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Day: 9 May 2025

Rewriting Rules of Delivery at Last Mile Leaders

Posted on by David Priestman

Last Mile Leaders Europe, hosted by FarEye, returns to centre stage on May 14th in Amsterdam, uniting more than 80 influential voices from across the continent’s logistics, retail, and supply chain sectors. This high-impact gathering is more than just an event — it’s a bold industry moment where technology, innovation, and collaboration converge to reshape the final leg of delivery. Logistics Business Editor Peter MacLeod will be attending and appearing as a panellist.

Signaling the industry’s global momentum, the Amsterdam edition will convene CIOs, Chief Supply Chain Officers, Heads of Sustainability, Logistics and Last-Mile Leaders, D2C Business Leaders, Heads of Customer Experience, Fleet & Fulfillment Managers, and Digital Transformation Executives from some of the world’s top logistics and retail brands — reflecting a shared urgency to transform last-mile delivery for a faster, greener, and more resilient future. Their presence underscores the increasing cross-functional commitment to building smarter, more agile, and sustainable last-mile ecosystems.

Kushal Nahata, Co-founder and CEO of FarEye, and the man behind the Last Mile Leaders (LML) platform, said: “Europe’s last-mile priorities are shifting fast — cost, speed, and sustainability are no longer trade-offs but simultaneous imperatives. From smarter routing and AI-driven automation to greener fleets and reverse logistics, innovation is rewriting the rules. The last mile isn’t just a delivery — it’s the moment where customer promise meets operational excellence.” He continued: “Amsterdam will be where ambition meets action — where startups, enterprises, and experts come together to shape a faster, cleaner, and more intelligent future for delivery.”

Setting the tone for industry transformation, the launch of Eye on the Last Mile 4.0 will offer an essential roadmap for what’s next — delivering strategic insights from senior logistics leaders across Europe and beyond. This year’s edition uncovers the key forces reshaping last-mile delivery, from cost and infrastructure challenges in urban environments to the accelerating role of AI and automation in defining operational models for 2025. It also highlights the growing business case for sustainable and circular logistics networks. The report is expected to serve as both a mirror and a map for decision-makers navigating an increasingly complex, competitive, and customer-driven landscape.

Europe’s own last-mile startup ecosystem is surging forward with intensity. As of 2024, the region is home to more than 200 last-mile delivery startups, addressing challenges like congestion, emissions, and last-yard complexity through breakthrough innovations in autonomous vehicles, robotics, AI-based routing, and sustainable urban logistics. In just the first half of 2024, these startups attracted a record $4.5 billion across 312 deals, cementing Europe’s position as a global hub for logistics innovation and investment.

Key Highlights

Startup Landscape & Investment Momentum: With over 200 startups addressing last-mile challenges — from congestion to emissions — Europe’s logistics innovation ecosystem secured a record €4.5B across 312 deals in H1 2024, reflecting strong investor confidence.
Last-Mile Nexus: Championing the future of delivery in Europe, the Nexus promotes breakthrough solutions in electric vehicles, drone logistics, and AI-powered operations—offering selected startups a live platform to unlock enterprise access, visibility, and funding opportunities.
Industry Participation: Global leaders from DHL, Dyson, DPD IKEA, Beko, JB HI FI, Electrolux, Heineken, Philips, Postnord, Slovenia Post, Wayfair and many more will join to shape the future of smarter, greener delivery.
Eye on the Last Mile 4.0: The Last Mile Industry Report unveils key 2025 trends shaping Europe’s logistics landscape — spotlighting investment priorities, evolving customer expectations, and technology innovations across ultra-fast delivery, urban logistics, and AI-powered operations.

Last Mile Leaders
Fireside Chat

 

Tapping directly into this momentum, the event will host the Last-Mile Nexus — a pitch platform spotlighting some of Europe’s most disruptive early- and growth-stage startups. After a highly competitive selection process, three standout ventures have been shortlisted to present their innovations live before a distinguished jury of industry leaders:

ClearQuote – an AI-powered platform helping last-mile fleets automate damage detection, speed up inspections, and boost operational efficiency.
Jedsy – a pioneering drone logistics company redefining last-mile delivery in healthcare with emission-free drones that land directly at windows for unmatched accessibility.
Datakrew Private Limited – a deep tech company using IoT and edge AI to enable safer, smarter, and more sustainable electric mobility through predictive EV analytics.

