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Tag: Transport

Williams Shipping Expands in Scotland with Acquisition and New Site

Posted on by Will Priestman

Southampton-based logistics and maritime services specialist Williams Shipping has strengthened its presence in Scotland with the acquisition of GIF Transport and Logistics and the purchase of land in Dyce, Aberdeen, earmarked for further expansion. The move builds on an already strong working relationship between the two companies, with GIF set to continue trading under its existing brand and management to ensure uninterrupted service for customers.

Williams Shipping Logistics Managing Director Jonathan Williams said the partnership was founded on shared values and a mutual commitment to delivering first-class service. GIF director Brian Pirie echoed the sentiment, noting that the collaboration would allow both companies to build on their strong reputations and offer greater value to customers across the UK logistics market.

The Dyce site will become GIF’s new headquarters and will also house Williams Marine Lubricants and the company’s specialist container division, Willbox. The location is set to play a key role in the group’s operations in the north, with phased development already under way and full operations expected to commence later this year.

For the UK logistics sector, this acquisition and expansion represent a significant strengthening of Williams Shipping’s network. By integrating transport, marine lubricants and container solutions under one hub, the company is set to enhance efficiency, improve customer service, and increase its agility in serving both regional and national markets.

Global Logistics Shake-Up: Pentagon Joins JAS

Posted on by Will Priestman

Pentagon Freight Services has announced it is joining global logistics giant JAS Worldwide, marking a major milestone in the company’s 50-year journey as a specialist freight forwarder. The acquisition represents a strategic step forward for both organisations and is set to strengthen JAS’s capabilities across key industry verticals.

A New Chapter for Pentagon

The announcement, shared by Pentagon on 1 August 2025, confirms that the two companies have signed a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA). The transaction is expected to close later this year, subject to customary approvals and closing conditions.

For Pentagon, which operates more than 65 offices and employs over 1,200 staff globally, this move signals a new phase of growth. Known for its expertise in logistics solutions for the energy sector and beyond, Pentagon brings extensive experience in handling complex, project-based freight across demanding environments.

Strategic Alignment with JAS

Pentagon highlighted that the decision to join JAS was driven by shared values and a strong cultural fit. The company described JAS as an organisation with “a clear and ambitious growth strategy, coupled with a highly complementary global network.” The acquisition is expected to provide expanded opportunities for both employees and customers.

In the official statement, Pentagon noted:

“This exciting development will allow us to further enhance our service offerings, broaden our global reach, and provide our clients with even more innovative and efficient logistics solutions.”

Focus on Continuity and Opportunity

The leadership at Pentagon reassured staff and customers that it will remain “business as usual” in the short term, with no immediate changes to operations or service levels. The company also emphasized its commitment to continuity, while looking ahead to the long-term advantages that the integration will bring.

Pentagon concluded the announcement by thanking its team, customers, and partners for their continued support and said it was “excited for the journey ahead.”

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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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Tour de France Logistics Partnership Renewed

Posted on by David Priestman

XPO Logistics has officially extended its role as Official Transport Partner of both the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift through 2030, continuing a collaboration that has spanned over four decades. The agreement highlights XPO’s pivotal role in supporting the logistical backbone of the world’s most prestigious cycling events since 1980.

Each year, XPO deploys a specialised team of drivers, logistics coordinators, and a dedicated fleet of vehicles to move and set up key race infrastructure—including barriers, podiums, signage, timing systems, and broadcast equipment. These complex daily operations are managed under tight time constraints and often on challenging terrain, requiring precision planning and real-time adaptability.

Sustainability is a core pillar of the renewed partnership. XPO will expand its use of its proprietary biofuel solution, LESS® HVO, which reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional diesel. The logistics provider will also continue operating a Euro 6-compliant fleet and plans to introduce fully electric trucks on select stages in 2025, underscoring both companies’ commitment to more sustainable operations.

The Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift provide a real-world platform for testing and deploying these low-emission technologies. Last year alone, XPO’s use of HVO biofuel helped avoid more than 223 tonnes of CO₂ emissions across the two events.

This renewed partnership also reflects the growing scale and complexity of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, which has seen strong growth since its reintroduction in 2022. XPO’s continued support ensures parity in logistics quality and environmental standards between the men’s and women’s races.

The directors of both organisations praised the renewal as a symbol of mutual trust and a shared ambition to drive excellence, innovation, and sustainability in large-scale event logistics. As the Tour evolves, so too does the opportunity for XPO to demonstrate how the logistics sector can meet the demands of high-performance, low-impact supply chain operations on a global stage.

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Tate & Lyle Sugars goes all-in on electric HGVs

Posted on by David Priestman

Tate & Lyle Sugars continue to push sustainability with the introduction of two brand-new 100% electric Volvo lorries, operating around London from April 2025.

