From artificial intelligence to automation, these innovations are not only optimising efficiency but also enhancing safety, sustainability, and profitability in an industry critical to global trade and environmental preservation.

Danny Peachey (pictured), Manager Great Yarmouth from HTL Group, a leading provider of hydraulic torque wrenches, explores five key digital trends that are revolutionising the marine sector and reshaping the way we navigate and manage the world’s oceans.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics

One of the most significant trends shaping the marine industry is the increasing adoption of AI and Big Data analytics. In fact, the Maritime AI market has seen an explosive expansion over the last year, nearly tripling in size, according to the new Thetius report commissioned by Lloyd’s Register. By analysing this data, AI systems can predict optimal routes and speeds, forecast maintenance needs, and reduce the likelihood of breakdowns. This proactive approach, called “predictive maintenance”, helps minimise vessel downtime. For example, the Danish company Maersk has implemented AI algorithms to predict machinery failures and optimise fuel usage, leading to substantial cost reductions.

The potential for AI goes beyond efficiency. Safety is a key benefit as AI-driven systems can monitor maritime conditions and forecast hazards such as piracy, extreme weather, or equipment failure, ensuring the safety of both ships and crews.

Autonomous Shipping and Robotics

Autonomous ships and robotics are redefining the future of the maritime sector. According to a study by Allied Market Research, the global market for autonomous ships is expected to reach £126,63 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2020 to 2030.

Autonomous ships reduce the need for large crews, which lowers labour costs and the risk of human error. They are equipped with advanced sensors, GPS technology, and AI, enabling them to navigate oceans efficiently. For example, Yara Birkeland, the world’s first autonomous, zero-emission container vessel, successfully completed its maiden voyage in 2022. This vessel operates with minimal human oversight and relies on a combination of onboard AI and remote operations.

Robotics are also making waves in the industry. Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and underwater drones are increasingly used for inspecting and repairing underwater infrastructure such as oil rigs and pipelines. These robots can perform tasks that would be dangerous or expensive for human divers, significantly reducing operational risks.

Blockchain Technology

The marine sector relies on complex supply chains, making Blockchain technology a game-changer. The global supply chain can involve multiple entities, ranging from shipping lines to customs authorities, creating opportunities for miscommunication, lost cargo, and fraud.

Blockchain’s decentralised, immutable ledger provides an unparalleled level of transparency, allowing all parties involved—shipowners, port authorities, customs agents, and freight companies—to have real-time access to data about cargo shipments and transactions

Furthermore, blockchain can facilitate the automation of contract execution through smart contracts, which automatically trigger payments, inspections, or approvals when certain conditions are met. By increasing trust and reducing delays, blockchain technology is helping the marine sector run more smoothly and cost-effectively.

The Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Shipping

The Internet of Things (IoT) is creating an interconnected ecosystem in the marine industry, revolutionising everything from shipbuilding to operations and safety. By embedding sensors and communication devices into ships, engines, containers, and ports, IoT enables real-time monitoring of vessel conditions, cargo status, and environmental factors.

For instance, IoT can monitor a ship’s engine performance, detect wear and tear, and alert operators to potential mechanical failures before they become serious issues. It can also track cargo conditions—such as temperature, humidity, or pressure—ensuring that perishable goods like food or pharmaceuticals are transported safely and efficiently.

Danny Peachey, HTL Group

IoT is also revolutionising ports. Smart Ports use IoT systems to automate loading and unloading processes, manage energy consumption, and reduce bottlenecks. Ports such as Hamburg and Rotterdam are already implementing smart solutions that reduce port congestion and improve the flow of goods.

Sustainability and Green Shipping

As concerns over climate change grow, the marine sector is embracing sustainability and green shipping. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set ambitious targets to reduce the carbon intensity of international shipping by 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050.

Digital technologies, such as AI and IoT, play a vital role in helping the industry meet these targets. For example, AI tools can optimise fuel consumption by adjusting ship speeds and routes based on real-time data. Moreover, the use of digital twin technology—a virtual replica of a physical ship—enables companies to simulate different designs and operational conditions, identifying the most energy-efficient options before they are implemented.

