New partnership will accelerate Al Naboodah Group’s business-to-business trade, providing visibility of products at the click of a button
DUBUY.com has welcomed the UAE’s Al Naboodah Group onto its wholesale e-commerce platform to help accelerate its growth, by providing instant access to new markets via its online business-to-business marketplace.
Al Naboodah Group, one of the oldest family conglomerates in the Middle East, will partner with DP World’s innovative and trusted platform DUBUY.com to sell its diverse portfolio of brands. By providing end-to-end supply chain solutions, DUBUY.com will provide a gateway for the group of companies to enter new international markets.
The product-led parts of Al Naboodah Group, such as the electrical, agriculture and auto-parts divisions, will see benefits in the partnership and thanks to the collaboration with DUBUY.com, customers registered on the platform will be able to buy wholesale products across a variety of categories from Al Naboodah Group at the click of a button. It will also provide a secure and reliable supply chain for getting the goods from A to B, through DP World’s global ports and logistics network.
Commenting on the partnership, Mahmood Al Bastaki, COO of Digital Trade Solutions at DP World, said: “We are proud to welcome Al Naboodah Group to DUBUY.com and we are looking forward to building a long term mutually beneficial partnership here. By being part of the platform, Al Naboodah Group will enjoy greater visibility and access to markets such as Africa to accelerate its growth. It will also enable them to trade using a unique combination of advanced technology and DP World physical infrastructure – which includes reliable fulfilment, secure financial transactions and the safe movement of goods.
“DUBUY.com has been operating as a trusted online marketplace for buyers and sellers since November 2021, and in this relatively short time, we have accrued more than 10,000 registered customers, 2,000 registered vendors, and have facilitated the trade of more than 1.4 million products every day. This latest news is a testament to the major growth in e-commerce solutions, and we’re proud at DP World to be at the forefront of digital innovation.
“We have no doubt that Al Naboodah will grow their business further, and we look forward to more UAE companies joining our platform to open up to the rest of the world,” Al Bastaki added.
This fully integrated e-commerce platform brings buyers and sellers together with a single window for transactions, payment and delivery; cross-border business-to-business (B2B) settlement, as well as domestic B2B and business-to-consumer (B2C) capabilities. Al Naboodah Group joins a diverse range of businesses already trading on the e-commerce platform.
Swaidan Saeed Juma Al Naboodah, Chairman of Al Naboodah Commercial Group, said: “As a leading Group of companies with a strong heritage in the UAE, we are honoured to start the cooperation with the e-commerce platform DUBUY.com by DP World. We are proud to strengthen our strategic partnership with DP World, by growing the strong roots we have cemented in the UAE, by expanding into new markets. The technology and the scale that DP World provides via DUBUY.com is unprecedented and we are looking forward to the mutual rewards both parties will benefit from when it comes to providing greater breadth of products for buyers across muti-territories at the click of a button. We will enjoy greater access to key markets – such as Africa – and we are proud to be able to scale our operations with a trusted platform.”
Indoor multi-purpose vertical farming platform for fresh produce in partnership with ZERO marks the operational phase of ADQ’s AgTech Park
Project tests and adapts breakthrough technologies under local climate conditions to transform the nation’s food and agricultural landscape
ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company, announced the operational phase of its cutting-edge AgTech Park ecosystem with the launch of a vertical farming project in partnership with ZERO, a high-impact technology company headquartered in Italy. The ZERO project is the first of several controlled environment agricultural concepts that will be housed in the AgTech Park and will aim to enhance indoor farming locally, as well as explore and push the boundaries of desert-climate farming in the UAE.
The inaugural farming facility is situated in KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi Group), the UAE’s largest operator and developer of fully integrated and specialized economic zones. KEZAD has a well-established ecosystem for food industries across the entire value chain, thereby creating a strong base for growth, both for local producers and the food industry as a whole. Additional sites exploring different technologies will be launched in Al Ain Industrial City within the coming year.
Set to strengthen the local production of crops, fruits and vegetables for multiple applications including fresh food, nutraceuticals and biopharmaceuticals, the first joint project between ADQ and ZERO draws on the benefits of growing crops in vertical layers in a controlled environment, which includes higher yield, shorter growing times and lower water usage, in addition to bringing the production of a wider variety of fresh produce geographically closer to the UAE’s consumers.
The ZERO project is retrofitted in a 1,000 sqm warehouse and will achieve an initial production volume of approximately 10 tons per year at the proof-of-concept stage. This pilot phase is expected to conclude in the summer of 2023, following which a 40,000 sqm commercial phase of the vertical farm is envisaged to be launched in Al Ain, alongside other projects featuring controlled-environment technologies. At full scale, the 200-hectare AgTech Park will target production volumes of over 40 kilotons of fresh fruits and vegetables annually, which would account for up to 6 per cent and 12 per cent, respectively, of the UAE’s total consumption and import of the produce grown within the park.
The announcement of ADQ’s agricultural facility entering the operational stage follows the UAE President’s declaration of 2023 as the “Year of Sustainability”. Aiming to spearhead a variety of sustainable farming techniques and localize the food supply chain in line with the National Food Security Strategy 2051, the park was first revealed in August 2021 and is estimated to contribute more than 7 per cent to the UAE’s agriculture GDP once operating at full scale.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamsi, Managing Director and AD Ports Group CEO, said: “We are pleased to host Zero Farms as part of ADQ’s AgTech Park. KEZAD has a well-established ecosystem for food industries that spans the entire value chain with a strong base for growth for both local producers and the food industry as a whole. Working alongside KEZAD’s Food Processing Ecosystem, Abu Dhabi Food Hub, and Al Rawabi’s dairy complex, the project will contribute to the National Food Security Programme and help establish Abu Dhabi and the UAE as the regional hub for food.”
Gil Adotevi, Executive Director of Food and Agriculture at ADQ, said: “As our vision of creating a state-of-the-art AgTech Park takes shape with the support of ZERO, one of our trusted partners, we are harnessing technology to create a controlled environment that advances the UAE’s ability to grow fresh, nutritious and tastier foods year-round. The breakthrough technology utilized in the park for the first time in the UAE explores new solutions to help tackle the challenge of sustainably farming in arid and desert climates, allowing us to contribute to not only shortening but also ‘greening’ the food value chain, which is top of the agenda for policymakers around the world as we progress on our net zero journey.”
Daniele Modesto, Chief Executive Officer, ZERO, said: “Vertical farms respond to the urgent need to rethink agriculture, making it more environmentally friendly and sustainable in a world prioritizing the responsible use of resources. We are exceptionally proud to partner with ADQ as a forward thinker in the local food and agriculture sector to bring our vertical farming capabilities to the UAE. The collaboration allows us to play a role in building one of the most diversified indoor farming facilities in the region that will contribute to realizing the nation’s food security strategy.”
As the nation is making strides towards strengthening self-sufficiency in critical sectors, ADQ has anchored itself as a leader in the food and agriculture sector as part of its vision to drive Abu Dhabi’s resilience for future generations, uniting national champions with regional growth ambitions and home-grown brands addressing market gaps within its thriving priority clusters.
New Institute to generate strategic insights that help global business leaders integrate fragmented operational efforts and transform their supply chains
Institute to draw on expertise of leading supply chain experts at global consulting firm
With interest in supply chain resilience and excellence at an all-time high, leading global management consulting firm Kearney was pleased to announce today the formation of the new Kearney Supply Chain Institute. The Institute adds to Kearney’s legacy as the pioneering management consulting firm in the operations and supply chain space.
“Understandably, supply chains have been a regular topic of discussion in the news and top of mind for executives over the past few years,” said Kearney associate partner Rupal Deshmukh, a supply chain expert who will serve as the global lead for the Institute. “Supply chain excellence has long been critical to business success, and now more than ever there is a strong need for agile end-to-end supply chains to avoid disruption and supply shocks while ensuring that product gets to market in a timely fashion. We look forward to the Kearney Supply Chain Institute being a valuable partner to businesses seeking to navigate these challenges.”
“Kearney has a proud history as the global leader in supply chain consulting, and we remain on the leading edge in an age where human intelligence, AI, and automation are combining to create supply chains that power growth, control costs, improve resilience, and enhance sustainability,” added Kearney partner Suketu Gandhi, global lead of the firm’s operations and performance practice. “The Institute will help us to place new emphasis on our position as the authority on supply chain foresights and leading operational practices by generating critical strategic insights for global business leaders.”
The Kearney Supply Chain Institute will help to promote the firm’s legacy operations studies and competitions, including the annual Assessment of Excellence in Procurement (AEP), Global Factory of the Year competition, Reshoring Index report, and State of Logistics Report. Additionally, the Institute will highlight Kearney’s latest operations and supply chain content, such as a new study conducted in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) that surveyed more than 100 executives from large organizations. This study, “Optimism in operations: why COOs are the key to corporate regeneration,” reveals that forward-thinking COOs are setting their sights on making operations more resilient, investing in innovation and sustainability, and building groundbreaking partnerships with their suppliers.
Kearney will also use the Institute to promote efforts like our work with the World Economic Forum, which led to the creation of The Resiliency Compass, a framework companies use to assess their value chain resilience across eight key dimensions. Moreover, the Institute will partner with Kearney’s Global Business Policy Council, which translates macro insights at the market, sector, and firm level to improve strategic planning and performance.
A newly formed board of advisors from outside of the firm will help to ensure that the Kearney Supply Chain Institute focuses on the most critical and timely topic areas.
Honouring winners of the “Matari” Sharjah Airport for Organizational Excellence Award
Sharjah Airport Authority hosted its annual ceremony at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention to commemorate its achievements in 2022 and to honour the employees that contributed to this success. The event was held under the presence of His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, His Excellency Sheikh Faisal Bin Saoud Al Qassimi, Director of Sharjah Airport Authority, and directors of departments. Winners of the second edition of Sharjah Airport for Organizational Excellence Award ‘Matari’ were also honoured during the ceremony.
The annual ceremony commenced with highlighting the journey of Sharjah Airport Authority last year. Subsequently, H.E. AL Midfa delivered a speech commending the persevering efforts of their employees during 2022, which was regarded as a year to reach the excellence matching the pre-pandemic level. In addition, he lauded the unity and coordination within the Authority, which assisted in attaining the Authority’s goals and encouraged them to maintain their excellence and readiness to provide innovative and creative ideas.
Furthermore, H.E Bin Saoud Al Qassimi delivered a speech emphasising the commitment and tireless efforts of the Authority’s staff that ensured distinctive travel experiences and services for the passengers. Followed by the speech, the UAE Choir performed a song titled ‘Heartbeats’, which expressed gratitude and admiration towards His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his wise directives and vision.
Additionally, the event included the honouring of the winners of Sharjah Airport for Organizational Excellence Award ‘Matari’, which aims to encourage and support employees to secure highest global standards in institutional excellence and leadership. The award also seeks to promote innovation, highlight exceptional talents and competencies, developing the Authority’s operations, and evaluating the efforts of various departments in managing their activities and initiatives. The Award includes several categories, namely, Distinguished Management category, Excellent Working Team, Best Innovative Idea, Best Leader Award, Best Supervisory Officer Award, Best Customer Service Employee Award, Best Specialized Employee Award, Best Innovative Employee Award, Best Administrative Support Employee Award, and Best New Employee Award. Apart from these categories, the Chairman directly honoured employees for their efforts and achievements in all fields.
H.E. Al Midfa said: “The annual ceremony celebrations coincide with the announcement of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, to mark 2023 as the year for sustainability. The event further signifies the robust commitment of Sharjah Airport Authority to the vision of the wise leadership and our efforts to adopt sublime principles to adopt eco-friendly practices to meet the objectives of our unique strategy based on innovation and sustainability.”
“The year 2022 has been outstanding in terms of statistics and qualitative accomplishments and accreditations. This has enabled us to fulfil our vision, which prioritises the passenger’s experience. Additionally, we constantly strive to provide passengers with seamless and convenient experiences to ensure highest levels of customer satisfaction, thus positioning Sharjah Airport as the most preferred airport for travelling, among leading regional airports,” he said.
Furthermore, H.E. Al Midfa applauded the winners of ‘Matari’, Sharjah Airport for Organizational Excellence Award, and said: “We look forward to popularising the culture of excellence and innovation in all aspects of institutional operations. We encourage everyone to keep up their diligent efforts to uphold the Airport’s leading position and the reputation and trust we have garnered from our customers over the years.”
From his side, H.E. Bin Saoud Al Qassimi, said: “Sharjah Airport Authority constantly strengthens its leadership both domestically and internationally each year, particularly owing to its cadres, advanced infrastructure, technological and digital developments, and smart solutions. The Authority is keen on staying updated with new developments in the aviation and tourism industries by leveraging cutting-edge technologies, recognising the importance of constant growth and development as well as prioritising the sustainability goals across its operations.”
“We further aim to promote factors of our success and achievements and to motivate all our employees to be a significant part of the growth and leadership journey of Sharjah Airport Authority. Through this strategy, we aim to continue the present accomplishments and move towards a positive future,” he said.
It is worth noting that, the ‘Matari’ award launched by Sharjah Airport Authority in 2020, received an immense support in its first edition and become a success. The Award has since developed into a motivating factor and incentive for staff members to consistently put forth their best efforts to achieve the Authority’s strategic goals.
As a cargo expert operating on behalf of airlines since 1998, ECS Group has a proven track record in Total Cargo Management. Dedicated to this all-inclusive service, the All-In ability makes ECS Group more than ever before the GSSA to be reckoned with in today’s troubled market.
Designed and continuously updated according to airlines’ feedback and needs, All-In offers the most comprehensive air cargo management solution in the industry in line with ECS Group’s Augmented GSSA strategy.
With 15 employees dedicated to All-In based at its headquarters, ECS Group is currently operating on behalf of 9 airlines, in 180 airports and from a steadily growing number of live stations – currently 217 – that are being audited on a regular basis. This organization, combined with ECS Group’s high standards of service, has enabled the GSSA to successfully maintain stable contracts while gaining news ones. This stability, largely due to the GSSA’s great level of expertise and reliability, also testifies to a genuine market demand. In spite of a sharp change from excess demand to excess supply within a few months, ECS Group managed 2300 tons of cargo on behalf airlines under All-In contracts in 2022.
Considering today’s testing market conditions, delegating their operations to a trustworthy partner can be a strategic move for airlines. Signing up to All-In can allow them to focus on unexpected difficulties and pressing challenges knowing their day-to-day cargo operations are in good hands. Another significant advantage to this solution is the cost saving aspect: the absence of structure costs as ECS Group supplies its own staff, the sales optimization through the GSSA’s market coverage and interline potential, and the insurance of a guaranteed annual revenue as capacities are purchased by the GSSA.
In this respect, ECS Group is expecting a 30% rise in All-In tonnage in 2023 due to a strong increase in airlines’ frequency in this post-pandemic period. The activity of leisure carriers is indeed due to intensify leading to more capacity and business opportunities for the GSSA. Robert Van De Weg, Chief Commercial Officer of ECS Group explains: “2023 will be a very tough year market-wise for cargo but it will be good for the passenger side. So, it will be an interesting year, as passenger capacity continues to expand and new carriers aiming to benefit from this passenger boom will need solutions to get revenues from cargo as a by-product. With that in mind, it will make total sense for these airlines to consider ECS Group’s All-In.”
Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group adds: “With 25 years’ experience in cargo, ECS Group is the original TCM provider to airlines and we are more than ready to satisfy the current growing demand from airlines. We know the cargo business inside out, we have the expertise to handle all its intricacies and specificities. We actually have an airline mindset. That’s why airlines trust us with their cargo. They know we can rise to the challenge as we excel both on the commercial and the operational front.”
Showcases key product offerings and channel partner programmes at the Middle East Energy Exhibition 2023
Himel, the award-winning global manufacturer and supplier of electrical products, participated in the recently concluded Middle East Energy (MEE) Exhibition 2023 in Dubai, UAE.
The brand showcased its comprehensive portfolio of products and projects for residential, commercial and industrial sectors.
The Himel Pavilion displayed key product offerings in low voltage power distribution, final distribution, industrial automation, energy management and home electric categories.
Solar range of products
The attractions included the recently launched solar range of products and smart series for appliance automation along with live Reactive Power Compensation Control cabinet and earth leakage demo of Himel’s Residual Current Circuit Breaker, according to a corporate press communique.
“At Himel, our commitment to value engineering is at the heart of everything we do. Through our vast portfolio, we are facilitating access to affordable and reliable electrical products required for the safer infrastructure of homes, commercial spaces, and industrial facilities,” affirmed Shrinivas Chebbi, Global Business Head, Himel.
Expansion
The company has also recently expanded its distribution and retail network multifold, creating robust ecosystem in Middle East and Africa. During the exhibition, Himel welcomed new retail channels Danube Group, one of the largest suppliers in the UAE for building materials and home interiors and Homesmiths, the leading home improvement store chain in UAE.
” Leveraging our on-ground and digital marketing capabilities and resources, we aim to support our network in a wholesome way,” asserted Vibha Thusu, the company’s Global Head of Marketing and Communication.
“At Himel, we believe in building strong alliances with our channel partners to provide the best possible solutions to end-customers,” noted Onur Ural, Head of Channel Marketing & Management.
7000 horses made their way through the Horse Inn at Liège Airport in 2022, and onto carefully planned charters flying to the world’s equestrian events at destinations such as Doha, Mexico, Miami, New York, or Shanghai. From racehorses to dressage or thoroughbreds, Challenge Handling has handled them all. The Challenge Group subsidiary has been running the Horse Inn since the state-of-the-art facility was opened in 2016. It is the sole operator serving the entire Liège cargo community and enjoys an excellent standing among leading specialised horse shippers, forwarders, and international airlines, alike. That reputation reaches beyond the Belgian borders. European horse transports to the world’s leading events primarily pass through the Wallonian airport.
“The infrastructure we have at the Horse Inn is unique within Europe,” says David Alexis, General Manager of Challenge Handling in Liège. “Every aspect, from the size of the 55 individual horse stalls to the specific type of feed and cleaning products, is in alignment with the strict regulations and requirements stipulated by leading equestrian bodies. Horses are highly sensitive and valuable, requiring complex handling and ultimate comfort, particularly if they are being flown to compete in prestigious events. Our specialised staff ensure top quality, VIP service.” Not only does the Horse Inn serve as a place for horses to rest prior to their flight or further road transport, but it also offers affordable accommodation for their accompanying grooms, with good connections to restaurants and other facilities in the vicinity. Around-the-clock access to vets and dedicated customs procedures complete the service. Liège’s proximity to Europe’s largest airports such as Amsterdam, London, Paris, and Frankfurt, adds to its suitability.
“The wellbeing of any animal is in our corporate culture. Respect and the correct care and protection is ensured by assiduous, trained staff, who are experts in handling all kinds of animals – with the strict exception of any animals intended for laboratory use, as per Challenge Group’s ethical code of conduct,” says Hay Sasson, Chief Operating Officer of Challenge Group. “Our expertise has meanwhile established Liège as one of the best gateways in the world for horses. Not only is Challenge Handling an Olympics partner for horse transports to locations outside Europe, but we were also proud, in 2022, to be appointed to continue to run the Horse Inn for another five years. And our Challenge Airlines, too, are regularly entrusted with some of the world’s most valuable horse transports. In 2022 we carried around 5000 horses on our own aircrafts.”
Several Challenge Handling customers wrote reference letters to Liège Airport when the management of the Horse Inn came up for renewal in 2022: “We would highly recommend and request the airport authorities not to change winning teams and to keep Challenge Handling as operator of the facility, and even to make the use of the Horse Inn compulsory for all live equine shipments through Liège Airport. This is in the interest of animal safety and wellbeing” was Belgian-based European Horse Services’ recommendation. Others, such as Janah Management Company Ltd, commended the professional expertise of the staff, and the cleanliness of the facility.
Challenge Group’s many years of specialised equine experience in the air and on the ground, has led it to invest in and develop its own horse stalls as well as a unique, horse trailer prototype to transfers the animals from the Horse Inn to the aircraft and vice versa. While Challenge Airlines IL was awarded CEIV Live in September 2022, Challenge Handling’s separate, official certification is due to be presented later this year.
Shipsy, a leading global SaaS-based logistics management platform provider, announced that it had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Monsha’at, the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to support Saudi Vision 2030.
This development took place at the sideline of the recently concluded Beban 23 Forum, the Kingdom’s largest start-up, SME, and entrepreneurship conference.
The MoU highlighted that Shipsy would offer its technology at a significant concession for all customers channeled through Muntajat. The leading logistics SaaS provider also earmarked an investment worth US$ 10mn over 5 years in the region to drive technology innovation and research and development.
The Kingdom’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are most important in supporting the national economy. SMEs in KSA will increase exports, create new job opportunities for Saudi youth, diversify sources of income and expand the production base in line with the Saudi Vision 2030.
This MoU’s objective will be to develop and support SMEs and entrepreneurship under the laws and regulations in force in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and commensurate with the available resources, aiming to drive growth and economic diversification.
“Technologies like AI, automation, ML, IoT, Blockchain and data analytics will create numerous employment opportunities and unlock efficiencies that will help logistics stakeholders build sustainable, agile and cost-efficient logistics processes,” noted Soham Chokshi, CEO and Co-Founder, Shipsy.
As part of the event and the Seatrade Maritime Offshore Marine & Workboats Forum, industry experts will highlight the growth prospects in the sector and several challenges faced
Held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, the flagship event of the UAE Maritime Week, will shed light on the region’s offshore marine sector that is an increasingly important market segment within the maritime sector.
Scheduled to be held on 16-18 May 2023, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the conference and exhibition will delve into the fundamentals of the sector as part of the “Seatrade Maritime Offshore Marine & Workboats Forum” that will be hosted on 18th May.
Evolution of the Offshore Marine Sector
Oil and gas supply is the major driver for the demand of offshore vessels and structures. Thus, the oil and gas sector is vital to the offshore marine segment both in the UAE and around the globe.
Currently, the UAE stands among the world’s top 10 largest oil producers. The country produces an average of 3.2 million barrels of petroleum and liquids per day. Approximately 13 per cent of the country’s exports come directly from oil and gas, representing about 30 per cent of the country’s GDP. Key players such as Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) have thus been integral to the growth of both the oil and gas and the offshore marine sectors.
Jamil Al Ali, Middle East Regional Commercial & Business Development Director, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore said:“As the oil and gas sector continues to be a priority sector in the UAE and beyond, the offshore marine sector will always stay relevant. With that said, the constant evolution of the maritime sector has caused a trickle effect in the offshore sector too, whether it is digitalization or sustainability, both in terms of operations and the environment. While adapting to the changing times, we at BV invest heavily in research and development, helping our experts gain a deeper knowledge of maritime conditions, and improving our suite of software programs, contributing to the development of our offshore marine clients.”
Determining Pain Points and Solutions
As part of the event that has four key segments, including “Seatrade Maritime Business Excellence Forum”, “Seatrade Maritime Logistics Excellence Forum” and “Seatrade Maritime ShipTech Forum”, the Seatrade Maritime Offshore Marine & Workboats Forum” will explore offshore marine projects in the region, the flow of foreign investment, and the marine support vessel market.
Andrew Williams, President, Maritime Group, Informa Markets said: “With the developments in the oil and gas industries, the offshore marine sector is laden with a great variety of opportunities., though it has its own set of challenges too. Via the newly introduced forum, at Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, we will be bringing to light the numerous opportunities and roadblocks associated with the sector to help further its success.”
Fazel Fazelbhoy, CEO, Synergy Offshore and Chair of the Seatrade Maritime Offshore Marine & Workboat Forum said: “After seven years in the wilderness, the OSV market has finally started emerging from the trough that it’s been in since 2014. 2022 was a turnaround year, with utilisation moving into the upper 80-percentile-levels towards the end of the year. Rates have also finally started inching upwards, which augurs well for 2023. This means we are now on the cusp of the next ‘super cycle’.
Swisslog, a leading provider of automated intralogistics solutions, is rebranding to better reflect its position in the digital and dynamic world of the future. At the heart of the rebranding is a new logo design that has been optimized for the digital era. It builds on the strengths of the existing logo that served Swisslog largely unchanged for the last 25 years.
“The new digital brand fits the direction of our business. Swisslog is becoming more digitalized, through the solutions we provide and in the way they are deployed and serviced,” says Antonio Trioschi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Swisslog, “We are proud to be launching a fresh brand that drives this commitment across the logistics automation industry, representing Swisslog’s core strategy of creating exceptional value for our customers.”, through the solutions we provide and in the way they are deployed and serviced,” says Antonio Trioschi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Swisslog, “We are proud to be launching a fresh brand that drives this commitment across the logistics automation industry, representing Swisslog’s core strategy of creating exceptional value for our customers.”