Transport emissions are one of the leading contributors to urban air pollution, and Tate & Lyle Sugars’ investment in fully electric lorries marks a step towards supporting cleaner, healthier cities and reaching its carbon neutrality targets in the UK by 2041.

Unlike traditional diesel lorries, which emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide that exacerbate air pollution and climate change, these electric alternatives produce zero tailpipe emissions.

The investment highlights Tate & Lyle Sugars’ ambition and commitment to becoming the most ethical and sustainable cane sugar refiner in the world, and its pledge to reduce emissions, thereby improving urban air quality.

To honour its heritage while working for a cleaner future, Tate & Lyle Sugars unveiled one of its new electric lorries outside the British Commercial Vehicle Museum in Leyland, Lancashire, which charts the UK’s commercial vehicle history since the 1800s and proudly exhibits a number of the company’s retired commercial vehicles. Chorley is also a neighbouring Lancashire town where sugar merchant, philanthropist, and one of the founders of the company Sir Henry Tate, was born in 1819.

To emphasise its evolution, a number of historic vehicles were proudly lined up and displayed outside the museum, including a horse and cart, used by Tate & Lyle Sugars to move sugar within the refinery until 1954, and two vintage vehicles; a 1913 McCurd and a 1932 Latil.

The McCurd is the only surviving vehicle of its type in the world and even appeared in the film ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’. It was restored as a box van in the ‘Tate Sugars’ livery after being used by troops during the war.

The French manufacturer, Latil, produced the versatile Latil four-wheel drive road tractor under licence in England by Shelvoke and Drury and it was used by Tate & Lyle Sugars throughout the 1930s.

Two cutting-edge Volvo electric lorries are now in operation at Tate & Lyle Sugars, serving key logistics routes in East London. One vehicle handles palletised product transfers from the Thames Refinery to an external warehouse, while the other manages bulk deliveries to major customers within the M25 and also handles sugar movements between the Thames Refinery and Plaistow factories.

Volvo has provided comprehensive hands-on training to drivers, ensuring optimal performance and battery efficiency. They will also repurpose end-of-life EV batteries for second-life energy storage to minimise waste.

A recent survey by Tate & Lyle Sugars revealed that 67%² of consumers view businesses more positively when they utilise electric vehicles, further reinforcing the necessity of sustainable operations within the supply chain.

Saving 55,000 diesel miles annually, this is roughly the distance of driving from London to Sydney and back twice, 7 round-trip flights from London to New York, 82 return coach trips between London and Edinburgh or traveling the entire length of the UK (Land’s End to John o’ Groats) 63 times.

Andrew Jones, President of Tate and Lyle Sugars, commented:

“The introduction of our 100% electric lorries marks another step forward in our commitment to being one of the world’s most ethical and environmentally responsible cane sugar refiners.

“We continually explore ways to make our logistics more sustainable — from optimising vehicle payloads to choosing greener transport methods — and remain focused on working with our customers and suppliers to build a more sustainable supply chain.

“The commemorative event at the British Commercial Vehicle Museum also celebrated this progress, showcasing our journey from 1878 to today.

“This latest move honours our heritage while accelerating our vision for a cleaner future.”

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New Rail Services Launched From London Gateway

Posted on by David Priestman

Maritime Transport has launched two new intermodal rail services connecting DP World London Gateway with its inland terminals at Hams Hall and iPort Doncaster.

Running Monday to Saturday, the new services commenced last week and are operated in partnership with GB Railfreight. Both services have been introduced in response to growing volumes at DP World London Gateway – where a £1bn expansion is set to begin this month to increase capacity at the Port – and reflect Maritime’s continued investment in expanding its rail network and infrastructure, improving inland connectivity, and driving modal shift across key UK routes.

John Bailey, Managing Director – Intermodal, Maritime Transport:

‘London Gateway is seeing strong growth in container volumes, supported by its role in the Gemini Cooperation’s Asia–Europe network and a major expansion project that will further strengthen its position as one of the UK’s leading deep-sea ports. As throughput increases, so too does the need for reliable inland connections. These new rail services provide the additional capacity needed to support that growth, enhance our national network, and enable a more meaningful shift from road to rail as part of a lower-carbon, more efficient UK supply chain.’

London Gateway Maritime Transport

Maritime plans to introduce additional services in the coming weeks, expanding connectivity between major UK ports and its network of nine strategic rail freight terminals. New routes currently in development include Felixstowe to Manchester, DP World London Gateway to the East Midlands, and Southampton to Maritime’s SRFI at SEGRO Logistics Park Northampton – the latest addition to the company’s growing rail terminal portfolio which is now fully integrated into the national rail network.