Low-carbon fuels, electric propulsion systems, and onboard energy management systems are increasingly being adopted, and digital platforms are being used to track carbon emissions, making compliance with environmental regulations easier and more transparent.

The marine industry is undergoing a significant digital transformation, driven by advances in AI, robotics, blockchain, IoT, and sustainability initiatives. These technologies are not only improving operational efficiency and safety but also helping the industry reduce its environmental impact. As these trends continue to evolve, the marine sector is set to become more agile, cost-effective, and sustainable, positioning itself for future growth in an increasingly digital world.

The post Digital Technologies Reshaping Shipping Industry appeared first on Logistics Business.

The Class 99s can run on both electricity and renewable fuels, offering customers the most sustainable freight solution on the market and halving carbon emissions. These new locomotives, which were manufactured by Stadler in Valencia, will move a vast range of consumable goods and materials across the country. They will support critical projects and stock shops nationwide.

GB Railfreight transports goods across the country including materials for house building, aviation fuel to airports, clothes, white goods, wine and materials used to heat homes – all of which play a significant role in driving the UK economy.

Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, Minister of State for Rail, said of the Class 99: “Major private sector investments like this £150 million commitment to revolutionary Class 99 trains, demonstrate the confidence the rail freight industry has in its future under this Government. With robust protections for fair network access and ambitious growth targets a part of our plans for Great British Railways, we’re ensuring the rail freight sector has what it needs to thrive so it can continue removing thousands of HGVs from our roads whilst delivering huge economic benefits across the country. I look forward to seeing the Class 99s entering commercial service later this year and seeing the transformative impact they’ll have in decarbonising our rail network.”

John Smith, CEO of GBRf, said: “The Class 99 locomotives set a new benchmark for performance and sustainability in UK rail freight. With hybrid capability, these locomotives provide the resilience and flexibility our customers need to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s standards while supporting the UK’s drive towards net zero.”

Ben Fletcher, Chief Operating Officer of Make UK, said: “A modern and efficient rail network is the hallmark of an advanced economy and will be crucial to boosting growth whilst, at the same time, helping accelerate the decarbonisation of our economy and a substantial reduction in road transport emissions. Manufacturers are keen to make greater use of rail logistics and new freight technologies such as the Class 99 will make a critical contribution to cleaner, faster and more efficient supply chain movement.”

The Class 99s are designed to power the future of freight. By running on electric lines where available and switching seamlessly to renewable fuels elsewhere, the Class 99s ensure that goods arrive at their destination sooner and more reliably, all whilst dramatically reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.

Rail freight plays a vital role in the UK economy, contributing £2.5 billion annually – with 90% of the social and economic benefits felt outside London and the South East. Each freight train removes up to 129 HGVs from Britain’s roads, reducing congestion, improving road safety, and cutting emissions. The arrival of the Class 99 will support even greater regional growth while easing pressure on the nation’s transport infrastructure.

Key features of the Class 99s include:
• Hybrid Power: Operates on both electricity and renewable fuels for maximum flexibility and minimal emissions.
• Enhanced Performance: Delivers faster acceleration, reduced downtime, and increased productivity.
• Sustainability-Driven: Sets a new standard for green rail freight, supporting customers to meet their sustainability targets and lead the race to zero emissions.

The launch event at GBRf’s Peterborough HQ brings together industry leaders, customers, and stakeholders to witness the arrival of a new era in sustainable transport. “With the Class 99, we’re not just keeping pace with a changing network – we’re shaping its future,” added John Smith. “This is the cleanest, greenest, and fastest way yet to move freight by rail in the UK.”

Once testing is complete, the new locomotives will enter commercial service this winter.

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Building on a leading position in Europe, the potential transaction would enable Walden Health to accelerate its growth, expand its international reach, and enhance its service by benefitting from Yusen Logistics Group’s global network and integrated logistics capabilities.

