New Thames Crossing Gets Go-Ahead

The UK logistics and freight community has welcomed the news that the Lower Thames Crossing has been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Transport.

The announcement, made by the Department for Transport, follows a detailed examination process and represents a key milestone for what is set to become a major new route beneath the River Thames, connecting Kent and Essex.

This 14.5-mile project, lead by National Highways, features two tunnels under the River Thames, aiming to alleviate congestion at the Dartford Crossing by rerouting 13 million journeys annually.

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) praised the decision, noting the long-running support from industry stakeholders.

“This is a great result for the campaign, backed by politicians and businesses, as well as BIFA, for a project that was first mooted in 2009 as a means of addressing the problems that congestion at the Dartford Crossing causes,” said Steve Parker, BIFA Director.

“Media reports indicate that work will commence in 2026 and could be complete by 2032. Our members, who manage the transport of a considerable amount of the UK’s visible trade, will be delighted.

“Delays in transit pose a risk to their reputations, and have significant financial consequences.”

The Dartford Crossing remains one of the UK’s busiest road links, and the new tunnel is expected to provide an alternative route to help alleviate traffic pressure. The decision to grant consent follows a period of extensive consultation and planning, and the project will now move into the next stages of development.

The Labour MP for Dartford, Jim Dickson said “This decision will unlock economic growth across the country and finally deliver a solution to the traffic chaos faced by my constituents on a daily basis.”

According to the government, the crossing is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project and is designed to support long-term growth, enhance road connectivity, and reduce congestion in a key part of the strategic road network. Construction is slated to begin in 2026 or early 2027, with the crossing expected to open by 2032. This development promises to enhance connectivity between the south and the Midlands, linking key ports and stimulating regional economic growth.

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Industry Urges Supply Chain Resilience After Heathrow Closure

Heathrow Airport Closes after Power Station Fire

The recent events at Heathrow Airport have once again underscored the vulnerability of the UK’s logistics network to unexpected disruptions. As one of the country’s busiest transport hubs, any interruption to operations — particularly on the scale caused by a major power outage — has immediate and far-reaching effects. While passenger inconvenience has dominated headlines, the real and lasting impact on freight and supply chains deserves equal attention.

After the pandemic and Brexit, the British International Freight Association says it thought that there was a better understanding of the critical importance of efficient international supply chains. If the initial mainstream media coverage of the incident at Heathrow is anything to go by, clearly that is not the case, with little mention in the news of the huge disruption to UK supply chains.

The fire at a nearby power station which caused a significant power outage across Heathrow airport has resulted in major disruption with all flights cancelled. The airport is to remain shut until midnight.

PML Seafrigo, whose facilities are unaffected by the fire, is extending an offer to those whose  freight is impacted by the situation, providing a collection service from alternative UK airports where imported  goods have been unexpectedly rerouted. In addition, PML Seafrigo is able to ensure the seamless movement of exported goods to alternative London airports, specifically London Gatwick or Stansted, subject to space and availability.

As expected, most reporting has focused on the immediate impact on flights, terminals and passengers. Regrettably, cargo has been largely overlooked, and the impact will be significant on both import and export movements. Supply chains work based on a consistent flow of goods and this has been severely interrupted – for exports the immediate concern will be that airline sheds will fill up rapidly and be unable to accept fresh freight deliveries, which will then affect other parties. For imports, freight will not arrive at or be diverted from its original final destination.

BIFA says that a big concern for its members is that most cargo is carried in the bellyholds of passenger aircraft and when flights to and from LHR are restored there will be a considerable influx in demand by passengers for seats to continue their journeys. Potentially this will restrict the capacity to move cargo.

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Navigating the Supply Chain Maze

SIXT turns to predictive maintenance for its UK fleet

Geotab Inc., a global market leader in connected transportation solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with SIXT van & truck. The landmark collaboration aims to enhance SIXT van & truck’s fleet management capabilities and elevate customer service standards for the company across the UK market.