Commenting on the role of startups in driving this evolution, Bernhard Bukovc, Founder at connect2posts and a jury member for the Nexus, shared: “Startups are the driving force behind the future of supply chain and logistics. Supporting their founders accelerates innovation, introducing much-needed agility and advanced technology into a highly competitive market. Europe’s logistics startup ecosystem is entering a period of significant growth, fueled by sustainability objectives, automation, and the increasing need for resilient, AI-enabled, and circular supply chains. Platforms like Last Mile Nexus, which spotlight these ventures, play a critical role in fostering collaboration and advancing the industry. I look forward to joining the jury at the upcoming Nexus Europe chapter in Amsterdam.”

This event marks a pivotal moment in redefining the future of last-mile delivery in Europe. What began as a focused initiative to spotlight the challenges and opportunities of the final leg of logistics, LML has grown into a cross-continental movement — uniting executives, entrepreneurs, technologists, and investors across Asia, Africa and now Europe. With every edition, the platform advances its mission: to unlock profitable, sustainable, and customer-centric last-mile ecosystems through bold ideas, deep collaboration, and visionary leadership.

Last Mile Leaders is a global platform powered by FarEye, dedicated to reimagining the future of delivery. It brings together supply chain leaders, retail innovators, logistics experts, and emerging startups to solve the most pressing challenges in last-mile logistics. With editions across Asia, Africa, and now Europe, LML blends research, real-world solutions, and executive insights to drive conversations that matter. From high-impact panels and roundtables to live startup showcases and industry reports, LML is where the next era of logistics is being shaped — collaboratively, boldly, and sustainably. Where research, solutions, and last mile leaders drive the next era of logistics.

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Four Myths About AI in Transport and Logistics

Posted on by David Priestman

AI’s transformative influence on the transport and logistics industry is significant, but there are still many misconceptions that need addressing, writes Bernhard Schmaldienst (pictured), Senior Director Transport Execution and Visibility Products, Transporeon (a Trimble company).

This is common for new technology. Change can be challenging, and while it is an incredible tool that has helped businesses streamline operations, cut costs, and improve efficiency, it will take time before all AI myths are debunked.

Time is running so let us get to work so we can speed the process up. Myths and misinformation about AI lead to resistance, slowing the adoption process down, meaning the supply chain industry will lag behind and miss out on the real benefits AI has to offer. So, let’s tackle four common myths and set the record straight with real-world insights and evidence.

Myth 1: AI-powered transportation is expensive and doesn’t deliver measurable savings

The reality: Like any tool, AI-powered transportation solutions have a cost to start with, but they deliver rapid returns, often within weeks. By leaning on automation and data-driven decision-making, AI cuts costs and makes the whole operation significantly more efficient. The proof: Companies using AI-driven freight procurement solutions have achieved measurable savings. AI-driven autonomous procurement tools integrate seamlessly with existing transport management systems, and for a leading FMCG customer, they have been proven to reduce freight costs by more than 10% while simultaneously cutting down on manual workloads by 80%. One global food and beverages company reported securing lower spot rates while reallocating team resources to higher-value tasks.

Myth 2: AI-powered transportation requires big internal changes

The reality: Quite the contrary. Over the past five years, the logistics and supply chain industry has seen a lot of changes, and AI has been a big part of that. Earlier-stage AI-powered solutions required time to adapt, though now they are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems for easy adoption. The proof: Many businesses have implemented AI solutions without overhauling their existing processes. Autonomous procurement solutions, for example, can connect via APIs, facilitating quick adoption with minimal disruption. The ‘big internal change’ in this instance would then be that the team spends less time on simple activities like accepting offers and more time on value-adding, strategic tasks. In other words, there is a degree of internal change – but it’s beneficial, not disruptive.

Myth 3: AI-powered transportation adds little value and can’t actively perform critical tasks

The reality: AI isn’t purely about automation anymore. It now actively improves decision-making, helping people optimize procurement, pricing, and carrier selection, resulting in better and faster decisions. The proof: AI earned its place as an established tool in logistics. For instance, AI-driven procurement solutions identify the best transportation capacity at the most competitive rates, lowering cost and increasing efficiency. A logistics company using AI-powered tools saw a 7–12% reduction in freight expenses while increasing automation, letting their teams focus on important negotiations instead of day-to-day transactions.