Shared Vision for Healthcare Logistics

Founded in 1951, Walden has since been at focused on pharmaceutical and healthcare market trends, with an offering of a wide range of value-added services tailored to clients’ needs. Walden has grown from a French to a pan-European operator through a successful combination of organic growth and acquisitions, having notably acquired Movianto from Owens and Minor in 2020. As the healthcare logistics market becomes increasingly global, the proposed transaction would ensure that Walden Health is best positioned as it enters its next phase of growth, involving:

• Expansion of its footprint beyond Europe
• Building on Yusen Logistics Group’s global infrastructure and digital capabilities to enhance service quality and resilience
• Continued investment in sustainable, compliant, and temperature-controlled logistics solutions

“Today’s announcement is a significant step in our journey to become a leading healthcare logistics player and we look forward to welcoming Walden Health into our group. We have been expanding healthcare logistics for the past years by enhancing our capability worldwide to provide customers with various logistics services. We believe combination between Walden Health’s high professionalism with longstanding reputation and our global network can make our healthcare logistics service truly unique” said Hiroki Harada, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Yusen Logistics Group.

“We are proud of the journey Walden has taken to become a trusted partner in healthcare logistics across Europe,” said Stephane Baudry, Chairman of Walden Group and grandson of Marcel Baudry, the founder of Walden, formerly known as CSP. “Thanks to Yusen Logistics Group, Walden Health will develop into a truly global player, capable of offering end-to-end services to clients, building on a strong innovative DNA focused on improving patient care with an unwavering commitment to quality. I am delighted to see the strong cultural and strategic fit of the two organizations and truly believe that Walden Health is set for continued success”

Continuity and Growth

While the healthcare division plans to embark on this new journey, Walden Group will continue to invest in its mobility division, including Ciblex and Relais Colis, where exciting opportunities lie ahead in express transport and last-mile delivery.

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76% of respondents to a recent survey said that they either use, or had used, several different programmes to manage their logistics or supply chain fleets. The same respondents were also unequivocal in their opinion: they would prefer to use just one, unified system. The same research found that almost 70% of those questioned agreed with the statement: “Relying on several different systems makes my job more complex than it needs to be”.

One such logistics firm that was using several different platforms to manage their fleet’s complex operations was Europa Worldwide Group. The company has 1,300 employees working from 26+ locations around the globe, with its European operation of 30 HGVs and 500 trailers visits 10,000 delivery locations, resulting in up to 2,400 deliveries per day. In 2024 alone, their drivers travelled almost 1.8m miles.

Each element of Europa’s tracking was hosted on a different platform, some of which were manual and needed to be brought together. Unsafe driving cost the company £238,000 in at-fault accident pay outs in 2023, and idling was revealed to have cost £900 per month in January 2024 with fuel efficiency at 10.77mpg. Around 90% of their drivers were in the ‘High’ or ‘Very High risk’ category of driver performance.

Implementation of a unified system has allowed Europa to analyse route performance and full shipment tracking – including proof of delivery – all within the same interface.

Using their fully integrated telematics platform, Europa have significantly improved driver safety with 99% of their drivers now in the ‘Low’ or ‘Very Low risk’ category. The cost of at-fault accident pay-outs has decreased by more than 65%, as per-truck accident costs went down from £375 to £225 post implementation. Idling now costs £650 per month less than before and fuel consumption is up to 12.05mpg.

“We have faith in a system that is multi-faceted. Our drivers are doing their jobs to far higher standards and the margin for error from manually plotting MOTs and services is eliminated. We can make the daily walkaround checks focus on the elements we choose and filter those that need rectifying. We would highly recommend a unified platform,” said Europa’s General Manager for Transport, Malcolm Castle.

Nadeem Raza, Microlise’s CEO, commented: “Europa’s success shows just how powerful a unified fleet management platform can be. As the logistics industry grows and pressures mount, businesses need smarter tools that can keep up. A single, integrated system doesn’t just streamline operations, it lifts a huge weight off transport managers, helping to improve job satisfaction and reduce burnout. The companies that thrive will be the ones acting now to support their teams and stay ahead of rising demands.”