SIXT van & truck will incorporate Geotab’s advanced telematics solutions into commercial vehicles within its UK-wide fleet. This integration, which will roll-out across the next 12 months, will leverage Geotab’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) integrated data to facilitate predictive maintenance and efficient Service, Maintenance and Repair (SMR) operations. By utilising Geotab’s highly precise mileage tracking and vehicle data solutions, SIXT van & truck aims to ensure seamless contract compliance with OEMs while improving vehicle efficiency and performance.

The decision to form a long-term partnership follows a successful pilot programme, during which SIXT van & truck successfully recovered two stolen vehicles, further underscoring the value of Geotab’s telematics solutions in boosting fleet security and operational competence.

David Saint, Managing Director SIXT van & truck UK, said: “Partnering with Geotab allows us to harness cutting-edge telematics technology to enhance our fleet operations in the UK. The ability to access accurate, real-time vehicle data enables us to perform predictive maintenance, reduce downtime and offer an improved experience to our customers.”

Rental and leasing organisations have traditionally engaged in bulk purchasing agreements with OEMs, involving complex contracts to sell vehicles back to manufacturers under specific detail-driven conditions, including precise mileage limits and vehicle standards. By integrating Geotab’s technology, SIXT van & truck is set to streamline such opaque processes, providing the company with comprehensive management of vehicle data to uphold contract terms and deliver superior service to customers.

Geotab’s extensive OEM network and robust market coverage empower leasing and rental companies such as SIXT van & truck to integrate diverse fleet data. This advanced and unmatched capability not only supports predictive maintenance but also ensures compliance with contractual obligations, ultimately leading to cost savings and customer satisfaction.

Implementing predictive maintenance allows rental companies to anticipate and address vehicle issues before they escalate, thereby minimising unexpected breakdowns and reducing operational costs. By having the capability to analyse real-time data thanks to Geotab’s innovations, SIXT van & truck can schedule maintenance during optimal periods, ensuring maximum vehicle availability. This proactive approach not only extends the lifespan of fleet vehicles but also helps contribute to cost savings by preventing major repairs and reducing downtime.

“We are delighted to be working with SIXT van & truck, delivering an innovative telematics solution to their commercial vehicle fleet across the UK,” said Christoph Ludewig, Vice President, EMEA. “Geotab will provide SIXT van & truck UK with actionable insights that improve efficiency and elevate service quality. This collaboration not only reinforces our commitment to supporting partners in achieving operational excellence but also marks a key milestone in our continued growth within the rental and leasing space. As we forge new alliances and strengthen existing relationships, we remain focused on delivering telematics solutions that drive real value.”

Real-world applications of Geotab’s advanced telematics solutions have shown significantly enhanced fleet operations for rental and leasing organisations. By integrating Geotab’s connected vehicle technology, a rental company last year achieved 100% fleet connectivity in the UK and 67% across six core European markets. This comprehensive data integration has led to improved vehicle recovery rates, real-time collision detection and remote monitoring of vehicle metrics such as odometer readings and fuel levels. These breakthrough advancements have also collectively optimised fleet management and elevated customer service standards.

As part of the partnership, SIXT van & truck will explore opportunities to integrate Geotab’s advanced telematics solutions into its rental services, providing end customers with added value.

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[Podcast] Electric Freightway: Decarbonising the UK’s HGVs

In this episode of Logistics Business Conversations, host Peter McLeod speaks with Colm Gallagher, Chief Data Scientist at Hitachi ZeroCarbon, about the ambitious Electric Freightway initiative. With heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) responsible for 20% of UK transport emissions, Hitachi ZeroCarbon, in collaboration with Gridserve and other key industry players, is spearheading a data-driven transition towards electric HGVs.

Colm explains how this initiative tackles the “chicken-and-egg” dilemma between charging infrastructure and vehicle adoption, ensuring a synchronized rollout of electric HGVs and public/private charging networks. The discussion explores the role of real-world telemetry data in optimizing fleet operations, reducing costs, and informing industry-wide decarbonization strategies.

Key topics include

The economic viability of electric HGVs, the challenges of scaling up infrastructure, and the behavioural shift required within the logistics sector. Colm also shares insights into Hitachi’s role in analysing fleet performance, supporting operators in making data-driven decisions, and driving policy development for the UK’s 2040 diesel ban.

