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DHL Opens Dublin Facility Supporting Tech and Healthcare Growth

Posted on by David Priestman

  • The new facility harnesses renewable energy and sustainable solutions, achieving BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and LEED ‘Gold’ classification

DHL Supply Chain today announces the opening of a new multi-user facility in Dublin, as part of the €637 million investment into the UK & Ireland region. The site is optimised for customers in the technology, life sciences and healthcare sectors, and delivers a range of specialist services.

These sectors are growing at pace, with a strong presence in Ireland which is host to 9 of the top 10 global software companies and 20 of the top 25 pharmaceutical companies in the world. The new Dublin-based site leverages DHL’s specialist services to directly address the unique needs of businesses in these industries.

From expert compliance support to customs clearance tools to full supply chain visibility, DHL delivers the right programmes and solutions to enable seamless operations and informed decision-making at all stages. For example, life sciences and healthcare customers at the new site benefit from the guarantee of zero time out of refrigeration for relevant products, with unloading docks sealed to vehicles. This enables temperature to be fully maintained at all times, an innovative feature which sets an industry standard.

Designed with sustainability at the fore, the building is certified as BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and LEED ‘Gold’, featuring several sustainable solutions including solar panels. The fleet operating out of the Dublin facility also harnesses renewable energy with a mix of electric vehicles and biomethane trucks helping to minimise carbon emissions on the road. DHL is also delivering innovative circular solutions, enabling DHL and its customers to extend the value and lifespan of products, reducing environmental impact by returning, recovering and reusing materials wherever possible.

With over 265,000 square feet of operating space, including 60,000 square feet of mezzanine flooring and 33,000 pallet spaces, the facility is located at the Quantum Distribution Park in Kilshane. The site and its customers benefit from strong transport links, situated close to Dublin Airport, Dublin Inland Port and Dublin Port.

Patrick Corbett, Managing Director Ireland, DHL Supply Chain says, “As the technology, life sciences and healthcare sectors continue to scale rapidly in Ireland, we are delighted to be opening a cutting-edge facility that caters to their needs with our specialist services. These are sectors which need flexible and resilient operations and our innovative supply chain solutions help them to maximise growth opportunities while minimising risk. The new site has been designed with longevity in mind, building in sustainable solutions across warehousing and transport.”

Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment said: “DHL’s latest investment in Ireland marks a bold step towards the future of sustainable and high-tech logistics. By embracing innovation and sustainability, DHL is not just expanding its footprint but setting new standards for the industry. DHL’s investment in their cutting-edge Quantum facility will support our drive to build on our nation’s international competitiveness.”

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said: ‘’DHL’s announcement further cements Ireland’s position as a leading location for global firms in the supply chain industry. This new facility demonstrates DHL’s further commitment to embedding themselves in our vibrant business community.’’

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Tackling Europe’s driver shortage

Posted on by David Priestman

Europe is facing a severe truck driver shortage – around 230,000 driver roles remain unfilled, and this gap could grow to as many as 745,000 vacancies in the coming years. This challenge, driven by an aging workforce and low numbers of recruits, threatens the smooth operation of supply chains across the continent. Many large transport companies, like Girteka, have turned to recruiting drivers from outside the EU. However, taking into consideration the needs and requirements of skilled drivers, driving tests are becoming increasingly important.

Driving tests: a key to securing skilled drivers

Comprehensive driving tests assessments are one effective way to ensure that only well-qualified drivers join the workforce. By putting drivers behind the wheel under controlled conditions in their own country, companies can verify that candidates meet the required standards in safety and driving skills.

Driving tests evaluations serve several essential functions. They allow companies to assess how drivers handle real-world conditions, confirm that drivers follow safe practices and check that drivers are comfortable with the digital systems integrated into modern trucks.

Today’s requirements for truck drivers in Europe

Today’s professional truck drivers in the EU must meet specific requirements, including:

· License requirements: Drivers need a C, C1, CE, or C1E license. For example, a C1 license is for lighter trucks (up to 7,500 kg), while a C license is for heavier trucks.