Agile and future-ready
The shape of the new logo is adaptive, reflecting the digital world of today and tomorrow. Through movement, it reflects the dynamic world of logistics. It is modern, agile and future-ready. A strong ‘S’ element of the new logo design is a bold signifier of Swisslog as a provider of innovative, data-driven and robotic solutions, setting new standards in warehouse automation. The design also reflects the bold, self-confident and passionate personality of Swisslog and its people.
Powering growth – empowering people
“Our rebranding strategy further positions Swisslog as a future shaper in logistics automation, but it is also about much more,” Trioschi continues. “It also reflects the strength and expertise of our people. Our colleagues are at the heart of everything we do, and we want our customers to know that they can count on Swisslog to deliver solutions that are backed by the expertise and knowledge of our team.”
As a mark of recognition of the central importance of Swisslog’s people to the strength of its brand, the rebrand was pre-launched to colleagues on 9th March 2023. Experience the change today @swisslog.com.
Nearly 9,500 guests have registered to be a part of the first digital GROHE X Summit
Two keynotes, one panel talk, one masterclass and three fact snacks looked at the question of when we call a place home
Experts and senior GROHE brand representatives shared first-hand insights on trends that are shaping the future of our homes
Keynotes, panel talks, masterclasses and more: during the first GROHE X Summit Under the theme “Caring for Water”, GROHE leadership, experts, researchers and business leaders came together to discuss the numerous social, economic and environmental issues we face today. The three-day event focused on the question of when we call a place home, as well as looking at how our homes have evolved and will evolve in the future. The Summit was packed with unique insights, inspiring conversations and exciting discussions. “Water is the basis of life and our shared passion – and it needs protection, now more than ever”, said Jonas Brennwald, Leader, LIXIL EMENA, as he welcomed viewers, guests and experts to the GROHE X digital experience hub, where the digital event took place through the 3 days.
The summit welcomed many experts in the field, one of which was Elina Hiltunen, Finnish researcher and advisor on future thinking. Her work over the past twenty years has resulted in the analysis that the keys to the future are anticipation, innovation and communications. In her keynote, Elina brought numerous techniques and all her knowledge to the important question of how we can anticipate the future to find a better way forward.
The summit also shed light on the question of: How do we envision the home of tomorrow? A question so fundamental to GROHE’s business and the industry in general that it was discussed by a roundtable of experts: Jonas Brennwald, Leader, LIXIL EMENA; Katrin Franzen-Löhning, Leader Market Research, LIXIL EMENA; Gudy Herder, Futurist; and Steve Collinge, Managing Director at Insight Retail Group. They discussed trends, consumer behavior and scientific research on the matter. Katrin Franzen-Löhning concluded: “There is a higher need for relaxation and conscious me-time; and when we look at sustainability, it’s not a trend any longer. It is really an obligation for all of us. Consumers look for products that save money and water.”
First masterclass analyzed the influence of megatrends on product design
In the event’s first masterclass entitled “Adapted to our needs: Interior design and products for new spaces” LIXIL experts Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design EMENA, and Carina Buhlert, Leader LIXIL Global Design Brand Environment, discussed the needs and forces that drive changing consumer expectations. For GROHE, the megatrends that determine these drivers are urbanization, sustainability, and health and wellbeing. In fact, many of the current trends in interior design can be traced back to the workings of these forces. Both Carina Buhlert and Patrick Speck explained that “GROHE tries to reflect a personal and ever-growing individuality and style within its product portfolio, with different finishes, sub-brands and technological innovations. Through our products we want to empower that sense of belonging – because in the end home is a feeling.”
Key companies from the UAE take centre stage at `The Bright World of Metals’ expos in Dusseldorf to explore global trade partnerships
World’s leading international trade fair quartet – GIFA, METEC, THERMPROCESS and NEWCAST to take place in Düsseldorf, Germany during June 12-16 2023
In the backdrop of the accelerated energy transition to achieve the Net Zero goal by 2050 as well as the exponential growth in infrastructure development and construction activities in the UAE, the minerals and metals industry is estimated to grow at a rate of over 3 per cent, touching an estimated value of nearly US$10 billion by 2025, industry experts said today.
At a press conference to announce participation of companies from the UAE and the region at the upcoming trade fair quartet, `The Bright World of Metals’ expos in Dusseldorf, Germany – GIFA, METEC, THERMPROCESS and NEWCAST – spokespersons said the severe disruptions the industry experienced during the COVID pandemic period with sharp fall in volumes and growth rates is being reversed now.
“From a period when production volumes were in negative to the current growth phase and the future prospects, the industry is on a turnaround with demand continuing to pick up from a host of economic sectors including construction and building materials, infrastructure etc. The Metallurgical and Foundry industries form the backbone of development in any economy, and the UAE with the fast-paced economic expansion will open diverse opportunities for the industry to grow,” said Friedrich-Georg Kehrer, Global Portfolio Director, Messe Dusseldorf.
`The Bright World of Metals’ expos comprise four leading global trade fairs under one canopy – the casting technology show, GIFA, metallurgy-focused METEC, industrial thermal processing technology, THERMPROCESS and the customized cast products show, NEWCAST.
Elaborating on the Middle East participation at `The Bright World of Metals,’ expos slated during June 12-16, 2023, he said that three blue-chip companies from the UAE have announced their participation to explore trade partnerships and business opportunities in the overall growth scenario.
The three key companies participating at the expo include Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), which is the world’s largest premium aluminium producer and the biggest industrial company in the UAE outside the oil and gas sector. Other companies are Ducast, Middle East’s leading manufacturer and supplier of manhole covers, gratings and municipal castings, and steel products’ trading company Wirex FZE.
The Bright World of Metals’ expos will be a platform where the paradigm change the industry is passing through will be highlighted, including new technologies, rising demands made on energy efficiency and the desire for careful handling of resources along the entire value chain for industries.
The importance of promoting circular economy will also be part of the discussions at the expo in the backdrop of supply chain disruptions during COVID as well as from geopolitical challenges such as Ukraine war and dependency on imports compared to in-country secure production and supplies.
“Our trade fair quartet is well known as the gateway to the world market. It is only here in Düsseldorf that decision-makers, experts, supplier to, and users in these industries can obtain a complete overview, exchange ideas and design trends for the markets of the future at not one but four trade fairs,” added Kehrer.
Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has opened a brand-new distribution center in Indianapolis, USA, which was officially inaugurated on March 1. From the new site, Hellmann handles all contract logistics services for its long-standing customer Endress+Hauser in North America. The approx. 50,000 sq. ft. distribution center, from where Endress+Hauser´s customers in the US and Canada are supplied, is a state-of-the-art new build in the ideal location just minutes from the client’s facility and from the airport.
Hellmann has been operating a consolidation and distribution center in Germany for the Swiss group Endress+Hauser since 2014, being responsible for the global supply of B2B markets. Based on the very successful cooperation, the two companies decided to expand their partnership overseas. In a first step, Hellmann took over large parts of the CL-business for Endress+Hauser in Mexico in May of last year. Since August 2022, the Germany-based service provider has also been handling all of Endress+Hauser’s contract logistics in North America from the new site in Indianapolis, including warehousing and cross-docking operations.
“We are very pleased that we can now support Endress+Hauser on its growth path also in the Americas. Thanks to the long-standing and very trustful cooperation, our two teams have been able to realize a smooth start in Indianapolis and I am convinced that we will continue to expand together in the years to come,” says Volker Sauerborn, Chief Operating Officer Contract Logistics, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.
Massive YANMU East Logistics Park to go operational in August 2023
Hassan Allam Utilities, the investment and development arm of Hassan Allam Holding, and Agility, the industrial development specialist, have formed a joint venture, YANMU, to develop, build and operate modern logistics parks and Grade A warehousing facilities in Egypt.
Hassan Allam Utilities and Agility announced that their first park, YANMU East Logistics Park, is a 270,000sqm site, located on the new Cairo Suez Road, 15 km from Cairo Airport and with proximity to the Ring Road. YANMU East Logistics Park will open in August 2023. A second park, YANMU West Logistics Park, is planned to launch in 2024.
YANMU parks are designed to meet the storage and distribution needs of companies in e-commerce, manufacturing, consumer products, food and beverage, technology, automotive, energy, industrial goods, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors.
Unique location
YANMU East Logistics Park offers Grade A warehousing at a unique, strategic location and provides tenants with 24/7 security, power, connectivity, and facility management. In addition, the facility provides advanced warehouse engineering features, such as 14m ceilings, super-flat floors, efficient docking systems, and docking.
Furthermore, YANMU is a green park incorporating sustainable design, including solar rooftops and other features that reduce power and water use and increase operational efficiency, a press communique stated.
“YANMU will offer Egypt’s most modern, efficient, and sustainable warehousing. We are proud to have strategically partnered with Agility, which has nearly four decades of experience in developing and operating Grade A warehousing across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia,” affirmed Amr Allam, Chairman, Hassan Allam Utilities.
Modern infrastructure
“When it comes to warehousing capacity and distribution capability, Egypt is underserved. YANMU will fill the gap with modern, efficient infrastructure that is going to power growth domestically and strengthen Egypt’s role as a vital trade partner and crossroads,” observed Tarek Sultan, Vice Chairman, Agility.
Both Agility and Hassan Allam Utilities recently announced significant new investments and expansion plans in Egypt.
‘Health through Water’: GROHE SPA invites users to luxurious water rituals, taking advantage of the positive effects on body, mind and soul
For unique wellness spaces: With diverse customization options, GROHE SPA enables the transformation of the bathroom into a home spa tailored to individual needs
Masterpieces for the bathroom: Portfolio encompasses GROHE’s premium products, characterized by the highest quality, cutting-edge technology, unrivalled precision and progressive design
GROHE, a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings, has revitalized its GROHE SPA collection, The GROHE SPA portfolio ranges from elaborate faucet collections, customizable ceiling showers and intricate ceramics to complementary accessories. Progressive designs are combined with carefully selected colors, materials, and finishes to create luxurious home spa experiences.
Taking place from the 18th until 25th of April 2023, visitors can experience GROHE SPA first-hand at Milan Design Week, Located in the Brera district, GROHE SPA will be showcased by a celebration of our true passion for water – through a water surface installation which will reflect the stunning architecture of one of the world’s most prestigious art museums, the Pinacoteca di Brera, while expressing the overall GROHE SPA Health Through Water concept. The exhibition will be complemented by innovative bathroom designs occupying four immersive cubes nestled within the space, each expressing one of our four tiers: exclusive 3D metal-printed products, bespoke Atrio and Allure Brilliant Private Collections, trend-leading GROHE Colors, and a multi-sensory experience for the brand’s shower solutions.
GROHE SPA enables a new level of individual expression in the bathroom. The GROHE Atrio and Allure Brilliant Private Collections in particular present customers with a choice of different color, material, finish and handle options to help them design one-of-a-kind bathroom pieces. In order to enable end-consumers to enjoy an authentic marble style with a high-quality finish, GROHE is partnering with Caesarstone, the global pioneer of premium countertop surfaces, to craft faucet handles in the brand’s timeless and durable quartz designs. Caesarstone has a long-standing reputation for designing and producing high-end engineered surfaces, used in some of the most exclusive residential and commercial buildings around the world. Caesarstone surfaces can also be combined with GROHE SPA Private Collections.
Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design, EMENA, stated: “GROHE SPA products sit at the intersection of premium quality, cutting-edge technology, unrivalled precision, and progressive design. We are driven by a spirit of redefining what is possible, using industry-leading production techniques like 3D metal-printing to create exclusive designs and the ultimate water experience for the bathroom”.
This launch comes from GROHE’s belief that Nothing compares to water and that water is considered a source of vital energy as It can be cleansing, invigorating, healing. Whether it’s the soothing sounds, or the feel on the skin, through our experiences with water, we can switch off from the noise of the outside world – to find peace for body, mind, and soul. It is usually the bathroom that serves as a personal space of retreat where the positive effects of water on the body and mind can be fully embraced. It’s the place for precious me-moments of indulgent bliss where we find hidden strength and new energy.
Richard Morgan appointed as the Regional Managing Director for IMEA
In an effort to strengthen its integrator strategy and serve its customers even better, AP Moller–Maersk (Maersk) has integrated two emerging markets – West & Central Asia and Africa to form a new combined Indian Subcontinent-Middle East-Africa (IMEA) region.
This new region will encompass the core geographies of the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, and Africa, including important markets such as India, Pakistan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Nigeria, Senegal, and Ghana, amongst others.
“This will not only allow us to harvest synergies in these markets in a unified way but also serve our customers better through strengthened offerings and resilient solutions,” stressed the newly appointed Richard Morgan, Managing Director, Maersk IMEA region.
The IMEA region has a geographically strategic location, with the natural advantage of creating hubs for both ocean and air transport that will connect the manufacturing and consumer markets across the globe. Through this, the customers’ supply chains will have further access and ease, creating more efficiency with increased reach and scope, a press statement stated.
The newly launched Smart Performer Eicher Pro 2000 series comes equipped with next-gen smart features
Additional Eicher Pro attributes improve profitability for owners for best-in-class fuel efficiency and superior uptime.
Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (FAMCO), part of Al-Futtaim Automotive and one of the leading dealers of heavy vehicles, commercial vehicles and machinery, recently officially launched the all-new Eicher Pro 2000 series of Light Duty Trucks.
Powering the logistics and intra-city distribution sector of the UAE, the successful launch reinforces the partnership between FAMCO and VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV), a Volvo Group and Eicher Motors Joint Venture.
Eicher Pro2000 series, with a host of next-gen features aimed at significantly improving profitability for owners through best-in-class fuel efficiency and superior uptime. This new range of highly reliable trucks comes equipped with Smart features that help improve operating efficiency as well as enhance driver safety and comfort.
Thoroughly tested
This new range of trucks has been thoroughly tested to deliver best in class performance for customers in the UAE. The modern Eicher Pro2000 series delivers a power of up to 150HP and is designed to meet application-specific customer needs with variants of Eicher.
“These trucks have been designed to deliver superior value proposition to customers in the region with host of smart technologies that enhance operating efficiency and focus on driver comfort and safety,” affirmedVinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VECV.
“As the industry becomes more geared towards smarter technologies that enable better productivity, cost-efficiency, and payloads, the all-new Eicher trucks is perfectly positioned to cater to the diverse needs of our corporate and government customers,” assertedRamez Hamdan, Managing Director, FAMCO.
Big role
With this introduction of Pro 2000 series, the Eicher brand intends to play a big role in the region’s development and would take care of the logistics and transportation needs of the market. This would further enhance the growing contribution of India and is in line with the ongoing effort of strengthening business relationships with the UAE.
“With the introduction of Smart Performer Eicher Pro2000 series of trucks, the focus is on enhancing operating efficiency and driver productivity for both inter-city and intra-city distribution. These comfortable, safe, and dependable trucks offer superior uptime with longer service intervals thus further increasing profitability for our customers,” stated SS Gill, Executive Vice President, International Business, VECV.
Established in the UAE in 1978, Al Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (FAMCO) serves a diverse range of industries and commercial businesses across the transportation, construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, warehousing, and marine sectors.
Reports fourfold increase in newly registered Chinese companies and a 30 percent rise in new Indian companies
DP World’s Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) witnessed the highest customer registrations in a decade, marking a 30 per cent year-on-year growth, and taking the total number of companies to over 9,500 in 2022, the Authority revealed in a press communique.
The Free Zone has created unparalleled opportunities in a variety of sectors through end-to-end logistics solutions, digital trade platforms and access to DP World’s global portfolio offering trade enablement support at every step of the supply chain.
An ideal business hub for diverse industries
During the past 10 years, Jafza has seen a 13-fold increase in logistics customers, while the vehicle and transport segment saw a compound annual growth rate of 26 per cent. The increased reliance on manufacturing, logistics and e-commerce opened new market opportunities for retailers and general traders and created a demand for logistics and transport companies to handle the movement of goods through the Free Zone.
Strengthening ties with key trade markets
China and India remain key trade and economic partners for the Free Zone. The number of newly registered Chinese companies in Jafza saw a massive fourfold increase. The UAE and China have strengthened their relationship through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the UAE-China Economic Partnership.
The total number of new registrations of Indian companies increased by 30 per cent from 2021. DP World’s India-UAE Trade Bridge, and economic partnerships like the UAE-India CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) have increased customers’ confidence in expanding their reach through Jebel Ali.
Expanding trade
The notable increase in newly registered Chinese and Indian companies in the Free Zone has undoubtedly played a vital role in UAE-China trade, valued at AED 264.5bn (US$ 72mn), and that of UAE-India trade at AED 180.9bn (US$ 49.25mn), in 2022, the press statement continued.
“Initiatives such as trade bridges, alongside multimodal connectivity and access to DP World’s global portfolio for end-to-end logistics and supply chain solutions have only enhanced the attractiveness of Jafza to business owners and allowed them to stay ahead of the curve,” affirmed Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World UAE and Jafza.
When it comes to communication, what you see is what you are. Consequently, the same goes for women’s representation in the media. This is Lemon Queen’s deep belief and what motivates the agency to encourage the industry to shed a positive light on women to change mentalities…every day of the year.
Women’s representation in communication and the media in general is key in forging the way they are perceived by our society. This representation can not only have a great influence on opinions but also on the behaviours toward them. Quite often, negative representations using sexist stereotypes worsen the existing inequalities and discrimination.
Yet Lemon Queen believes this trend can and must be reversed since a positive representation of women in all their diversity can help change mentalities for the best and promote sex equality. And who better than a communication agency to have a direct impact on this representation? What better way than using this press release as a platform to get key messages across?
In an ideal world, there wouldn’t be a need for Women’s Day because celebrating all the queens would be common practice. Representing women in a fair and equitable way across all media should be the norm. And Lemon Queen is proud not only that most of its clients share this view and make sure they consistently send positive messages throughout the year but also to collaborate with like-minded media and journalists.
If there are glimmers of hope in the general media, there is, however, still room for improvement for a large part of the air cargo press. While there are many women occupying top positions in the air freight business, they sadly rarely make the front page.
Audrey Serdjebi, CEO of Lemon Queen observes: “The very existence of specific award categories for women is enough to show that there is still work to be done, in our industry as in others, unfortunately. Not to mention the sudden surge of interviews with women that appears at this time of year and the sometimes patronizing angle of the questions that seem to forget that those women are, first and foremost, experts in the industry, 365 days a year…”
Communication and the media have a huge influence on the way women are portrayed in our society. This is especially true in advertising where strong visuals can make or break stereotypes. To show women in a different light can empower them, make them stand up for their rights, boost their self-esteem, encourage them to explore new roles and aspire to greater heights.
While this necessary change may seem slow, it is definitely underway. Because everyone can be an actor of change for our society, we all have a role to play in accepting, or not, the messages we are submitted to. Achieving a constant and normalized positive representation of women in the media is totally within our reach if we put our mind to it. Should this not be, after all, the least to be expected when dealing with no less than 52% of the world population.
Qatar Airways freighter QR8960 operated from Doha to Shanghai on 5 March, managed entirely by female crew and female ground staff.
Qatar Airways Cargo celebrated a landmark flight on Sunday 5 March as its scheduled Boeing 777 freighter from Doha to Shanghai was operated entirely of a crew of made up of women. From the ground staff overseeing and handling the cargo, to the flight deck crew operating the flight, this is the first time a Qatar Airways Cargo freighter aircraft has operated with an all-female crew and all-female ground staff.
Captain Sarah Abigail Comerford from United Kingdom, First Officer Edith Mala Diop from France and First Officer Hedfa Mohammed Al Marri from Qatar operated the flight. The Boeing 777 freighter departed Doha with 100 tonnes of cargo destined for Shanghai.
Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo said: “I am proud to have such a diverse workforce within Qatar Airways Cargo. We are committed to promoting gender diversity and that women are equally represented in our workforce, which is why we can proudly say we have almost 50 percent of women in various age groups and roles working globally for Qatar Airways Cargo.
“Women not only promote inclusivity and diversity in the workplace, they also bring in creativity and success to a business. Our success as the world’s leading air cargo carrier is due to the hard work and talent of all our employees and this includes the female staff we are so proud to have within our business.”
Elisabeth Oudkerk, Senior Vice President Cargo Sales and Network Planning added: “As a woman who has worked in the industry for over 20 years, I am proud to see the great strides females have made in the field of aviation and air cargo. It is an industry that has so many opportunities and so many varied roles, I encourage any woman looking for a career in this industry to pursue their dream.”
To celebrate the special occasion and the contributions and achievements of women worldwide, several female staff from Qatar Airways Cargo participated in a group photo session donning purple vests and expressing their solidarity with women all over the world. The colour purple represents justice and dignity and is associated with International Women’s Day.
Embrace Equity is the theme for 2023 International Women’s Day. Equity recognises that each person has different circumstances, and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of how much progress has been made while also highlighting the work still left to be done for the advancement of women worldwide.
Sustainability and environmental-friendly ecosystems will continue to be a priority in 2023
By implementing green supply chains, companies can reduce their carbon footprint, limit waste and pollution, enhance their reputation and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market, as well as play a role in addressing global challenges like climate change and depletion of natural resources, affirmsDr Shereen Nassar, Global Director of Logistics Studies and Director of MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Suite, Heriot-Watt University Dubai in this OpEd for Global Supply Chain.
The increased awareness of the impact of human activity on the environment is driving the rising demand for products and services produced and delivered in an eco-friendly manner. According to a survey by Nielson IQ, 72 per cent of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products.
The continued growth of the e-commerce sector has increased consumer demand, creating pressure for businesses to compete by offering more sustainable solutions. As concerns for sustainability and environmental responsibility continue to grow in both business and society, the discussion around the green supply chain in 2023 remains crucial.
Strategic implementation of a sustainable supply chain
According to a 2021 Insight Report by Boston Consulting Group, eight supply chains, from raw materials to end-product manufacturing account for more than 50 per cent of all global greenhouse gas emissions. Food industry has the biggest carbon footprint at 25 per cent of global emissions, followed by construction industry at 10 per cent.
To improve the supply chain sustainability, companies must implement a holistic and continuous approach to regularly evaluating and adjusting their practices as necessary. They must also adopt sustainable transportation methods, such as using electric vehicles or ships powered by alternative fuels, to reduce their carbon footprint.
Additionally, companies can consider certifying their supply chain as environmentally friendly through recognised sustainability standards, such as LEED or ISO 14001. Advanced technologies like AI and machine learning in the supply chain can assist companies in identifying risks, trends, and opportunities, thus reducing waste, and enhancing efficiency.
Although sustainable supply chain solutions like using renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving recycling and waste management, promoting fair labor practices, and ensuring ethical sourcing of materials are obvious choices for businesses to adopt, it takes years of disciplined approach to drive the overall change.
Regional outlook
The GCC region is well-positioned to lead the way in sustainable business practices and reducing the environmental impact of industries. Governments are also taking steps to promote sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy. For instance, Saudi Arabia has initiated Vision 2030 National Agenda to diversify its energy sources and create sustainable communities like NEOM.
Building the next generation of transport and logistics solutions, Etihad Rail is promoting a technologically advanced and sustainable transportation system to enhance the global business landscape. This aligns with the goals of Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Centennial 2071 by providing faster, greener, and more efficient transport solutions.
These initiatives aim to develop a future-focused and eco-friendly environment for living and working. Moreover, it is creating a supportive environment for companies that adopt green supply chain practices, which can improve their reputation and competitiveness in a rapidly changing market.
Since UAE will be hosting COP28, the supply chain sector in the region will face growing demands to tackle environmental concerns. This will lead to enactment of new laws that motivate businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainability in their supply chain operations.
Key challenges to be addressed
Companies constantly struggle to streamline business processes and balance costs while creating an efficient and resilient supply chain. The perceived cost associated with implementing sustainable practices, investment in new technologies, and employment training are some key concerns for companies.
Additionally, there can be a lack of understanding about the benefits of green supply chains, making it difficult for companies to secure the necessary resources and support from stakeholders. Moreover, the resistance from suppliers unwilling or unable to adopt sustainable practices, makes it challenging for companies to fully integrate sustainable practices throughout their supply chains.
Furthermore, the lack of standardisation and transparency in reporting environmental impact can make it difficult for companies to compare their performance with others and set meaningful sustainability goals. Overcoming these barriers requires a commitment to sustainability at a strategic level, a clear understanding of the benefits, and revisiting business and supply chain strategies, and the development of industry-wide best practices and standards.
Upskilling and acquiring knowledge about green supply chain practices can significantly help the existing and future workforce to successfully incorporate sustainability in supply chains. Academics can play a significant role in providing knowledge and training in green supply chain management, which can prepare the professionals to deal with the challenges while helping organisations stay ahead of the.
It will not be an overstatement that knowledge capital will drive successful businesses and help companies incorporate sustainability in supply chains and overall operations to drive change.