Myth 4: AI-powered transportation damages relationships with carrier partners

The reality: It’s the other way around. AI actually strengthens relationships with carriers by ensuring transparency, in-market pricing, and efficiency. It doesn’t replace human interactions – it strengthens them. The proof: Many AI-powered procurement platforms provide carriers with instant visibility into available shipments and instant pricing. With features like ‘buy-it-now’ options, carriers can accept shipments with confidence. One logistics leader noted that AI freed time up for the team to build stronger partnerships instead of being bogged down by manual negotiations and coordination activities.

Conclusion? AI is a strategic asset, not a liability

Companies in the transportation and logistics industry are under constant pressure to cut costs, improve efficiency, and adapt to shifting market dynamics. AI-powered solutions are not just another tech trend, they’re a tried and tested approach. Companies that embrace AI are already seeing considerable cost savings, streamlined operations, and strengthened relationships with carriers and partners. Rather than fearing AI, businesses should see it as a tool that complements human expertise, automates routine tasks, and empowers teams to focus on strategic growth.
The key takeaway? AI in transportation is all about helping people to work smarter, and achieve better results more efficiently.

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Celebrating Decade of Engineering Traineeship

Posted on by David Priestman

This week saw a landmark celebration at Combilift’s global headquarters in Monaghan, marking the 10th anniversary of the highly successful OEM Engineering Traineeship — a collaborative initiative between Combilift and the Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB). The event, which welcomed past graduates, current trainees and local educators, underscored the programme’s evolution from a local skills initiative to a cornerstone of regional industrial development.

Launched in 2015, the OEM Engineering Traineeship was born from a shared vision to tackle the skills gap in engineering and manufacturing with an industry-led approach. Today, with over 150 trainees having passed through its doors to achieve a QQI level 5 qualification, and with job placement rates above 80%, the programme stands as a model for how industry and education can collaborate to mutual benefit.

Combilift, a global supplier of materials handling solutions, has been central to this success. As the primary industry partner, Combilift has not only provided cutting-edge workplace experience but also ensured the course content remains aligned with real-world demands. “We wanted to create more than just a training programme — we wanted to build a pathway into meaningful careers,” said Combilift Managing Director, Martin McVicar. “This traineeship has delivered exactly that, time and time again.”

The nine-month programme blends 26 weeks of classroom-based learning at Monaghan Institute with 12 weeks of hands-on work experience in Combilift. Over the years, the course content has evolved to reflect changes in the manufacturing landscape, now including modules in Hydraulics, Lean Manufacturing, and, more recently, Mathematics to prepare students for greater work or educational opportunities.

CMETB has played a vital role in coordinating and delivering the educational aspect of the programme. Their ongoing commitment to adapting the curriculum, securing government funding, and expanding the scheme to include other regional employers from 2025 reflects their strategic approach to workforce development. “It’s about staying ahead of the curve,” said Sinead McKenna of CMETB. “We’ve created a flexible, forward-looking course that equips learners with in-demand skills and supports local industry at the same time.”

One of the most compelling aspects of the programme is its accessibility. Fully funded through government and EU support, it removes financial barriers for participants and trainees are offered a weekly bursary during practical placements within Combilift. Trainees also benefit from additional qualifications, including City & Guilds module in Hydraulics and a Lean Six Sigma White Belt.

The 10-year milestone was marked not only by reflection but by ambition for the future. Attendees at the celebration event heard first-hand from past graduates who have gone on to build thriving careers — many still with Combilift, some even progressing to degree-level study or engineering apprenticeships. Watch a clip here.

With enrolment now open for the September 2025 intake, both Combilift and CMETB are doubling down on their commitment to the next generation. As McVicar put it, “The demand for talent in this sector is only growing, and we’re proud to continue building that talent right here in Monaghan.”

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EU Changes Road Transport Rules

Posted on by David Priestman

In April 2025, the European Commission announced new laws to update how road transport works across the EU. These changes are designed to make road transport safer, more modern, and more efficient. They affect drivers, logistics companies, and vehicle owners all over Europe, says Tomasz Mazurkiewicz of Truck1 International.