· Code 95: After initial qualification, drivers earn Code 95, which must be renewed every five years through refresher training.

· Mandatory training: EU Directive 2003/59/EC requires a standard level of training, including practical assessments and driving tests, to improve road safety.

· Regulatory compliance: Drivers must follow strict rules regarding driving hours, rest periods, specified in Mobility Package.

Similar systems exist outside Europe. In the United States, drivers must pass a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) test that covers pre-trip inspections, vehicle control, and on-road evaluations. While the U.S. system focuses on a one-time licensing test, Europe emphasizes continuous training and periodic driving tests assessments.

Industry leaders in driver training and driving tests

Several companies have set the standard by incorporating comprehensive driving tests assessments into their recruitment and training processes.

Girteka’s Driving Academy

Girteka, a market leader in road transport, has established its own Drivers’ Academy with centers in Lithuania and Poland and recruitment branches outside the EU. New drivers – especially those outside the EU – must complete a series of driving tests and practical assessments before coming to Europe. Arystan, a recent recruit from Kazakhstan, explained that “The driving test at Girteka’s academy was eye-opening. It gave me a clear idea of European road conditions and helped build the confidence I needed before starting my career here.” Another professional driver, Kadyr from Kyrgyzstan, noted that the thorough approach prepared him well for working in Europe by showing exactly what was expected in terms of safety and skills.

XPO Logistics’ Driver Excellence Academy

XPO Logistics has launched a Driver Excellence Academy across multiple sites in the UK. Their program features a staged training plan, supported by qualified instructors, and includes a four-week buddying process after the candidate passes their test. This structured approach not only improves driving skills but also helps address the driver shortage by building a pipeline of well-trained, confident drivers.

DHL Supply Chain’s Driving Ambition Program

DHL Supply Chain offers a “Driving Ambition” program to attract new talent. The program provides comprehensive training for candidates to obtain LGV licenses covering rigid and articulated trucks. With training centers across the UK, DHL focuses on creating long-term careers in the industry.

Why driving tests matter

Driving tests assessments are not just about verifying a candidate’s driving skills – they are a critical tool for ensuring a steady flow of professional drivers and stabilizing Europe’s supply chains. With conditions closer to real ones, these tests help companies identify any potential issues early, from handling adverse weather to mastering digital tools like tachographs and telematics. As Oksana Karpovičienė, Head of HR Expansion Department at Girteka, explains, “Driving tests assessments are crucial in securing quality drivers who meet European standards. This rigorous approach not only boosts driver confidence and competence but also reduces risks on the road, leading to improved safety and fuel efficiency.”

Ultimately, by integrating comprehensive driving tests evaluations into the recruitment and training process, companies can ensure minimum level of skills and further develop a comprehensive upskilling programs to meet demanding quality needs of logistics services in Europe.

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US Trade Tariffs Set to Wreak Havoc on Global Supply Chains

Posted on by David Priestman

The global trade landscape is bracing for further turbulence as US President Donald Trump signals that the European Union (EU) could be the next target for tariffs. Following the imposition of 25% levies on goods from Mexico and Canada, along with an additional 10% tax on imports from China, European businesses now face the possibility of similar trade barriers.

Last night (10th February 2025), President Trump confirmed higher tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports – a measure that UK producers say will prove a “devastating blow”.

Rob Shaw, GM EMEA at Fluent Commerce, warns that the market is already in an unstable, ever-changing state, and escalating tariffs could send supply chains into further disarray.

“If the US does proceed with imposing tariffs, other countries will retaliate, as we’ve already seen with China. In this scenario, tariffs may be imposed in the opposite direction, raising costs within the supply chain,” Shaw explains.

“Ultimately, it’s consumers who will bear the brunt of these changes. To protect their profit margins, businesses will inevitably pass on higher costs, placing additional financial strain on buyers already struggling with economic pressures. The exception is the luxury goods market, where high-income consumers will be able to absorb the additional costs.”