UD Trucks and Allison Transmission held a joint event in Dubai to showcase the Croner range and its advanced automatic transmission
Participants at the event had the opportunity to test a selection of Croner models on the Dubai Autodrome circuit and experience the capabilities of the Croner line-up
The integration of Croner’s engine with Allison Transmission’s technology provides advantages leading to a reduction in overall operating expenses
UD Trucks and Allison Transmission recently held a joint event to showcase the impressive Croner range and its advanced automatic transmission. The event brought together partners from across the Middle East region and offered participants the opportunity to experience the capabilities of UD Trucks’ Croner line-up, while also learning how Allison Transmission is pushing the boundaries of technology with its cutting-edge automatic transmissions.
Participants were granted an exclusive opportunity to test a selection of Croner models on the Dubai Autodrome circuit. The 5 and 8-litre engines of the Croner provide impressive power and acceleration, while the advanced technology of the fully automatic transmission ensures smooth gear changes and optimal fuel efficiency, delivering a superior driving experience.
The integration of Croner’s robust engine with Allison Transmission’s cutting-edge technology provides a multitude of advantages to customers. These include increased productivity, decreased maintenance costs, and heightened vehicle uptime, leading to a substantial reduction in overall operating expenses. Furthermore, the Croner range between 11-19T is available with both manual and Allison gearboxes, offering customers a wider range of options to choose from.
The updated Croner vehicle offers waste management companies even more flexibility in choosing the right vehicle for their needs. The LKE series, which meets Euro 5 standards, provides a range of power options with 210 HP and 825 Nm torque, or 240 HP and 900 Nm torque. The PKE series offers 250 HP and 950 Nm torque, also meeting Euro 5 standards. With these options, waste management companies in particular and other sectors can choose the power range that fits their operations and terrain, all while enjoying the reliability and cost-effectiveness of the Allison gearbox and the real-time performance feedback of the new instrument cluster.
Mourad Hedna, President of UD Trucks Middle East, East and North Africa, emphasised the importance of the Middle East market to UD Trucks: “This close partnership with Allison Transmission is another example of our unwavering dedication to delivering dependable, efficient, and long-lasting trucks that cater to the unique requirements of our Middle East customers.
“The Croner truck offers a remarkable range of attributes and advantages, which include outstanding power and acceleration, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. The Croner has become an extremely popular model, known for its versatility, adaptability, and reliability, making it an ideal choice for businesses across a wide range of industries.” Allison Transmission’s Regional Director, Atak Talas, highlighted the company’s commitment to developing cutting-edge technology that can enhance the performance of commercial vehicles. Talas emphasised Alisson’s focus on delivering superior products that are designed to provide faster acceleration and smoother shifting, helping to improve the speed and efficiency of commercial vehicles. “At Allison, we are dedicated to developing innovative technology that can help our customers optimise their operations in various ways. Our transmissions are engineered to deliver superior fuel efficiency, increased productivity and enhanced safety for our customers,” Talas remarked.
GWC was awarded the “ISO 31000:2018 Record of Verification” certification by LRQA for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) System, after a thorough assessment, which found the company in full compliance with the guidelines provided by ISO Risk Management Standard.
This certificate is an internationally recognized standard that ensures that a company is managing “risks” effectively and reaffirms its ability to consistently deal with and contain uncertain situations. ERM identifies risks which are potential, emerging or existing within an organization that could have an impact (positive or negative) in achieving its strategic and operational objectives.
Speaking about it, Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC, said “GWC being awarded this ISO certificate is a reaffirmation of our commitment to the highest level of service and always keeping all our stakeholder’s interest at the heart of what we do. This certificate gives significant confidence to all our customers, clients, partners and stakeholders that our corporate risk-management is fully integrated in our processes and internationally validated.”
Being awarded this standard also provides an assurance to all of GWC’s stakeholders that the company has open lines of communications, and coordination when it comes to assessing and managing risks across all levels and functions of the organization. This provides relevant data to the management, supporting the decision-making process based on logical reasoning and factual data.
ISO 31000:2018 is an international standard that provides guidelines on managing any type of risk in any business activity. The standard provides guidelines on principles, risk management framework, and application of the risk management process. The standard covers the risk management principles which are the foundation for managing risk and guides organizations in developing a risk management framework by implementing a risk management framework and ensuring that risk management is an integral part of organizational structures. It is also important to evaluate the effectiveness and viability of these measures at periodic intervals.
– Ends –
About GWC
Established in 2004, GWC has become the leader in logistics and supply chain solutions in the State of Qatar and one of the fastest growing companies in the region. The company offers best in class logistics and supply chain services that include warehousing, distribution, logistics solutions for hazardous materials, freight forwarding, project logistics, sporting events and equestrian logistics solutions, fine art logistics, supply chain consulting services, transportation, records management, and local and international relocation services. The company provides these services, utilizing a global freight network and a solid logistics infrastructure spanning over 3.8 million square meters. GWC was the first regional supporter and official logistics provider for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
Move aimed at empowering importers and exporters with best-in-class offerings
The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) recently announced the addition of Dammam’s King Abdulaziz Port to the newly launched India-Saudi-Iraq (ISI) shipping service by Singapore-based feeder operator Bengal Tiger Line (BTL).
Aimed at empowering importers and exporters with best-in-class offerings, the regional route further strengthens the Kingdom’s maritime connectivity in its quest to establish itself as the world’s leading logistics destination in alignment with the ambitions of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS), a press communique indicated.
The ISI service links the Dammam-based hub to the Indian port of Mundra and the Iraqi port of Umm Qasr aboard a 929-TEU vessel.
A total of five cargo services linking Saudi Arabia to 43 global hubs were added to the rosters of Jeddah Islamic Port, King Abdulaziz Port, and Jubail Commercial Port during January 2023.
With state-of-the-art infrastructure spanning 19sqkm. alongside a host of integrated logistics capabilities, the world-class trade hub overlooking the Arabian Gulf was ranked fourteenth in the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index for 2021, the press statement concluded.
Adopts RISE with SAP and S/4HANA to control over supply chain functions
Aramtec is delivering on a year-long strategy to become cloud-based and digitally empowered through solutions from global technology company SAP SE, it was revealed in a press communique.
To fully automate and enhance Aramtec’s import of premium food brands and goods, as well online store Butchershop.ae, the company has committed to a transformation journey including an upgrade of its ERP landscape.
The new Aramtec strategy, titled Project Phoenix, will enhance the company’s food services it delivers to hotels, restaurants, airlines and other commercial F&B outlets. With a need for flexibility, agility, and scalability, Aramtec’s adoption of cloud computing using RISE with SAP and S/4HANA solutions met all these criteria while delivering a tailored strategy based on SAP’s deep expertise in supply chain management and food service industries, the press statement continued.
“We are set to achieve greater visibility and control over all areas of Aramtec’s operations as well as our complex supply chain and distribution network, as we have more than 2000 stock keeping units (SKUs) distributed to thousands of customers. Ultimately, Aramtec will have the capacity to respond quickly to our customers’ needs and changes in the supply chain environment,” noted Edgard Chalhoub, General Manager, Aramtec.
“By leveraging SAP’s cloud-based S/4HANA, Aramtec will benefit from the latest SAP technologies and updates. It will enjoy precise stock control and record keeping, 360-degree views of all operations, automation of business processes, reduced total cost of ownership and the ability to manage business change and scale operations rapidly,” observed Zakaria Haltout, Managing Director, SAP UAE.
United Trans transforming transportation in partnership with Dubai RTA and other local transport authorities
Leading transport services provider United Trans, a subsidiary of the Alserkal Group, is transforming regional transportation with its revolutionary on-demand bus service in partnership with local authorities such as Dubai RTA, Abu Dhabi ITC, and Ajman Transport Authority.
United Trans and Via, the leading transport service provider and public mobility solutions developer, were the first to successfully introduce bus on-demand ride-sharing service in the region, thanks to a contract with RTA. Dubai Bus on Demand has received high ratings and has become an important part of Dubai’s public transportation infrastructure.
The service has achieved a landmark one million rides since its launch in early 2020. United Trans and Via are focused on further expansions of on demand transportation for both public and private sectors in the region.
Force for good
“On-demand public transit can be a powerful force for good in achieving the region’s ambitions for a greener future, greater social and economic mobility, and smart cities. United Trans is committed to strengthening public transport networks throughout the region by leveraging the latest and greatest technology to serve our communities,” affirmed Ahmad Alserkal, Chairman, Alserkal Group, United Trans.
“We look forward to the future of our partnership with RTA and United Trans as we continue to introduce new and innovative approaches to transportation and, together, set a strong example for what is possible for communities across the Middle East,” asserted Dillon Twombly, Chief Revenue Officer, Via.
The technology from Via used by United Trans to power Dubai Bus on Demand can be used to help other local authorities and organisations best meet customers and employee demands and to provide a high quality of service and user experience.
Increased ridership at lower costs
Such public-private partnerships increase ridership, reduce operational costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Dubai Bus on Demand, for instance, has been able to solve the city’s first- and last-mile challenge of getting residents to existing transportation infrastructure in a comfortable, flexible, and affordable manner.
From students and office workers to families and tourists, the transport needs of a large swathe of the population are being served, proven by over one million trips taken since launch in 2020, out of which more than 400K were completed last year alone.
In partnership with Ajman Transport Authority, United Trans and Via also launched an on-demand public transportation service in Ajman. The service has quickly gained popularity, and demand is expected to rise even further in the Emirate of Ajman.
During the pandemic, the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of Abu Dhabi launched a new on-demand emergency transportation system in Abu Dhabi in partnership with United Trans and Via to provide free rides for medical workers, a press communique concluded.
The Park is set to create over 10,000 jobs in the logistics sector
The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently inked an agreement to set up an integrated logistics park at Al Khumrah in the south of Jeddah at a cost of SAR 1bn (US$ 266.5mn).
The logistics development will further bolster Mawani’s role as a key player in the national transportation ecosystem and boost its drive to position the Kingdom as a global logistics destination in line with the ambitions of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS) that aim to transform Al Khumrah into a world-leading platform for logistics and supply chain activities.
The Park further strengthens Jeddah Islamic Port’s pivotal position as a major maritime hub delivering top-tier services and increased throughput capacity. Spread over 3sqkm, the logistics park comprises of three zones that include shared warehouses, medium-sized storage yards and single warehouses, and large storage yards and on-demand warehouses.
The various zones fulfil importers’ and exporters’ requirements of stocking multipurpose cargo, chilled and frozen goods, food commodities, and fragile goods while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency in addition to housing dedicated areas for administrative, commercial, and residential use as well as a one-stop services centre.
The park offers move-in-ready warehouses, storage yards, re-export zones, custom storage, logistics amenities, commercial units, residential units, and staff accommodation in addition to state-of-the-art infrastructure like roads and green spaces as well as a host of other essential services.
Netradyne, a SaaS leader in artificial intelligence (A.I.) and edge computing focusing on driver and fleet safety, today announces that CJ Darcl Logistics Ltd, one of the largest logistics providers in India, has selected Netradyne to provide advanced fleet safety solutions. The engagement provides fleet of 1000 vehicles of CJ Darcl with AI-enabled embedded safety technology, helping the company improve fleet operation performance, driver behavior, and reduce thefts.
By deploying Netradyne’s Driver•i, CJ Darcl Logistics enhances their fleet management and further builds upon cost-effective services and sets new safety standards. The Driver•i system helps the company achieve its goals of improving driving behavior through automated driver coaching. It also supports in expediting driver exonerations as well as in handling insurance claims.
Durgadutt Nedungadi, Vice President – International Business, Netradyne, said, “We are thrilled to partner with CJ Darcl Logistics, and we will deliver our industry-leading AI-based safety technology solutions to its fleets. The partnership paves the way for us to showcase our technology’s flexibility to cater to our customers’ diverse needs.”
A joint venture between DARCL Logistics and CJ Group from South Korea, the company serves more than 2000 varied customers through its 174 offices across India. The company stays ahead of the curve when it appears to adoption of technological advancements and safety. The company remains at the forefront of adopting technological advancements and prioritizing safety. To enhance road safety, the company is integrating technology and safety measures by installing AI devices on its trucks. These devices control visibility and speed, which in turn improves the overall safety and security of the road.
“Our vision is to train and to make the drivers follow the best road practices to avoid accidents. CJ Darcl aims to accomplish zero accidents and to understand and address the areas of concern while driving. Partnering with Netradyne’s Driver•i with smart safety dash cams will help to control the driver’s distracted sight. We have also conducted certain trials. Hence, it is helping in maintaining the Driver’s scorecard with other promising results.” said Nikhil Agarwal, President- CJ Darcl Logistics Ltd.
Cathay is excited to announce the launch of Cathay Cargo, a rebrand of its cargo business, and a change of name from Cathay Pacific Cargo. The change aligns with the airline’s overarching brand redesign, and reinforces the existing strong brand association and perceptions held by its customers. Cathay Cargo aligns with the same purpose, vision and values of our master brand Cathay and all of its subsidiary brands, including Cathay Pacific, the passenger airline, and Cathay, the everyday lifestyle offering.
Cathay Cargo is united behind Cathay’s vision to become one of the world’s greatest service brands, and plays an integral role in helping to fulfil that aspiration through its world-class air cargo network, which transports products that facilitate trade across the entire Cathay network and beyond. Shipping directly to more than 70 destinations worldwide, Cathay Cargo is committed to advancing the development of all destination countries served by Cathay’s more than 200 aircraft.
Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said: “Cathay’s cargo business has played a vital role in the success of the Cathay Group since 1946, when we carried our first shipment between China and Australia. Our cargo services operate out of our home base of Hong Kong, which is also the world’s busiest international air cargo hub.
“This is an opportune moment to align our cargo business with the master brand as we continue our cargo investments in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area for a promising future. This rebrand reflects our Cargo business’ commitment to the same ‘Move Beyond’ ambition as the Group, while building on a strength that the Cathay brand has long been known for – offering leading-edge services to our customers.”
Reflecting this commitment to invest, Cathay Cargo has recently introduced a number of exciting refreshed solutions, including Cathay Priority and Cathay Pharma. Cathay Mail is scheduled for a refresh in March. These services cater to the respective burgeoning demands by customers for effective temperature-sensitive solutions, and efficient and reliable delivery solutions with new digital technology that better meets the requirements for shipment visibility, reliability and speed.
Director Cargo Tom Owen said: “Cathay Cargo continues to innovate new solutions, services and technology for customers as we build towards being one of the world’s greatest service brands. Continued investment in technology and logistics will solidify our position as a leading player in the industry.”
Cathay Cargo has invested in technology in recent years. This includes Ultra Track, a multi-dimensional track-and-trace service that gives customers near-real-time information on the airport-to-airport leg of the shipment journey using low-energy Bluetooth data-loggers; and, Click & Ship, an intuitive online booking service available 24/7 with instant processing and confirmation.
As part of its rebranding campaign, Cathay Cargo’s website has been revamped to reflect the brand ethos, and enable users to easily access popular features such as booking, track and trace, and flight availability, whilst also providing a clear showcase of recent campaign offers and featured solutions. The rebrand will connect Cathay Cargo to the master Cathay brand – a premium travel lifestyle brand offering a range of products and services that create more value for customers and partners. Cathay Cargo will have more exciting initiatives in the coming months as the company works toward a complete rebrand.
While conflict, natural disasters and factory closures have severely impacted the supply of global food products, DP World maintains a robust food supply chain in the Middle East and beyond, through state-of-the-art infrastructure and unmatched digital trade solutions. Abdulla Al Hashmi, the Chief Operations Officer for Parks & Zones at DP World UAE explains the key role the company plays in securing the food supply chain.
Al Hashmi said that “The National Food Security Strategy 2051, launched in 2018, played a massive role in supporting the country’s progress towards ranking first in the Food Security Index. As a result, in 2022, the nation ranked 23rd worldwide and 1st in the Arab world for food safety and quality. To further support the national agenda, companies in the UAE need to capitalise on advanced technologies to ensure a sustainable food supply, increase local food production, and diversify sources of food imports.”
How do DP World’s Parks & Zones support the UAE’s national food security strategies?
DP World operates four economic zones in the UAE and supports various other development areas. Two key contributors to the food sectors in the UAE are Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), our flagship free zone adjacent to Jebel Ali Port, and National Industries Park (NIP), an industrial zone in the local market.
“Jafza has always been a significant contributor to the UAE’s food sector and plays a vital role in supporting its long-term objectives; the free zone is home to over 600 food and agri-commodity companies from 68 countries.” Al Hashmi added, “Our strategic location and world-class logistics infrastructure provide access to the GCC markets, which rely on imports to meet 85 per cent of their F&B requirements, and global access to the fast-growing F&B markets in MENA, South Asia, and Africa. Our role as a regional logistics hub is to ensure availability and access to F&B resources for the entire region,” he concluded.
NIP comprises 21 km2 of industrial development land in the local market. It sits only four kilometres from Jebel Ali Port, and benefits from direct road access to Dubai’s main international airports. Al Hashmi explained, “Demand for food processing and distribution has been extremely high at NIP. Its location and local zone status make it an ideal destination for companies focusing on processing and distribution within the UAE and GCC.” Major food distribution, processing, and packaging companies such as Carrefour, Hunter Foods, Al Maya, and Nesto have established large-scale operations in NIP. Technology-focused F&B companies such as Kitopi, the multi-brand smart kitchen operator, are also present. “We have significant plans for the F&B sector’s development within NIP, and expect to make some important announcements soon,” Al Hashmi added.
In addition to supporting the food security strategy, Jafza and NIP’s F&B clusters contribute to national initiatives such as ‘Make it in the Emirates’ and ‘Operation 300bn’, increasing self-sufficiency through sustainable domestic food production supported by modern technologies.
To what extent does Jebel Ali’s Agri Terminal contribute to achieving zero hunger worldwide?
“In line with our aim to focus on facilitating global food trade, diversifying food import sources, and identifying alternative supply schemes, we launched Jebel Ali’s Agri Terminal. With the help of this new state-of-the-art facility, we look forward to enhancing the year-round availability of essential grains and pulses,” Al Hashmi explained.
The F&B Terminal will have a one million square metre quayside terminal of about 2 km to handle bulk shipments and dedicated space for 12 berths with a 14-16 m draft capable of handling large bulk carriers. It will be equipped to process cereals, meat and seafood products, bottled water, and dairy products, with specialised facilities for oil, tea, coffee, cacao, spices, and various other Agri commodities. The terminal will also have connectivity to the GCC via rail.
“We are working with existing and new partners to develop additional infrastructure and services that contribute to the UAE’s strategies and strengthen Jebel Ali’s position as a global gateway for trade in the F&B sector. The hub supports farm-to-shelf supply chain activities by enabling the development of new technologies for sustainable food production and deployment across the region,” he added.
One F&B company in Jafza, Fish Farm LLC, has already developed a fully environmentally controlled salmon breeding system with 34 fish breeding tanks and state-of-the-art technology to support the growth of the aquaculture sector in the region. Recently, the free zone also partnered with Prime Aquaculture FZE to build the region’s first shrimp-recirculating aquaculture system farm, a significant step to aid in the cultivation of shrimps and significantly increase output in the UAE to meet growing demand.
“The steady growth experienced by the F&B industry serves as a catalyst for businesses to set up distribution and processing activities in Jafza. In 2021 alone, the free zone facilitated the trade of F&B goods worth AED 15.9 billion. Despite current economic headwinds, industry experts forecast a yearly increase of 6.8 per cent between 2022 and 2027. Therefore, Jafza offers an ecosystem that provides multiple growth opportunities for food, livestock, and agriculture businesses,” Al Hashmi said.
What steps is the free zone taking to reduce the complexity of time-sensitive food imports and re-exports?
“As part of our objective to reduce the complexity of time-sensitive food imports and re-exports, we joined forces with Dubai Customs and Dubai Municipality to launch Zadi, an online cross-border trade facilitation service dedicated to food shipments. The digital F&B trade solution eliminates redundancies and connects all food inspection and border control authorities under a single window. One direct result of its implementation is increased efficiency and ease of doing business for suppliers across global markets,” Al Hashmi emphasised.
The Jafza Advantage
Stressing the added advantages offered by the free zone to its F&B cluster, Al Hashmi said, “We are an attractive destination for F&B companies due to several reasons, including our regulatory benefits, advanced infrastructure, and multimodal logistics options.”
Strategic location: Jafza is connected to Jebel Ali port, which is now the largest in the region and 12th globally, and Al Maktoum International Airport, with an annual cargo capacity of 250 thousand tonnes. Companies in Jafza can also reach any GCC destination within 1-2 days by road.
Regulatory benefits: Jafza offers zero tax and duty incentives and simplified processes for setting up and operating a business.
The F&B industry is rapidly evolving, and the free zone is keeping in step with the UAE’s efforts to embrace technological advancements and adopt sustainable food practices that secure the nation’s food supply requirements.
Today, Jafza can effectively cater to all the growing and diverse needs of the F&B industry, from storage and processing to customised farm-to-shelf supply chain activities.
The cooperation aims to stimulate innovation in the UAE’s maritime sector to enhance doing maritime business and promote the attractiveness of the country’s ports and their maritime services
The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has launched a strategic partnership with Marihub, a leading e-commerce service provider for commercial ships and maritime companies, to develop value-added services for the maritime sector and the UAE’s ports. The move, which coincides with the ‘UAE Innovates’ initiative, is part of the Ministry’s endeavour to enhance the competitiveness of the UAE’s maritime sector and consolidate its position as one of the best maritime hubs in the world.
The partnership aims to explore opportunities to enhance the maritime sector through digital tools and solutions, especially after the significant shift the industry has witnessed in terms of adopting digital solutions after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Commenting on this partnership, H.E. Eng. Hassan Mohammed Al Mansouri, Under-Secretary of Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “The UAE leads numerous global competitiveness indicators in the maritime sector. It is ranks 3rd globally in the Bunker Supply Index, 5th as a key competitive maritime hub and 12th in the transport lines index. This is a result of the competitive business environment the UAE provides, which attracts major international maritime companies and makes the country’s ports a preferred destination for international shipping lines. However, we will not rest on our laurels; we want to occupy the top position in all international maritime indicators. We look forward to innovations and digital platforms to contribute to enhancing the UAE’s position and improving its global ranking.”
Al Mansouri pointed out that this partnership complements several initiatives that seek to increase the contribution of the maritime sector to the UAE’s GPA, which is currently estimated at about AED 90 billion annually. The aim is to make the UAE’s blue economy a major pillar of its national economy.
More than 27,000 maritime companies work in the UAE. Last year, over 25,000 commercial ships called the UAE’s ports. The country has over 20 leading international seaports and some of the largest oil export ports in the world. The UAE ranks 7th globally in the volume of container handling.
Promote doing maritime business
H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport, Affairs, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “At the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, we seek to unify the maritime sector to build the UAE Maritime Cluster, and turn it into a powerhouse that enhances business growth opportunities and creates new capabilities for companies by bringing them together. Digital technologies are the best way to build this cluster, standardise information related to the maritime sector and develop innovative mechanisms to explore business opportunities that can benefit all stakeholders. Our partnership with Marihub, which has a pioneering experience in the digital sector, will attract more companies specialised in developing digital solutions to join the UAE Maritime Cluster.”
Al Malek added, “This partnership is yet another step to promote innovation in the maritime sector, especially that this month, the UAE celebrates innovation and developing the capabilities of the government system, which has become an international incubator for quality ideas. At the current stage, we focus all our innovations on building a sustainable and environmentally-friendly maritime sector. There is no doubt that technological tools and digital platforms that improve the work cycle and reduce unnecessary procedures are key means for achieving sustainability.”
Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship
Karim El-Najjar, Director of Marihub, said: “Our partnership with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure confirms that the Ministry is the top sponsor of creativity and innovative ideas in the maritime industry. This supports the UAE’s endeavours to adopt digitisation and modern technologies to add value to the maritime industry and provide the best tools to improve the efficiency of businesses and increase their profitability. Since the inception of Marihub, we have seen the great impact digital solutions can achieve by saving time and operational costs.”
El-Najjar added, “Through our cooperation with the Ministry, we aim to make technology a cornerstone for building the UAE Maritime Cluster as well as enhance the UAE’s directions and leadership in sustainability and green technologies through the power of data. Our goal is to achieve the maximum benefit for the end consumer as this will promote the attractiveness of the UAE’s maritime sector and enhance its global position and competitiveness.”
This partnership is complemented by many other quality projects and initiatives the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has already launched. These include the UAE Maritime Cluster initiative and the Maritime Network, which aims to build a global network of professionals and experts to enhance the competitiveness of the UAE’s maritime sector and market it globally, making use of the strong presence of international maritime companies in the UAE.
Last year, the number of heavy electric trucks on the roads in Europe and the United States grew faster than ever before. Volvo Trucks have now sold more than 4,300 electric trucks globally in more than 38 countries. In Europe, Volvo Trucks is the market leader with a 32% share of the market for heavy electric trucks, and in North America, nearly half of all heavy electric trucks registered in 2022 were Volvo trucks.
