Back Paul Hamblin

Posted on by David Priestman

Logistics Business is delighted to announce the return of a familiar name to our editorial team.

Former editor Paul Hamblin is to rejoin as Features Editor, and will assist editor Peter Macleod in sourcing and writing the original interviews and features that give Logistics Business such a unique voice across the international logistics space.

A versatile editor and journalist for over 25 years, Paul was editor of Logistics Business from 2016 to 2021, becoming well-known to both our established clients and to new voices in the industry before launching his freelancing career sourcing, developing, writing and editing first-rate content for a range of software clients in the UK, Germany, Sweden and North America. He will continue to grow this business in parallel with his contributions to Logistics Business.

“I’m delighted to be back with David, Peter and the rest of the team,” says Paul. “Logistics Business is a such a well-respected brand across Europe and does a brilliant job reflecting the dizzying rate of change in the supply chain and logistics sector. I’m looking forward to meeting and talking to the industry innovators at the forefront of that change.”

February 2025
February 2025

Paul will be in Stuttgart for LogiMAT on March 11 and already has a near-full diary of interviews lined up. Please get in touch if you’d like to be considered for any slots remaining.

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Electric Truck with Fuel-powered Range Extender Tested

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Group and heavy goods vehicle manufacturer Scania have jointly developed an electric truck with a fuel-powered generator, making it possible to shift to battery-electric road transport without having to wait for a complete charging network. Fully electric vehicles are the ultimate solution in a sustainable transport system, and the shift to electric needs to accelerate now. There are, however, hurdles such as the lack of charging points, the high costs of ensuring enough charging capacity at the depots during seasonal peaks, and the strain on the grid and high spot prices for electricity on for instance calm winter days. This is where DHL’s and Scania’s Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) comes into the picture. The vehicle helps to overcome these hurdles while enabling DHL to drive 80 – 90% on renewable electricity.

The new e-truck will be deployed by the Post & Parcel Germany division in February for parcel transport between Berlin and Hamburg to test its performance in day-to-day operations, before additional vehicles are added to DHL’s fleet. The fuel-powered generator replaces one of the battery packs in a fully electric truck not needed for the majority of the transport routes, thus reducing the range coming from the batteries, but providing back-up energy for the mentioned scenarios. The vehicle has a possible range of 650 to 800 kilometers (subject to the findings from the test in Berlin) and can be refueled at any conventional petrol station, if needed. This compares with the 550 kilometers of Scania’s most modern and industry-leading 100 percent electric trucks with an equivalent maximum weight.

DHL Group CEO Tobias Meyer said: “It is going to take some time before renewable electricity, the grid and charging infrastructure are available and robust enough to rely fully on battery-electric trucks, especially for a large-scale system like the German parcel network of DHL. Instead of waiting for this day to come, DHL and Scania are collaborating on a pragmatic solution for making logistics more sustainable and reduce CO2 emissions by more than 80%. This vehicle is a sensible, practical solution that can make an immediate contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in freight transport short-term. Such reductions should be proportionally reflected in the road toll pricing and EU fleet emission scheme. We see this collaboration as a successful innovation project of two companies committed to battle climate change.”

The EREV has been developed by Scania Pilot Partner, exploring new technologies and solutions, in this case together with the strategic partner DHL. Range-extended electric vehicles offer a promising interim solution for significant CO₂e reductions, especially where infrastructure and other conditions for fully electric transport are lacking. EU and national policies should recognize and incentivize this concept through adequate recognition of the realistic emission intensity in and proportional road toll reductions.

Christian Levin, CEO, Scania, said: “The future is electric, but perfect must not be the enemy of good as we are getting there. The vehicle we have developed together with DHL is an example of interim solutions that can enhance the scaling of decarbonised heavy transport before the transport system eventually becomes 100 percent electrified. An effective climate transition requires that policymakers accept such solutions, while ramping up their investments in public infrastructure and other enabling conditions.”