Tune in to discover how Electric Freightway is shaping the future of sustainable logistics, and what it means for fleet operators, policymakers, and the wider supply chain. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights from industry leaders tackling today’s most pressing logistics challenges!

Click here to listen to this episode and more…

Logistics Industry Support Third Runway at Heathrow

The UK government’s support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport has sparked discussions within the freight and logistics sector. Industry representatives emphasize the importance of expanding cargo capacity to meet growing trade demands. While acknowledging the benefits of increased airport capacity, stakeholders also highlight the need for strategic planning to ensure efficient cargo operations. Key industry figures from the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and FedEx Europe share their perspectives on the potential impact of the expansion on UK trade and supply chains.

Speaking on behalf of its members, Steve Parker, director general of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) said:
“The Government’s backing for a third runway at Heathrow is certainly of interest to BIFA members that offer international logistics services for cargoes moving by air,  and although our members will still be wondering when any spade will hit the ground, they are ready to work with the airport authority on streamlining and improving services.

“Whilst we wait for a third runway, BIFA will focus on the airport’s cargo development. And on behalf of our members, BIFA is already working closely with the airport to support its ambitious plans to deliver a fundamental change to the way cargo operates at the airport. The latest plans and software enhancements were revealed last October. These plans would mean a significant redevelopment of the cargo estate set to commence in the next two to three years, as the airport looks to accommodate rising demand, modernise some ageing first-line cargo handling facilities, and improve cargo flows and efficiency.”

Alun Cornish, Manager Director Ramp and Gateways at FedEx Europe, commented:
Expansion at Heathrow is a step in the right direction for UK growth. To fully realise its potential, it’s crucial that expansion plans include provisions for cargo growth alongside passenger flights. The ability to efficiently import and export goods is essential for UK economic growth, so it’s vital that cargo forms part of the UK’s future airport strategy.

Trade is a cornerstone of our economy, and our research last year revealed that the UK remains a leading exporter to both the EU and other global markets. Increased capacity in UK supply chains would be welcomed and would be a key enabler of the UK’s plans for growth.

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Global Supply Chains Forced to Change Rapidly

Plans for UK Mega-Freight Hub Proceed

The latest addition to England’s burgeoning Logistics Golden Triangle has cleared a critical hurdle, as objections to a substantial logistics park with dedicated rail freight facilities have been formally dismissed. Initial construction is now underway, bringing forward a project that supporters argue is crucial for strengthening supply chain resilience in the region, but which has faced considerable pushback from local communities concerned about its impact.

The West Midlands, often referred to as the heart of the UK’s logistics sector, is strategically positioned to serve as a transit and distribution hub. This new development, located within what’s known as the Golden Triangle — an area linking the M1, M6, and M42 motorways — will provide quick access to approximately 90% of the UK population within a four-hour drive. This makes the region exceptionally attractive for logistics firms, particularly as e-commerce demand continues to accelerate. The terminal, part of a larger trend toward multimodal freight solutions, will have both expansive warehousing and rail access, facilitating a more efficient, carbon-conscious supply chain.

objections to a substantial logistics park dismissed

Local Objections and Environmental Concerns

Despite its economic promise, the project has stirred debate among residents and environmental advocates. Detractors voiced concerns over the environmental and social impact of the terminal, particularly regarding air quality, traffic congestion, noise pollution, and the encroachment on green spaces. With the dismissal of formal objections, some community members feel that their voices have been overlooked.

“Many of us worry about the environmental consequences,” says Amelia Grant, a local resident involved in a campaign opposing the park. “Our area is already under pressure from development, and adding such a large logistics terminal brings issues of traffic, pollution, and loss of biodiversity.” Environmental groups have echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the potential disruption to local ecosystems and calling for a rigorous impact assessment to protect the landscape.

In response, developers have assured the public that they will implement measures to mitigate adverse effects. Plans include extensive landscaping, noise-reducing barriers, and dedicated transport routes designed to minimize congestion on local roads. “Our aim is to ensure that this facility not only benefits the logistics sector but respects the environment and communities around it,” a project spokesperson stated, emphasizing a commitment to sustainable practices.