The uncertainty has placed UK and EU businesses in a state of limbo, with many preparing contingency plans in case tariffs are imposed. Some companies are considering stockpiling goods to cushion supply disruptions, though this comes with logistical and financial risks. Others are looking to invest in real-time visibility tools to better navigate inventory and supply chain fluctuations.

European Industries Facing a Catch-22 Situation

With potential tariffs looming, some of Europe’s key industries could be forced into difficult decisions. Simon Bowes, CVP Manufacturing Industry Strategy EMEA at Blue Yonder, describes the impact as a “catch-22 dilemma” for sectors like pharmaceuticals.

“Either bear the cost of relocation or absorb the tariffs and face increased costs for manufacturers and consumers,” Bowes explains.

For the luxury goods sector, the impact is expected to be less severe due to the high profit margins that can absorb additional costs. However, the European automotive industry faces a far greater threat.

“For European automotive companies, the threat of tariffs is much more significant. The industry is already struggling due to competition from China, the withdrawal of electric vehicle (EV) subsidies in key markets, and the ongoing transition to European sustainability regulation,” says Bowes.

“As the US is a critical market for European car makers, tariff threats are sending the industry to boiling point—and if placed on internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), it would put a tin lid on everything that’s going bad for the industry.”

With demand for European vehicles in the US already under pressure, tariffs could significantly reduce sales volumes and accelerate production shifts to alternative markets.

Can AI and Tech Help Businesses Navigate the Crisis?

As trade tensions rise, businesses are increasingly turning to technology-driven solutions to navigate the uncertainty. Advanced supply chain management tools and AI-driven scenario modeling are emerging as critical assets for companies trying to mitigate risks.

“As tariff threats loom, businesses critically require flexible tech-led capabilities to execute strategies quickly,” says Bowes.

“Artificial intelligence (AI) can evaluate vast amounts of real-time data. Working like a GPS system, it simulates ‘what if’ scenarios tailored to different variables, meaning businesses can strategically decide the best course of action, whether that is using new suppliers, using a co-manufacturer, or absorbing tariff costs.”

Will Other Countries Retaliate?

One of the most pressing concerns is whether the US tariff strategy will provoke widespread retaliation, leading to a global trade war. If that happens, the ability of businesses to leverage international specialization—such as Taiwan’s semiconductor industry or Germany’s automotive expertise—could be significantly disrupted.

“If US tariffs are imposed, it could set off a chain reaction across the globe,” Bowes warns.

“The rise of tariffs would likely stifle competition and innovation, and while some industries could benefit from protectionism, others would undoubtedly face higher costs and reduced market access.”

The Road Ahead: A Waiting Game for Global Markets

With no immediate resolution in sight, businesses across the UK, EU, and beyond remain in a tense waiting game. If President Trump follows through with EU tariffs, companies will need to adapt quickly—whether through price adjustments, supply chain restructuring, or technological investment.

As global trade remains volatile and unpredictable, one thing is clear: the decisions made in Washington will send ripples through supply chains worldwide.

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Europe Takes the Lead in Sustainable Growth

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The unprecedented number of Extended Producer Responsibility legislation that has been greenlighted since the advent of 2023 across Europe no doubt signals a new level of environmental awareness on a governmental, rather than merely social level, writes Elena Rotzokou (pictured), Global Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Researcher at Ecoveritas.

European legislative bodies have mobilized themselves en masse since March 2022, which is when several proposals aimed at product sustainability saw the light of day, most notably a circular economy business model. All these proposals fall under the ambitious purview of the European Green Deal, first approved in 2020, whose goal is to achieve incremental sustainable growth so that Europe becomes the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Green Deal legislation has proven most adaptable to the times. In the face of an era of overwhelming environmental catastrophe, which has just been capped with the war in Ukraine, the European Commission has issued a matching response: the European Digital Product Passport (DPP) initiative.