The EREV is a 10.5 meter long truck with a maximum weight of 40 metric tons, powered by a 230kW electric engine (295 kW peak). Energy is delivered by a 416 kWh battery and a 120 kW gasoline powered generator. With the aid of the onboard generator – initially powered by petrol and later by diesel fuel/HVO – the truck’s range extends up to 800 kilometers. EREVs can be equipped with a software limiting the usage of the fuel-powered generator, thereby allowing CO2 emissions to be reduced and limited to a specified level. Its maximum speed is 89 km/h, with a cargo capacity of approx. 1,000 parcels (volume of a swap body). The truck can also pull a trailer with an additional swap body. The vehicle is to be deployed for “main carriage” transport between the cities of Berlin and Hamburg.

Deutsche Post AG and Scania CV AB filed a patent application for the technology with the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA) in Munich on September 19, 2024.

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Route Optimisation: Human vs AI

Posted on by David Priestman

The digital transformation of the transport sector and route optimisation shows no sign of slowing down. Software has changed the logistics landscape, from lot tracking to PODs, the power of the computer chip can be felt everywhere.

Automation offers the promise of efficiency at scale. A streamlined workforce armed with the latest technology has the potential to increase productivity across many aspects of warehousing and distribution. One area that has benefited from innovation is route optimisation. Route planning programs create the most efficient routes based on data such as delivery addresses, fleet details, timings and load capacity.

Optimisation software boosts supply chain efficiency

Route planning software can save businesses a lot of time, as Invo Fulfilment’s Supply Chain Co-ordinator Richard Bainbridge explains. “It used to take us four hours a day to plan routes manually, and collections and deliveries were managed completely separately. The software provides a great start point and it groups the runs very well.”

However, Bainbridge highlights the importance of human experience when it comes to programming the system. “It’s all to do with how you configure your set-up, so it’s important to make sure it’s set up accurately and fairly for timings. It does it generally on averages and you can get better data over time and if it’s not providing long enough to unload then we can adjust that. There’s so much data going into it from our side that it needs to be right to utilise it to the maximum. I do like an element of control and we will change our inputs over time depending on how much automation we require and need.”

Technology provides live visibility

One of the big benefits of integrating route optimisation software with GPS technology is that vehicles can be tracked in real time. Knowledge is power, and knowing the location of every load gives teams the power to act at speed. This means that drivers can be diverted if a route is blocked, customers can be kept updated on etas and office staff have instant visibility of their whole fleet.

Integrated I.T systems offer oversight at speed and in detail, which was not possible before the digital era, as Bainbridge explains: “It gives us really good visibility. It means we can see everything we need to straight away. The sales guys know where the goods are immediately, rather than having to do it manually or by e-mail like we used to do back in the day.”

Dashboards allow teams to compare historic data, so they can track patterns. This is useful for resource planning and targeting any weaknesses in the supply chain. “Dashboards give us our history, it’s good for the tracking and visibility side. It is a 2-way data stream, so that information comes in and out of the system, allowing us to plan responsively,” he adds.

The benefits of a hybrid system

A hybrid system, that empowers the planning staff to work in sync with technology is an approach which works well for Bainbridge and the Invo Fulfilment team. “For us at the minute I can plan functionally and efficiently with a bit of a hybrid, which is automation and manual intervention. The automation side can be flawed. How it processes the data, reads it and plans with it can require a little bit of common sense – it can over-commit with parameters, so we must always check things over.”

And when it comes to employee engagement, the human touch can make all the difference. “It can’t factor in driver preferences – yes you can be as efficient and automated as possible to improve the way of working, but we will always have human oversight. The software can work out the timings, and then I can identify the best person to do that job, whether it be the personal side of it – who wants to be home every night vs who wants to be out all week, and other things which aren’t factored into the automation.”

The future of AI route optimisation software

When it comes to the future of route optimisation it’s a question of how, not if AI will be used. The big differentiator will come down to how quickly businesses adapt and upskill their workforce so that they can adapt and maximise the potential of the technology. Combining real-world logistics experience with the processing power of AI means that distribution businesses can operate faster, leaner and with a higher degree of accuracy and visibility than ever before.

eBook on Asset Protection and Warehouse Safety

Posted on by David Priestman

Logistics Business magazine, in association with Sentry Protection Products, have produced a new digital issue / eBook about asset protection and warehouse safety. In this 6-page special, Editor Peter MacLeod interviews Sentry’s CEO and Founder Jim Ryan and details the company’s products and applications, including the Collision Sentry Multi-Zone warning system.

