​DHL eCommerce Expands UK Network with Newcastle Facility

DHL eCommerce UK has officially launched a new 55,000 square foot facility in Newcastle as part of its expansive £482 million investment program aimed at scaling its national operations and boosting regional parcel capacity. This strategic move not only enhances the company’s ability to serve the growing demand in the North East, but also underlines its commitment to sustainability and community development.

Located at Team Valley Trading Estate, one of the North East’s most prominent business parks, the site has been carefully chosen to streamline regional logistics and improve service efficiency for both individual and business customers. With the capacity to handle up to 15,000 parcels a day, the facility is designed to significantly improve the speed and reliability of parcel delivery across Newcastle and surrounding areas.

Part of a Nationwide Growth Strategy

The Newcastle hub is the latest in a string of developments under DHL eCommerce UK’s ambitious multi-year infrastructure investment plan, which also includes the recent opening of its flagship Midlands hub in Coventry. Together, these upgrades are intended to modernize DHL’s operational footprint, reduce transit times, and enhance parcel processing capacity in response to the ongoing surge in online shopping and direct-to-door deliveries.

Stuart Hill, CEO of DHL eCommerce UK, emphasized the importance of the new Newcastle site within the company’s broader strategy. “By sustainably growing our operations, we are boosting our capacity to meet the growing demands of customers, enhancing the working environment for our valued team members, and upholding our commitment to provide excellent service for customers, both locally and internationally,” Hill said in a public statement.

Sustainability at the Forefront

Reflecting DHL’s global Go Green strategy—which targets net-zero emissions by 2050—the Newcastle site integrates a range of environmentally friendly features. The building includes energy-efficient heating and lighting systems controlled by smart sensors, ensuring that energy usage is optimized throughout the day. Additionally, the site has been fitted with 10 electric vehicle (EV) charging points, supporting DHL’s shift toward a greener delivery fleet and promoting sustainable commuting options for employees.

This eco-conscious approach is a consistent theme across DHL’s recent developments. The company is also investing heavily in electric delivery vans and digital route optimization software, all aimed at reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a more sustainable logistics industry.

Boost to Local Economy and Jobs

In addition to its logistical and environmental benefits, the new facility offers a major boost to the local economy. The site has retained the workforce from DHL’s previous local site, minimizing disruption and job losses during the transition. Furthermore, as the facility scales up, DHL anticipates creating new employment opportunities for the surrounding community, particularly in warehouse operations, vehicle maintenance, and last-mile delivery roles.

Staff at the new site will also benefit from upgraded facilities, including improved break-out areas and employee amenities designed to support wellbeing and foster a more collaborative workplace culture.

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[Podcast] Adapting to Industry 4.0: Intralogistics Automation

In our most recent episode of Logistics Business Conversations, host Peter Macleod engages in an in-depth discussion with David Hibbett, CEO of TGW Northern Europe, focusing on the transformative role of Logistics Automation in facilitating the transition to Industry 4.0. We discuss the challenges and transformations in the logistics sector, including labor shortages, the increasing demand for flexibility and efficiency, and the importance of cost-effectiveness.

David shares his childhood dream of becoming an astronaut and how he went from the sales department to being the CEO of TGW Northern Europe. The conversation delves into how automation technologies, specifically TGW’s Live Pick system, facilitate improvements in operational flexibility, scalability, and overall efficiency, allowing users to introduce additional bots to increase pick rate or add more racking to increase scale. David emphasises the growing importance of software and algorithms in logistics, as well as the critical considerations surrounding data security in an increasingly digitalized environment, and highlights the benefits of the shared data for users of their standardised system, allowing all operators to learn from each other.

Peter MacLeod and David Hibbett TGW

From discussions around software and algorithms to data security, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape of logistics. This episode is a much listen for all businesses that value flexibility and need to increase labour efficiency.