What are digital product passports? As the term implies, each product placed by a business on the EU market will need to carry its individual information passport, access to which will need to be provided via a data carrier to a unique product identifier (UID). The EU aims for a 2026 date by which to implement the legislation across three industries: apparel, batteries, and consumer electronics – with more to follow. Food and pharmaceutical products will be excluded. Through data transparency and accessibility, the product passport initiative seeks to raise awareness and encourage environmentally friendly action across all parties involved in a product’s lifecycle: manufacturers, distributors, and end consumers.

The logistics behind product passport use might seem complicated at first glance but are, in fact, straightforward: all a consumer needs to do is scan the product QR code with their phone to access DPP information. To help businesses understand their role in effectively making those passports a reality, several data specification standards have already been established at this early stage to demystify the process. For example, digital links accessible through a unique product identifier will need to be added to the products themselves rather than outer packaging or tags. Interested parties should be able to access information relating to raw materials, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and recycling options.

Traceability systems are to be in place to enable tracking all procedures leading from raw materials to the finished product. Measures will be taken to implement data collection and combination systems to meet the reporting requirements for the passports. Whoever on the supply chain brings a product to the market will carry the responsibility for guaranteeing DPP data accuracy.

As far as the packaging industry is concerned, a range of data availability requirements are expected pertaining, among other things, to product and product packaging weight and volume, durability, reusability, reparability, the presence of substances inhibiting circularity, energy and resource efficiency, recycled content, remanufacturing, waste generation, resource use, microplastic release, and carbon footprints.

Sustainable Growth

In addition to batteries, apparel, and electronics, there is pressure on more industries to adopt the DPP initiative, such as textiles (especially furniture), plastics, chemicals, construction, and automobile manufacturing. Since the 31st of January and until the 5th of December, the European Commission is conducting consultation on various product categories that will be impacted by this law, such as textiles and footwear, furniture, cosmetics, aluminum, plastic and polymer, paper, and glass.

Legislation pertaining to data accessibility and traceability information has already affected EPR laws for plastics, and so DPPs should be a crowning moment in what is already an unfolding process. If all obligated parties cooperate effectively, digital passports might come to be an inextricable part of products, to the point where, ultimately, all products come to life equipped with passports.

2026 is not far away and further guidelines are expected to start trickling in throughout the coming months to inform obligated businesses of how they should expect to be impacted by DPPs.

At Ecoveritas, we understand that this admirably ambitious initiative may seem daunting to most businesses, especially since requirement specifications are not widely available or clear at this point. Whatever the nature of your business, if you sell in-scope products to the EU, it is wise to start making steps towards coming to terms with what this piece of legislation entails and what you will need to do to comply in time and with all standards; and this is where we come in.

Ecoveritas has been and will continue to keep a close track of information on the Digital Passport Product initiative so as to ensure our clients are duly prepared to face their obligations when the time comes. If you expect to be affected by this law, get in touch with us today to learn more about our exclusive EPR matrix and rigorous consulting services.

 

 

New updates to EU Mobility Package

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The logistics sector is expecting further road transportation regulatory changes to be instated in February 2022. Last year, the European Commission adopted a Mobility Package governing road deliveries in EU countries. The changes to the Mobility Package will safeguard the working rights of truck drivers in Europe by imposing work, rest, and cabotage regimes.

EU Regulation 2020/1054 concerning drivers’ work and rest schedules came into force on 20th August 2020. The legislation requires drivers to return to their employers’ country of legal registration and take at least one week off every four weeks. Drivers may not spend their off week in a vehicle cabin. If a driver cannot spend his week off at his own home, his employer is obliged to pay for alternative temporary accommodation.

As of February 2022, EU Regulation 2020/1055 and EU Directive 2020/1057 will introduce the following regulatory changes to the Mobility Package:

  1. A trucker performing a one-way international delivery must register as a worker on a business trip. If the market wages in the destination country are higher than those in the driver’s home country, the driver’s wages must be adjusted accordingly.
  2. Drivers making cabotage deliveries in one country for an employer registered in another country must also register as workers on business trips. A maximum of three such transport operations in one country may be performed within a seven-day period. After this period, the truck may not enter this country for four days.
  3. A vehicle owned by an EU company used for international transport must be returned to the country of its registered owner within at most eight weeks of its departure from that country.