Julie Garn, Intermodal Director, GB Railfreight:

‘Rail plays a hugely important role in our national supply chains. In addition to driving our economy, moving goods by rail reduces emissions and supports the UK’s transition to more sustainable transport. Using rail freight reduces carbon emissions by c.76% compared to road. These new services are a great example of what long-term collaboration can achieve, delivering practical, lower-carbon alternatives to road that benefit the wider supply chain.’

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Technology Expertise United to Accelerate Fleet Electrification

Posted on by David Priestman

Hitachi ZeroCarbon and MUFG have joined forces to supercharge the global transition to electric vehicles by removing the technical and capital constraints to decarbonisation. In combining Hitachi’s technology and operational expertise with MUFG’s financial strength, fleets benefit from strategic EV guidance and support, and reliable access to low-cost capital that protects long-term asset value.

This partnership addresses the biggest barriers to electrification faced by fleets all around the world: capital availability and change management. Across the industry, fleet operators have less than a decade to decarbonise, but the cost of replacing diesel vehicles, installing new infrastructure or upskilling workers can delay or prevent businesses from reaping the benefits and revenue opportunities of the EV transition.

MUFG’s global financial strength and presence ensures that fleets can scale their electrification seamlessly across markets, while Hitachi’s platform helps operators to better understand, manage and optimise their assets, for example electric vehicles, batteries or charging infrastructure. Fleets maintain full operational control of their services while benefitting from the financial and technical expertise of both partners. Hitachi’s managed service maximises the residual value of assets, ensuring they can be reused or recycled at the end of the lease period, protecting investment returns for fleet operators.

Commenting on the partnership, Hiroki Miyashita, Managing Director of Business Co-creation Division at MUFG said: “We have a proud history of working closely with Hitachi, and our shared values and business philosophies have driven fundamental transformation across countless industries. We are committed to addressing the barriers in the way of societal progress, and combining our expertise with Hitachi will help the commercial fleet ecosystem decarbonise at speed, and realise the real-time benefits of electrification far more quickly.”

The model has already made its mark with the leading UK bus operator, First Bus. The operator is on a mission to decarbonise its 4500-bus fleet by 2035 and has already purchased more than 1000 EV batteries, and benefitted from managed services for 1500 buses to enable electrified operations.

First Group, the parent company of First Bus, has saved more than £20M in deferred capital, and is anticipating more than £40M in future savings. This NextGen project was recognised for Innovation of the Year at the IJGlobal Awards 2023, showing how technical and financial expertise underpins the successful decarbonisation of commercial fleets.

Ram Ramachander, Chief Executive Officer at Hitachi ZeroCarbon said: “Cost remains the greatest hurdle to fleet electrification. We’re removing that barrier by giving fleet managers the confidence that decarbonisation is not only achievable, but financially viable. With access to financing through partners like MUFG, operators can accelerate progress toward their net zero targets while unlocking new revenue streams. By helping customers optimise their assets, we’re enabling long-term investment returns and creating meaningful commercial value. It’s a win-win, advancing both sustainability and profitability, and making fleet electrification a practical reality.”

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Coca-Cola HBC Adds Extra Fizz to its Partnership

Posted on by Will Priestman

Coca-Cola HBC, the strategic bottling partner of the Coca-Cola company on the island of Ireland, has extended its long-term partnership with Wincanton, the leading supply chain partner to UK businesses. 

The contract extension until the end of 2026 builds on the two brands’ strong partnership which began in 2016 and marks a decade of collaboration.

As part of this collaboration, Wincanton will continue to provide warehouse operations management at Coca-Cola HBC’s dedicated facility in Lisburn, Northern Ireland, which handles over 52 million cases of popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Fanta and Monster per year.

Wincanton is also responsible for delivering operational efficiencies, incorporating volumes driven by the Deposit Return Scheme in the Republic of Ireland whilst also bringing logistics expertise to the facility to support the company’s ongoing growth.

Joanna Sneddon, Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland Supply Chain Director said:

“Delivering high-quality products and service to our customers is our priority. We are pleased to grow our partnership with Wincanton on our journey to develop world class logistics service over the coming years.”

James Hurrell, MD for Grocery & Consumer at Wincanton, added:

“With its vision to be the world’s leading 24/7 beverage partner, we’re delighted to be supporting Coca-Cola HBC and its unique portfolio on its journey to exponential growth. 

“We look forward to continuing our work together and celebrating a decade of growth, innovation, and automation together.” 

The extended partnership also reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation. Both companies are actively investing in greener supply chain practices, with Wincanton introducing initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and Coca-Cola HBC advancing its World Without Waste goals. This continued alignment on responsible logistics and environmental stewardship ensures that the partnership not only delivers operational excellence but also supports broader sustainability objectives.