Click here to listen to this episode and more

Supply chain fraud – the dangers of extended credit

Fraudulent strategies can prove extremely profitable to the international criminal fraternity and the global supply chain is typically low risk due to the remote nature of the actual physical theft of goods. The TT Club regularly highlights the risks of theft through fraudulent documents, mandate fraud, fraudulent truckers, and trucking companies presenting themselves to collect cargo and more recently fraudulent freight forwarders or brokers.

Now the insurer is drawing attention to another type of fraud prevalent over the last twelve months; that of credit fraud. TT’s Logistics Risk Manager Josh Finch comments, “Credit fraud is an exposure to all in the global supply chain and a danger that ought to be considered through the risk management structure of every business. This is primarily a financial risk as operators are left with freight costs that can’t be collected. The losses as a result of such fraud can escalate quickly.”

The methodologies of criminals may vary but they all prey on the priority of all operators to maximise revenue in a highly competitive commercial environment. A brief example can help illustrate the dangers.  Finch explains, “A new customer approaches with a single shipment, typically to transport internationally, for instance from Bangladesh to Spain. The ocean shipment will be completed by road at source and destination.  There is a suggestion this could be the start of a potentially large and lucrative contract.   A rate is agreed and a 60-day credit facility arranged. On completion of the shipment the freight account is settled within the agreed 60 days.”

What follows, from the operator’s point of view seems favourable, as four more consignments of clothing are booked on similar terms to the first. Then the ‘sting’ is put in place as these consignments become urgent and must be sent by air.  Several more air freight shipments occur regularly over a three-week period.  All successfully delivered.

However after that, communications to the customer go unanswered; the 60-day credit period expires, and the freight account goes unsettled. The operator is left with significant carrier costs and no revenue.

TT urges operators to engage in extensive due diligence when advancing credit to new customers and points to advice from the British International Freight Association (BIFA).  Based on the unfortunate experiences of a number of its members, BIFA highlights some similar characteristics shared by this type of fraudulent ‘customers’ :

  • Customer wants only airfreight handled
  • No customs clearance or delivery at destination required
  • Completely new contacts, never previously engaged with operator
  • Large volumes of cargo involved
  • Customer accepts the quote without negotiation
  • No record of customer ever importing or exporting previously on the UK’s HMRC Traders website

Concluding Finch emphasises, “Undoubtedly the best course is to withhold extended credit such as 60 days until a trusting relationship has been established with a customer. If commercial necessities dictate offering a more immediate credit facility then careful due diligence is vital. It is wise to maintain that primary risk management revolves around knowledge of your customer at all levels including regulatory compliance, safety, and security.”

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Show-Stopping Trailers Unveiled by Transport Company

Two specially modified and uniquely liveried Schmitz Cargobull S.KO COOL box-body semi-trailers have been unveiled to join family-owned business C&M Transport’s fast-growing fleet in Wrexham. C&M Transport, a temperature-controlled specialist, places huge value in the presentation of its vehicles and uniformed drivers. On that basis, it decided to put Schmitz Cargobull’s ability to customise trailers to the test to give its latest purchases added character.

The result was two S.KO COOL trailers featuring a wealth of after-market additions via Truck Center Vreden, a Schmitz Cargobull Service Partner.

Jonno Williams, Operations Manager at C&M Transport, says: “Having something that stands out from the crowd is important to us. So, when we learnt that Schmitz Cargobull offers a customisation service, we knew we had to try it. The trailers were delivered quickly and look great, so we’re really pleased we did.”

The mono-temp reefers, which are equipped with Carrier Transicold refrigeration units, feature extra strip lights along the rear, side and top of the trailers, as well as upgraded rear-light clusters, stainless steel wheel arches, illuminated stainless steel fuel guards, and Alcoa Dura-Bright alloys to add a smart, personal touch.

The trailers also feature bespoke wraps after the business ran a competition inviting local schools to supply designs showcasing Wrexham to demonstrate that there’s more to the city than a football club owned by two Hollywood film stars.

The winning designs by Holly Jones, from Ysgol Bryn Alyn; and Juliette Devereux, from Ysgol Morgan Llwyd, were transformed into full-length wraps by ASAP Signs on the first trailer. They highlight the UNESCO-recognised Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the Gresford Colliery memorial, respectively. The work of local artist Mikey Jones, showing the Wrexham skyline, features on the second trailer.