The purpose of the new rules is to regulate truck drivers’ work and rest regimes as well as to provide equal access to the profession and local markets. Thanks to the new regulations, an international truck driver will be entitled to better business trip compensation, especially when market wages in the country of delivery are higher than the driver’s home country. Cabotage will also be regulated so that drivers from higher-wage EU countries will not be at a competitive disadvantage vs. drivers from lower-wage countries.

For logistics and transport companies, the new rules will entail structural changes. Small- and medium-sized carriers from Eastern Europe are highly likely to refocus on domestic markets, as the financial costs of transporting goods to other EU countries will be unprofitable. Capacity shortages are therefore expected in Western Europe, and excess capacity is expected in Eastern Europe.

“The road transport market is going through difficult times. Diesel fuel prices are rising in EU countries,” says Vitali Eremenco (pictured), AsstrA Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Road Transportation. “Demand for oil is projected to continuing increasing until the end of 2022. Moreover, the shortage of drivers is becoming more acute. The new regulations will make the industry more attractive for drivers. At the same time, however, the new rules will also lead to higher road transport costs for logistics companies. In certain areas with significant carrier shortages, costs are expected to increase by 15% or more. If logistics providers have not yet begun to work closely with their partners to seek solutions, now is the time to do it. Otherwise, their businesses are at risk.”

ELA Awards finalists announced

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The European Logistics Association (ELA) has announced the six finalists projects of the 2021 ELA Awards competition. They have been selected by an international jury of 18 comprising  high-level practitioners in logistics from sectors including retail, industry, consulting, service providers and the academic world.

Austrian Post (A): Emission-Free Delivery by Austrian Post and the Project “Green Graz” 2021. The integrated corporate and sustainability strategy, the project Green Graz, and the CO2 neutral delivery initiative.

dm-drogerie markt GmbH + Co. KG (D): Innovative retail logistics at dm | Integrative. Intelligent. Automated. Reduction in overall logistics expenditure of over €7m p.a., lighter workload for store employees of more than 50,000 hours p.a., reduction in the weight lifted in manual picking of more than 50,000 tonnes p.a., decrease in transport volume of roughly 1.8 million truck kilometres p.a., increasing capacity by implementing new technology in the DC world.

Superdry with Invar Systems and Hikrobot (UK): Warehouse Operations: Superdry with Hikrobot and Invar Systems. In the first application for Hikrobot in the UK, Superdry is leveraging the flexibility of intelligent mini-robot carriers to transform order picking. Using this technology has enabled the team to meet the required pace with demand during peak periods that traditionally would place a heavy burden on manual picking processes, especially when labour resources are tight – a challenge many businesses in retail face. Together both teams developed a method of delivering a warehouse solution to enable the business to succeed to meet ever changing demands. The solution is innovative and optimises the use of space whilst increasing throughput and reducing potential health and safety issues.

Mango (Punto Fa, S.L) (ES): The development of a global and more sustainable supply chain in the fashion industry. A new supply chain model in order to achieve better adaptation to the new reality, increasing efficiency throughout the supply chain, reducing the impact on the environment, whereas continuing to guarantee an optimal level of service for its customers.

Migros-Genossenschafts-Bund (CH): Logistic data marketplace – The beginning of the digital age of logistics for Migros. The overall goal is to break up information silos in different kind of supply chains. Each participant within a supply chain needs to have transparency about the flow of goods in some kind of way. Automation within a DC requires granular information about logistic objects, like pallets or boxes. Industry partners wants to know when to prepare for production. Consumers are interested in track and trace data. The marketplace for logistics data provides a solution for all this needs in a standardised way.

O’Logistique – Group Casino, (F): Changing the face of e-commerce logistics, when a leading French Food retailer meets the top British online grocery player. Disrupting the French grocery e-commerce market by developing the fastest-growing logistic company, based on the state-of-the-art technology developed by Groupe Casino’s partner, Ocado.