The new laws will focus on using digital tools, improving road safety, and helping freight move faster across borders. The plan is part of the EU’s larger goal to reduce emissions and support greener transport systems in the future.

What Will Change for Drivers and Companies

The law introduces several important changes:
● Smart tachographs will be required in all new trucks. These devices track driver hours, routes, and rest time using GPS
● New rules for driver working time will help make rest periods clearer and easier to follow across the EU
● Electronic freight documents (e-CMR) will become standard, replacing paper documents and speeding up customs checks

All these changes are meant to save time, reduce paperwork, and create fair conditions for companies working in different countries. But they also mean that some older trucks and systems will need to be updated or replaced.

New Emission Rules Will Push Companies to Upgrade Fleets

The new EU rules will also tighten emissions limits. Trucks will need to be cleaner and more fuel-efficient. This will help reduce pollution and bring the transport sector closer to climate goals.
As a result, many logistics companies will need to replace older vehicles with newer ones that meet these standards. That creates extra demand for trucks that are up-to-date, safe, and legal under the new rules.

During this period of change, companies need a fast and easy way to find the right trucks and equipment. Truck1 is one of the best tools for that. It is one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for commercial vehicles, construction machines, and farm equipment. Truck1 currently offers over 400,000 listings from more than 1800 trusted sellers. Buyers can search by brand, model, engine type, year, and location. It’s easy to contact the seller directly by phone or send a free inquiry — no sign-up needed.

Who Else Will Be Affected by the New Rules?

The changes won’t just affect truck drivers and logistics firms. Dealers, leasing companies, and even national governments will have to adjust. Dealers, for example, may see more demand for newer trucks that meet the latest rules — especially those with smart technology or low-emission engines. One big challenge in the coming years will be finding vehicles that meet both the legal and practical needs of each business. Truck1 helps solve this problem. The site offers fast filtering, real photos, technical details, and a large network of sellers from all over Europe. It’s especially useful for companies that work across borders or need to upgrade fleets to stay competitive.

The Future of Road Transport in Europe

The EU’s new road transport laws are a major step toward a cleaner, smarter, and more efficient industry. While these changes require companies to invest time and money, they also create chances to grow, improve safety, and work more smoothly across borders. Companies that prepare early will have an advantage.

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Consafe Logistics Acquires Solid WMS

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Consafe Logistics, a software product company delivering innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS), Warehouse Execution System (WES), and Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), has announced the strategic acquisition of Solid WMS, a Dutch SaaS-based Warehouse Management System (WMS) provider located in Breda, Netherlands.

This acquisition supports Consafe Logistics’ ambition to serve a broader range of warehouses and distribution centres including smaller, fast-moving warehouse operations. These customers need simplicity, speed, and value — without the advanced functionality and extensive capabilities that Astro WMS® offers for more complex operations.

Founded by three logistics and technology experts, Solid WMS has rapidly emerged as an innovative startup specializing in modern, native SaaS-based warehouse management solutions. Solid WMS is a great fit for manual warehouses with 5 to 30 operators in third-party logistics (3PL), retail, and e-commerce.

Kent Olsson, CEO Consafe Logistics Group, said, “We are very pleased to welcome Solid WMS into the Consafe Logistics family. Their product is tailormade for efficiency in less complex warehouses and perfectly complement our flagship Astro WMS®. Together, they allow us to serve a broader range of customers with different operational needs. This isn’t just a product fit — it’s a mindset fit. The Solid WMS team shares our focus on delivering customer value, and that’s why this partnership makes so much sense.”

Astro WMS® will continue to be Consafe Logistics’ premium solution, tailored specifically for mid-sized to large enterprises that require sophisticated functionality, scalability, and advanced automation integrations. Solid WMS broadens Consafe Logistics’ capabilities by offering a streamlined, SaaS-native alternative for customers with simpler needs — ensuring a right-fit solution, every time.

Remco Somers, Functional Lead for Solid WMS, commented, “Joining Consafe Logistics is an exciting step forward for us. We look forward to combining our innovation-driven technology with Consafe Logistics’ extensive market experience to reach new customers and help them achieve greater operational efficiency. We’ll be able to scale faster and bring the benefits of our technology to even more companies.”

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