January 2026

Payment Guarantee for High-Demand Routes

Posted on 22 January, 202622 January, 2026 by David Priestman

Trans.eu Group has announced the launch of ‘SafePay’, a critical payment guarantee service. SafePay is designed to offer guaranteed payment security for carriers and instant credibility for load givers within its Freight Exchange and is strategically designed to combat market volatility and trust deficits on high-demand routes that are redefining European logistics.

Risk and the Capacity Shortage

The launch directly addresses the significant volatility and persistent structural imbalances characterizing the European road freight market. A key factor amplifying this is the inherent financial risk faced by carriers: frequent non-payment or delayed payments often lead them to avoid working with unknown or foreign forwarders. This reluctance, in turn, causes a critical capacity shortage, particularly on emerging and high-growth routes.

A substantial and financially significant segment of the overall freight volume managed on the Trans.eu platform is generated by the expanding economies of Eastern European countries such as Poland, Romania, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. This high perceived risk, primarily driven by a deficit of payment history and anecdotal reports of non-payment, results in considerable missed revenue.

“The era of choosing between growth and security is over,” said Piotr Hunker, CEO at Trans.eu Group. “The economic rise of Eastern Europe has created massive opportunities and vital new routes. By ensuring payment security, SafePay allows our vast network of transport companies to focus on maximizing profit and covering these high-growth lanes with confidence, ultimately connecting Europe’s new production centres with its traditional markets more efficiently than ever before.”

The Strategic Solution: Driving International Growth and Market Credibility

SafePay directly addresses the dilemma of how to pursue growth while maintaining transaction security

• For Transport Companies: By establishing instant, verifiable trust, carriers are less reluctant to accept loads from unknown companies, taking full advantage of international opportunities within the Trans.eu platform, which connects over 125,000 users and serves 41,000 active clients across the continent with 9.5 million freight offers posted monthly.

• For Load Givers: SafePay badge acts as a ‘magnet for carriers,’ enabling load givers to secure capacity faster, as they receive greater interest and higher visibility on the platform, leading to more responses and faster carrier acquisition, particularly important for accessing the large Eastern European fleet available in Trans.eu.

Zero Upfront Risk, Guaranteed Trust

Trans.eu provides robust financial protection to carriers, guaranteeing payment for transport orders accepted with the SafePay icon.

• Payment Guarantee: If the contractor fails to pay the invoice, the carrier can request a refund. All he needs to do is submit: a VAT invoice, transport order, transport documents, and confirmation of delivery of transport documents to the payer.

• Security: The carrier submits a payment request electronically 24/7 directly on the Platform. The service is available once both parties confirm the transaction in the system, which increases the security of each operation.

• Zero risk to start with: Trans.eu operates on a pay-on-claim model, which means no registration fees, subscriptions, or any initial costs for carriers. For shippers, it is a mark of trustworthy companies. Only strictly verified companies receive SafePay, although it is also possible to apply for SafePay independently.

Spotlight on Origin Complexity in Supply Chains

Posted on 22 January, 202622 January, 2026 by David Priestman

While the political debate centres on geopolitics, the more immediate issue for businesses is how origin-based tariffs would be applied across deeply integrated European supply chains. Components and materials often cross multiple borders before final assembly, leaving many organisations uncertain where tariff exposure truly sits, particularly beyond Tier-1 suppliers.

Steffen Schulze Selting, Vice President, Value Engineering at Sphera, told us, “tariffs are being used more frequently as a tool within global trade, and supply chains are where the consequences are most immediately felt. For businesses operating across Europe and the UK, the challenge is not simply the headline tariff rate, but the complexity that sits beneath it.”

Trade policy issues

“Highly integrated supply chains mean that materials often cross multiple borders before final assembly. When tariffs are applied based on country of origin, many organisations struggle to determine where exposure truly sits, particularly beyond Tier 1 suppliers, where direct commercial relationships end, and reliable origin data becomes harder to obtain. That uncertainty makes it difficult to assess risk at pace.

“The backdrop to this is a shifting global trade map. Climate-driven changes in the Arctic are opening up new potential shipping routes via Greenland, shortening transit times between Europe and Asia. Control and access to these routes will carry long-term implications for global supply chains well beyond the immediate geopolitical debate.

“If the current tariff threat results in escalation, it would add pressure to supply networks that are already managing climate risk. Understanding where goods originate and which products or regions are most exposed is critical to assessing cost exposure and operational impact when trade conditions shift.”