Underneath the unique designs, Schmitz Cargobull’s proven FERROPLAST technology combines the increased insulation of a polyurethane hard foam with a durable and resistant covering of multiple layers of coated metal. The result is a self-supporting product without any thermal bridges that may affect cooling performance. If any damage does occur, the panels can be easily repaired rather than the trailer side requiring whole body repair.

Each trailer will be covering 2,000 plus miles a week over the breadth of the UK and Continental Europe, something their strong galvanised MODULUS bolted chassis are ideally suited to handle. Each chassis comes with a 10-year warranty against rust-through on all galvanised parts, too.

“I can’t fault the build quality, it’s excellent. The interior width of the trailers has also been a big hit with our drivers. Most of what we move is palletised but some goods – such as ice cream and fresh cut flowers on Danish flower dollies – extend beyond the pallets. That’s normally a headache but it’s no longer a problem with these new reefers,” adds Williams.

The deal was facilitated by Geoff Ward, Regional Manager for the North West, Wales and the West Midlands at Schmitz Cargobull UK & Ireland.

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Cathay Cargo Pioneers Autonomous Electric Tractor

Cathay Cargo Terminal has completed the first end-to-end trial of Autonomous Electric Tractor (AET) operations for direct towing from the inside of the terminal to the West Cargo Apron (WCA) at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

The trial involved a fully autonomous electric tow-tractor pulling four cargo dollies into the Cathay Cargo Terminal and driving itself to the correct cargo transfer gate for loading. After loading, the AET drove itself out of the terminal and successfully completed its journey across HKIA to the furthest cargo apron, the WCA, delivering the cargo ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay Cargo flight.

A unique feature of this initiative is the precise docking solution, enabling the AET’s towing dolly chains to automatically align with the transfer deck for seamless Unit Load Device (ULD) loading. Enhanced security features also allow the AET to be digitally checked into and out of the terminal without compromising security.

The project is a collaborative effort between Cathay Cargo Terminal, the Airport Authority Hong Kong, and UISEE, one of China’s leading autonomous driving companies. This breakthrough not only streamlines cargo movement, but also strengthens operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Cathay Cargo Terminal pioneers Autonomous Electric Tractor

Cathay Cargo Terminal Chief Operating Officer Mark Watts said: “This has been an important proof-of-concept to show that AETs are capable of more advanced workflows than we have seen so far for cargo, reducing manual processes and significantly enhancing operational efficiency. This also improves overall cargo flow at the world’s busiest cargo hub and significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with traditional ground service equipment.”

The project is a collaborative effort between Cathay Cargo Terminal, the Airport Authority Hong Kong, and UISEE. The AET drives itself out of the cargo terminal and makes its way to the apron to deliver cargo ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay Cargo flight. In addition to ongoing trials with AETs, Cathay Cargo Terminal is also piloting the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) for its non-electric cargo tractors. HVO is a renewable alternative to fossil-based diesel, with the ability to reduce the lifecycle carbon emissions approximately 80-90%, according to industry data.

Cathay’s Mark Watts added: “HVO is a very important step, but continued electrification is the ultimate vision to help us reduce carbon emissions and pursue Cathay’s digital and sustainability leadership.”

Airport Authority Hong Kong Acting Deputy Director, Airport Operations Wing Yeung said: “This new milestone reinforces HKIA’s leadership in smart logistics and sustainable aviation development, paving the way for further advancements in autonomous vehicle solutions in cargo-handling. The successful deployment of AETs in end-to-end cargo operations reflects the HKIA community’s continuous efforts in the adoption of smart airport initiatives and to reinforce the airport’s position as a global aviation hub.”

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CMA CGM Group to acquire 35% stake in Dry Port

Following French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Egypt, and in the presence of H.E. Kamel El Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport and Industry, the CMA CGM Group, a global player in maritime, land, air, and logistics solutions, officially signed a strategic partnership agreement with October Dry Port (ODP), marking a significant milestone in advancing Egypt’s logistics infrastructure and supply chain capabilities.