The award ceremony will take place online on 9th November 2021 and has following programme (tbc):

14:00 – 14:30: Keynote presentation

14:30 – 16:30: Presentation of the ELA Award finalists’ projects

16:45 – 17:00: ELA Awards Ceremony

17:00 – 18:00: round table + conclusion

The ELA Awards has become one of the most prestigious and important European logistics competitions and it is much sought after by companies throughout Europe. Its recognition of outstanding performance is highly valued by both previous winners and would-be winners alike.

CEVA ready to serve Eastern European market

Posted on by David Priestman

CEVA Logistics is ready to serve the rapidly growing logistics and fulfilment services market in Eastern Europe. This market reveals an unflagging demand for warehousing space, a booming e-commerce market and developing economy require increasingly advanced logistics services.

With strong know-how, a wide range of services, innovations, and an extensive transport and warehousing network, CEVA is fully committed to support the growth of the EE region and meet the demanding market requirements.

Eastern Europe, despite the pandemic, confirms its enormous growth potential and its key role on the logistics map of Europe. The EE region saw the highest growth in demand for logistics space in Europe, in markets like Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania or Slovakia.

The drivers are logistics operators and the e-commerce industry, as well as manufacturing and distribution companies, all of them using Eastern European based operations, to supply local markets as well as Western Europe via cross-border solution. For example, in Poland, at the end of December 2020, the total supply of modern warehouse space stood at around 20 million sq m, with more than 5 million sq m under lease and more than 2 million sq m under construction, about 6% more than in the same period of 2019.

According to the Global eCommerce 2020 Report, the CEE region recorded about 21.5% growth in eCommerce channel sales, which is the highest rate in the world. Further development of the warehousing market in Eastern Europe will be fostered by the nearshoring trend, i.e. relocation of production and logistics functions from Asia to Western European countries.

As a provider of integrated logistics solutions, including air freight, sea freight, road freight, contract logistics services, customs, IP&ES (Project Cargo) CEVA Logistics is able to meet the highest demands of customers. Particularly when it comes to fulfilment services, which include packaging and repackaging, returns management, value-added services (picking, palletising, labelling, etc.), quality control, and post-warranty services.

All this is based on innovative solutions and systems such as CEVA Matrix WMS, solution design tools, automation and robotisation (RPA).

CEVA, being part of the CMA CGM Group, also has access to a broad base in sea and air freight which fosters creative cross-selling initiatives, like the shortsea LCL solution between EE and the UK based on Containerships LNG-powered vessels, or CEVA EE’s contribution to the newly formed specialised division of CMA CGM Air Cargo, with its own four Airbus A330-200F cargo aircraft.

In the Eastern Europe region, CEVA’s strength is based on an extensive network of branches in Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Latvia and Russia. In total, CEVA Logistics runs operations in more than 40 sites (warehouses or stations) with almost 600,000 sq m of dedicated and multi-user space in the region, employing more than 2,200 people. It works with companies from industrial, automotive, pharmaceutical, technology and e-commerce sectors.

This year CEVA also launched a new sea freight service for less-than-truckload (LTL) cargo between China and Europe, from three major ports in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Ningbo. CEVA’s strong position brought a new win, the contract signed in March of this year with the Polish Ministry of Defence for the handling of air deliveries of general cargo from the USA. The contract is to be executed as part of a consortium of three companies, with CEVA as its leader and main contractor.

Guillaume Sauzedde, CEVA Logistics’ Managing Director Eastern Europe, said: “Eastern Europe is a strategically important market, due to its huge economic potential and the unique position on the European logistics services market. We have ambitious growth plans in this region, including the development of a direct presence into new countries in the years to come.

“Thanks to the resources of the CMA CGM Group, of which we are a part, our extensive logistics network, the know-how and experience of our local teams, combined with innovation and a comprehensive offer of integrated logistics services, we can respond flexibly to the needs of the market and customers from different industries.”

 

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