In 2022 the market for heavy (≥16 tonnes) electric trucks in Europe, grew by 200% to 1,041 trucks, and Volvo Trucks holds the highest share of this market.
“We are determined to lead the electric truck transformation and our market leading position in 2022, not only in Europe, but also in North America and other markets, is proof that we are doing just that. Although, the market for electric trucks is still small, but the trend is clear: many of our customers are now starting their own shift to electric. We intend to be the catalyst for this transition and aim for 50% of our global sales of new trucks to be electric in 2030,” says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.
Since Volvo Trucks started production of fully electric trucks in 2019, the company has sold more than 4,300 electric trucks in more than 38 countries around the world. Volvo currently offers the industry´s broadest product line-up with six products in series production, catering to a very wide variety of transports in and between cities.
“We now have a product portfolio that can cover most types of transportation for all kinds of customers. Looking at the goods flow patterns, it’s possible to electrify nearly half of all transports with our line-up of electric trucks,” comments Roger Alm. “We see it as our mission to support our customers in making that happen.”
With this partnership, customers in South Korea will have enhanced visibility of rates and capacity when booking their shipments on Qatar Airways Cargo.
The world’s leading air cargo carrier has partnered with iNOMAD, a Korea-based cutting-edge air cargo platform.
The partnership with iNOMAD will enable better connectivity for one of the airline’s major customers in South Korea, Woojung Air and also help the airline increase its footprint in South Korea as SMEs operating with Woojung Air will be able to compare Qatar Airways Cargo’s offerings on the iNOMAD portal. Woojung Air is a prominent consolidator in South Korea and one of the top customers of Qatar Airways Cargo.
Mr. Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways said, “Digital transformation is high on our agenda as part of our VISION 2027 and Next Generation Strategy. The integration and partnership with iNOMAD brings multiple benefits to our customers in South Korea such as enhanced visibility of our capacity, rates as well as real time confirmation of their shipments. Customers can benefit from instant access to these features at their fingertips and that is the huge advantage digitalisation brings in.”
Joon-suk Yim, the CEO of iNOMAD, said, “Its strength is to promote the accessibility of air cargo service by optimizing extensive logistics data for clients and provide boundless service and information to both IATA/CASS members and non-members in real-time. Developing this business, we are grateful and proud to start a new partnership with Qatar Airways, a top-tier airline, that can provide us with vital information in expanding our logistics service.”
He also added, “We aim to become a search engine for the air logistics field in which clients can check the information they need in real-time, regardless of time and place. We thus plan to do our best to nourish our customized services to build a stronger partnership, cherishing the meaningful opportunity to join Qatar Airways Cargos’ digital transformation.”
iNOMAD is an air cargo platform, Korea-based, with a cutting-edge logistics system created by its own software development team and air logistics experts. They have designed the system to transmit and receive information from logistics-related service providers and master loaders including airlines. Being the first company connecting API(application program interface) with airlines in Northeast Asia, the platform is operating as an online all-in-one portal that provides air cargo booking, rates, schedule, tracking, etc. Starting from South Korea, they have been rapidly expanding the business to Hong Kong (established in 2022) and Vietnam (to be launched in 2024).
iNOMAD signed an MOU with Cello Square of Samsung SDS in June 2022 to build up its customer base by presenting competitive rates. Along with this, iNOMAD is now expecting the opening of a logistics center of 20,000 square meters in Sep 2023 as an air cargo platform terminal in the Incheon International Airport, one of the most active airports in the world, which would be a milestone in developing a smart logistics system. The logistics center will be equipped with various smart devices and a security x-ray inspection system to provide safe and advanced logistics services.
In 2022, Qatar Airways Cargo launched Digital Lounge, a premium booking experience, that provides a much more connected experience for its customers. Qatar Airways Cargo will be elevating this booking experience with more focused enhancements tied in with clear operational strategies to complete the journey of cargo till its final destination. Other than its own booking platform, Digital Lounge, the airline has also partnered with a number of connected marketplaces to provide live access to capacity for its customers.
Qatar Airways Cargo’s Next Generation Strategy includes a complete corporate mindset shift, taking a new innovative approach to the business of air cargo, develop new talent while also attracting new ones and tapping into the digital potential for optimal user experience as well as the transparency, convenience and speed that digitalisation brings. With this approach, Qatar Airways Cargo is defining its role in the air cargo industry.
By Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty
Supply chain operations in real estate development represent the most tangible, yet least flexible anchor points of a supply network. Likewise, the growth of e-commerce and the increased agility that this growth demands, makes it more crucial for businesses to evaluate supply chains when making real estate decisions. A strong supply chain is emerging as a critical demand in the property and construction industry, in order to effectively manage costs and complete projects within tight timelines. In a market that is recovering from the pandemic, it is widely acknowledged that businesses need to closely analyze their supply chain strategies to mitigate as much risk as possible.
Supply chain management for real estate firms comprises the coordination of people, properties, processes, vendors, information, and resources, that facilitate the timely delivery of products or services to the final customer. Due to the pandemic, the role of the supply chain has increased in importance and is even transitioning from an operational to a strategic level, where it can be further optimized by lowering costs and improving performance. Moreover, the supply chain has the biggest chance of assisting a business in achieving its objectives, when it is controlled at the operational, tactical, and strategic levels.
However, it is recognized that the construction sector suffers from supply chain management inefficiencies, which have led many successful businesses to insolvency. This can be significantly reduced if firms use new-age technology, which can streamline their supply chain and do away with labor-intensive paper-based invoicing and signing-off procedures that some organizations still use. The latest technologies can also increase the stakeholders’ access to real-time information, which would prevent delays and other issues before they arise. In addition to having the right technologies, it is also important to have the right people in charge and collaborate effectively in order to ensure success.
Effective supply chain management can greatly affect the success, quality, and profitability of construction projects. As a result, real estate developers are now focused on embracing resiliency and responsibility in their supply chain management to adapt to external factors such as geopolitical conflicts, irregular shipping schedules, and new global legislations and policies, while also improving their impacts on the workforce, local communities, and the environment. Furthermore, by fostering cooperative communication between themselves and their suppliers, combined with technological innovations, improved efficiency, and supplier diversity, developers can effectively gain a competitive edge in the supply chain.
Wexco Group and Teleport have signed a GSSA contract to promote and grow AirAsia X (D7), Thai AirAsia X (XJ), and Indonesia AirAsia (QZ) in Australia.
Australia’s longest-serving GSSA, ECS Group subsidiary Wexco Group, signed a GSSA contract with Teleport, the logistics venture of Capital A (formerly known as AirAsia). The contract covers three airlines in one of Asia’s fastest growing airline groups: AirAsia X (D7), Thai AirAsia X (XJ), and Indonesia AirAsia (QZ), for all belly capacity originating from Australia and New Zealand. The contract puts Wexco in charge of filling a total of 43 flights per week out of Sydney (SYD), Perth (PER), and Melbourne (MEL), with an average weekly uplift of 120 tons. With this, both Teleport and Wexco Group can capitalize on the strong movements of perishable cargo, health food supplements, electrical goods, general cargo (consolidations), and mail within the region.
AirAsia X’s 22 weekly flights operated with widebody A330-300 aircraft, include daily services from Sydney (SYD) to Auckland (AKL), and Kuala Lumpur (KUL). Kuala Lumpur is also served four times a week out of Melbourne (MEL), and four weekly from Perth (PER). The airline’s main hub offers a multitude of connections across its vast Asian network, covering prime global cargo hubs such as Taipei (TPE) in Taiwan, and Incheon (ICN) in South Korea.
“We are excited to collaborate with Wexco as a partner, who brings onboard their robust experience and quality customer service to help better serve our cargo customers in this region. This is in line with Teleport’s growth strategy for Australia and New Zealand, where businesses here can also take advantage of our extensive ASEAN network for further distribution into the region” says Francis Antony, Group Head of Cargo Commercial at Teleport.
Thai AirAsia X runs seven weekly flights, also deploying A330-300 widebodies: three weekly services from Melbourne (MEL) to Bangkok (BKK), and four weekly flights from Sydney (SYD) to Bangkok (BKK). These flights can be booked to connect to popular cargo destinations within the Asia Pacific region, namely Japan and India, amongst others.
Indonesia AirAsia operates 14 weekly flights operated with narrowbodies A320 aircraft, twice daily between Perth (PER) and Denpasar (DPS).
“Quality attracts quality. Our success in gaining the AirAsia group as a customer, grew out of an opportunity for Wexco during the pandemic. We began operating charter flights in April 2021, which led to close cooperation with Teleport head-office, and resulted in an invitation to tender. The rest is history! We now enjoy an excellent GSSA contract with 3 very dynamic airlines serving all the major Australian gateways, and offering a great network to New Zealand, South-East and North-East Asia,” says Cedric Millet, Managing Director of Wexco. “Wexco is the perfect match for AirAsia airlines in Australia, on account of our shared impeccable reputation, our customer centric approach, and our adoption of the latest technologies to ensure optimum revenues.”
Wexco’s focus, since the start of its AirAsia GSSA operations in September 2022, is on solid customer relationships and service quality. This has helped to reinforce the AirAsia brand, image, and reputation across Australia. Wexco’s existing, strong customer base has generated greater traffic towards AirAsia, allowing the airlines to rapidly gain market share in a very competitive post-covid environment. The GSSA’s goal for 2023, is to develop the year-round perishable shipment flows, as well as increase its agent and commodity mix throughout the AirAsia network.
Savoye, a leading global warehouse automation integrator and software publisher in the Middle East, signed a contract with New East General Trading L.L.C., a leading automotive parts distributor in the region, to provide the company’s Dubai Distribution Centre with automated solutions. Savoye will automate New East’s distribution centre by integrating its highly efficient Autonomous Case-handling Robots (ACR) solution, which is the first-of-its-kind to be employed in the Middle East region.
The agreement is a key milestone for both parties as they are collaborating to advance the spare parts supply chain industry by fostering innovation and increasing its efficiency, while setting higher benchmarks for automated solutions in the Middle East. The advanced solution offered by Savoye is based on Savoye’s Intelis conveyors, Haipick Autonomous Case-handling Robots (ACR) and, Pick-To-Light technology. The entire system is managed by the Savoye Warehouse Execution Software (WES), which synchronizes robots and conveyors with customer processes in the most effective and seamless way. Savoye’s innovative ACR solution is designed to revolutionise the supply chain sector by streamlining complex internal systems and delivering better services, quicker results, and reduced prices.
Alain Kaddoum, Managing Director of Savoye Middle East said: “We are delighted to be chosen by New East General Trading, a long-standing parts distributor in the automotive spare parts industry since 1992, and offer our innovative solutions to further improve their operations. This move reflects our constant efforts to expand our portfolio by forging alliances with businesses across the region. Furthermore, we consider this cooperation to be an ideal opportunity to increase awareness on our software and automated solutions in the region and beyond. Over the years, the supply chain sector has witnessed enormous changes owing to the growing demand from consumers. As a result, this has pushed companies to evolve and cater to the changing needs of its customers. As a leading provider of supply chain and logistics solutions, we are committed to serving the industry and advance its growth through our host of cutting-edge technologies.”
Ahmed Ahli,CEOat New East General Trading said: “We are pleased to join forces with Savoye and leverage its solutions to further enhance the efficiency of our storage and order preparation operations. Through its suite of most advanced and ground-breaking technologies, Savoye has been driving growth in the supply chain industry, increasing its transparency, efficiency, as well as streamlining operations within the sector. By integrating Savoye’s expertise into the operations of our Dubai Distribution Centre, we hope to improve efficiency in the trade of automotive parts between the UAE and other GCC nations.”
Savoye has been contributing to the digital transformation of the supply chain sector through its advanced end-to-end technological solutions that cater to all the industry needs. The company efficiently handles a variety of small to large-scale projects in entirely manual or highly automated warehouses. Automakers have witnessed unprecedented pricing power and profits per vehicle due to resilient demands and low inventory in the market. This has led to disruptions in the supply chain of parts, which in turn has an impact on vehicle production. To satisfy these growing expectations and demands, solution providers within the sector are innovating and delivering superior solutions.
Since the demands in the supply chain industry are expected to continue growing, Savoye’s prowess in software, automation, solution design and integration will help enhance its partners’ operations and efficiently cater to each customer’s requests and demands.
February is the month of the world’s four most prominent Fashion Weeks. As an established fashion logistics expert, Challenge Group is actively involved, transporting top designer pieces across the world.
10:00 on a Monday morning in Milan, Italy. A well-known designer label has just completed a final, last-minute collection which is listed to show at the New York Fashion Week in the following few days. The designer’s logistics manager immediately contacts Challenge Air Cargo, who arrange for a dedicated truck to collect the valuable haute couture and deliver it to Challenge Handling at Liège Airport in Belgium later that evening.
Experienced Challenge handling staff carefully transfer the high-priority shipment from the truck and load it onto the waiting Challenge Airlines BE New York flight. The Boeing 747 freighter takes off the next morning, arriving in New York that same afternoon. Less than 48 hours after the urgent Milan phone-call, the world’s A-Listers and Who’s Who in the fashion world admire the designer’s latest creations as they are artfully modelled on the catwalk, stealing the show with their simplicity and line.
Challenge Group has been involved in transporting high-end fashion from some of the world’s top designers for twenty years. Last-minute shipments like the one described here are rare but do also happen. Normally, shipments from Italy destined for the New York fashion week, for example, are planned seasonally, with final preparation cooperation taking place in the month running up to the event. During that time, each week around five to ten main deck positions on the New York flights out of Liège are blocked for containers loaded with all kinds of often fragile fashion accessories, shoes, and hanging garments.
China-bound shipments are more than double the size, with ten to fifteen weekly main deck positions dedicated to designer wear. And because high-end fashion is also high value fashion, Challenge Group takes every precaution to ensure the absolute integrity and safety of the shipments. Every pallet is checked at origin against a specific internal checklist, boxed trucks are used, and all containers are sealed using Challenge Group’s own seals and are kept under the watchful eye of the Challenge Group security team.
“Milan, New York, and China Fashion weeks are routine staples in our annual Challenge Air Cargo operations,” says Or Zak, Commercial Vice President of Challenge Group. “Unlike the haute couture fashion collections themselves, which present incredibly stunning new designs every time, Challenge Group faithfully delivers its own consistent style: high quality, an eye for detail, and seamless transport. A great deal of planning goes into ensuring that each Fashion Week is a perfect performance every time, showcasing the world’s latest trends. Challenge Group, too, is a trendsetter here in its own right!”
CargoAi, airfreight’s fastest-growing digital enabler, is proud to announce the launch of CargoWALLET.
CargoWALLET is a modern payment solution for air cargo with supply chain financing capabilities, allowing freight forwarders to make payments for their air cargo shipments directly within the CargoMART booking flow.CargoWALLET’s key USPs for freight forwarders are summed up as follows: Streamlined Booking & Payment: Search and book shipments instantly – no IATA Cass Number, AWB stock, or bank guarantees required.Flexible Finance: Manage cash flow effectively with extended payment terms (PayLater). Global Reach: Book air cargo from anywhere in the world, with local payment in more than 30+ currencies.Started as a project 2 years ago and accelerated with the CargoTech partnership, this groundbreaking payment solution is revolutionizing the way the air cargo is booked and is now finally released to all freight forwarders, following months of successful testing. CargoWALLET enables shipments to be booked and paid for without an IATA Cass Number, without an AWB stock, AND without any bank guarantee, specifically tailored to empower small to medium-sized freight forwarders.
CargoWALLET also addresses the needs of medium to large freight forwarders who have an IATA Cass number, but may not have AWB stock with all the carriers due to expensive bank guarantees, or certain airlines still requiring such forwarders to produce bank guarantees. All of these scenarios require additional steps for freight forwarders to fulfil their daily business demands, adding up to more costs and time required. CargoWALLET has the additional benefit of allowing freight forwarders to place bookings from any origin as well as long payment terms (PayLater).
“We are excited about the exponential capabilities CargoWALLET brings to the industry. Not only does air cargo booking become more seamless, but the entire procurement from search, quote, booking, and now payment can be done within minutes on just one interface – CargoMART”, said Magali Beauregard, CCO of CargoAi. “Similar to our other products (such as Cargo2ZERO) we are helping not just the large industry players connect with each other in the digital air freight ecosystem, but ensuring stakeholders of all sizes get to stay ahead in the digital adoption as well.”
How does it work?CargoWALLET is embedded as part of CargoAi’s current booking solutions (CargoMART and CargoCONNECT booking flows). If a user has their CargoWALLET activated, they will be able to search all of the airline carriers’ capacities instantly and seamlessly pay for any booking using the digital wallet linked to their company account. The basic functions of everyday digital wallets such as ‘Top Up’ , ‘View Account Balance’ and ‘Transaction History’ are all features of CargoWALLET, replicating the ease of use that many forwarders are already familiar with, in their personal lives. Using a large and proven finance provider in the backend, users of CargoWALLET benefit from the lowest exchange rates in 30+ currencies, and minimal transactional costs – therefore, using CargoWALLET is no more expensive than a bank transfer.
“We are thrilled to be launching CargoWALLET, which brings the best practices from other industries to air cargo and enables a seamless process regardless of any freight forwarder’s import origin”, said Matt Petot, CEO of CargoAi. “By having multiple different functions within one digital solution, CargoWALLET is the first of its kind to having so many benefits for freight forwarders of all sizes. Our goal is to provide a secure and efficient platform, while maintaining the user-friendly and intuitive experience that CargoMART users praise, and we are confident that CargoWallet is just what the industry needs.”
CargoWALLET is powered by the latest in fintech security technology and all CargoMART users can already start to request for their free account at an ‘Office Level’ to be registered and activated today.
GWC Q.P.S.C, the leading logistics provider in the State of Qatar, held its Ordinary and Extraordinary Assembly General Meeting at the GWC Regional Hub, on 19 February 2023 and approved the Group’s financial results for the year ending 31 December 2022.
The meeting was chaired by GWC Chairman Sheikh Abdullah Bin Fahad Bin Jassem Bin Jaber Al Thani, and was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, GWC’s external auditors Ernst & Young, the company’s shareholders, and media representatives.
The General Assembly ratified all the items on its agenda including the approval of cash dividends to shareholders of 10% of the nominal value of the company’s shares, which is 0.10 Qatari Riyals per share.
The AGM also discussed and approved the Board of Directors’ report on the company’s activities and its financial position during the year, and the auditor’s report. The General Assembly also discussed the budget of the Group and approved it, as well as assigning the external auditor and setting their remuneration. The assembly also approved to release the board members from liability, and distribute rewards to each member based on the evaluation of the board committees. Furthermore, the AGM presented a comprehensive review of the Group’s compliance with the Corporate Governance Code.
GWC, besides the successful delivery of the logistics mandate for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, has had a stellar year, with various accolades and milestones which were highlighted during the General Assembly, such as being recognized as the “best customs brokerage company” and accredited as an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) by the General Authority of Customs.
GWC also developed its existing partnerships and entered into new partnerships with strategic partners such as Ponticelli Frere Group, launched the “Delivering Glory” campaign in cooperation with CNN International and organized the second edition of GWC Forum entitled “Ready for the Game”, which focused on micro, small and medium enterprises, with the participation of Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar National Bank and other partners.
Speaking about it, GWC Chairman Sheikh Abdullah Bin Fahad Bin Jassem Bin Jabor Al Thani, stated, “In the wake of the successful delivery of the FIFA World Cup, we are observing more growth opportunities than any other point in the history of GWC. We remain committed to our current investments, those of which are already yielding positive returns and I firmly believe that the future holds more promise for the company and its shareholders.”
Adding to this, Mr. Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC commended the effort put by the GWC team to deliver an unparalleled FIFA experience not only for the country but also for the world saying: “GWC team showed courage and determination in a very dynamic and challenging work environment for the FIFA World Cup. And I have no doubt that moving forward, through our partnerships, our commitment to sustainability and innovation, GWC will continue to be efficient, value-creating and resilient and achieve its ambitious objectives. “
For the Company’s Extraordinary Assembly General Meeting, the company presented some amendments to Article (13) of the AOA, as well as ratified all the items on the agenda.
The company achieved a net profit of 240 million Qatari Riyals at the end of December 2022, compared to 225 million Qatari riyals in the same period of 2021, achieving a growth rate of 7%.
Gas turbines handled by Fujairah Terminals are the largest to be deployed in the UAE region
Fujairah Terminals, part of AD Ports Group, has completed another significant milestone as part of the ongoing development of the Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project, with the successful handling of three of the largest gas turbines to have ever been deployed in the UAE region.
Scheduled for commissioning in 2023, the Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project will be the largest Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) facility in the UAE, generating sufficient electricity to power the equivalent of 380,000 households across the UAE.
One of the largest and most technical project cargoes received in the region, the latest operation saw the successful shipment and delivery of three gas turbines, which feature one of the highest levels of efficiency within the market and weigh 528 tonnes each and measure 13.85 metres in length, 6.12 metres in width, and 5.98 metres in height.
Reflecting the complex nature of the project, a team of highly specialised operational and safety experts were mobilised to handle the extensive planning and preparations to ensure the successful handling and delivery of the power plant components. Engineered heavy lifting and transport specialist, Mammoet, is responsible for the receiving, transport and installation of the components.
Abdulaziz Al Balooshi, CEO of Fujairah Terminals said: “The stand-out efforts by the Fujairah Terminals’ team in successfully handling the latest turbine shipment marks a significant step in the realisation of the Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project. The shipments were handled in record time while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency”
The 2,400MW Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project, which is being developed by the South Korean firm Samsung C&T Corporation, is owned and operated by Fujairah Power Company F3 LLC, a special purpose company (SPC) jointly owned by the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) and Mubadala Investment Company, as well as Marubeni Corporation and Hokuriku Electric Power Company.
Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) will procure the electricity from the plant under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement as part of its strategic plans to provide secure and reliable power to match the needs of consumers in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
Established in 2017 following the signing of a 35-year concession agreement between AD Ports Group and the Port of Fujairah, Fujairah Terminals remains the only multi-purpose terminal located on the UAE’s eastern seaboard. In 2021, the terminal passed a key milestone as part of its long-term expansion programme that saw the development of new infrastructure supporting an annual TEU capacity of 720,000 and a general cargo capacity of 1.3 million tons.
Fujairah Terminals Handles 3 Gas Turbines forF3 Power Plant
Gas turbines handled by Fujairah Terminals are the largest to be deployed in the UAE region
Fujairah Terminals, part of AD Ports Group, has completed another significant milestone as part of the ongoing development of the Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project, with the successful handling of three of the largest gas turbines to have ever been deployed in the UAE region.
Scheduled for commissioning in 2023, the Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project will be the largest Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) facility in the UAE, generating sufficient electricity to power the equivalent of 380,000 households across the UAE.
One of the largest and most technical project cargoes received in the region, the latest operation saw the successful shipment and delivery of three gas turbines, which feature one of the highest levels of efficiency within the market and weigh 528 tonnes each and measure 13.85 metres in length, 6.12 metres in width, and 5.98 metres in height.
Reflecting the complex nature of the project, a team of highly specialised operational and safety experts were mobilised to handle the extensive planning and preparations to ensure the successful handling and delivery of the power plant components. Engineered heavy lifting and transport specialist, Mammoet, is responsible for the receiving, transport and installation of the components.
Abdulaziz Al Balooshi, CEO of Fujairah Terminals said: “The stand-out efforts by the Fujairah Terminals’ team in successfully handling the latest turbine shipment marks a significant step in the realisation of the Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project. The shipments were handled in record time while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency”
The 2,400MW Fujairah F3 Power Plant Project, which is being developed by the South Korean firm Samsung C&T Corporation, is owned and operated by Fujairah Power Company F3 LLC, a special purpose company (SPC) jointly owned by the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) and Mubadala Investment Company, as well as Marubeni Corporation and Hokuriku Electric Power Company.
Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) will procure the electricity from the plant under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement as part of its strategic plans to provide secure and reliable power to match the needs of consumers in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
Established in 2017 following the signing of a 35-year concession agreement between AD Ports Group and the Port of Fujairah, Fujairah Terminals remains the only multi-purpose terminal located on the UAE’s eastern seaboard. In 2021, the terminal passed a key milestone as part of its long-term expansion programme that saw the development of new infrastructure supporting an annual TEU capacity of 720,000 and a general cargo capacity of 1.3 million tons.
The amenity is equipped with over 250 autonomous mobile robots
Starlinks, a leading logistics and supply chain solutions provider in Saudi Arabia, recently announced the launch of the most technologically advanced fulfilment centre in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Located in Agility Logistics Park and adding to Starlinks’ 18 fulfillment centres across the Kimngdom, the facility comprises a storage area of 400,000sqft. It is equipped with 254 autonomous robots for picking and sorting, thereby providing storage capacity for over 12mn units.