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The agreement was signed in Damascus in the presence of His Excellency Ahmed Al-Sharaa, President of the Syrian Arab Republic, by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, and Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of General Authority for Land and Sea Ports.

Following over a decade of conflict and long-standing underinvestment in trade infrastructure, the redevelopment of Tartus marks an important step in Syria’s economic reintegration. Structured as a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model and fully owned by DP World, the project will include new infrastructure, advanced cargo-handling equipment, and digital systems to improve efficiency across the port’s container and general cargo terminals.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, said: “This agreement reflects our long-term commitment to enabling global trade and creating resilient supply chains. We see strong potential in Tartus to serve as a vital trade gateway and look forward to strengthening regional connectivity and economic opportunity through this investment. We believe in the power of trade to help drive long-term stability and prosperity for Syria and the region.”

Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, said: “This agreement marks an important step forward for the Port of Tartus and Syria’s maritime sector. Partnering with DP World will allow us to modernise and strengthen the efficiency of our trade infrastructure as we continue to rebuild key trade lanes, support the national economy and provide more opportunities for the Syrian people. The agreement reflects our shared vision to transform Tartus into a strategic gateway linking Syria with regional and international markets and it will pave the way for sustainable growth for years to come.”

Located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, Tartus is the country’s second-largest port and a key maritime gateway to trade routes across Europe, the Levant and North Africa. Its strategic position enhances regional connectivity, complementing existing routes through the Bosporus and Suez. The redevelopment will enable Tartus to handle general cargo, containers, breakbulk, and roll-on/roll-off traffic, expanding Syria’s trade potential as the country continues to rebuild.

DP World will also explore opportunities to develop free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors in partnership with local stakeholders, supporting broader economic diversification and trade facilitation efforts.

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The UK’s logistics industry stands at the heart of the nation’s net zero ambitions, moving everything from manufacturing components to finished goods across complex supply chains that underpin the economy. As the government pursues its 2050 net zero targets, the role of logistics has never been more critical.

However, the environmental gains achieved in production risk being undermined if the carbon footprint is simply transferred to the delivery process – known as Scope 3 emissions, which are embedded in supply chains and account for the vast majority of a company’s carbon footprint. This interconnectedness means logistics companies are not merely participants in the green transition, but enablers of broader economic decarbonisation across multiple industries.

Management consultancy McKinsey & Company estimates the global logistics industry accounts for about 7% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, with 80% of these emissions related to transportation. While there are already some exciting advances in the green logistics revolution, a number of practical, legal and regulatory hurdles remain.

Innovation driving change

A successful sustainability transition requires more than simply swapping diesel vehicles for electric alternatives. Innovation must address practical challenges including payload considerations, driver route optimisation, vehicle range limitations, and the development of both on-site and public charging infrastructure.

As part of its commitment to net zero by 2040, DPD has developed smart charging systems that allow drivers to book charging slots and join virtual queues, reducing anxiety about charger availability. It is also trialling fully-electric, autonomous robot deliveries in Milton Keynes, navigating the city’s traffic-free Redway network to access nearby residential neighbourhoods.

Practical and legal hurdles slowing progress

Despite technological advances, significant practical obstacles remain. Effective government support for a green transition within the logistics industry is therefore required via co-ordinated action across multiple policy areas. There are now about 80,000 charging points in the UK, but there is some way to go for the Department for Transport to meet its target of at least 300,000 points by 2030. A Public Accounts Committee report published in March 2025 found the government has been slow to address gaps in charge point provision, with regional divides and inequalities across the rollout.

The legal landscape surrounding emerging logistics technologies presents a complex web of regulatory requirements that are still evolving. The deployment of autonomous delivery robots on public highways raises novel legal questions about liability, insurance requirements, safety standards, and the interaction between automated systems and existing traffic regulations.