Alongside its extended partnership with Coca-Cola HBC, Wincanton is undergoing significant transformation as it strengthens its market position through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. In early 2024, the company was acquired by GXO Logistics in a £762 million deal, which is currently under review by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). While the regulatory process continues, Wincanton remains focused on innovation and operational excellence. In a move to advance its automation capabilities, Wincanton also acquired inteq, a UK-based specialist in warehouse execution software and robotics integration. This acquisition brings inteq’s proprietary technology and expertise into Wincanton’s portfolio, enhancing its ability to deliver cutting-edge, efficient logistics solutions across its network.

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Truck Driver Expense Software

Posted on by David Priestman

Life on the road can be unpredictable. For thousands of professional drivers crossing Europe daily, access to the right tools, driver expenses and support can make all the difference. From unexpected road tolls to last-minute repairs, managing trip-related expenses has long been challenging – often involving out-of-pocket payments, time-consuming reimbursements, and administrative bottlenecks.

In response to these ongoing challenges, Girteka has implemented a new digital payment system – Payhawk, that transforms how drivers handle work-related expenses. The solution provides both virtual and physical cards, activated specifically for the duration of each trip, allowing drivers to easily cover all pre-approved costs like parking, hotel stays, some of road tolls, washing stations, minor vehicle maintenance, and unpredicted expenses.

Driving Forward with Simplicity and Security

For drivers, the change means less hassle and more confidence. Each transaction is logged via a mobile app, where receipts are uploaded instantly and reviewed by managers in real-time. In case of more significant or unforeseen expenses, drivers can request a limit increase directly through the app – often receiving approval within minutes.

“At first, it took some getting used to it, like with any new thing,” shared Roman, a professional truck driver. “But now, it’s comfortable. I can easily separate business and personal expenses, and it’s resolved much faster when something unexpected happens. I feel more supported by the company.”

This structured process increases security – ensuring all expenses are pre-approved or monitored – and prevents misuse. Limits are set per trip, and approvals are tied to the amount requested, reinforcing accountability without delaying operations.

Impact Beyond the Wheel

The benefits extend well beyond the cab. The new system reduces administrative overhead for Girteka’s operations, HR, and accounting teams by eliminating manual reimbursements and paper-based workflows. With expenses visible online in real-time, financial oversight is tighter, and response times are faster. But first and foremost, it is beneficial for drivers, who now can stop worrying about unpredicted payments.

This approach enables better planning and data-driven decision-making. Trip expense data can now be analyzed to optimize routes, budget forecasts, and service offerings, proving Girteka’s long-term commitment to digital innovation.

Setting a New Standard in Logistics

With over 500 drivers already using Payhawk, the new payment system and usage expanding weekly. By June, more than half of all drivers (6,000) are expected to rely on the digital payment solution daily as the system becomes fully embedded into the company’s operational model.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a digitalized, efficient, and human-centered logistics environment, from improved driver support to more intelligent cost control.

“Technology in logistics should empower people – not complicate their work,” noted Mindaugas Paulauskas, CEO of Girteka Transport Girteka. “This project reflects our commitment to making everyday tasks easier for our drivers while building a smarter and more transparent system for the company.”

In an industry where time, trust, and efficiency are everything, Girteka continues to lead with innovation, care, and a clear vision for the future of transport.

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DHL Suspends High-Value US Deliveries

DHL Suspends High-Value US Deliveries

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Express has temporarily suspended deliveries of goods worth more than $800 to the United States, citing a “significant increase” in customs red tape linked to new tariff rules introduced by US President Donald Trump.

Starting Today (21st April 2025), the company will halt shipments from businesses in all countries to American consumers for packages above the $800 threshold, stating the move will remain in place “until further notice.” Deliveries between businesses (B2B) will continue but may also experience delays.

Previously, goods valued up to $2,500 could enter the US with minimal paperwork. However, tighter customs checks implemented alongside Trump’s recent tariffs have now lowered that threshold, triggering a spike in formal customs clearances.

DHL said this surge has strained operations:

“While we are working to scale up and manage this increase, shipments worth over $800, regardless of origin, may experience multi-day delays.”

Shipments valued under $800 will still be delivered and continue to face minimal customs scrutiny—for now. But additional changes are on the horizon. On 2 May, the White House is expected to close a loophole that allows low-value packages, particularly from China and Hong Kong, to enter the US without paying duties.

In a related move, Hongkong Post announced it is suspending all sea mail deliveries to the US and will stop accepting any parcels bound for the US starting 27 April. It described the US approach as “unreasonable, bullying and imposing tariffs abusively.”

As global shipping lanes become increasingly entangled with geopolitics and security concerns, logistics providers are facing new challenges in cross-border parcel delivery—particularly into the US.

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