Starlinks aims to process an average of 3.6mn units orders per month. Combining world-class technology and industry-leading know-how, the solution will provide market-leading flexibility, accuracy and agility. The facility will be fully operational by Q2-2023.
Acing an opportunity
With a total investment exceeding SAR 100mn (US$ 26.65mn), Starlinks championed an opportunity to address the ever-growing market demand and to stay true to its brand promise of providing the fastest e-commerce fulfilment cycle through an omnichannel fulfilment facility.
The project is aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to maximize the potential of the country’s non-oil sectors and bolster its role as a transit hub at the heart of the Middle East.
Starlinks has partnered with Geek+ for automation technology, joining their top tier clientele, which includes Nike, Decathlon, and Walmart. The Fulfilment Centre is run on a hybrid model that employs both robotics and manual picking systems and sortation functions.
Adopting a working formula that involves both machines and humans, the company will bring promising top-end employment opportunities to over 500 talented Saudi Nationals.
Multiple solutions
“Our new solution comprises a pallet storage and handling storage system, a manual pick tower as well as a robotics solution allowing us to cater to a wide range of customer requirements and operations complemented by micro fulfilment centres distributed strategically across the Kingdom,” stated Salah Taha, Director of Operations, Starlinks.
“We are committed to driving further innovation in the logistics and supply chain industry in the region and reducing lead time to e-commerce shoppers,” he continued.
“Advanced automation and big data analytics enable us to better track and manage inventory, predict demand, and optimize routes for transportation thus helping us to increase efficiency, reduce operating cost and provide seamless services to our customers,” he further added.
Innovation
“Starlinks’ brand promise to innovate and deliver market-leading customer experience is demonstrated in this milestone investment. We are proud to represent the Kingdom’s commitment to the Vision 2030, with our most exciting innovation of 2023,” commented Gary Blythe, Managing Director, Starlinks.
The company provides direct and smooth integration with Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, OpenCart, Amazon, eBay, and a further 60 platforms through direct APIs.
Starlinks is the first in the region to offer a hybrid picking solution that allows humans and machines to co-deliver a world-class efficiency manual picking operation, thereby leading to an unrivalled solution for e-commerce fulfilment, a press communique concluded.
First electric adventure in the Arctic Trucks re-engineered SUV to demonstrate the capability of EVs
The Nissan Ariya AT39, the first EV constructed by world-leading extreme vehicle specialists, Arctic Trucks operating from four key locations—UK, Iceland, Norway and the Middle East, will embark on a 17,000-mile trip from the Magnetic North Pole to the South Pole.
British adventurers Chris and Julie Ramsey will undertake the ten-month journey, taking them through 14 countries, starting on March 23, 2023.
The Ariya AT39 is a professionally re-engineered high mobility platform that balances the performance and efficiency of Nissan’s electric vehicle architecture with adaptations and enhancements to the body, suspension, steering, wheels, brakes, and more, according to a press statement.
“We acknowledge that battery-based electric vehicles have important hurdles to overcome for use in the extreme cold, a challenge for which we are excited to be a part of developing solutions,” stated Emil Grimsson, Founder, Arctic Trucks.
Arctic Trucks are providing key consultation, route planning, and logistical support for the expedition, with a focus on the polar extremes. The expedition will provide important information about how vehicles can be developed for use in the polar regions and will demonstrate the real, everyday capabilities of EVs.
“We aim to make minimal changes to clearly demonstrate its real, everyday capabilities, regardless of where you are driving it,” commented Chris Ramsey, Pole to Pole EV Expedition Leader.
“The planning and preparation for Pole to Pole has been such a big part of our lives over the past four years so I am really looking forward to getting the expedition underway in March,” concluded Julie Ramsey, Co-driver.
Valentine’s Day has become a key date in Qatar Airways Cargo business calendar. On this occasion, the leading carrier is able to demonstrate the excellence of its extensive services and its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Transporting over 4,000 tonnes of flowers all around the world over a two-week period is a logistical prowess that only few airlines can achieve. And Qatar Airways Cargo is certainly at the top of the list. Exported from two main areas, Latin America (Ecuador and Colombia) and Africa (Uganda and Kenya), the flowers are travelling to 5 major international destinations: USA, Amsterdam (for distribution across Europe), Australia, the Middle East and Japan.
To satisfy the significant demand during this peak time, Qatar Airways Cargo is intensifying the frequency of its flights to increase capacity. This translates into 10 additional B777 freighter flights from Nairobi to Liege and 10 additional flights from Quito to Amsterdam and Miami, on top of the regular cargo and passenger flights. In addition, the carrier is also using road transport services from European airports to Amsterdam where logistics are set up for major consumer countries.
Ensuring that this fragile cargo is handled with the utmost care and delivered on time not only requires a great deal of planning and preparation from the Qatar Airways Cargo team but also a very high degree of expertise and experience. Qatar Airways Cargo has indeed been involved in the transportation of flowers from Nairobi for over 10 years and will be the largest cargo operator there by Valentine’s Day 2023. Moreover, always innovating to perfect its level of service, the carrier has implemented an elaborate temperature-controlled forwarding system to guarantee that flowers arrive fresh at their final destination. Because the Valentine’s Day period necessitates considerable coordination to arrange charters with the authorities and to manage the extra volumes and flights, close and constant contact with customers to ensure proper planning of shipments on the respective flight days is also essential.
Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo commented: “In a constantly evolving market, Qatar Airways Cargo has always been able to improve its offering to meet new needs. The launch of The Next Generation, which is accompanied by a new vision of business, is proof of this. Today, in the very demanding period of Valentine’s Day, we are proud to put our expertise and efficiency at the service of our customers.”
True to its motto “Moved by People”, Qatar Airways Cargo can be trusted to deliver impeccable service and to guarantee that love will prevail on this special day.
A 60,000-ton consignment of barley arrives in Jeddah Islamic Port
The National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia recently announced that its tanker ‘SARA’, with 60 thousand tons of barley, has arrived at the Jeddah Islamic Port, coming from the Australian port of Bunbury.
The Agricultural Development Fund financed the supply contract concluded between Mansour Al-Mosaid Company and the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company ‘SALIC’. Upon arrival in the Red Sea Port, the shipment was received by several officials from all stakeholders concerned.
“Providing staple grains such as barley, wheat, and corn to Saudi Arabia is one of our greatest accomplishments as part of the supply chain,” commented Eng. Ahmed bin Ali Al-Subaey, CEO, Bahri.
“SALIC has contributed to achieving the national goals for food security in strategic commodities by receiving over one million and three hundred thousand tons of commodities and products in the Kingdom during the year 2022,” remarked Engr. Sulaiman Bin Abdulrahman Al-Rumaih, CEO, SALIC Group.
“The funding comes within the fund’s initiative to finance the import of agricultural products targeted in the food security strategy, in line with its objectives of supporting and developing the agricultural sector, strengthening and stabilizing the food security system,” commented Munir Bin Fahd Al-Sahli, General Manager, The Agricultural Development Fund.
“Over the past forty years, Mansour Al-Mosaid Company has played a key role in importing and trading barley in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and we are delighted to cooperate with two of the Kingdom’s largest companies,” stated Ahmed Bin Mansour Al-Sudairy, Chairman, Mansour Al-Mosaid Company
It is worth noting that this cooperation between SALIC and Bahri companies is the second of its kind after their strategic partnership in 2020 AD in the establishment of the National Grain Company to establish a Yanbu grain handling station in Yanbu Commercial Port.
Saudi Arabia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund, the Public Investment Fund, wholly owns SALIC and 22. 55% of Bahri, a press communique concluded.
This pioneer project was developed by Makani Real Estate, the real estate arm of ADCOOPS. Significantly tall and standing at an impressive height of 27m, the warehouse is equipped with a phenomenal capacity of accommodating approximately 35,000 palettes.
Designed and built in line with international retail standards, this distribution centre is the bridge between partners to enhance delivery systems within and around the region. Equipped with a wide range of multi type rack systems, from VNA (Very Narrow Aisle) to mobile and selective racking system, this warehouse has six main chiller and freezer areas with the capability of housing products with an immense volume of 75,000cbm.
The facility will provide adequate storage methods of raw materials or manufactured goods for distribution and will enhance ADCOOPS logistics to its diverse network of hypermarkets and supermarkets.
Providing adequate infrastructures along with amenities for communities and local people is of utmost priority. Thus, the establishment of a distribution centre of this magnitude constitutes a driving force to support the path of success and a milestone in the history and future of Makani Real Estate and Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society,” commented Saeed Eid Saeed Al Ghafli, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, ADCOOPS.
The in-person event received the support of leading industry players, and aims to elevate the region’s breakbulk and project cargo sector
Held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the 2023 edition of Breakbulk Middle East (BBME) opened its doors on the 13th of February at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Registering an increase in visitors, the region’s leading breakbulk and project cargo event witnessed strong interest from industry professionals. The massive participation also indicated the industry stakeholders’ keenness to be a part of a well-knit network that has been instrumental in fuelling the growth of the sector in the past few years.
In addition to reuniting the sector under one roof, BBME’s agenda is strategically prepared to reinforce the growth of the sector, and bolster the region’s economy. Day one of the exhibition and conference incorporated discussions on opportunities that lie in the MENA region, most significant projects in the pipeline, latest trends, potential to tap into new markets, and digitalisation.
Kickstarting day one with his opening remarks, H.E. Eng. Hassan Mohammed Juma Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “Since the past three years, the world has faced significant challenges due to supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic and geopolitical unrests. However, the UAE and its maritime sector emerged resilient and responded swiftly to overcome challenges, and satisfy global needs. Despite the unprecedented crisis, our ports demonstrated exceptional resilience to ensure a smooth flow of goods from one part of the world to the other, ensuring economic stability locally, regionally, and internationally. One of the key factors that enabled us to ensure business continuity and support industrial operations was our early adoption and active utilisation of advanced technology, positioning ourselves as a global icon for resilience and growth.”
“Our commitment to securing supply chains and ensuring the wellbeing of our maritime industry can evidently be seen in our competitive global ranking. In addition to ranking third in transport services trade and bunker supply index, the UAE was also re-elected to the Executive Council of the IMO under Category B, further consolidating our role in the global maritime spectrum. Despite these achievements, we look forward to constantly innovate and improve our capabilities in order to cement our position as a leading logistics and shipping hub. The support we have offered Breakbulk Middle East over the years aligns with this vision. BBME has proven to be one of the most successful and reliable events for the industry’s progress, offering a plethora of valuable opportunities, not only to formulate strategies, but also advance the sector in competitiveness,” H.E. Al Mansouri added.
Insightful sessions
The opening session, “MENA Project Review”, highlighted some of the most significant projects in the region’s pipeline. Led by Ryan McPherson, Director, Middle East, Africa, Russia & CIS, EICUK Middle East (Branch), the session provided insights on the potential economic impact of projects such the NEOM and King Salman Energy Park in Saudi Arabia, as well as the North Field East LNG expansion project in Qatar. The day also incorporated discussions on the opportunities that lie in markets such as Africa for the breakbulk and project cargo sector’s expansion during the “Africa as a Region of Opportunity: Outlook, Projects and Entering the Market” session.
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director, DP World UAE & Jafza said: “At DP World, we recognise that the project cargo and breakbulk industry is the backbone of many businesses, from energy to construction and everything in between. As a leading smart trade enabler, we continually invest in technological solutions like Dubai Trade and CARGOES and upgrade our infrastructure to cater to the increased demands. Our investments allowed Jebel Ali Port to handle over 40 million metric tonnes of breakbulk cargo in the last 10 years. In 2022 alone, the port handled more than 4 million metric tonnes, up 11 per cent year-on-year and marking one of our most successful years in this sector.”
“As the host port of Breakbulk Middle East, we see the event catalysing growth and development while providing a platform for industry leaders, innovators, and experts to exchange ideas and drive progress. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the project cargo and breakbulk sector can be at the forefront, playing a vital role in accelerating the growth trajectory of the industry” Bin Damithan added.
Uniting industry players
Ben Blamire, Event Director, Breakbulk Middle East, said, “At BBME, our goal has always been to drive the sector’s growth by bringing together industry experts, aspiring professionals, and students for a constructive dialogue and collaboration on new projects. Day one’s sessions were very informative and received a positive feedback from our attendees. We hope to continue the same momentum on day 2, and build on this success for next year’s event. We are grateful for the unwavering support we have received from the government and private sector entities. We are excited for the day two, where we will address crucial topics such as the role of the women in the sector, and the future of the industry.”
The first day of BBME 2023 incorporated several insightful sessions. Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to attend informative discussions on business outlook, rates, capacity, and sustainability, as well as insights on the role of mega projects in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and beyond.
Tomorrow promises to be another exciting day with several key sessions and initiatives, including Women in Breakbulk networking breakfast; End-to-End Logistics: Artificial and Business Intelligence Driving Efficiency in Ports; and Wind Energy in the UAE: Transportation, Installation, and Lessons Learnt. The conference will also host the Education Day for students, providing a unique opportunity for the next generation to learn and engage with industry leaders.
Investors stand to benefit from Qatar’s ultramodern infrastructure and its promising ecosystem
Qatar’s Investment Promotion Agency (IPA Qatar) makes the case for making the country a magnet for investment as it emerges as a potential hub as a logistics nerve centre in the GCC and the wider Middle East.
Few events have tested the global logistics and supply chain network as drastically as the Covid-19 pandemic. The aftereffects of the worldwide disruptions will likely be felt for years. At the same time, the crisis brought existing vulnerabilities as well as opportunities to light.
In its midst, a strategically located Gulf state with links to Asia, Europe and Africa has reinforced its role as a reliable logistics hub, recording US$ 22,462mn revenue in logistics and warehousing in 2021.
Excellent connectivity
With 2bn people across more than 25 countries worth US$ 6tn in combined GDP within just 3,000 km reach, Qatar benefits from a unique sense of connectivity. Its national airline, Qatar Airways, connects to more than 150 international destinations, while Hamad Port, the largest multipurpose port in the region, services over 15 direct shipping lanes.
A recent Trading Hub sectoral study by the Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (IPA Qatar) indicates that the country’s logistics market is forecast to outpace all competitors in the GCC region in terms of growth between 2020 and 2026.
Placed against the promising outlook of the global supply chains, logistics and warehousing industry, with a market size of US$ 9.5tn in 2021, investors stand to benefit from Qatar’s ultramodern infrastructure, booming industrial activity, and open approach to business.
Key drivers
The country already ranks in the top 20 per cent in logistics performance globally and second in the Middle East. But what are some of the key drivers of its flourishing trading sector?
Access to capital: Ready and complete industrial facilities for SME owners and entrepreneurs, coupled with low tariffs including for electricity, tax holidays and no customs duties on imports at Qatar Free Zones.
Robust support system: World-class free zones, industrial areas and logistical parks that offer a business-friendly environment and other support services for foreign investors.
Resilient transport & logistics connectivity: Global connectivity through Hamad International Airport (HIA) and Hamad Port with one of the world’s largest air cargo carriers, along with diversified trade partners for critical commodities and goods.
Technological infrastructure: Qatar ranks third in the Arab world on the Network Readiness Index 2021 and continues to work towards innovation. As an example, the Qatar Centre for Artificial Intelligence develops the latest AI tools and tech in the logistics, warehousing, and management space.
For foreign investors, it is a space of untapped potential, not least due to exponential growth in e-commerce and Qatar’s extensive trade and investment treaties, covering over 25 bilateral investment treaties, more than 80 double taxation treaties, and over 20 free trade agreements.
Strategic location
In addition to its strategic location, Qatar has developed advanced logistics systems, tying in world-leading air and sea ports with modern road and warehousing infrastructure. Unsurprisingly, the country’s logistics market experienced a 7 percent uptick in the last five years alone.
Perhaps one of its greatest feats has been the successful integration of the entire trading value chain, seamlessly connecting key players from the import/export side such as Milaha and Maersk, and logistics providers like DHL and DB Schenker with warehousing companies and retailers.
The world continues to search for ever-faster, more sustainable and streamlined ways to transport, store and deliver goods, much of this activity will focus on integrated logistics hubs such as Qatar creating a wealth of opportunities for investors and businesses in Qatar’s supply chain and logistics related sectors.
Plans to carry 100 tons of relief goods to victims of the Turkey-Syria earthquake
In the wake of the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, Emirates has set up an airbridge withthe International Humanitarian City (IHC),to transport urgent relief supplies, medical items and equipment to support on-ground aid efforts and search and rescue activities in both countries.
The first two recent shipments consisted of high thermal blankets and family tents from UNHCR, followed by World Health Organisation (WHO) and World Food Programme (WFP) relief cargo of medical kits and shelter items, coordinated by the IHC in Dubai.
Furthermore, more consignments of blankets, tents, shelter kits, flash-lights, water distribution ramps and trauma and emergency health kits will be transported on Emirates, and the carrier plans to dedicate cargo space for around 100 tonnes of humanitarian relief goods over the course of the next two weeks across its daily flight operations to Istanbul, according to a press communique.
Aid logistics hub
“Emirates supports the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to support Turkey and Syria, and Dubai’s unique position as the world’s largest international aid logistics hub means that we can efficiently reach disaster stricken areas and the most vulnerable people as quickly as possible,” commented HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates’ Chairman and Chief Executive.
“We are taking urgent action by facilitating airlifts of vital medical supplies, shelter items and other relief goods from the UNHCR, World Health Organization (WHO) and World Food Programme (WFP) to address the pressing demand for aid in the affected regions,” remarked Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Chairman, Supreme Committee for the Supervision of IHC.
The freight division of Emirates has a long-standing partnership with the IHC, enabling the airline to nimbly and quickly lead on numerous relief missions, deploying humanitarian supplies to communities around the world impacted by natural disasters, medical emergencies, global outbreaks and other crises, the press note concluded.
The growth of procurement within the region is on an uphill trajectory combined with the adoption of technology and supply chains. The market growth factors are the increasing need for procurement process automation and the rapid adoption of e-procurement technology. The rapid strides with which digital technology is being adopted by businesses are transforming the way they operate. From finance to procurement to marketing, digital technology empowers teams with better control over operations.
Verve Management is taking the lead with another premier initiative in the region, The Middle East ProcureTech Summit 2023. The summit devoted to a disruptive procurement sector will be unveiled on February 21–22, at Swissotel Al Murooj, Dubai, UAE.
At the summit, this year, will take a deep dive into the modified paradigm of the procurement industry, focused on the new technology adopted by the industry to change the procurement game. The summit aims to provide a platform for like-minded individuals to gather and discuss the new era of Digital Procurement with topics such as Cloud procurement, E-Procurement Solutions, and Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), to name a few.
Over the course of two ground-breaking days, the summit is setting out to headline experts and key leaders within the industry including:
• Dirk Karl, Group Chief Procurement Officer, MTN
• Waleed Saeed Al Saeedi, Director, Procurement and Supply Management, Department of Tourism and Culture (Abu Dhabi)
• Prasanna Rajendran, Vice President – Head of Business, Kissflow,
• Abhinav Suresh, Director and P&L Leader- Middle East and Africa, Locus
The Middle East ProcureTech Summit will be an invaluable opportunity to network with industry leaders, who will set out to delve into all of the latest technological advances in procurement to help drive businesses forward.
Middle East ProcureTech Summit 2023 is supported by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), Supply Chain and Procurement Society (SCPS), and Supply Chain and Logistics Group (SCLG). The summit will be braced by the presence of some key industry leaders and solution providers like Ivalua, a leading provider of cloud-based Spend Management software, and Kissflow Procurement Cloud, a flexible source-to-pay platform for procurement teams to manage all their procurement spends in a single place.
The Middle East ProcureTech Excellence Awards 2023 will be held at the summit as part of the Middle East Procuretech Summit. The Awards will celebrate Procurement, Supply Chain, and Logistics leaders who have worked constantly towards improving disrupted supply chains through innovating and adopting advanced technology.
For registration and to participate in the event: info@verve-management.com
For more information, please visit our website: www.meprocuretech.com
Voice picking innovator EPG has underlined its further global growth with two significant new European hires. Sascha Egener is Sales Director Voice Solutions, based out of the group’s Aachen, Germany office, while Russell Holland joins the supply chain software specialist’s increasingly impressive UK operation as Strategic Alliance Manager, Voice Solutions.
“We are delighted to welcome Sascha and Russell to the EPG family,” enthuses Tim Just, CEO Voice Solutions. “We are a true technology leader enjoying phenomenal global growth – we are the number one voice solution on Android, and in the last 15 months alone, more than 25,000 voice users have made the switch from other voice solutions to LYDIA Voice. The calibre and expertise in voice and logistics technology that Sascha and Russell bring will help take us to even greater heights.”
Faster, more accurate picking with LYDIA Voice
EPG’s LYDIA Voice picking solution has been at the heart of the automation revolution in global warehouse logistics over the past decade, with customer numbers showing consistent upward growth and reporting productivity increases of 7-15% after switching from other voice systems to LYDIA Voice. The world’s number one pick-by-voice solution on Android devices, LYDIA Voice speeds up and optimizes picking processes while slashing picking error numbers. It is easy to use, recognizes over 50 languages (including dialects) and requires no voice template training.
Consistently ahead of the pack, the latest LYDIA Voice 9 release is now capable of recognising multiple languages in parallel – a unique first in the voice market and a real game changer for multinational teams.
Completely hands-free and eyes-free, it gives manual pickers more freedom to pick quickly and accurately without the constant interruption, and potential distraction, of a hand scanner. Customers include some of the world’s biggest and best-known names in retail, warehouse logistics and parcel delivery.
Proven technology and innovation expertise
With a Masters in Information Technology supported by 20 years at the cutting edge of logistics software optimization, Sascha Egener is ideally placed to lead the next stage of the EPG Voice Solutions sales journey. “I have a strong background in innovation, for instance in the fast-developing field of drone logistics,” he reveals. “I recognize in EPG’s voice packages that same appetite for innovation closely matched to precise customer needs and I’m very much looking forward to playing my part in taking it further with both existing and new clients.”
A sales and marketing veteran in the supply chain sector, Russ Holland joins EPG after several years covering 24 European countries as Regional Sales Manager for Honeywell Voice Solutions, working with retailers and 3PLs in the delivery, implementation and management of voice picking systems. “It’s exciting that EPG have continued to invest in LYDIA Voice to make it the best it can be as customer preferences and habits change,” he comments. “I am thrilled to have this chance to work with everyone on the team towards even more future success.”
More than 50 startups have developed their ideas at CampX, the global collaboration hub for innovations by Volvo Group. The concept gives promising startups a physical place to explore and accelerate new ideas together with Volvo Group using an entrepreneurial mindset. Now, Volvo Group is taking the next step by adding a new track called Incubator where early-stage startups are invited to further develop innovations.
CampX by Volvo Group is a global collaboration hub for innovations that was launched in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2019, and has since then been extended to four countries. The startups are working side by side with many Volvo Group expert engineers, giving the startups vital access to mentoring, networks and business insights.
By launching the new CampX Incubator, early-stage startups with promising cutting-edge technologies will be invited to collaborate for better support to bring their new innovations to life, to scale them and take them to market. It continues to mark Volvo Group’s commitment to supporting startups in developing viable and impactful innovations with focus on sustainability, specifically via electromobility, autonomous vehicles and digital solutions.
“We are confident that the CampX concept can help catalyze an urgent transformation of the transport industry towards a sustainable future. Speed in innovation is perhaps the most crucial factor on this challenging journey,” says Lars Stenqvist, Chief Technology Officer Volvo Group. “CampX is a strategic engine where we can accelerate technology and business innovation through partnerships. Our thousands of technical and business experts can assist startups in co-creating and validating their new ideas, for example by using our laboratories, test vehicles and workshops.”
The first batch of Incubator startups are working across a targeted range of prioritized high-tech areas. They are:
Radchat, a company working with technology that enable radars to communicate to get precise positioning in for example underground mines
Repli5, whose software automates the creation of 3D environments for simulation
Kite, working with thermal management solutions for electromobility to enable efficient cooling
Fyrqom, a company working with automated tire pressure measurement and management.
Autonomous Knight, whose multi spectral camera enables better all-weather vision.
“Ideas from startups such as these first five can lead to important benefits for the transport industry. We help entrepreneurs to validate their potential breakthrough solutions as quickly as possible, to advance sustainable mobility,” says Helene Niklasson, Head of CampX at Volvo Group. “By having these startups literally next to our Volvo engineers, we thus encourage spontaneous interactions. Everyone knows the best ideas are often brainstormed next to the coffee machine.”
Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has appointed Timo Schamber as its new Global Airfreight Director CEP (Courier, Express and Parcel Services), effective February 1. With the creation of this new position, the company is responding to the increasing global airfreight market demands and the rapid development of cross-border e-commerce business, which will be a major growth driver for years to come. Particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, this business segment has grown significantly and is expected to continue to expand under Timo Schamber’s leadership in the future.