Current legislation was not designed to accommodate delivery robots, drones and other autonomous systems operating in shared public spaces. This creates uncertainty for logistics companies seeking to invest in these technologies while ensuring compliance with existing laws and regulations. Establishing regulatory sandboxes would allow for safe testing and deployment of innovative technologies.

Insurance and liability frameworks require careful consideration when deploying new technologies. Questions arise about responsibility in the event of accidents involving autonomous systems, the adequacy of existing insurance products and the development of new risk assessment methodologies for novel technologies.

Collaborative pathways forward

McKinsey estimates worldwide demand for green logistics will reach £350bn by 2030, comprising 15% of total global logistics spend. This shows the prize for success is substantial: a logistics industry that not only reduces its own environmental impact, but enables broader economic decarbonisation while maintaining the efficient goods movement that underpins modern life.
The green logistics transformation, however, requires collaboration between industry, government and other stakeholders to untangle the various practical and legal challenges.

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PepsiCo is one of the world’s leading food and beverage manufacturers. Every day, millions of people across the UK enjoy PepsiCo’s snacks, oats and carbonated soft drinks. The company’s portfolio encompasses world famous brands such as Pepsi MAX, Doritos, 7UP Zero Sugar, and Quaker Oats, alongside its much-loved, local and regional brands, including Walkers, Wotsits, Monster Munch, and Pipers.

Beyond the cupboard staples and snack-time favourites, PepsiCo is a business committed to driving positive action for the planet and people, through its PepsiCo Positive (pep+) agenda. Launched in 2021, pep+ is PepsiCo’s end-to-end sustainability and business strategy. It’s a framework that drives action across agriculture, supply chains, product portfolios, and communities. To support this vision, PepsiCo has selected XPO Logistics as a key partner to advance its decarbonisation strategy in the UK.

Under the new partnership, XPO Logistics will deploy state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz eActros electric vehicles, converting more than 1 million road kilometres annually from diesel to battery electric. This transition represents a reduction of over 1,200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year from PepsiCo’s transport operations — a critical step on the road to net zero emissions by 2050.

But sustainability is about more than just trucks. At the heart of the initiative is XPO Logistics’ proprietary CO₂ Reporting Dashboard, a cutting-edge tool powered by AI-driven scenario modelling, live data analytics, and proactive planning insights. This system enables PepsiCo to track, verify, and optimise carbon reduction strategies in real-time, while improving logistics efficiency and service to customers.

Dan Myers, Managing Director – UK and Ireland, XPO Logistics, said: “Sustainability is in our DNA. We are proud to partner with PepsiCo on this journey, combining investment in electric mobility with advanced technology and operational excellence. Our shared ambition goes beyond compliance — it’s about transformation. I believe this is just the beginning of what we can achieve together.”

This collaboration forms a key part of PepsiCo’s broader decarbonisation journey, demonstrating how purposeful partnerships can accelerate climate action and improve value chain resilience. With shared values, shared investment, and a shared vision, PepsiCo and XPO Logistics are delivering a positive impact for consumers, the supply chain, and the planet.

Heiko Selzam, Managing Director, Daimler Truck UK, said: “We are very proud to strengthen our partnership further with XPO Logistics with this order of our award-winning eActros 600s for the PepsiCo partnership. This commitment underscores the recognition of both companies of the critical role these vehicles will play in achieving their sustainability goals. Following extensive collaboration, this order firmly establishes the eActros 600 as a leading solution in the electric truck market. We are looking forward to seeing these trucks operational from 1 August.”

Andrew Smethurst, UK Logistics Director, PepsiCo, said, “XPO Logistics has shown itself to be the ideal partner to help advance our PepsiCo Positive ambition. From their industry-leading sustainability credentials to a strong safety culture and transparent operational model, their team has consistently delivered innovation and value. This new partnership will play a vital role in further reducing our logistics emissions as we move iconic products like Walkers crisps and Doritos to our customers across the UK.”