EV Trends for 2026

Posted on 21 January, 202621 January, 2026 by David Priestman

Logistics Business asked Jim Donaldson, Chief Technology Officer at Hitachi ZeroCarbon, for his views on electric commercial vehicle developments in the year ahead.

“Looking ahead to 2026, breakthrough advances in AI will arrive almost daily, and the real opportunity for our industry will be applying those innovations to accelerate decarbonisation at scale.

“While fleet operators are unlikely to hand control of charging infrastructure to large language models like ChatGPT, data-driven optimisation and other forms of AI are set to become essential to achieving fully electric fleets. In real-world deployments today, automated approaches are already lifting effective power capacity by around 20% compared with standard setups – enabling faster charging and more vehicles without the need for new infrastructure.

“Technology and data are also expected to play an increasingly critical role in managing battery assets. Even as battery technology continues to improve, vehicle performance will still vary widely across fleets. Data-led insights will be key to maximising in-life and second-life value, while rapidly identifying emerging reliability issues.

“Beyond the depot, 2026 is also likely to mark a shift in how electric fleets interact with the wider energy system. As grids face growing pressure from electrification, fleet infrastructure will increasingly be designed as flexible energy assets – able to balance demand, integrate renewables and respond dynamically to network constraints. Platforms that coordinate vehicles, chargers, on-site generation and grid signals in real time will be critical, turning fleets from passive energy consumers into active participants in a more resilient, low-carbon energy ecosystem.

“Ultimately, delivering on the full promise of the EV transition will depend on operations optimised by data-led automation. The future of EV fleet management is likely to be AI-driven systems that draw on schedules, vehicles, chargers and energy networks to automate energy and charging operations – maximising reliability at the lowest possible cost.”

CEO Steps Down After Driving 160% Revenue Growth

Posted on 21 January, 202621 January, 2026 by Will Priestman

Supply chain management and omnichannel e-fulfilment company, Bleckmann, has announced that Kurt Pierloot will step down as Chief Executive Officer after 6.5 years of leadership. The transition is by mutual agreement, with Kurt continuing to support the company in a number of strategic projects in the coming weeks to ensure a smooth handover.

During his tenure, Pierloot oversaw significant growth and strengthened Bleckmann’s position in the market. Revenue increased from approximately €280 million in 2018 to around €730 million, while profitability improved substantially- even through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also led large-scale automation programs, investing in advanced technologies to drive efficiency, scalability, and sustainability, establishing Bleckmann as a forward-thinking leader in omnichannel logistics.

Pierloot also spearheaded an ambitious acquisition strategy, including a majority stake in Spain’s B2Tex group, a specialist in fashion logistics. This expanded Bleckmann’s presence in Southern Europe, enhanced service capabilities, and created new opportunities for clients and growth.

Kurt has played a pivotal role in evolving Bleckmann into a highly resilient, innovative, and client-oriented company,

said Gökalp Çak, Chairman of the Board and Co-Founder of Netlog Logistics Group, Bleckmann’s major shareholder.

His strategic foresight, commitment, and people-centered approach have created lasting value and a solid platform for future success. We are deeply grateful for his contributions and look forward to his continued support on key strategic initiatives during this transition. We wish him every success in his next chapter.

To ensure continuity, Gökalp Çak will assume the role of interim CEO, supported by the Board and Executive Committee. This arrangement ensures seamless operations, with Bleckmann’s strategic plan and growth trajectory unaffected.

Reflecting on his time at the company, Pierloot said:

I have admired Bleckmann for its people and client focus and from the day I joined, I always enjoyed most working with our over 6500 talented and passionate colleagues as well as our client base of inspiring brands.

Bleckmann remains committed to its ambition to be the premier logistics partner for fashion and lifestyle brands across Europe and beyond. With a talented team and a clear strategy, the company is poised for continued success.

Sallaum Lines Relocates HQ to Limassol

Posted on 21 January, 202621 January, 2026 by David Priestman

Sallaum Lines announces the relocation of its headquarters from Switzerland to Limassol, Cyprus. This strategic move reflects the company’s long-term growth vision and its commitment to strengthening its presence within the European maritime world. Renowned as one of the world’s top global shipping centers and the largest shipping management hub in Europe, Cyprus has emerged as an ideal environment for maritime businesses. The relocation positions Sallaum Lines closer to key European markets, regulatory frameworks, and maritime stakeholders, enhancing operational efficiency and strategic alignment.

The vision for the new headquarters is to design a modern, collaborative, and innovative-driven space that promotes growth and empowers employees. The new corporate head office will host customer-centric operations, further reinforcing an ability to deliver reliable, efficient, and sustainable RoRo shipping solutions to clients worldwide.