Through a shareholding participation of 35% and a management agreement, the CMA CGM Group will become an active operational partner in the activities and development of the logistics and rail platform  of October Dry Port. The Group will bring its expertise in managing inland terminals while providing reliable and cost-efficient services to all customers. The completion of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

The agreement was signed by Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice-President Assets and Operations of the CMA CGM Group, and Eng. Ahmed Elsewedy, President & CEO of Elsewedy Electric, during a ceremony attended by His Excellency Egypt’s Minister of Transport, Kamel El-Wazir as well as senior officials from both entities. This collaboration establishes a direct partnership between CMA CGM and ODP to enhance port operations, optimize cargo movement, and provide seamless logistics services to customers in Egypt’s expanding industrial zones.

October Dry Port, Egypt’s first dry port and the first public-private partnership (PPP) project in the Egyptian transport sector under the EBRD Green Cities program, was developed, built, and operated by Elsewedy Electric in partnership with the General Authority for Land and Dry Ports (GALDP). The project was funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and officially commenced operations in November 2023. Recognized for its commitment to sustainability, the dry port was awarded the “Best Sustainable Infrastructure Project” for its environmentally conscious design, energy-efficient operations, and alignment with Egypt’s green transformation strategy.

Strategically located in the heart of the New Industrial Area in 6th of October City, ODP is directly connected to all of Egypt’s seaports and serves as a critical logistics hub, facilitating faster cargo clearance, reducing seaport congestion, and supporting Egypt’s growing industrial and export ecosystem.

Through this partnership, CMA CGM will leverage ODP’s state-of-the-art facilities to serve its expanding customer base across Greater Cairo and Upper Egypt, providing integrated inland transport, customs clearance, and advanced logistics services. Already operating the Tahya Misr container terminal at the Port of Alexandria and the new terminal of Sokhna which will open early next year, the CMA CGM Group further strengthens its strategic positioning in Egypt, the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, especially through innovative and sustainable intermodal solutions. The CMA CGM Group will offer regular round trip rail services between the major seaports of Alexandria and Ain Sokhna to the Great Cairo area, boosting the competitivity of intermodal solution for Egyptian customers.

During the signing ceremony, H.E. Kamel El Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport affirmed that Egypt is open to cooperation with all international companies, including CMA CGM, which has a distinguished strategic partnership with the Egyptian side through its management and operation of the “Tahya Misr” multipurpose terminal at Alexandria Port. This terminal was inaugurated by H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in June 2023 and currently plays a vital role in maritime transport, global trade, and transit trade. The Minister also noted the cooperation in one of the terminals at Sokhna Port through CMA CGM’s partnership with a global alliance, inviting CMA CGM to inject further investments into Egypt, especially given the country’s promising investment climate.

Christine Cabau Woehrel stated: “The CMA CGM Group values a lot this new partnership with Elsewedy on the October Dry Port logistics platform. This is a unique opportunity to foster the development of low-emission intermodal solutions in Egypt through efficient rail connections. This new investment confirms the Group’s long-term commitment to Egyptian supply chain growth. It combines beautifully our worldwide maritime network to and from Egypt, our investment in the terminals of Alexandria and Sokhna, with the capacity to offer door to door efficient and competitive solutions to our Egyptian customers, opening a new more sophisticated vision of Egyptian supply chain development.”

Ahmed Elsewedy added: “Welcoming CMA CGM as a partner is a major step forward in positioning ODP as a national and regional logistics hub. Our shared vision for sustainability and efficiency makes this collaboration even more impactful.”

This agreement reinforces Egypt’s position as a regional logistics gateway and supports the country’s broader goals of promoting industrial growth, sustainable development, and global trade connectivity.

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Future Logisticians Gain Hands-On Experience

Meachers Global Logistics welcomed MSc students from the University of Southampton to its Nursling facility, offering them a behind-the-scenes look at real-world logistics operations. The visit, part of the Logistics Systems Operations Module, provided students with a first-hand understanding of how a leading logistics provider manages complex supply chain processes, providing a hands-on experience to future logisticians. 