Read the eBook here now

Innovative safety solutions are transforming warehouses. Discover how collision warning systems and modular protectors enhance safety and efficiency, including the Column Sentry FIT System and Collision Sentry Multi-Zone for high-traffic areas.

In recent years, we’ve taken great interest in the products brought to market by Sentry, who are experts at identifying areas of danger and coming up with seemingly simple solutions to reduce or eliminate warehouse accidents. But after many conversations with James Ryan only now do I fully comprehend the design and manufacture challenges that lie behind ‘simple’ solutions such as its Column Sentry rack protectors, and the lead time it takes to conceive, test, trial and manufacture, and then bring to market such a solution. Not to mention the various international standards to which it has to conform.

Given enough time, anyone could come up with a complicated solution to solve a problem. But real genius lies in the ability to develop a solution that is both brilliantly effective and brilliantly simple, the “why didn’t I think of that” type of product.

A year ago, Ryan showed me a prototype of the Collision Sentry Multi-Zone product, a development of an existing collision warning device that operates around internal and external warehouse doors. This is now fully introduced to the market, and Sentry will be promoting this at the forthcoming LogiMAT trade show from its booth in Hall 1. “It’s starting to solve some problems in high-traffic areas that we just could not in the past,” says Ryan. “We never expected it to be the high volume product that we see with our corner products, but it’s really nice to create a warning system for those other difficult areas where people can have accidents.”

Asset Protection and Warehouse Safety

Sentry Protection Products is a leading provider of innovative, impact resistant products for industrial applications. Manufactured in the United States and Europe and sold worldwide, the award winning, patented product line includes Column Sentry®, Rack Sentry®, Concrete Wrap™, Park Sentry®, Corner Sentry™ and Collision Sentry®. Sentry is headquartered in Lakewood, Ohio, USA.

Read a previous eBook here:

eBook on Warehouse Impact Protection

New Battery Energy Storage System, Next Gen Charger

Posted on by David Priestman

EnerSys, a global supplier of stored energy solutions for industrial applications, will preview their new NexSys™ BESS energy storage system and Synova™ Sync charger concepts at upcoming LogiMAT and ProMat trade shows. These advanced technologies will help operations better manage energy supply and costs – enhancing operational resilience amidst the global energy transition.

These new innovations enable organizations to more efficiently store and utilize energy from time- and condition-dependent renewable sources such as wind and solar. The NexSys™ BESS energy storage system also enables operations to better manage energy costs via ‘peak shaving’ from the traditional electric grid – storing energy during periods with lower utility rates for use during periods with higher rates.

The advanced Synova™ Sync charger delivers exceptional efficiency and charging performance, featuring two-way data and energy flow capabilities that allow operations to pull energy from equipment back into centralized storage if needed. Both the NexSys™ BESS energy storage system and Synova™ Sync charger also provide cloud-based data reporting for enhanced energy and operational management.

“These new products enhance our customers’ management of energy, especially those facing possible shortages and high peak hour rates. Whether drawing from the electrical grid or renewables like solar and wind, our new energy storage solutions enable customers to control their energy supply and costs more directly, which is becoming increasingly important in our marketplace,” said Kerry Philips, Vice President of Global Product Management for Motive Power at EnerSys.

These advanced, next-generation products enable businesses to minimize utility costs while helping stabilize energy for their operations to make them more resilient. When combined, the NexSys™ BESS energy storage system and Synova™ Sync charger form a reliable foundation for on-site microgrids – efficiently storing, managing, and utilizing energy from the traditional grid and various on-site generation sources.

“As the world transitions to a new energy paradigm, these innovations greatly expand the operational benefits of our current product portfolio – enabling customers to better control energy costs and leverage their investment for on-site generation projects,” stated Christina Warn, Global Director of Marketing for Motive Power at EnerSys. “When combined with our fleet data modeling capabilities and unparalleled portfolio of battery technologies, these new offerings help customers truly optimize and manage energy across their entire operation.”

The new NexSys™ BESS energy storage system and next generation Synova™ Sync charger, along with the Company’s portfolio of turnkey power solutions, will be showcased to visitors at the EnerSys trade show stands at LogiMat (Stand 10B09) in Stuttgart, Germany, from March 11–13, 2025, and the following week at ProMat (Booth S612) in Chicago, Illinois, USA, from March 17–20, 2025.

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