Similarly, the corporate headquarters transition comes at a significant phase of growth as well as expansion for Sallaum Lines, underscored by major capital commitments and fleet modernization initiatives, including six new PCTC dual fuel vessels in order and a 20-million-euro investment at its terminal in Antwerp, Belgium.

The move to Limassol represents an exciting new chapter for Sallaum Lines… Relocating our headquarters to Cyprus will strengthen our capabilities, aligning perfectly with our vision guided by our strategic pillars that serve the best interest of the environment, society, innovation, our employees, and economic growth and expand our reach in the roro shipping industry. We look forward to capitalizing on the opportunities Cyprus offers and welcoming our employees, shareholders, and business partners to our new home.

shares Sami Sallaum, Chairman.

Sallaum Lines is a global RORO carrier specializing in the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation of automobiles, trucks, and project cargo. With a rapidly growing fleet and a presence across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the United States of America, the company is committed to sustainable innovation, operational excellence, and long-term global partnerships.

Supply Chains in Permanent State of Disruption

Posted on 20 January, 202620 January, 2026 by David Priestman

Global supply chains have entered an era of structural volatility, according to a World Economic Forum report released today, forcing companies and governments to reevaluate how and where they invest and produce. The report finds that nearly three in four business leaders now prioritize resilience investments, with 74% viewing resilience as a driver of growth.

Set against a backdrop of geopolitical fragmentation, the chaos and mafioso behaviour of the Trump administration, accelerating technological change and mounting resource constraints, the new report – Global Value Chains Outlook 2026: Orchestrating Corporate and National Agility – developed in collaboration with Kearney, examines how companies and governments can remain competitive as disruption becomes a permanent feature rather than a cyclical shock.

“Volatility is no longer a temporary disruption; it is a structural condition leaders must plan for,” said Kiva Allgood, Managing Director, World Economic Forum. “Competitive advantage now comes from foresight, optionality and ecosystem coordination. Companies and countries that build these capabilities together will be best positioned to attract investment, secure supply and sustain growth in an increasingly fragmented global economy.”

The scale of the shift is already evident. In 2025 alone, tariff escalations between major economies reshuffled more than $400 billion in global trade flows, while disruptions across major shipping routes pushed container shipping costs up 40% year on year, signalling a decisive move away from short-term shocks towards enduring uncertainty. At the same time, manufacturing output across advanced economies is growing at its weakest pace since 2009, while more than 3,000 new trade and industrial policy measures were introduced globally in 2025 alone – more than three times the annual level recorded a decade ago. Together, these forces underscore why supply chain resilience has become a central determinant of national competitiveness and corporate strategy.

A central feature of the report is the launch of a new digital tool that translates these insights into actionable intelligence. Drawing on leading global indices, the ‘Navigator’ supports strategic decision-making on industrial policy and manufacturing footprint design. Governments can use it to diagnose competitiveness gaps and prioritize reforms, while companies can assess infrastructure readiness and ecosystem maturity when making location and investment decisions.

The report also highlights how targeted national approaches are already shaping manufacturing competitiveness. In Ireland, enterprise-led upskilling through Skillnet Ireland links government, business and educators to deliver subsidized training aligned with industry needs. In China, large-scale investment in digital infrastructure under the New Infrastructure initiative has enabled real-time industrial connectivity through widespread 5G deployment. In Qatar, a national dashboard tracking essential food items in real time strengthens supply security by enabling early intervention, buffer stocks and rapid, data-driven responses to disruption.

“Supply chain disruption in 2026 will be constant and structural. Geopolitical fragmentation, shifting trade rules and labour shortages are all redefining how value is created and moved,” said Per Kristian Hong, Partner, Kearney. “For supply leaders, the priority is no longer forecasting disruption, but redesigning operating models to function under permanent uncertainty. That means moving away from efficiency-driven supply chains and towards adaptive networks that can be reconfigured with optionality as conditions change.”

5m TEUs at London Gateway and Southampton

Posted on 20 January, 202620 January, 2026 by David Priestman

DP World has set a new handling record at London Gateway, surpassing three million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) in 2025, thanks to the newly operational fourth berth and the addition of vessel calls by the Gemini Cooperation’s Asia-Europe routes.

The three million milestone means London Gateway’s port saw growth of more than 52%, having achieved 1.9 million TEU in 2024, as it aims to become Britain’s most important container port.