Led by Professor Tom Cherrett, the visit brought together a group of 14 students studying Transportation Planning and Engineering, where they participated in an industry talk and toured Meachers’ state-of-the-art facilities to witness logistics in action. 

Gary Whittle, Operations Director at Meachers Global Logistics, kicked off the visit with an engaging talk about the company’s history, core services—including freight forwarding, UK transport and distribution, and warehousing—and the vital role of maintaining multiple supply chains. He also highlighted how logistics processes evolve to keep pace with global demands. 

Following the talk, students embarked on a guided tour of Meachers’ warehousing facilities, where they observed the intricate processes that ensure seamless supply chain operations. From advanced inventory management to distribution networks, the tour provided the future logisticians a valuable insight into the mechanics of modern logistics. 

Reflecting on the experience, Gary Whittle commented: “We were delighted to welcome the students and give them a practical glimpse into the logistics sector. Encouraging and educating the next generation of industry professionals is something we take great pride in.” 

Professor Tom Cherrett added: “This visit remains a crucial element of our curriculum. Theoretical learning in the classroom is essential, but seeing logistics in action reinforces those concepts and prepares students for real-world challenges.” 

Meachers Global Logistics remains committed to supporting industry education and looks forward to future collaborations with the University of Southampton. 

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3 Conveying Lessons Learned at LogiMAT 2025

At LogiMAT 2025, one thing became crystal clear to: logistics operations are under more pressure than ever. Rising energy costs, unexpected breakdowns, and the push for sustainability mean businesses simply can’t afford inefficiencies. Florian Kley shares with you three key Conveying related lessons taken away from this year’s event.

Conveyor systems must work smarter, last longer, and be easier to manage.

1. High energy costs are straining budgets – but there’s a smarter way

With energy prices constantly fluctuating, every kilowatt really does count.

Many of the professionals I spoke with are under immense pressure to cut costs while still ensuring their operations perform at the highest level. This is where Ammeraal Beltech’s AMMdurance rPET belts come into play.

Their dry fabric treatment reduces friction, lowers power consumption in long-term by 17% in average, and extends their lifespan. This means real energy savings without compromising performance. Compared to standard synthetic belts, our PET fabric solutions also reduce CO2 emissions by 1.2 kg and decrease greenhouse gas release by 70%. It’s a smarter, more efficient way to operate.

2. Downtime is a constant headache for business

I’ve heard this time and again: every minute of downtime is lost revenue.

When unexpected breakdowns occur, especially during peak seasons, it’s a nightmare. Many visitors shared their frustrations about belts wearing out too quickly or breaking at the worst possible moments. This is exactly why we focused on ZipLink® belts.

Designed for ultimate flexibility, ZipLink® belts allow splicing at any length with just a single pin. The unique mesh structure not only simplifies splicing without special tools but also ensures quick maintenance and minimal downtime—critical for keeping operations running smoothly during those high-pressure peak seasons.

3. Managing conveyor belts shouldn’t be a hassle

One consistent issue I heard during my discussions with logistics experts is that finding technical data, certifications, or maintenance records shouldn’t slow down operations—but it often does. That’s why I was excited to see how well Ammeraal Beltech’s AMMcare Connect resonated with so many visitors.

With a simple QR code scan, everything operators need is right at their fingertips. This makes belt management effortless, helping to minimise downtime and make operations more efficient.

Stay ahead of competition!

The logistics industry is evolving rapidly, and the challenges are undeniable. But with the right conveyor solution, combining efficiency, durability, and digitalisation is within reach.

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Freight Marketplace Capabilities Expanded

Transporeon, a Trimble company and transportation management platform with one of the largest logistics networks in Europe, has announced a significant expansion of its Freight Marketplace solution. The company is introducing new capabilities specifically designed for the forwarder-to-carrier spot freight market, marking Transporeon’s strategic entry into the traditional Freight Exchange segment.