The Golden Triangle’s Role in the UK Economy

For years, the Golden Triangle has been a focal point for logistics infrastructure in the UK, a sector that has grown exponentially with the rise of online retail. Major retailers and distribution companies are already established in the area, drawn by its accessibility to key markets. This new terminal builds on that legacy, positioned as an asset for both national distribution networks and the post-Brexit trade environment. With rail freight connectivity at the core of the project, developers argue that the park will play a key role in reducing reliance on road transport, cutting emissions, and aligning with the UK’s net-zero goals.

“Rail freight facilities are essential if we are serious about reducing transport emissions,” says Dr. Philip Davies, a logistics expert at the University of Birmingham. “By linking road, rail, and warehousing, we can increase efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of goods transport. The Golden Triangle is already well-suited to this sort of intermodal facility.”

The new terminal will not only bolster the efficiency of regional supply chains but is also expected to generate significant job opportunities in the West Midlands. Project estimates suggest that thousands of jobs, spanning construction, operations, and support roles, could be created. This boost is anticipated to strengthen the local economy, a factor that has swayed some community members to support the project despite reservations.

The Way Forward: Construction and Community Engagement

With initial construction now underway, the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the long-term trajectory of the project. Developers have committed to ongoing dialogue with residents and local authorities to address emerging concerns and ensure transparency as work progresses.

“We are prepared to hold the developers accountable,” says Councillor James Mathers, representing a nearby community. “This project could bring economic benefits, but we must ensure these are not achieved at the expense of our environment and residents’ well-being.”

While the objections may have been dismissed, the community’s concerns underscore the need for a balanced approach to large-scale developments. For England’s Logistics Golden Triangle, the terminal is a strategic and logistical asset with far-reaching potential. Yet, as this project unfolds, the dialogue between economic imperatives and community priorities will likely shape not just the logistics landscape, but the West Midlands itself.

The completion of the logistics park will undoubtedly be watched closely by both industry insiders and environmental advocates, setting a potential precedent for future projects within the UK’s critical logistics sector.

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DHL eCommerce Announces New Management

DHL eCommerce UK has made two new appointments to its management team, drawing on experience from the retail industry to further align DHL’s services to the evolving eCommerce market.

Julian Harrison joins as CIO, to deliver a technology and data-first strategy to support growth across all areas of the business. Julian has spent 12 years in retail and FMCG businesses including senior tech roles at ASOS and Marks and Spencer. He also held the role of Head of Technology, Fulfilment and Enterprise at Lovehoney where he was responsible for all core operational technology systems.

Working in close collaboration with the IT function, Laurence Sugars takes on the role of VP of Product and Strategy. Laurence joins from Marks and Spencer where he was Senior Head of Product for Food, and prior to that held senior roles at FarFetch and Tesco. He will be responsible for expanding the services DHL offers to consumers and retailers including features within the DHL eCommerce app as well as the Out of Home network.

Both will report to Stuart Hill, CEO, DHL eCommerce, who said “We’ve got significant growth plans so I’m delighted to expand an already strong management team with people who share our ambition and vision for the business and who bring deep retail expertise. Julian and Laurence give us real balance as a board and will enable us to evolve the eCommerce proposition in line with the changing needs of both retailers and shoppers.” 

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Logistics Cyclists raise £225,000 for Transaid

The transport and logistics industry has successfully fielded two strong teams of riders to complete Transaid cycle challenges both in the UK and Kenya, raising more than £225,000 towards our projects in sub-Saharan Africa.

Last week a team of 30 pedalled 295 miles from the foothills of Mount Kenya to stunning Lake Victoria in just six days, raising an incredible £165,000 in Transaid’s first cycling fundraiser in the country. This followed just two and a half weeks after a separate group of 40 riders raised £60,000 for a demanding 159-mile, two-day ride battling the elements, from Newcastle to Edinburgh.

The unrestricted funds will be used to support Transaid’s life-saving road safety and access to healthcare projects, which currently span ten countries.