Most recently, Timo Schamber was the Managing Director at Lufthansa subsidiary heyworld GmbH and, with over 15 years of work experience, he brings a wealth of expertise in logistics and e-commerce. Throughout his career, he has also been involved in the launch of various start-ups, focusing on the development and marketing of new products, the acquisition and retention of international e-commerce customers, and the development of organizational structures and processes.
“We are delighted to have Timo Schamber, a highly experienced industry expert, join the team to drive the further development of our Courier, Express and Parcel Services in the airfreight sector worldwide. Given the ongoing volatile market environment, we face new challenges daily. In this setting, it is particularly important to provide stability to our customers as a reliable partner, while at the same time adding value by offering new solution-oriented service options,” says Jan Kleine-Lasthues, COO Airfreight, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has appointed Timo Schamber as its new Global Airfreight Director CEP (Courier, Express and Parcel Services), effective February 1.
With the creation of this new position, the company is responding to the increasing global airfreight market demands and the rapid development of cross-border e-commerce business, which will be a major growth driver for years to come. Particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, this business segment has grown significantly and is expected to continue to expand under Timo Schamber’s leadership in the future.Most recently, Timo Schamber was the Managing Director at Lufthansa subsidiary heyworld GmbH and, with over 15 years of work experience, he brings a wealth of expertise in logistics and e-commerce.
Throughout his career, he has also been involved in the launch of various start-ups, focusing on the development and marketing of new products, the acquisition and retention of international e-commerce customers, and the development of organizational structures and processes.”We are delighted to have Timo Schamber, a highly experienced industry expert, join the team to drive the further development of our Courier, Express and Parcel Services in the airfreight sector worldwide. Given the ongoing volatile market environment, we face new challenges daily. In this setting, it is particularly important to provide stability to our customers as a reliable partner, while at the same time adding value by offering new solution-oriented service options,” says Jan Kleine-Lasthues, COO Airfreight, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.
Standing for Total Cargo Expertise, TCE proposes a comprehensive range of services for airlines, placing quality, safety and security at the heart of all its activities. Having developed new services in 2022, it continues to broaden the scope of its offering in 2023.
In 2022, TCE’s activity has indeed been fast evolving, in line with the market. In addition to its existing services, ranging from auditing to risk assessment and from operational process standards to dealing with the legal aspects of cargo, some new services were introduced due to the growing demand from airlines. The first one, on-site freighter turnaround supervision, was specifically customized to fulfil customers’ needs. TCE also started carrying out on-site third-party supplier audits at warehouse and ramp handling agents on behalf of its airline partners, a service including special ACC3 audits and validations. In accordance with its key principle of flexibility, TCE made this service available on-demand to any airline wishing to benefit from its specific audits. Finally, an entirely new dedicated customs reporting team was built to provide the ultimate guidance to customers.
Robert Van De Weg, Chief Commercial Officer of ECS Group is aware that flexibility is crucial: “In these changing times, keeping abreast of the market shift has never been more essential to GSSAs. Taking our customers’ needs into account and implementing solutions to solve their challenges can only impact our business positively.“ These evolutions within TCE have indeed reaped some great rewards. That same year, as well as offering its services to a growing number of airlines, bringing it to a total of 14, TCE has successfully conducted 78 audits, performed 6 ACC3 validations and supervised 225 freighter turnarounds. Moreover, it has reported an impressive 3,631 flights to customs with 11,398 AWB in that period.
Continuing on this rising curve, TCE is gearing up to develop its network and serve more airlines in the future. With several European stations where it supervises full freighter aircraft turnarounds, TCE is currently expanding this service to North, Central and South America as well as Asia. In addition, the full 24/7 support it currently provides to one dedicated ATR freighter will soon be extended to a second one. As for the team of 13 fully trained experts, it is also growing as TCE is presently looking for more talents to hire.
Sarah Scheibe, Managing Director of TCE is delighted by the current state of affairs: “I’m very proud of the constant evolution I have witnessed at TCE since its beginnings. To top it all off, 2022 has been an amazing year. Thanks to our expert staff, we have performed flawless services and we need to carry on building on this momentum. That’s why I’m very excited to expand our team in order to provide continuous support to customers and to satisfy all their requirements with regards to ground operations.”
Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group says: “The role of GSSAs has evolved from agents who arrange cargo bookings for airlines to strategic partners. By bringing its customers its full support and top standards of safety, TCE guarantees them the total peace of mind that they need to focus on their core business.”
With plans to expand its on-site supervision network, to further develop its product portfolio and to hire more talents, TCE is certainly proving the importance of keeping an ear to the ground in today’s fluctuating market.
For more information on TCE, please visit ECS Group’s website: https://ecsgroup.aero/ability/tce
The international air cargo conglomeration, Challenge Group has chosen to partner with EXSYN with a focus on aircraft data migration.
EXSYN’s aircraft data management solution, NEXUS, will play a vital role in managing the complex aircraft data flows as Challenge Airlines and Challenge Technic migrate to the recently selected MRO/M&E system (AMOS) over the coming weeks. Challenge Airline BE will be the first of the Group’s companies to migrate to the new system and will also benefit from the technical expertise of EXSYN’s team of Aircraft Data Consultants. This is augmented with technical expertise provided by EXSYN’s team of Aircraft Data Consultants.
Veronique Paquay, Technical Director of Challenge Airline BE says, “EXSYN’s global expertise on the migration of aircraft data through their tested method and tools will enable us to efficiently manage the complex data migration process. This partnership will help us to reduce the time required to integrate our fleet and reap the benefits of our new MRO/M&E system, AMOS, faster.”
Sander de Bree, CEO of EXSYN Aviation Solutions adds, “As EXSYN we are leaders in the migration and management of aircraft data. Partnering with Challenge Group directly made sense to us in order to provide our technology and expertise to support Challenge Group to successfully onboard their airworthiness and maintenance data to the new MRO software, AMOS.”
EXSYN’s Aircraft Data Management Platform focuses on the three main elements of aircraft data management: Data Migration, Data Integration, and Data Analytics. The platform is powered by the two products NEXUS and AVILYTICS. Functions in the platform range from MRO system data migration capabilities for all commonly used aviation industry MRO software, building SPEC25000 compliant aircraft redelivery binders, transforming aircraft delivery binders to be automatically loaded into airline MRO software and a wide range of aircraft data health reports to monitor data quality.
The full range of analytics capabilities caters for aircraft reliability management, maintenance costs optimization, and prediction of upcoming aircraft component failures. With these data integration tools, airlines and MROs can automate business processes that make use of – or generate the data available in their MRO systems. Clients using EXSYN’s Aircraft Data Management Platform can also opt to augment this with expert services provided by EXSYN’s team of Aircraft Data Consultants.
Etihad Cargo and Astral Aviation have signed an MoU to expand their existing partnership and enhance cooperation between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi
As part of Astral Aviation’s expanding partnership with Abu Dhabi, the airline will operate a number of flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi as part of the capacity sharing agreement with Etihad Cargo
Etihad Cargo and Astral Aviation will share up to 50 per cent of all available capacity on additional flights between Nairobi and Abu Dhabi
The agreement demonstrates Etihad Cargo’s commitment to partnerships that expand the carrier’s global network and will increase the cargo capacity available to its customers in the African market
Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Astral Aviation Ltd to expand the partnership between the two parties and enhance the cooperation between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi, further growing Etihad Cargo’s reach into the African market.
Through the comprehensive MoU, Etihad Cargo’s customers will benefit from additional cargo capacity out of Nairobi via the introduction of additional services from Nairobi to Etihad Cargo’s hub in Abu Dhabi from 1 April 2023.
The expansion of the partnership between Etihad Cargo and Astral Aviation will further enhance Etihad Cargo’s capabilities in the African market. In 2021, the carrier signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Astral Aviation to provide reliable and cost-effective air freight solutions for the transport of pharmaceuticals across the continent. The SLA was Etihad Cargo’s first Pharma Interline agreement and ensured the carrier’s partners’ full compliance with latest IATA Pharma and GDP regulations and standards.
This latest agreement builds on Astral Aviation’s expanding partnership with Abu Dhabi, which will see Astral Aviation operating more flights to the UAE’s capital, supported by Etihad Cargo.
“The signing of this MoU demonstrates Etihad Cargo and Astral Aviation’s shared commitment to joint network development and providing a more comprehensive solution to international cargo transportation between Nairobi and Abu Dhabi,” said Martin Drew, Senior Vice President – Global Sales & Cargo at Etihad Airways. “The partnership will enable Etihad Cargo to expand its African network and offer increased cargo capacity both into and out of Nairobi, strengthening the connection between the two cities via this key route and further developing this critical African gateway.”
“We are truly honored to enter into a MoU with Etihad Cargo as a part of our strategy to expand our network globally, which will enhance accessibility and connectivity via Etihad’s Abu Dhabi Hub,” said Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation. “We look forward to transporting Perishables from Kenya into Abu Dhabi and beyond on Etihad’s network, and on the return with cargoes from Asia, USA and Europe to connect into Astral’s Intra African network in Nairobi. This cooperation will create new opportunities for our respective clients and will be a win-win partnership.”
The agreement will see Astral Aviation and Etihad Cargo sharing up to 50 per cent of all available capacity on the new Nairobi-Abu Dhabi-Nairobi flights, increasing the capacity Etihad Cargo offers air cargo and air mail customers. Via Etihad Cargo’s Abu Dhabi hub, the carrier’s global network will offer connectivity to destinations around the world. Etihad Cargo will utilise its expansive road feeder service network to transport cargo arriving in Abu Dhabi from Nairobi to destinations throughout the UAE and other offline stations.
Scan Global Logistics partners with CVC to further accelerate international growth
Scan Global Logistics (SGL), the fast-growing global transport and logistics provider, announces that CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII (CVC) has agreed to acquire a majority shareholding in SGL.
Copenhagen, Denmark, 6 February, 2023; Scan Global Logistics (SGL), headquartered in Denmark, announces that CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII (CVC) has agreed to acquire a majority shareholding in the company from an investor group led by AEA Investors Small Business Private Equity (AEA).
With revenues of more than $3bn, SGL offers a full suite of end-to-end services across +150 locations in 45 countries and through +3,300 logistics professionals. The company, known for its customer-first, purpose-driven approach, has since 2017 seen an average annual growth in revenues of 33 %, driven by above-market organic growth, combined with more than 30 acquisitions during the same period. SGL’s service offering comprises end-to-end, logistics and freight forwarding solutions tailor-made for each region, vertical and individual customer. The company holds leading positions in key verticals such as aid & relief, fashion & retail, automotive, technology, general manufacturing, food ingredients & additives, and pharma & healthcare.
SGL’s asset-light business model and scalable platform forms the basis for continued potential future growth in a market where increasing supply chain complexity is expected to drive further demand for freight forwarders such as SGL capable of offering complex, multi-modular solutions.
Allan Melgaard, Global CEO and Co-Founder of SGL, expands on the growth strategy: “Our people are our most valuable asset. We want to become the industry’s preferred workplace, attracting the best talent with a defined ambition of becoming the most purpose-driven logistics company in the world. We are ambitious and believe that we can reach our revenue target of more than $5bn during the next few years by continuing to leverage our entrepreneurial culture, agile decision making, and high customer satisfaction obtained through tailored competitive logistics solutions.”
The transaction will see both AEA and management co-invest alongside CVC to participate in the journey that lies ahead. This serves as a testament to the positive conviction about the future prospects of the business that is shared between current and future owners.
Allan Melgaard welcomes CVC: “We are excited to welcome CVC onboard. Our talks over the past months and CVC’s support for our ambitious growth strategy and plans have convinced us that they are a perfect match for SGL professionally and culturally, and will support our future plans via their deep industry knowledge.”
Christoffer Sjøqvist, Senior Managing Director at CVC, adds: “SGL has built a competitive company and global logistics platform in a relatively short period of time. We are excited about our investment in SGL and believe that the company has the potential to become one of the leaders in its industry, and continue to improve its competitive situation, including during a more challenging economic climate in 2023.”
Philip Ropcke, Director at CVC, adds: “We have been truly impressed with SGL and look forward to working with Allan and his talented team to grow and develop SGL’s global market position further, both organically as well as through acquisitions. We feel privileged that management has chosen us as their partner for the journey that lies ahead.”
John Cozzi, Partner at AEA & Co-Head of Small Business Private Equity, comments: “We have tremendously enjoyed the partnership with the SGL team since 2016, supporting them in their transformative quest to become a global network logistics provider. We are therefore very pleased to remain a significant minority shareholder and participate in the company’s future growth and value creation.”
Financial terms of the transaction are not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2023 and is subject to regulatory approval and certain financing conditions.
Barclays served as the exclusive sell side M&A advisor to SGL, and Rothschild & Co. served as the exclusive buy side M&A advisor to CVC.
Targets $300 million revenue from the new terminal
New facility to boost the petrochemical trade in the Middle East and globally
State-of-the-art Chemical Terminal covers an area of 20,000 square metres
Project’s tank-farm has a total storage volume of over 34,000 cubic metres
New terminal leverages Jebel Ali Port’s unique role as a global trade facilitator
The global petrochemical market is expected to reach $5.4 trillion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period
AquaChemie Middle East – a leading regional player for process industry chemicals in the GCC region and part of the UAE-based AquaChemie Group – has formally inaugurated its world-class Petrochemical Terminal in DP World’s Jebel Ali Port in Dubai. The advanced $50 million (AED 184 million) terminal will be one of the most functional and versatile bulk liquid terminals in the GCC region serving as a vital gateway to facilitate and boost the growing petrochemical trade between manufacturers and end-users across the Middle East and globally.
The facility was officially inaugurated on February 2, 2023 in a well-attended opening ceremony by the chief guest, Abdullah Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director, DP World UAE & JAFZA; guest of honour, Dr. Aman Puri, Consul General of India, Dubai & Northern Emirates; together with Subrato Saha, Managing Director, AquaChemie; and Anand Kumar, Managing Director, AquaChemie; in the presence of senior DP World and JAFZA officials, industry associates, and the media.
AquaChemie commissioned Mott MacDonald, the globally renowned engineering, management, and development consultancy, for the new facility’s design detailed engineering and project management, with the region’s leading mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and civil contractors also being on boarded for the project’s completion in record time.
The foundation of the Petrochemical Terminal was laid on November 23, 2020, with the new facility being awarded its OFC (Operation Fitness Certificate), along with all of the required regulatory certifications from Dubai Civil Defense and DP World on January 18, 2023.
The facility has been fully CDI-T (Chemical Distribution Institute – Terminal) assessed and is ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 certified. The terminal has already serviced the first vessel carrying chemicals.
The Chemical Terminal covers an area of 20,000 square metres and is located some 500 metres from Chemical Berth 4 in Jebel Ali Port. The new facility is linked by five SS pig-gable jetty pipelines, making it one of the most functional and versatile bulk liquid terminals in the GCC region.
With a total storage volume of over 34,000 cubic metres, the 26 large tanks in tank-farm A, B, C, and D are well equipped to handle over 100 UN Class 3 and 8 chemicals. The terminal has three tanker truck loading bays for top and bottom loading of tankers and ISO tanks, five semi-automatic drumming lines, a warehousing facility with over 6,300 drums, a dedicated ISO tank storage area, and a weigh bridge at the truck entry point.
The terminal is fully monitored and controlled from a central control room. AquaChemie’s corporate headquarter building is located on the same site as the terminal facility, so as to allow the leadership team to stay in close proximity. The corporate building houses the terminal’s operation control room, support and sales staff offices, dining and recreation areas, management office and board room.
Speaking on the occasion, Subrato Saha, Managing Director of AquaChemie, said: “It took us over four years to bring the AquaChemie terminal from concept to reality. We are thankful to have met such capable collaborators along the way who assisted us in shaping it. We pledge to our customers, employees, investors, and neighbours that we will conduct business in the safest, most environmentally and socially responsible manner possible, for both current and future generations.”
“AquaChemie group’s revenue target for the new terminal over the next three years is $300 million (AED1.1 billion). The storage facility has been built primarily for AquaChemie’s captive distribution of products. It strengthens the business case for chemical supply by increasing economies of scale, lowering freight costs, and expanding into new industries and geographies,” Saha added.
Petrochemical manufacturers and end-users are located globally, meaning that chemicals must constantly move between them. In terms of packing volumes and the geographic location of the manufacturer and end-user industry for petrochemical products, there is a significant supply chain gap. The new terminal, which is essentially a break-bulk facility, now fills the supply chain void by serving as a strategic hub for the liquid petrochemical trade and distribution.
The regional petrochemical industry also stands to benefit from the new terminal as the facility is located in Jebel Ali Port, which is part of a trade network connecting one-third of the world’s locations, while also offering the advantage of streamlined customs clearance and other trade-related processes.
With the new facility the petrochemical sector also gets to avail of expanded opportunities in the local ecosystem involving logistics, transportation, and other service providers. The sector can now also enjoy the benefit of increased competition and professional players, while customers can additionally benefit from improved cost efficiency and services and higher end-user companies’ access to international markets.
Highlighting the benefits of the newly opened facility Anand Kumar, Managing Director of AquaChemie, explained: “Our new state-of-the-art terminal is a step towards backward integration of our current oil and gas offering for the upstream and downstream petrochemical sectors. The supply reliability and lower supply chain cost will immensely benefit our existing customers as chemicals will be delivered on time so that the customers’ operations are not disrupted.
“The new terminal will also assist in the formation of strategic alliances with regional and global manufacturers of petrochemicals, in order to distribute bulk products to customers in smaller packaging. To maximise capacity utilisation and partially offset operation costs, a few tanks in the new facility will be leased for third-party storage. Chemicals hold enormous promise for the region. We hope, humbly, to contribute to this value chain,” Kumar added.
Snehal Karia, VP Business Development of AquaChemie, stated: “I am especially excited about our combined offering of a centrally located storage terminal supplemented by local setup in each Middle Eastern country. We will become a dependable chemical product supplier all year round, and serving on all days. Our new facility now enables the storage of several new products with improved pricing and availability for end-users.”
Vishal Patel, GM Terminal of AquaChemie, noted: “Having worked in chemical multinationals, I was pleasantly surprised to find AquaChemie’s safety and professional mindset to be on par with the best. The new terminal is also extremely adaptable and reliable in terms of asset availability and operability. Furthermore, outsourcing operations to MDR’s professional team, internationally recognised for process facility operation, has simplified my job.”
China, the United States, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea are amongst the top six countries, by volume, producing bulk petrochemicals worldwide. The global petrochemical market is expected to reach $5.4 trillion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period.
Qatar Airways Cargo re-instates Penang (PEN) to its network, offering more than 70 tonnes a week to Malaysia’s second-busiest cargo airport
Qatar Airways Cargo will recommence belly capacity services to Penang, Malaysia, effective 2 February 2023. Qatar Airways Cargo will operate an A330 passenger freighter to Penang via Qatar Airways’ passenger flights to Phuket, four times a week. This adds more than 70 tonnes of available capacity each week, that will feed into Qatar Airways Cargo’s extensive international network via its state-of-the-art Doha hub.
The service complements the existing seven weekly belly-hold flights to the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, providing customers with over 200 tonnes of cargo capacity from Malaysia.
Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo commented: “Qatar Airways Cargo is implementing its meticulous Next Generation approach throughout its network, aiming for optimum resource deployment in alignment with customer requirements.
“Our network planning team saw a perfect opportunity in the passenger A330 flight’s ground-time in Phuket, and have worked hard to establish a well-scheduled, interim passenger-freighter connection to Penang and back to maximise the cargo capacity into and out of Malaysia’s second-busiest cargo airport.
“This Next Generation-style multi-modal strategy sees Qatar Airways’ Doha-Phuket passenger connection becoming a Phuket-Penang-Phuket passenger-freighter for four days of the week, before returning to Doha again as a passenger service with lower deck cargo.”
“The re-launch of our Penang connections in an innovative and unique manner illustrates our ambition and ability, at Qatar Airways Cargo, to provide connectivity to our customers in the best possible way.
With the exception of Mail, the destination is open for all commodity types. Penang is the largest export contributing state within Malaysia, with mostly electronics/electrical equipment, general cargo and vulnerable cargo being sent by air. Capacity to Penang can be booked online on all channels including Qatar Airways Cargo’s Digital Lounge at www.qrcargo.com
SITA’s latest Air Transport IT Insights report reveals accelerated digitalization to help airlines and airports meet rising passenger demand
Faced with increased disruptions, baggage mountains, and staff shortages, airports and airlines are ramping up their investment in technology to digitalize their operations and speed up the passenger journey by offering more self-service options.
SITA’s 2022 Air Transport IT Insights report, published today, reveals that with the post-pandemic recovery CIOs want to ensure operations are as agile and resilient as they are efficient, with IT solutions seen as central to their success. This has spurred an acceleration of digitalization, with airlines and airports looking to key technology solutions to fortify their operations against disruption while automating the passenger experience.
The industry’s IT spend is projected to continue its steady year-on-year growth trend since 2020 to support this push for digitalization, with a full 96% of airlines and 93% of airports expecting their IT spend to stay the same or increase in 2023 compared to 2022. Last year airline and airport IT spend rose to an estimated 37 billion USD and 6.8 billion USD respectively.
David Lavorel, CEO, SITA, said: “Air travel has recovered faster from the pandemic than anyone in the industry had initially expected, particularly in Europe and the US. While the recovery is welcome, airports and airlines have found themselves on the back foot with staff and resource shortages. This has put strain on operations, resulting in an increased risk of congestion, delays, cancellations and mishandled baggage. Digitalization is seen as key to addressing these challenges, providing more scalability and flexibility.”
Digitalizing operations to achieve more with less
Airlines are placing great emphasis on IT tools to manage irregular operations and provide the best passenger experience possible even amid staff shortages. Over the next three years, 90% or more of airlines are investing in IT service management enhancement and disruption warning systems, as well as business intelligence initiatives for aircraft turnaround management, passenger processing, and baggage processing.
Business intelligence solutions are at the forefront of airport IT investment priorities too, with 93% or more planning business intelligence initiatives for asset management and flight operations by 2025. The emphasis on agility, adaptability to disruption, and prompt communication with customers and stakeholders is clear; by 2025 half of airports are seeking to implement automated predictive alerts prior to flight disruption events as well as business intelligence initiatives to enable scaling of operations based on demand.
Streamlining the passenger journey with smart technologies
Both airlines and airports are investing in key technologies to smooth the passenger experience across every step of the journey, to help curb bottlenecks and in turn allow redistribution of key staff resource to focus on more complex tasks. Biometrics and self-service technologies are seeing major emphasis.
Airlines have identified self-service technologies as key to helping manage irregular operations, and this remained their top investment priority in 2022, with touchless solutions and biometric ID management following closely.
To support effective baggage management and empower passengers following a period of significant disruption, a majority of airlines plan to provide real-time baggage tracking information to passengers by 2025.
Airports are similarly prioritizing self-service initiatives, placing strong emphasis on self check-in and self-bag drop, with 86% planning implementation by 2025. Airports’ implementation of a secure single biometric token across all touchpoints has surged from just 3% in 2021 to 39% in 2022, with over half planning implementation over the next three years. This signals a strong commitment to the next-generation travel experience where passengers can breeze through the airport using their face as their boarding pass.
Turkish Cargo released new commercial films depicting the opportunities offered to the global economy by its mega hub SMARTIST, which is interconnecting the world.
Raising the bar continuously for success by combining its global flight network of more than 340 destinations with Türkiye’s unique geographical advantage; Turkish Cargo operates from its state-of-the-art facility, SMARTIST, which is one of the most advanced cargo hubs in the world. The global brand showcases its strength and potential with a series of three commercial films.
Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat, stated; “We, as Turkish Airlines, have covered a remarkable distance and made great achievements in the course of our journey throughout our country’s aviation history as its national flag carrier. We have always distinguished ourselves from our competitors with our service quality beyond expectations along with our strong foundation and agile structure. We built SMARTIST, our mega cargo facility that ranks among the largest hubs in the world. With this strategic investment, we have become the bridge of trade between east and west. These achievements stem from not only our unique geographical advantage, but also due to the strategy drawn up in line with the vision, namely “the Future is in the Skies”, created during the early days of our country’s aviation.
As the year 2023 is the 100th anniversary of our country’s foundation, this year carries a special significance for us. As part of the targets of Türkiye for its 100th year, we as Turkish Airlines are committed to deliver much more by taking courage from our accomplishments in the past. We have been turning Istanbul into the logistics center of the world with the investments we make and the strategies we have created.”