While Transporeon’s platform has long facilitated connections within its extensive network, this expansion directly addresses the dynamics between freight forwarders seeking reliable capacity and asset-operating carriers looking for spot loads. It offers a modern, efficient alternative to established freight exchanges, leveraging Transporeon’s technological foundation and user base.

This enhanced Freight Marketplace functionality tackles common pain points in the spot market. It introduces a disruptive pricing model: free access for forwarders posting shipments, and a flat, low monthly fee of €100 for carriers, regardless of company size or user count. This typically represents an average 50% cost savings compared to other incumbent platforms.

Built with modern technology and drawing on Transporeon’s industry expertise, the expanded Freight Marketplace features an intuitive interface. Key innovations include:

• AI-Powered Verification: Automated checks of carrier identity and insurance details replace cumbersome manual processes, delivering greater speed and accuracy.
• Integrated Negotiation: Price negotiation occurs directly within the platform, enhanced by access to anonymised market rate benchmarks and trends, moving beyond inefficient offline haggling.

“This is a strategic expansion for us, leveraging the power of our platform and network,” said Jonah McIntire, Chief Platform Officer at Transporeon. “We are now extending our proven capabilities to specifically serve the forwarder-carrier spot market, a segment that deserves modernisation and lower prices. We are introducing a significantly more cost-effective, efficient, and transparent solution, incorporating AI and integrated negotiations to fundamentally improve how forwarders and carriers connect and transact spot business.”

The launch of these new capabilities follows strong market interest. Ten anchor forwarders are already actively using Freight Marketplace for their spot freight needs, migrating volume previously handled via other Freight Exchanges. Thousands of carriers have joined a waitlist and will gain live access to these new forwarder-focused features starting in April.

“As a leading freight forwarder, we are always looking for innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and transparency in the spot freight market,” said Markus Fuerlinger, chief information officer at Gartner KG. “Transporeon’s Freight Marketplace presents a compelling opportunity to streamline our operations, providing a modern, cost-effective alternative to traditional freight exchanges. With its intuitive interface, integrated negotiation tools and AI-powered carrier verification, we see great potential in this technology to improve how we connect with reliable carriers and manage our spot freight needs.”

The expansion of the Transporeon Marketplace into the forwarder-carrier segment signals a new phase for the European road freight spot market, leading to enhanced efficiency, greater transparency, and improved accessibility built on a trusted, large-scale network.

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Hubtex Acquires 100% of Genkinger

The Hubtex Group, consisting of Hubtex Maschinenbau GmbH in Fulda, DIMOS Maschinenbau GmbH in Fulda-Petersberg and stabau GmbH in Meschede, has acquired 100% of the shares in Genkinger GmbH, based in Münsingen. The aim of this acquisition is to further strengthen the individual brands internationally and to utilise cross-location synergies.

“With the integration of Genkinger into the Hubtex Group, we are taking an important step towards international expansion and can bundle our expertise in the field of industrial forklifts, special vehicles and special attachments even better,” explains Hans-Joachim Finger, Managing Director of the Hubtex Group.

A further aim of the Group is to maintain the jobs of the skilled workers at the respective locations and to expand them through the growth strategy being pursued. “We attach great importance to retaining the existing teams and creating additional jobs through our growth,” emphasises Marco Goldbach, also Managing Director of the Hubtex Group.

“The collaboration between Genkinger and Hubtex opens up new opportunities for innovative solutions and technological advancements. Our customers will benefit from an even greater variety of products and improved services,” adds Richard Ludwig, Managing Director of Genkinger GmbH.

Genkinger GmbH can look back on more than 100 years of company history and has established itself as a specialist for customised special industrial trucks. By joining the Hubtex Group, the company will further expand its innovative strength and benefit from the shared resources and global network.

With this acquisition, the Hubtex Group consolidates its position as a supplier of customised industrial forklifts, multidirectional sideloaders and special equipment for long, heavy and bulky goods. By combining the expertise of both companies, it will be possible to offer customers an even broader range of solutions and improved service.

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