Maddy Matheson, Head of Fundraising for Transaid, says: “Ever since our first Cycle Challenge in Malawi, back in 2006, we’ve enjoyed excellent support from riders across the industry, and this year was no different. We had two fantastic groups, each passionate about our life-saving work. We are so grateful to everyone who participated, whether they were in the saddle, or sponsoring a friend, family member or colleague.”

Peter Whitehead, Managing Director at PF Whitehead Logistics, one of the riders taking part in Cycle Kenya and challenge sponsor, explains: “It was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with a great group of people. I feel very fortunate to have been able to participate, and the opportunity to visit a country where Transaid works brought home the true impact of their road safety and access to health care programmes. I would honestly recommend it to anyone considering signing up for a future ride.”

Participants of the Newcastle to Edinburgh event represented 15 organisations from across the industry, including AAL Shipping, Backhouse Jones, Brigade Electronics, Cold Chain Federation, Columbia Shipmanagement, Dawsongroup Truck and Trailer, Edrington, Elddis Transport, EORI, GXO, Idris Logistics, IVECO, RHA, Stanley Travel, and The Malcolm Group, and was sponsored by Dawsongroup Truck and Trailer, with Stanley Travel providing coach transfers for the group.

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DHL Relocate Orphan Meat Trade Chimpanzee

DHL Express and Monkey World announced today that they have successfully relocated Chocolat, a female chimpanzee and orphan of the illegal bushmeat trade in the Republic of Congo, to her new long-term home in Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre, Dorset, UK.

Chocolat’s Rescue from Meat Trade

Chocolat was an infant when her family were hunted and killed. When she was rescued, she was found to have injuries from shotgun pellets that have left her with a paralysed hand and foot on her right side. After spending the past twenty years in Kenya being looked after by her original rescuer, Chocolat has now found a long-term home at Monkey World, which provides specialist care for chimpanzees that have been smuggled from the wild and/or suffered abuse or neglect. To accommodate her needs, her new enclosure has been treated to upgrades such as lower platforms, new nesting areas, and cargo nets, all designed to make Chocolat’s new home as accessible as possible.

Monkey World was established in 1987 to provide a home for chimpanzees who were being abused in the Spanish beach photography trade. Since then, it has continued to rescue monkeys, apes and prosimians who have been used or abused by humans. It has assisted 29 governments to confiscate and rehome the victims of the legal and illegal trade in primates. The 65 acre sanctuary in Dorset is now home to over 230 primates of 25 different species. Chocolat joins 51 other chimpanzees, over 4 groups, living in as natural conditions as possible.

Chocolat’s Journey to the UK

Throughout the journey DHL Express provided Chocolat with VIP service, transporting her in a custom-built crate supported by a team of specialist keepers, aircraft engineers, cargo handlers, security personnel, and pilots. Throughout the trip Chocolat snacked on fresh fruit, nuts and sweet potato.

Her journey, which was carefully planned to reduce the amount of time she spent in transit, began at Nairobi Airport on August 15th, included a brief stop in Bahrain, and concluded with a seven-hour flight to East Midlands Airport, where she arrived on the morning of August 16th. From there, she was transported by road to her new home at Monkey World.

Meat Trade Chimpanzee saved

Her New Home

At her new home Chocolat is being gradually introduced to six other chimpanzees who will become her adopted family. Monkey World is home to chimpanzees rescued from 16 different countries. Chocolat’s new family were rescued from Mexico, Argentina, Cyprus, and Thailand, and also have various disabilities as a result of their tragic backgrounds. She has already made friendly contact with Bryan, the dominant male in her group, reaching out to him and for the first time in over 20 years, touching a fellow chimp. She is getting used to a diet with a larger variety of vegetables than she has been accustomed to. As she learns how to be a chimp again, Chocolat is expected to live out the rest of her days in peace at Monkey World. Chimps like Chocolat have an average life expectancy of 50 years.

Those Who have Helped

Other organisations who have supported and assisted Chocolat’s transfer are African Apes and the William Holden Wildlife Foundation, founded by actress Stefanie Powers in honour of her lifelong love William Holden.