SMARTIST; The Logistic Center of the World in Türkiye’s 100th Anniversary
Having been designed as the largest industrial building under single roof at Istanbul Airport, SMARTIST is strategically located. At the crossroads of continents, the hub is situated at a flight distance of 4 hours to more than 50 countries worldwide. A very wide range of products, from automotive to perishable goods arriving from all corners of the world to the SMARTIST hub, are then distributed worldwide through Turkish Airlines extended network.
Furthermore, the mega facility also stands out with its logistics, storage and smart system technologies. Coupling the leadership of Turkish Cargo in terms of flight network, infrastructure and unprecedented geographical advantages of Istanbul, SMARTIST has become an indispensable gateway for international trade.
Providing the best connections in terms of transportation to production and trade centers in the world, Turkish Cargo has been developing attractive opportunities with its high-quality service approach to meet the needs of its customers and industry partners. By developing tailored and practical solutions for the ever-increasing demand for logistics, the global air cargo brand aims to provide support to exporters as well, while promoting regional and global trade.
GWC has been accredited in the GCC Authorized Economic Operator Program, adding another feather to its cap as it pursues out its mission to deliver unrivaled service to its clients.
Following the formal commencement of the GCC AEO Program on 1 January 2023, enabling GWC to function as an authorized economic operator. This comes as a progression to GWC becoming the first logistics company in Qatar to get Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification in customs clearance category in 2021.
With quicker turnaround and greater compliance with top-notch safety and security standards, GWC was able to offer its diverse range of services.
Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO of GWC, commented, “Obtaining the GCC AEO Program accreditation strengthens our position as the top logistics supplier in Qatar. This is the result of our efforts to provide the best caliber of services, and it gives us tremendous pride. We look forward to helping our clients and providing them with enhanced supply chain solutions”.
In accordance with World Customs Organization norms, the General Authority of Customs introduced the Authorized Economic Operation Program in 2019 to foster engagement and cooperation with the private sector to facilitate international trade.
The GCC AEO program gives GCC-wide benefits on procedures, laws, customs clearance, among other advantages, and enables qualified traders to collaborate with customs authorities and the private sector.
The GCC Authorized Economic Operators are given additional benefits and incentives by the General Authority of Customs in the State of Qatar which streamlines the customs’ processes for the certified businesses.
UD Trucks has continued its journey of exceptional growth throughout the (MEENA) region by registering an average 30 per cent growth for the second year in a row
Sales of HD UD Trucks in Qatar were up 35 per cent
Saudi Arabia, UD Trucks’ largest market by volume, enjoyed a 32 per cent increase in sales, and the brand has now expanded into every segment
As part of its expansion plans, the brand is working to launch in new markets in 2023
UD Trucks has continued its journey of exceptional growth throughout the Middle East, East, and North Africa (MEENA) region by registering an average of 30 per cent growth for the second year in a row. This boost for the Japanese truck manufacturer strengthens its position as a market leader in a largely European-dominated regional truck market. UD Trucks continues to place its “Better life” Strategy for people and the planet at the core of its objective to become the Japanese Sustainability Leader by 2025.
There were positive stories for UD Trucks right across the region over the past 12 months. Sales of heavy-duty trucks in Qatar were up by 35 per cent thanks to the brand’s reputation for producing robust and modern trucks. This also contributed to UD Trucks’ steady performance in other key segments, including the waste management and construction sector in the UAE.
Saudi Arabia, UD Trucks’ largest market by volume, enjoyed a 32 per cent increase in sales, and the brand has now expanded into every segment, from construction and logistics to waste management. The brand is now involved in a large number of Kingdom-wide projects – many of its partners are involved with the NEOM project.
Further contributing to this growth and supporting its ‘Better Life’ sustainability strategy for the planet, UD Trucks has entered other key segments in the region. Irrigation vehicles were used to clean up waste oil contamination from the soil in Kuwait as part of the second soil remediation project, while water tankers, vacuum trucks, and jet cleaners were provided by the brand to the Babil municipality in Iraq. In Abu Dhabi, UD Trucks will lead the waste management project after winning a large portion of the business, helping to position the company as a leader in this field.
In 2022, the brand added the Euro5-compliant Quester model with ESCOT as well as the Croner PKE19 with automatic transmission to its fleet.
UD is active across all key areas
In Africa, specifically in Ethiopia and Uganda, UD Trucks delivered a significant number of vehicles primarily intended for general cargo use, despite the hard economic conditions and currency shortage. In 2023, further countries are set to be added to UD’s operations as the brand continues with its plans for expansion on the continent.
With a focus on efficiency, uptime, and customer service, UD Trucks and its partners have invested significant time and resources in developing a network of workshops across the region to meet customers’ needs. UD Telematics, with a penetration of more than 40 per cent in targeted markets, is a key USP for the brand, as it helps customers by providing information in real-time about vehicle location, speed, fuel consumption, driver behaviour and other relevant data to improve uptime and total cost of ownership. By optimising its fleet management processes, UD Trucks helps fleet managers to increase efficiency and reduce costs, resulting in improved customer satisfaction.
The company’s customers also benefit from the availability of comprehensive Service Agreements, ensuring greater control over costs and easier administration, thus providing full peace of mind to fleet managers. In 2022, the company registered a 35 per cent service contract penetration.
The company is dedicated to achieving proficiency in every aspect, not only through improvements in its fleet and the services it offers to customers, but also through investing in the needs of its employees. Some 2,135 hours of technical, soft skills and driver training, for over 1,000 personnel, have been conducted in the past 12 months, both in-person and online. These sessions were based on blended learning modules and physical training, and were designed to facilitate competence development, while reducing costs.
Positive sentiment about the brand has been reinforced by its ‘Better Life’ strategy. In line with the company’s commitment to focus on people, UD launched several initiatives in 2022, including supporting the Arabian Ocean Rowing team to raise awareness of plastic pollution and environmental sustainability, as well as supporting employees and partners participating in Dubai Marathon to promote physical and mental wellbeing.
Mourad Hedna, president of UD Trucks MEENA, commented: “2022 has been an excellent year for UD Trucks in the region, a confirmation year that its trucks, services and values are well appreciated by our customers. UD is clearly recognised as a brand providing its customers with efficient, reliable, and cost-effective products and services.”
He added: “With a strong foundation in place, we are on track for another successful year in 2023. We will continue to work on our growth and customer satisfaction in all areas.”
GWC (Q.P.S.C.) has announced its results for the financial year ending 31 December 2022 achieving net profits of QAR 239.6 million, with gross revenues reaching QAR 1.519 billion at the end of 2022, and EPS at QAR 0.41 by the end of the same period. The Company’s Board has recommended QAR 0.1 cash dividend to shareholders which is subject for discussion and approval during the company’s Assembly General Meeting scheduled to be held on 19 February 2023.
He also praised the GWC team over the last decade for innovating new benchmarks in the logistics industry.
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM
The successful implementation of the World Cup was an endorsement of the company’s confidence in delivering seamless logistical execution. Building a dedicated workforce of 5,000+ spread across diverse geographies around the world that was skilled to tackle logistical challenges at scale was no easy feat. GWC also set up a fan zone throughout the duration of the tournament for all the GWC staff which witnessed a huge turnout and gave the employees a sense of what they have worked to achieve.
Strengthening Partnerships and thought-leadership
2022 was also the year where we built on longstanding partnerships and forged new ones with global strategic partners, such as with Qatar University and Ponticelli. GWC also successfully organised the second GWC Forum – “Ready for the Game” with focus on MSMEs and how they can leverage this mega sporting event to foster innovation and explore new opportunities for growth. Our esteemed panel of speakers outlined the trends they expected to see after the tournament.
Promoting Sustainability
GWC continued being a part of Qatar Sustainability Week, which serves as a platform to showcase all the work being done by the government and the private sector to protect the environment for future generations. For GWC, sustainability has been at the core of all its initiatives, whether it is a beach clean-up, and tree plantation or recycling wooden pellets to delivering a sustainable FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
Recognised for excellence
GWC was recognised by the Ministry of Labour for its commitment to occupational health and safety – a cause that the Group takes very seriously. GWC through its various measures, whether it included preparing and organising periodic emergency drills, or conducting safety drills, warrants that all measures possible are taken to empower, educate and protect its employees, and contractors.
“The safety of our workers is of paramount importance to us and preventing accidents, injuries and illnesses arising out of, or occurring due to work, by eliminating or minimising the causes of hazards inherent in the working environment, remains a top priority.,” Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC, remarked.
He was also very proud of GWC being the first company in Qatar to get accredited as an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) from Qatar’s General Authority of Customs. Speaking about it, he said, “We will now be able to offer our diversified services with quicker turnarounds and a stricter compliance to world-class safety and security standards. Getting this certificate is a testament of our due diligence in ensuring that all requirements and procedures are followed.”
The Way Forward
In 2023, GWC will strive to build on the economic momentum created by the World Cup. As always, it will also continue to work towards the Qatar National Vision 2030 goals with a strict eye on innovation and sustainability. This is an important year to focus GWC’s attention to the legacy of the World Cup and the medium- and long-term impact on the economy.
Supporting MSMEs thorough its various initiatives will be a top priority for GWC, as will be the health and safety of its employees.
“I am sure 2023 will bring with it, its own set of challenges, opportunities and never-done-before-experiences and we are ready for all that and more,” Mr. Menon added.
Discovery, ECS Group’s in-house training platform, offers more than 50 digital training modules and a solid knowledge database to its employees. Professional training and life-long-learning are a winning combination when it comes to business and personal success.
Discovery was launched in September 2020, and covers a comprehensive, up-to-date, online training pallet aimed at efficient knowledge transfer and skills enhancement. Thus, Discovery offers a host of courses that have been developed in-house to introduce users to ECS Group’s Quantum and Apollo digital solutions, and partner technologies such as SkyPallet or CargoSpot. Comprehensive onboarding courses are available for team members who are new to the air freight industry, helping them to integrate quickly. Discovery contains role-related training plans for the different job functions within ECS Group, such as Sales, Customer Service, or Finance, for example, which managers assign to their team members.
“Most of the courses available on Discovery have been created by ECS Group employees for ECS Group employees. The end-user training for the digital solutions created by our Cargo Digital Factory – Quantum and Apollo, are obvious examples, and were put together by their respective product owners. However, we also offer 5 training modules for CargoSpot, and one for SkyPallet. Internally produced training courses ensure a much more efficient knowledge transfer because they are directly based on our ECS Group business processes, and are thus more specifically relevant and tangible,” Cedric Millet, Chief Strategy & Digital Officer of ECS Group , explains. The average duration of a course module is one hour, and participants are required to pass a test at the end of each module, to allow them to proceed with the next one.
“Life-long-learning is what makes us stand out – personally and professionally – and the achievements of each and every one of our employees is what drives ECS Group’s continuous competitive success,” says Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group.
Two new training projects are lined up for 2023: a Dangerous Goods Transportation overview course, and an in-depth Sustainability module. The Sustainability module is due to be launched in the first quarter of the year and will be made mandatory, given that Sustainability is the fourth core pillar of the Augmented GSSA concept.
Following the opening of a new chemicals and dangerous goods warehouse in Malaysia last year, Leschaco has now signed a lease with industrial land developer DHG (David Hart Group) developing a new ADR warehouse facility in Moerdijk, Netherlands.
Situated in a strategic location between the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp – the two most important seaports in Europe – Moerdijk guarantees optimal accessibility to the European hinterland and ensures that customers’ products are transported in an efficient manner in terms of cost, speed, accessibility and frequency. The new facility is scheduled to be ready in the 3rd quarter of this year.
The new chemical logistics center has optimal multimodal transport links: In addition to the proximity to the seaports of Rotterdam and Antwerp, access to the two most important waterways in the Netherlands – the Rhine and the Meuse with daily barge traffic to/from Rotterdam and Antwerp – as well as direct connections to the A16 (Antwerp-Breda-Rotterdam), A59 and A17 (Moerdijk-Roosendaal-Antwerp) are essential prerequisites for smooth transport handling. In addition, two public rail terminals in the vicinity are available for use.
The warehouse offers space for approximately 45,000 pallets on an area of 29,000 sqm. It is divided into five sections. Four of them are equipped with CO2 extinguishing systems, specifically designed for the storage of chemicals and dangerous goods, while the fifth is for the storage of general cargo and is equipped with ESFR sprinklers.
“This project is an important strategic milestone for our presence in Europe. It is also necessary to meet the increasing demand in the region and to be closer to our customers,” says Constantin Conrad, Managing Partner of Leschaco Group.
“The new logistics center offers our global customers in the chemical, healthcare, automotive, industrial materials and consumer goods sectors a wide range of services and, in combination with other Leschaco products, complex logistics solutions at the highest level. In addition to pallet storage, this includes various kinds of value-added services according to our customers’ demands,” adds Sebastian Haebler, Head of Global Contract Logistics at Leschaco.
David Hart, Owner DHG, supplements “Leschaco and DHG are both family businesses, our motivation, standards and values are very similar. Partly for this reason, we are honored to add Leschaco to our DHG “family” and to be a part of their expansion within Europe.”
The new building meets all safety and environmental standards. Solar panels on the roof will be able to cover part of the electricity demand. Other sustainable measures, such as the use of electric floor heating instead of gas or oil installations, LED lighting, and the highest construction standards for isolation, also contribute to improving the climate balance, as do the short distances to the port of Moerdijk for transport by barge and rail and e-charging stations for cars.
Information DHG: DHG is the biggest developer of large logistics real estate at its own risk in the Netherlands. Since 2015, DHG has realized over 1.3 million sqm of distribution centers according to the SMARTLOG concept – DC’s of guaranteed quality and with defined specifications. These distribution centres are designed in such a way that they are suitable for a wide range of types of user. All our distribution centres and terminals are situated in top logistical locations, right by waterways, roads, terminals and airports. At this moment approximately 300.000 sqm is under construction, planned to be delivered in 2023.
Company information: The Leschaco Group is a traditional, owner-managed logistics service provider and offers intercontinental logistics solutions for sea and air freight as well as contract logistics and tank container operation. As proven partner for leading companies in plant construction and mechanical engineering, automotive, chemical and related industries, producers of consumer goods and pharmaceuticals. Leschaco offers comprehensive logistics solutions from one single source. Our globally standardised IT–environment guarantees the required high process transparency. The company was founded under the name of Lexzau, Scharbau by Wilhelm Lexzau and Julius Scharbau in Hamburg in 1879. Today, the group is represented in 24 countries worldwide. This network is supported by a carefully selected network of agents. The company insists on a sustainable business development and its headquarters are in Bremen.
As part of its ambitious growth strategy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, GROHE is partnering with Bayt Alebaa to showcase its latest breakthroughs, reiterating its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s transformation, and contributing to its vibrant economic diversification. GROHE, one of the global leaders in complete bathroom and kitchenfittings is partnering with Bayt Alebaa, Jeddah – the Kingdom’s go-to destination for ceramics, marble, kitchens and sanitaryware. This is the first-of-its-kind showroom featuring GROHE’s exquisite designs, innovative sustainability solutions, and advanced technology.
The partnership with Bayt Alebba is another strategic step by GROHE as it expands its presence in the Kingdom. The showroom will showcase GROHE’s GET collection of faucets available exclusively at Bayt Alebba. In addition, consumers and businesses in the Kingdom will have access to GROHE’s range of bestselling bath and kitchen solutions that have been specifically designed to meet sustainability and design standards, with their contemporary design and future-oriented functions.
Fawzi Dernaika, Leader, KSA, LIXILEMENA, said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Bayt Alebaa in Jeddah, which will enable our customers to experience the beauty, elegance and cutting-edge innovation that defines GROHE’s products. Saudi Arabia’s rapid economic progress is spurred by new projects in real estate, hospitality, and public infrastructure. We are proud to support this strategic growth with a strengthened product portfolio for consumers as well as the commercial and residential sector, which will be showcased at Jeddah. Our vision is centered on delivering some of the smartest and most innovative solutions for our customers in KSA and beyond.”
With the launch of GROHE’s partnership with Bayt Alebba, many Saudi consumers can now enjoy access to GROHE products that champion sustainable and responsible water consumption. GROHE’s Saudi expansion is also aligned with the Kingdom’s key objectives in Saudi Vision 2030 to reach net zero by 2060 through new investments in energy and water conserving technologies. GROHE’s range of products offers contemporary designs adapted to suit modern lifestyles and sustainability demands – such as touchless faucets that can reduce water consumption by up to 70% and contribute significantly towards green accreditation. In the last ten years alone, GROHE has received over 300 design and innovation awards as well as several top rankings as one of Germany’s most sustainable large brands.
PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) strengthens its historic partnership with IVECO by co-developing fluids for IVECO’s new zero-emission eDAILY vehicles, designed to maximise performance and enhance sustainable solutions for the commercial automotive industry.
The long-standing collaboration between the two industry leaders, grounded in automotive innovation and resilience since 1975, has resulted in thousands of hours of co-engineering, producing the highest-quality standard of lubricants to meet the needs of IVECO drivers. The new fluids demonstrate both PLI and IVECO’s common goal towards achieving a sustainable future.
Described to be the ‘electric twin’ of IVECO’s iconic ‘Daily’ vehicles, the eDAILY covers all commercial vehicle usage applications – including heavy-duty missions and conversions. The new EV represents a significant contribution to the decarbonization of transport vehicles for commercial use, backed by fluids that improve performance to make vehicles last longer.
PETRONAS Iona Integra Plus has been developed for the eDAILYs e-Transfer box, specifically designed to reduce churning losses, whilst ensuring the durability of the system. This is comparable to higher viscosities in standard fluids and ensures excellent oxidation properties, even in the case of high temperatures. PETRONAS Iona delivers impeccable optimised performance and durability for modern-day, high-level EVs.
The eDAILY vehicles will also be using the PETRONAS Tutela Axle 900 HD, a SAE 75W-85 axle oil that has been developed for the whole range of IVECO axles, including light and heavy-duty vehicles, to maximise efficiency and meet the latest regulations requirements.
Domenico Ciaglia, Managing Director EMEA at PLI said, “We know that unbeatable performance is vital for IVECO drivers, many of whom take on long and demanding journeys. The PETRONAS Iona and Tutela ranges for IVECO’s new eDAILY EVs demonstrate the importance of partnership between our two companies. The joint efforts in innovation, co-engineering and collaborations will certainly contribute to creating a more sustainable future for the automotive industry.”
The co-branded lubricants are only the latest result in a thirty year-long collaboration between PLI and IVECO, which benefit IVECO drivers and provide them with a guarantee that their vehicles will stay the course and perform to the highest industry standards.
Al Masaood Commercial Vehicles and Equipment (CV&E) is participating in EcoWaste Exhibition and Forum 2023 to showcase the latest environmentally friendly trucks from global brands UD Trucks and Renault Trucks that offer sustainable waste management solutions. The division, which is part of Al Masaood Group, is the sole distributor of UD Trucks and Renault Trucks in Abu Dhabi.
Al Masaood Commercial Vehicles & Equipment (CV&E) will be participating in EcoWASTE which is being held during the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) between January 16 and 18, 2023, at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The Exhibition is a forefront of the zero waste in the MENA region and is dedicated to advancing new business opportunities and practices for sustainable waste management.
Mohammad El Zeftawi, General Manager of Al Masaood CV&E, said: “We are pleased to participate in EcoWaste 2023, which emphasises the need to deploy more sensible and sustainable waste management solutions. UAE’s market is ever evolving with more demand for the greener solutions. Therefore, as a key player in the waste management sector, we at Al Masaood CV&E are dedicated to providing sustainable and environmentally friendly options that fulfil the needs and requirements of our customers. The displaying of UD Trucks’ and Renault Trucks’ products at EcoWaste 2023 directly reflects on our pledge towards a sustainable future.”
As sole distributor of Renault Trucks, the division is showcasing Renault Trucks K480 Euro 5 Evolution with Optidriver Gearbox, which will soon operate in the national capital as part of Al Masaood CV&E’s partnership with Abu Dhabi Waste Management Centre, TADWEER. Renault Trucks’ K-Range Tractor Head 6×4, is a EURO 5 Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle (EEV), producing engine power of 480 HP with a high efficiency of fuel consumption for vehicles operating on tough road conditions.
Guillaume Zimmermann, Commercial Director of Renault Trucks Middle East, said: “Renault Trucks is well-established as one of Europe’s leading suppliers of truck solutions for the waste management sector and has been forging a significant presence in the region with over 400+ units already running in the UAE in this segment.”
Al Masaood CV&E is also displaying UD Trucks’ flagship MD Croner model, PKE 19T chassis equipped with 16 CBM Compactor. UD Trucks Croner PKE has latest UD Trucks 250 hp EURO 5 complaint engine with SCR technology generating high torque of 950Nm, coupled with fully automatic transmission with push button gear selector and is also equipped with advanced body builder module control unit. With these advanced and unique spec, UD Trucks is leading the way to lift the productivity level in waste management from MD Trucks. With these advanced and distinctive specifications, UD Trucks is paving the way to enhance the productivity in waste management. The division will also be providing the full range of UD Trucks Quester and Croner in the market with Euro 5 emissions, Automated/Automatic transmission, and latest advance driver display, amon g many other advanced features available for the full range of trucks.
Mourad Hedna, President of UD Trucks MEENA, said: “Since few years now, UD Trucks is becoming a leader in the waste management sector in the UAE, and we are proud to be supporting some of the biggest waste management companies in the region along with our long-trusted partner Al Masaood. We can clearly see that the UAE market is one of the most advanced markets in the region in terms of emissions and specs requirements and we are strongly committed to our customers to always bring the best solutions to the market to support their businesses.”
The EcoWaste Exhibition and Forum is exploring how waste management is becoming more sustainable, embracing circular principles, and exploring zero landfill options, such as waste to energy initiatives. The event is also examining ways that companies can incorporate circularity into their operations, waste minimization methods, the role of technology in delivering better understanding of waste management, and ideas for generating revenue from waste.
The Association for Finnish Work has awarded the Key Flag symbol to Nokian Heavy Tyres’ heavy-duty tires, wheels and retreading materials. The symbol can be awarded to products manufactured or a service produced in Finland, with a minimum domestic content of 50 percent of their break-even cost. Design from Finland mark indicates the products are designed in Finland – and the company has demonstrably invested in Finnish design.
The world is changing rapidly, and that has elevated the demand and appreciation for domestic work and products. And so, it is natural that Nokian Heavy Tyres wants to honor its origins and point out that its products are made in Finland. That is what the respected Key Flag symbol stands for.
Every heavy-duty tire, wheel and retreading material by Nokian Heavy Tires has been designed and manufactured in Finland – where the roots of the company lie. Only the truck and bus tires are manufactured elsewhere in the EU.
“We have always wanted to make sure our customers and stakeholders know, where our tires are designed and manufactured”, says Manu Salmi, the managing director of Nokian Heavy Tyres.
“We are proud of our long history and high expertise, which represents the world’s absolute top in our industry – our forestry tires being one prime example.”
A flag to carry with pride
The Key Flag has been in use from 1965. It has a long history and a great reputation. Reetta Mentu, the marketing manager of The Association for Finnish Work, describes the importance the symbol:
“Consumers associate the Key Flag symbol with a positive image of domestic quality, reliability, safety, responsibility and employment”, Mentu lists and adds: ”With the Key Flag symbol, companies can communicate important values to their customers and other stakeholders. 92 percent of the companies that have been awarded the Key Flag symbol state that the symbol supports the sales of products and services.”
Exporting domestic design
Design from Finland mark is a testament to Finnish, responsible and professional design.
“When it comes to our products – for example the tires and wheels for heavy machinery – we pick our chosen materials based on their sustainability and safety”, the managing director Salmi tells.
“We want to ensure the usability and high quality of our products. The new research and development center, in Nokia, which has been running since 2020, is one concrete example of this endeavor.”
During the recent years, large investments and relentless effort have been put in the product development. New products with unique and uncompromising design have then come to fruition. They have already attracted a lot of attention worldwide.
“We are a global player. And we wouldn’t do this well without our international staff and partner network”, tells Manu Salmi gratefully. “But at the same time, we are very proud of our Finnish roots It is an honor for us to show the rest of the world what amazing design work and products we do here in Finland. And I am very happy this effort has now been recognized.”
2022 saw the launch of Qatar Airways Cargo’s groundbreaking concept “The Next Generation” and its new web platform “Digital Lounge”. The cargo carrier launched two more WeQare chapters in 2022: Chapter 3, Let’s Stand Together and Chapter 4, Diversity
With an overall tonnage of more than 1.7 million tonnes in 2022, Qatar Airways Cargo serves more than 170 destinations, of which 70 have a dedicated freighter service, ten more than in the pre-Covid period, Qatar Airways Cargo can boast an impressive growth last year.
In 2022, Qatar Airways Cargo successfully managed a broad range of demanding shipments. With an overall 84,000 tonnes of pharmaceutical products transported, including 4,000 tonnes of vaccines and over 1200 tonnes of COVID vaccines, the cargo carrier has maintained its strong engagement in helping curb the pandemic. Moreover, providing safe transportation of 12,600 horses has confirmed its leading position in this field. Qatar Airways Cargo has also achieved a considerable number of charter operations with more than 1,400 charter flights last year, which includes charters for e-commerce, exotic animals, music band tours and FIFA related activities.