XPO Logistics is a leading innovative supply chain company in Europe, offering end-to-end logistics solutions that combine full-truckload, less-than-truckload, pallet distribution, last-mile delivery, global freight forwarding, and warehousing services. The company tailors its solutions to the specific needs of its customers in a wide range of industrial and consumer sectors.

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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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How is the maritime sector navigating the twin pressures of decarbonisation and digitalisation? What role do regulation, education, and innovation play in steering global shipping toward a greener future?

In this edition of Logistics Business Conversations, host Peter MacLeod, editor of Logistics Business Magazine, welcomes Anna Kaparaki – senior solicitor, DBA researcher in maritime decarbonisation, and Course Director for the MSc Sustainable Maritime Operations at Liverpool John Moores University.
Together, they explore the seismic shift taking place across the maritime industry as it races to meet net-zero targets, comply with evolving international regulations, and embrace the circular economy.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and digital twins are enabling greener, more efficient maritime operations
• The growing complexity of global and regional sustainability regulations — from IMO frameworks to the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime
• Why education and training are critical to preparing the next generation of maritime professionals
• Real-world decarbonisation case studies, from wind-assisted propulsion to methanol-fueled container ships
• Strategies for implementing circular economy principles and sustainable ship recycling
• The impact of international maritime law and insurance on green compliance
• Career opportunities in ESG compliance, green finance, and maritime sustainability management
• The role of ports, intermodal systems, and digital platforms in building more resilient, lower-carbon supply chains

As Anna says, “Technology alone won’t solve these challenges. We need professionals who can integrate technical, legal and commercial knowledge to lead maritime’s sustainable transition.”
Whether you’re a maritime professional, policy expert, student, or logistics leader, this conversation offers practical insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the shipping industry’s net-zero journey.

Listen now: Logistics Business Conversations – The Logistics Podcast

This episode is in partnership with Lloyd’s Maritime Academy and Liverpool John Moores University

The post Podcast: Sailing Towards Net Zero – Maritime Operations appeared first on Logistics Business.

Strategic Growth and Operational Efficiency

Built for strategic growth, the new facility in Vianen features a warehouse space of 5,865 m² and 816 m² of office space. It offers extensive operational benefits compared to the previous location. It includes ten dock doors for trailers – one equipped with a scissor lift and nine with loose load capabilities. A new sorting machine significantly increases efficiency, with a maximum sorting capacity of 3,600 parcels per hour. Thanks to 48 direct loading positions for vans at the conveyor belt, parcel processing is now faster and ergonomically improved.

Advanced Technology

The facility is equipped with new technologies, including parcel X-ray, a customs cage, and a designated aviation security area for processing secure air freight. Additionally, the site features a caster deck to efficiently unload unit load devices from trailers. These improvements enable faster parcel handling and delivery, while the advanced sorting system automatically detects whether shipments have been cleared by customs. Moreover, the planning department is located on-site, allowing for optimal freight scheduling.

With an A-level energy label and FedEx’s broader goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040, the facility has been designed with sustainability in mind. It includes fourteen charging stations for electric vehicles and four charging points for the general public. The site is also equipped with LED lighting and automated lighting sensors to minimize energy consumption. FedEx has scheduled an initial three electric vehicles for deployment in 2025, as part of the company’s phased approach to electrification.

An Improved Working Environment

Beyond operational efficiency and sustainability, FedEx is also investing in a comfortable and safe working environment. In addition to ergonomic workstations, modern office facilities, and a customer desk for enhanced service and direct shipments, the Vianen facility incorporates advanced safety measures. These include a security cage and weekly training sessions to ensure a secure workplace.

“Our new facility in Vianen plays a crucial role in optimising our first- and last-mile operations, enabling us to serve our customers even better,” said Ron Willemsen, managing director ground operations, Benelux at FedEx. “We are proud of the sustainable and innovative solutions this location offers. The opening of the new facility in Vianen highlights our commitment to customer focus, efficiency, and environmentally friendly logistics. We continue to invest in solutions to strengthen our position as a leading logistics service provider.”

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