Stefanie Powers, founder of William Holden Wildlife Foundation, said “In my avocation as a wildlife conservationist, I am concerned about the illegal trafficking of primates which continues unabated. It is only through the extraordinary efforts of individuals such as Alison Cronin and her Monkey World team that our fellow primates may be rescued and rehabilitated. We are only a fraction of DNA removed from all our primate brothers and sisters and it is a privilege to play a small part in helping to preserve and protect them. Thanks to the outstanding generosity and support from DHL one very special chimpanzee called Chocolat will have a chance at a fulfilling life. As a friend of Chocolat I am grateful to DHL and Monkey World.”

Dr Alison Cronin MBE, Director at Monkey World, said “We’re so happy to welcome Chocolat. The reason we exist is to offer a nurturing environment for chimpanzees and other primates and to give them back a fraction of what has been taken from them by humans, providing them with a family again. Companionship of their own kind is vital to chimpanzees’ wellbeing, as they are social, intelligent animals. Living in family groups in as natural an environment as possible is the best kind of rehabilitation we can provide to chimpanzees like Chocolat. Her integration will be gradual, but her journey has been very smooth, thanks to the support of DHL and so far, she is settling in well.”

Cain Moodie, EVP Network Operations for DHL Express in Europe, said, “It has been an honour to help Chocolat, the chimp, relocate to her new home at Monkey World. The logistics of transporting her were quite challenging, but our team of experts, in collaboration with Monkey World and her carers in Kenya, took every possible measure to ensure her journey was safe and comfortable. It’s a real pleasure for everyone at DHL when we can use our skills and network to contribute to projects such as this.”

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Sephora Names New Supply Chain Partner

Sephora UK has announced a new logistics partnership as part of its growth strategy, selecting DHL Supply Chain as its lead supply chain provider for the next five years. DHL will manage Sephora’s warehousing, eCommerce fulfillment, and UK transport network, supporting the beauty giant’s ambitious retail expansion plans.

Advanced Distribution Hub to Drive Growth

A key feature of this collaboration is the launch of a state-of-the-art omni-channel Distribution Centre (DC) in Coventry. The facility, entirely powered by renewable electricity, is DHL’s first operationally carbon-neutral site in the UK, marking a significant milestone in Sephora’s sustainability journey. The Coventry DC is also one of DHL’s most sustainable sites in Europe, setting new standards in green energy and employee well-being.

Tailored Supply Chain Solutions for Seamless Operations

The new facility integrates sustainable, recycled, and natural materials throughout its design, ensuring a positive working environment for employees while seamlessly supporting Sephora’s omni-channel operations.

Throughout the partnership, Sephora and DHL have worked closely to design a logistics operation that aligns with Sephora’s expansion plans in the UK beauty market. Leveraging DHL’s expertise in the beauty sector, tailored solutions have been developed to optimize efficiency, including the use of pick-assisting robots to manage fluctuating demand while maintaining high quality control. Each order is processed quickly and efficiently with minimal handling to preserve product integrity.

DHL’s eCommerce fulfillment capabilities will enable Sephora to offer later cut-off times, improved product availability, and a more responsive supply chain ready to meet peaks in demand driven by marketing campaigns and influencer promotions.

Sarah Boyd, UK Managing Director for Sephora, expressed her excitement about the partnership: “We are delighted to be working with DHL. The UK is a really important growth market for our business and one with huge potential. The transition to this state-of-the-art facility is a pivotal project that underpins our UK expansion. It is critical to us that we ensure our growth is sustainable, as we reduce our carbon footprint and provide an excellent working environment for our teams in the warehouse.”

Natalie Frow, Managing Director for eCommerce & Retail at DHL Supply Chain, added: “Sephora’s relaunch was a major moment for UK retail, and the iconic brand has made a huge impact in a short space of time. Our team is delighted to be working with a business so open to collaboration and innovation, that shares our values for driving sustainable logistics and being a great place to work. We’re proud to be supporting Sephora on its expansion journey and helping the business shape the UK beauty industry.”

This partnership and the advanced distribution centre highlight Sephora’s strategy to establish itself as a leader in the UK beauty market while prioritizing sustainability and innovative supply chain solutions.

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