DP World also saw growth at its Southampton terminal, which topped two million TEU, taking the company’s UK container total to more than five million in a national market totalling more than nine million TEU.

Construction is underway at London Gateway on two further all-electric berths in a £1bn investment that will take the total to six berths able to handle the world’s largest container ships. A second newly constructed rail terminal at the site started operations in 2025, while the site will also see the construction of a new BOXBAY container handling system in a £170m investment over the next two years.

Stephen Whittingham, Executive Vice President – North Europe, DP World, said: “Every container that moves through our terminals at London Gateway and Southampton is moving goods that underpin British business and daily life, from food on our shelves to products keeping manufacturers and high streets running. Our UK infrastructure plays a critical role in keeping these supply chains running quickly and efficiently, especially during the busiest times of the year.

Surpassing five million TEUs at our UK terminals demonstrates how investment in capacity, technology and resilience is allowing DP World to move goods more reliably, sustainably and efficiently from ship to shop, continuing to raise the standard for end to end logistics.

In further investment in its UK operations, DP World Southampton is scheduled to receive the first of its new quay cranes later this year, which will form the tallest quay crane fleet in Europe, as part of a £60m investment to future-proof operations at the Solent terminal.

Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, DP World operates across more than 75 countries, enabling over 9% of global containerised trade.

Scalable Overhead Automation

Posted on 19 January, 202612 February, 2026 by David Priestman

Following last year’s premiere CeiliX return to LogiMAT 2026, showcasing the next stage in the company’s development of overhead automation products. The focus is on the transition from a single ‘SkyBot’ to a fleet. For the first time, two SkyBots will be seen operating simultaneously in a coordinated setup at LogiMAT, demonstrating how automation can be scaled from individual workstations to larger production and warehouse areas.

At the booth, live demonstrations of the SkyRunner and the SkyBots will be shown in two configurations: one with a robotic arm and one with a scissor gripper. Two SkyBots operate in coordination, making the interaction of multiple overhead systems visible.

Platform Logic for Different Tasks

CeiliX follows a clear platform logic. The SkyRunner is the overhead vehicle and forms the basis for a low-threshold entry into automation. Depending on the application, the appropriate tool is mounted to it. For additional applications, the SkyRunner can also be equipped with other tools, such as a hoist. The key point is that the base remains the same, while the function is defined by the automation task at hand. This allows automation to be expanded step by step, from individual tasks to covering multiple stations within an operation.

Overhead Automation

What CeiliX announced as the next development step at LogiMAT 2025 can now be experienced live in operation this year. The multi-patented CeiliX technology enables the parallel operation of multiple systems overhead. The foundation is a modular, ceiling-mounted rail system on which the overhead vehicles (SkyRunner) move, forming the basis for scalable automation.

The rail system can be installed quickly, adapted flexibly to any space using a modular approach and easily expanded as requirements grow. This flexibility is exactly what enables many companies to take their first steps into automation. This also applies to production environments with columns, machines and organically grown layouts, where floor-based solutions often reach their limits.

Pragmatic Entry into Automation

CeiliX demonstrates how challenges that shape everyday work in logistics and production can be addressed through overhead automation. These include, above all, relieving employees when loads become too heavy, structural pressure from skilled labour shortages and unnecessarily complex manual process steps. The focus is no longer on a single application, but on an approach that can be expanded modularly. For users, this means processes can be automated without tying up additional floor space or rebuilding existing layouts.

Mathias Entenmann, CEO and co-founder of CeiliX, says:

Since we celebrated our world premiere here at LogiMAT a year ago, we keep hearing the same thing from our customers: getting started with automation using our technology really is that simple. They are particularly convinced by the flexible modular system that can grow along with their needs.

Warehouse Automation Customer Solutions

Posted on 19 January, 202619 January, 2026 by David Priestman

Intralogistics managers looking for efficient, future-proof solutions for in-house material flow at LogiMAT 2026 may be able to find precisely what they need at the Linde Material Handling (MH) exhibition stand. There, they will discover comprehensive automation solutions, AI applications, digital systems, unique forklifts, and a new series of reach trucks. This year’s trade fair motto, ‘Composed around you’, underscores the Linde brand’s commitment to providing the best solution for every individual customer requirement as a holistic solutions provider.

When the doors to the Stuttgart Exhibition Centre open on March 24, everything will be up and ready for visitors at Linde MH’s 600-square-metre exhibition booth (stand numbers B21, B17, and C38). A live demonstration at the centrally located stand in Hall 10 will showcase the company’s expertise and know-how in advancing toward automated warehouse processes. Vehicle exhibits offer the opportunity for hands-on interaction, while the latest digital solutions will be demonstrated on screens. Outside the hall, in the nearby loading yard between Halls 8 and 10, visitors can enjoy individual demonstrations or test-drive forklifts themselves to experience their exceptional ergonomic characteristics and user-friendliness. Another exhibition area offering consulting services is situated on the exhibition premises between Halls 9 and 10.

“Linde MH’s offering aims to make our customers’ in-house material flows more competitive. To this end, we ensure our range spans everything from cost-optimized offers to high-performance solutions based on innovative technologies,” states Dr. Monika Laurent-Junge, Senior Director of Marketing and Brand Communications at Linde MH.

In addition to its standardized automation portfolio, Linde MH will be showcasing tailor-made solutions for specific industry requirements at its trade fair stand, such as those for the beverage industry with complex and heavy load carriers. These are part of the customized Linde I-MATIC portfolio line, which can be used to implement solutions for a wide variety of load carriers, even those weighing over 3 tons.

“Linde MH is among the select few industry providers that have attained mastery in the integration of standardized and customized automation solutions, along with stationary applications, such as the Linde S-MATIC cube shuttle solution,” says Torsten Rochelmeyer, Senior Director Strategy and Solution Portfolio at Linde MH. “Orchestrated by the Linde Warehouse Manager, a wide range of industry needs and process requirements can be met with a holistic automation approach.”

New forklifts and warehouse trucks on display

Even though the automation solutions sector is growing rapidly, manually operated industrial trucks still dominate in many companies. That is why Linde MH will present numerous innovations in this segment as well. In the area of warehouse technology, the spotlight is on the new Linde Ri14, Ri16 and Ri18 reach trucks, which have load capacities ranging from 1.4 to 1.8 tons. Available in standard or narrow chassis versions, they are ideal for low- to medium-intensity replenishment tasks. These models feature an integrated lithium-ion battery and are compact and maneuverable, facilitating navigation in narrow aisles.

Their ergonomic workplace design and numerous safety assistance functions protect and support operators while driving and storing and retrieving loads, forming the basis for trouble-free processes and high productivity. “With the introduction of these new models, Linde MH now offers an additional series for standard applications in its portfolio – one that is cost-effective without compromising quality, safety or user-friendliness,” emphasizes Rochelmeyer.

The new electric counterbalanced forklift series, which has a load capacity of up to 2 tons, successfully took its first steps last year on the road to becoming the benchmark in its segment. The Roadster model, which offers improved visibility, is a new addition to the lineup. Eliminating the A-pillar provides a wider field of vision, enhancing operational safety and enabling higher productivity. At the same time, the vehicle design meets the highest driver safety standards.

Finally, the future of intralogistics is taking shape with the help of physical AI and digital twins based on NVIDIA Omniverse, which are driving further optimization of logistics processes. The creation of 3D warehouse environment maps using portable scanners is already an established method for facilitating and accelerating automation project planning. Further development steps focus on the simulation and real-time control of fleets.

Podcast: Logistics from Student Ventures to Global Impact

Posted on 19 January, 202619 January, 2026 by Will Priestman

In the latest episode of Logistics Business Conversations, host Peter MacLeod explores the dynamic world of logistics innovation and transformation. This episode highlights the strategic challenges of scaling a logistics business and the impactful work of TransAid in improving transportation and healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa.

Listeners will gain insights into how community-focused initiatives and strategic partnerships are driving industry change and enhancing global impact. The conversation also addresses the growing importance of sustainability in logistics, emphasizing innovative strategies that are shaping the future of the industry.

Key Takeaways:

Logistics can start from humble beginnings and evolve into major industry innovations. Strategic planning and partnerships are essential for scaling a logistics business. TransAid’s work in Africa is transforming healthcare logistics. Sustainability is becoming a crucial consideration in logistics.

Throughout the episode, Mike Daly shares his experiences with companies like DTS Logistics and Clipper Logistics, highlighting the strategic growth and partnerships that have defined his career. The episode also touches on collaborations with major retailers such as John Lewis, Debenhams, and ASOS, illustrating the breadth of his impact in the logistics industry.

Join us as we delve into these topics and more, uncovering the insights and innovations that are revolutionizing the logistics industry. This engaging conversation highlights the power of vision and execution in driving global logistics success.

Subscribe now to stay updated with the latest episodes and insights from industry leaders, and be part of the conversation that is shaping the future of logistics.

Month: January 2026