By applying its Next Generation vision to all areas of its business, Qatar Airways Cargo has brought enhancements to its services and sharply accelerated its digital transformation. In that respect, another key event in 2022 was the launch of the Digital Lounge, Qatar Airways Cargo’s new web platform, designed to provide a more streamlined and connected booking experience to customers. As part of the carrier’s omni-channel strategy, the platform offers users direct access to the main three bookings platforms of the industry.
Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo said, “We are really proud of all that we accomplished in 2022. Launching The Next Generation has allowed us to bring an entirely new perspective to everyone involved in the air cargo value chain. This truly represents a milestone in our development and in the way Qatar Airways Cargo is doing business.”
“We are grateful to our customers for their long-term trust and loyalty, and we will endeavour to preserve these relationships in the future. We are also thankful to our great teams for their dedication and hard work. With a motto such as “Moved by People”, Qatar Airways Cargo has always been aware of the major role played by its team in achieving success and is committed to promote it.”
This commitment resulted in the launch of two major WeQare chapters in 2022: Chapter 3, Let’s Stand Together, consisted of organising the collection of donations for children; as for Chapter 4, Diversity, it was a spectacular celebration of the carrier’s highly diverse team in the form of a livery showing some of their faces.
Environmental sustainability and decarbonisation are central to Qatar Airways Cargo’s corporate strategy. In 2021, Qatar Airway Cargo was the first cargo carrier to join the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) CO2NNECT platform. In 2022, Qatar Airways Cargo launched an online CO2 emission calculator for customers to determine their shipments’ carbon emissions.
Qatar Airways Cargo is currently working on the development of a fully integrated carbon offsetting tool on its Digital Lounge portal which will offer customers an option to offset their shipments as part of the booking process.
IATA certifications being so essential to vouch for best practices in the industry, completing the IATA IEnvA Stage 2 re-certification was a real asset for Qatar Airways Cargo especially since it was the first airline in the Middle East to obtain this environmental certification back in 2017. In addition, it was also one of the first airlines to gain the CEIV Lithium Batteries certification which came as a rightful recognition of its active involvement in this matter.
Ending the year on a high note, Qatar Airways Cargo won Air Cargo Week’s Cargo Airline of the Year award for the second year in a row and received the Development2030 Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the Year at Aidex 2022.
The UAE’s leadership supports the transformation of the country’s industrial sector into a global manufacturing hub
‘Make it in the Emirates’ is an open invitation to investors, innovators and developers to contribute to the UAE’s industry and advanced technology strategy, ‘Operation 300bn’.
Increasing numbers of investors notably manufacturing and production companies are gravitating to the UAE, taking advantage of the Government’s resolve to provide incentives, sops, tax relief’s, subsidies and waive-offs.
The call to ‘Make in the UAE’ provides them with an opportunity to benefit from the UAE economy’s tremendous and unique value proposition by investing in future industries and advanced manufacturing and exporting UAE products to new global markets.
“The decision by HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to issue a new law to regulate and develop the country’s industrial sector helps to create an attractive business environment for investors, strengthens the UAE’s position as a global industrial hub, and reflects positively on the performance and growth of the industrial sector.
This law will drive industrial development through empowerment, integration, and partnerships, pillars of empowerment,” affirmed Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Director and Group CEO, ADNOC and Chairman, Masdar.
“This law provides the flexibility to issue more incentives in the form of policies and programs, which are linked to national strategies, some of which have already been implemented, such as the National In-Country Value program, Industry 4.0, and the Technology Transformation Program. It will encourage new programs to be rolled out in the future to support the efforts of the industrial sector,” the Minister further asserted.
Why invest in the UAE?
The UAE’s industrial ecosystem is conducive to growth, as industrialists can easily access financial, advisory and technical support to establish and develop their businesses. The offer is particularly attractive to companies associated with the logistics and supply chain sectors.
The country boasts a diverse energy mix at competitive prices. Topping regional and global indices in logistics, transport and communications, its advanced infrastructure comprises 10 civilian airports, numerous cargo companies (and counting), as well as 12 sea and commercial trading ports capable of handling more than 17mn tons and a cargo capacity of 80mn tons annually.
The UAE also ranks high in global indicators that measure economic performance and ease of doing business, in addition to enjoying a strong credit rating. The country’s legislative framework is considered the most advanced in the region and its strategic location makes it a global link. From the UAE, it is possible to reach global markets spanning five billion people through flights that do not exceed eight hours.
How can companies benefit from the campaign?
Through a partnership between Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technologies (MoIAT) and Emirates Development Bank (EDB), industrial investors, innovators and entrepreneurs can receive significant financial and advisory support from EDB.
The bank is the financial driver of Operation 300bn and provides a wide variety of services to industrial players. Services include financing advanced technology and equipment, sponsoring machinery and equipment upgrades, especially those involving Fourth Industrial Revolution (4.0) applications, as well as green finance, business expansion, structured financing and capital investment, feasibility studies and business incubators.
Global Supply Chain highlighted two UAE companies—Acme Intralog from Dubai and Lubrex from the Hamriya Free Zone, Sharjah, as lead case studies for successful track records in their pursuit and resolve to ‘Make it in the UAE’.
Acme records increased demand for its warehouse automation solutions
UAE based Acme Intralog has recorded a 30% increase in demand for the company’s warehousing automated solutions and manufactured products all produced in the UAE in fiscal 2022.
“This growth is predominantly driven by retail and e-commerce sectors that are looking for solutions for order picking and sortation. If operated manually, these processes are often the most time-consuming, while also being repetitive and dull. Automating these processes can increase productivity as well as accuracy significantly,” affirmed Navin Narayan, CEO, Acme Intralog.
Range of solutions
At the company’s manufacturing facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Acme develops and produces a complete range of material handling solutions such as conveyors, AS/RS control systems. They also design and manufacture customised factory automation solutions for a variety of industries in the region. Acme continues to make significant investment in R&D to develop competitive and innovative solutions.
Acme provides its customers with an end-to-end life cycle support service that can be deployed both on-site as well as on an on-call basis. Their team can help customers manage equipment maintenance, safety, and obsolescence management as well as training customer maintenance staff to safely maintain and improve machine and system longevity.
“As a local manufacturer, we have strong design and consulting capability based out of our Dubai facility. This enables us to provide quick and accurate solutions that cater to our customers’ requirements,” Navin Narayan observed.
Advanced manufacturing facility
“With a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Jebel Ali, we are able to manufacture to European specification and CE standards at affordable prices with short lead times and therefore fast project delivery times,” he added.
“In addition to this our large after sales team in the region can support our customers with life cycle maintenance as well as operation support so that they are never left without support once the system is handed over. Particularly in the UAE, we have seen great opportunities in the push for the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative by our Government as well as the increasing appetite for Industry 4.0 solutions across the whole region,” he asserted.
Over the past over 47 years since inception, Acme has gained great trust and respect within the MENA region and developed a huge base of customers. Their continuing successes can in no small measure be attributed to Acme’s local manufacturing capabilities and indigenous production that enables the company to deliver customised solutions that are tailored to the needs of the region.
Lubrex: Championing Indigenization – Home-grown manufacturer supports local production
Lubrex FZC is a leading lubricant manufacturing company, registered in Hamriyah Free Zone, Sharjah, UAE. It was established in 2005 as the flag bearer in the UAE of a group of lubricant manufacturing oil exporting companies with decades of experience.
With a primary focus on the GCC, Middle East, Far East and Africa, Lubrex is uniquely positioned to lead in manufacturing, development and marketing in the regional and international markets, providing unmatched level of support and services for its customers.
Producing its distinctive products in the UAE is a trademark and Unique Selling Proposition (USP) for the company. The company has made local production the centerpiece of its corporate objectives.
Critical factors
Having realised that a critical factor of success in any venture is the access to specific industry knowledge, the company is founded and articulated by a team of leading industry professionals, strategic partners, and business associates, which in turn have encouraged and emboldened the company to participate in one of the most challenging markets in the world.
Lubrex uses state of the art automated blending systems with latest machineries to keep products precisely blended avoiding any avoid human errors, ensuring consistency in the delivery of products in scheduled time without compromising in quality.
Lubrex lubricants are made from first grade mineral oils, virgin base oils, and high-quality additives to meet industry standards. According to a company official local procurement, given the advanced, highly developed infrastructure complemented by the investment policies of the UAE, the local sourcing and local production makes sound economic sense.
Furthermore, this move strengthens the local and national manufacturing ecosystem thereby consolidating the national economy whilst providing employment opportunities.
Abbas Moniri
Lubrex has an impressive track record built on the ‘Make in the Emirates’ model. Abbas Moniri, Managing Director, Lubrex,responded to a questionnaire from Global Supply Chain specific to localization of its operations and advocacy of manufacturing in the UAE.
Abbas Moniri (AM): We are proud of our global expertise and international staffs, but we are also proud of our regional roots and our understanding the local market needs.
By adopting ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign, we can ensure our costumers the best of both worlds, global know-how and local understanding. Briefly, make the case for ‘Make it in the Emirates’…. incentives of the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT)
UAE has always been a major player in the regional and global trade routes. This is not just for its strategic location, but also for its infrastructure that incubates innovation and incentivises creativity in all aspects. ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign is a great example of that, and we are proud of being part of it.
GSC: Describe your partnership with Acme Intralog?
AM: We appointed Acme Intralog to design and build an end-of line solution for us that would seamlessly integrate with our automated production line.
Through this partnership, our palletisation will be fully automated, which will enhance our overall productivity as our production capacity was significantly higher than the volumes we could handle at the end of line.
It was important to us to work with a solution provider who manufactures their systems in the UAE as they could offer a custom solution for us as well as fast installation and maintenance services.
GSC: How did Acme empower local production and profitability? How specifically was Acme associated with your operations?
AM: With Acme’s solution we can now palletise our range of close to 200 types of products coming from four production lines onto two outbound lines. The new optimized system (which includes two palletising robots) would help us increase our end of line productivity by 210%.
The robots are equipped with customised universal grippers that can lift boxes of different sizes and shape as well as prepare empty pallets on the outbound lines. That way, we do not have any interruptions when the production lines change, or a pallet is filled and ready for shipping.
GSC: What are your UAE and regional expansion plans?
AM: Our plan is simple: To be the best, and then to remain the best.
As simple as it can be said, this is only achievable by hard work, and investing in research and development. With ambitions like ours and the support we have from the UAE as an incubator of success, the sky is the limit.
WestJet Cargo proud of the impressive achievements in 2023
For WestJet Cargo, 2022 will certainly be a year to remember. The essential changes of the last few months have indeed been key in building the foundations for its future success. To start with, working with GTA contributed to massively increase its services and shipping capacities in Canada. Moreover, launching a new cargo platform in partnership with SmartKargo, new routes such as Los Angeles (LAX) and Orlando (MCO) and the announcement of 4 dedicated freighters to start operating in the new year have all contributed to affirm WestJet Cargo’s position as a strong player in the demanding Canadian air freight market.
But it is above all by strengthening the team dedicated to cargo that WestJet Cargo has distinguished itself. The appointment of Kirsten De Bruijn as Executive Vice President, followed by the arrival of Bharat Bhatia as Head of Cargo Operations and Hao Cai as Manager of Network Planning, Revenue Management & Interline Analytics will certainly reap great rewards for the carrier in the coming months.
In 2023, WestJet Cargo is due to continue to follow its clear vision to be the up and coming cargo carrier, providing customers with creative, agile and flexible solutions and always committing to reliability. Forthcoming recruitments will complete an already highly skilled and expert team of customer-oriented and open-minded professionals. It is also through its people that WestJet Cargo will achieve its mission: to ensure customer satisfaction through a unique creative approach based on human qualities, out of the box thinking and a strong will power.
Kirsten De Bruijn, Executive Vice President, is optimistic about the future: “What was achieved in 2022 was colossal and I am so proud that we managed to overcome the obstacles we encountered on the way. With our new freighters due to start operating in March, WestJet Cargo will be asserting its position in the market. Our strong identity supported by a new wave of energy and team spirit will hugely boost our development, allowing us to meet the coming challenges and making us an essential player in the industry.”
With a new digital platform, a new team, new routes and new freighters on top of a clear vision and mission, WestJet Cargo is ticking all the boxes to look forward to a bright future. With that in mind, 2023 will definitely be significant for WestJet Cargo. There is no other option.
EPG’s proprietary Supply Chain Execution Suite (EPG ONE) is in the vanguard of enabling Smarter Connected Logistics
Ehrhardt + Partner Group (EPG), of which Ehrhardt + Partner Solutions (EPS) is an integral subsidiary, is the embodiment of an exemplary company’s success story. By the company’s own admission and in its own words, the consistent alignment with customer needs and demands coupled with the highly developed and the sophisticated, premier EPG ONE™ supply chain execution suite, is the surefire recipe for success.
Meanwhile, the company continues to thrive and monitor current market demands. A combination of well-ingrained corporate characteristics including ingenuity, a passion for innovation and commitment for in-house developed, targeted software solutions alongside successful application, implementation and effective monitoring is boosting EPG’s reputation, revenues and performance not only in the region but globally, as Global Supply Chain found out in a recent visit to the company’s office and facility in DWC-Dubai Logistics City and an exclusive interview with Dr. Makrem Kadachi, General Manager GCC, Ehrhardt + Partner Solutions DWC LLC.
The Ehrhardt + Partner Group is a leading international innovator and operator in supply chain and logistics. With extensive experience in more than 700 successful logistics centres all over the world, the company’s interdisciplinary engineering teams realize investment and future-proof solutions for clients around the globe.
To get the lowdown on the latest updates and performance, Global Supply Chain journeyed to Dubai South for an exclusive, one-to-one interview with Dr. Makrem Kadachi, General Manager, Erhardt + Partner Solutions GCC. The following are excerpts from that meeting.
Global Supply Chain (GSC): Give us a brief thumbnail profile of Erhardt+Partner Solutions and the company’s origins in the Middle East?
Dr. Makrem Kadachi (MK): I would like to point out at the very outset that EPG is a very R&D centric and solutions-oriented company with extensive expertise and importantly experience in developing and implementing in-house and independently developed supply chain software for our customers across the globe.
We are very customer-focused and offer tailored software solutions that best meet the requirements and expectations of our clients and ensure streamlined operational efficiencies.
Ehrhardt Partner GROUP has enjoyed a long presence in the Middle East. We established an independent, stand-alone, full-service office with comprehensive facilities in Dubai in 2006 and have the distinction of being the first tenant in Dubai Logistics City.
Currently EPG employs over 800 in 22 locations globally. We presently serve 1600 customers drawn from multiple industries. Our interdisciplinary engineering teams have capabilities to realize investment and future-proof solutions along the supply chain execution.
GSC: What are your core activities of Erhardt + Partner Solutions DWC and what industry verticals do you cover?
MK: We offer our growing clientele emanating from a variety of industry verticals with a vast array of software technology solutions including WMS (Warehouse Management Software), TMS (Transportation Management Software), and Voice solutions to empower and optimize logistics processes.
EPS’ other applications and software offerings include WCS (Warehouse Control Systems), WFM (Workforce Management), , Dock & Yard Management Software (DOCK), Contract & Billing (CnB), International Shipping System (ISS) and EPG ONE APP (Digital workflow designer).
EPG solutions cover the entire scale of the supply chain—from warehouse, retail, e-commerce, manufacturing and road to ground and cargo handling solutions at airports.
GSC: What sets EPG apart? What are your core brand strengths and how are you leveraging these capabilities to increase your market share in the region?
MK: Our core strengths are our human resources twinned alongside our sophisticated technology solutions. Our employees are fully trained and adept with understanding customer demands and needs and initiating adaptable, implementable and demonstrable solutions?
The technological research and consulting firmGartner has clearly put its seal of approval for EPG characterizing ‘WMS as a sophisticated and proven solution offering a whole host of different functionalities that can be scaled up to handle even highly complex warehouse environments, including highly automated warehouses.’
Our technologies are very advanced, the most modern and meet the highest quality industry standards and benchmarks. Our employees are highly qualified, much experienced and both involved and committed.
Furthermore, our software technology, developed entirely in-house, is proprietary and bears the EPG imprint and signature. Our suite is protected by IP (Intellectual Property) statutes and protocols.
From an implementation perspective, our experts both institute and monitor the rollout of software to ensure oversight and its appropriate enforcement.
Our ‘best practices’ offering of solutions is comprehensive . Additionally, we offer logistics consulting, cloud services, managed services and logistics courses at the company’s own academy.
GSC: How significant is the Middle East for EPG?
MK: The Middle East is a very important geographical region for EPS. This expanse also includes the continent of Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Our performance in this progressive region has been exemplary and we have also been instrumental in assisting other geographies in software development.
GSC: How did EPG fare in 2022 and what is the outlook for 2023 in the Middle East?
MK: The year 2022 was a very good year for EPGin this region. Being a privately owned Group, I am not able to reveal figures, but suffice to say our performance in 2022 was extraordinary and we closed strong.
Continuing in this vein, EPG holds a positive outlook for 2023 and we resolve to maintain the momentum in 2023 and surpass targets and meet expectations.
GSC: What are you expansion plans for the region?
MK: EPG has performed well in this region and both the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are demonstrating a lot of promise and potential.
We are rapidly expanding in the Kingdom and consistent with the strategy and ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, our prospects there are very encouraging, and we are excited about the future. Saudi Arabia will be the subject of our focused attention in 2023.
We are also performing well in the UAE, our regional home base, and we are optimistic about growth in the forthcoming months.
I am also delighted to point out that EPG has now expanded into the continent of Australia, and we now have full-fledged operations in the country.
Thanks to the new partnership, AJEX will now operate logistics services from King Fahd International Airport, expanding its services throughout Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province
AJEX Logistics Services, the leading Middle East specialist in express distribution and shipping solutions, has signed a new partnership agreement with Dammam Airports Company to provide logistics services from King Fahd International Airport, located in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Dammam Airports Company CEO – Eng. Mohammed bin Ali Al-Hassany and AJEX CEO – Mohammed Al-Bayati signed the agreement at the Dammam Airports Company headquarters.The new partnership agreement supports both companies’ strategic objectives for the year ahead.
In 2023, AJEX has plans for significant expansion across the Middle East, with new services, operations and facilities set to be launched across the region, while Dammam Airports Company is working on expanding the logistical capacity of its facilities as King Fahd International Airport grows in regional importance.Speaking on the new partnership, the CEO of Dammam Airports Company, Eng. Muhammad bin Ali Al-Hasany said, “At Dammam Airports Company, we are keen to raise the capacity of our express cargo facilities at King Fahd International Airport.
This new partnership with AJEX Logistics Services supports our strategic objectives, which are aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy for transportation and logistics services.”“Located just a few hours by road from Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar, Dammam, with its strategic location, is an important logistics centre to the GCC region that will enable us at AJEX to enhance our capacity and service times for our customers. Moreover, thanks to our new operations at King Fahd International Airport, we are vitally supporting the Vision 2030 objective to transform the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia into the preferred logistics hub in the region and a leading logistics hub globally,” added Mohammed Al-Bayati, CEO of AJEX.
Dammam and the wider Eastern Province serve as Saudi Arabia’s main oil-producing hub and are home to many large industrial companies in sectors including petrochemicals, chemicals, steel, cement, aluminium, plastics, and service-providing companies. Located just 20 kilometres from Dammam, King Fahd International Airport seeks to become a regional logistics hub, with plans underway to expand its facilities to process 3.5 million tons of cargo by 2050.
2022 was a year of triumph, and it culminated in an unforgettable celebration: the best FIFA World CupTM in history.
For GWC, the leading logistics provider, it was an endorsement of the company’s confidence in delivering seamless logistical execution of hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM.
GWC celebrated the success with honoring the outstanding team delivering on the 2022 commitment to deliver glory. This recognition comes from the company’s ethos in the importance of appreciating every sincere work and distinguished effort.
Speaking about this, Shaikh Abdulla Bin Fahad Bin Jassim Bin Jaber Al Thani, Chairman of GWC stated: “delivering the World Cup was a huge and complex logistics mandate and required immense coordination, agile execution and quick thinking, and the GWC team delivered on all counts. The team serves with so much dignity and pride in what they do.”
“The World Cup made Qatar the center of the world for that one month – and it was up to the GWC team to ensure that people all over the world remember our nation’s achievements, and the team delivered beautifully.” he further added.
Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO of GWC commented: “A human-centered supply chain model has been at the heart of GWC since the very beginning in 2004. Port executives, skilled warehousemen, packing specialists, delivery drivers, installation crew, inventory experts, quality supervisors, safety experts and line managers to name a few. Building a strong people-driven workforce of 5,000+ spread across diverse geographies around the world and seasoned to tackle logistical challenges at scale.”
“It is an honor to lead such a dedicated and responsive workforce. The successful execution of this World Cup wouldn’t have been possible without the commitment and diligence of GWC staff. For more than a decade, every member of GWC’s team has performed their role remarkably, thus setting a benchmark for professionalism.” Added Menon,
GWC’s workforce occupies a very important part of the company’s mandate for employee welfare. For this very purpose, GWC had set up a fan zone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM for all the GWC staff which witnessed a huge turnout throughout the tournament and gave the employees a sense of what they have worked to achieve. The fan zone featured live screening of all the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM matches, bringing them closer to the actual event and echoing the ambience of the stadiums.
Netradyne, an industry leader in fleet safety and management solutions, today announced a five-year contract with B.D. Dhalla Transport, a leading Indian transport company with more than 60 years of experience in express cargo services, bulk movements, refrigerated transport, and remote area operations. This move will allow B.D. Dhalla Transport to utilize intelligence provided by Netradyne to make strategic fleet management decisions to mitigate on-road incidents.
Catering to India’s top manufacturing and multinational companies, B.D. Dhalla Transport moves more than 100,000 metric tons of cargo annually. The company selected Netradyne’s AI-powered embedded technology to provide the safest, most consistent, and most cost-efficient services to its customers. The solution will also help B.D. Dhalla Transport further enhance its fleet safety and service levels.
“It is indeed a pleasure to partner with Netradyne – an organization focused on providing cutting-edge products with after-sale service to match. We were thoroughly impressed by the company’s Driver•i product and continue to discover new benefits of using the solution with each successive month. With this engagement, we are sure that we will be equipped to deliver top-tier safety levels to our employees and business partners, as well as all other users on the Indian roads,” said Jehaan Dhalla, Director, B.D. Dhalla Transport.
The engagement emphasizes a strong message of road safety, while helping B. D. Dhalla Transport to achieve its goals of safeguarding lives, reducing road accidents, and improving fatigue management. Netradyne’s Driver•i technology will provide clear insights into driving behavior through real-time monitoring systems and real-time driver coaching. An analytical report will also be generated as part of the service, which will assist in devising effective improvement plans, thereby positively impacting B. D. Dhalla Transport’s overall business.
Westernacher Consulting has joined hands with National Central University Taiwan (NCU) to cultivate a new generation of digital transformation talent through theoretical and practical training. NCU is a member of the SAP University Alliances program in Asia Pacific which enables the next generation to learn, research and innovate with business applications for the intelligent enterprise. Under this program NCU integrates SAP education into its curriculum and research.
Benjamin Dewilde, Westernacher Group CEO, and Prof. Ping-Yu Hsu, Dean of the School of Management of NCU, signed a deal on this groundbreaking university-industry collaboration on the beautiful campus of NCU. Above all Westernacher supports NCU in talent development by expanding its education landscape for supply chain, Industry 4.0 and big data. We hope to create learning opportunities that go beyond textbooks and classrooms by combining basic education with hands-on experience in the industry. This will allow students to have a more diverse learning experience – a stepping stone for their careers.
This university-industry partnership is the first of its kind for Westernacher in Asia, following on from the one with FZI Forschungszentrum Informatik (Computer Science Research Center) in Karlsruhe, Germany.
Prior to this partnership, Howard Tsai, Westernacher Taiwan Market Unit Lead, was invited to the School of Management of NCU to talk to the undergraduate students. He served as a judge in the consultant training program, giving students perspectives on the industry and directions for future learning. In addition, he participated in the corporate recruitment process in the Enterprise Resource Planning Center – a platform for both academic and practical learning. We hope that through the university-industry collaboration with NCU, we can equip students with the right skills and capabilities in supply chains and data analysis, as well as nurture digital transformation talent that will excel in building platforms, innovating management and optimizing supply chains.
Saudi Arabia-based Hassana Investment Company, on behalf of the Saudi Arabian pension and social insurance organization, General Organization of Social Insurance, will invest approximately US$2.4 billion in a new joint venture with DP World, through which it will hold a stake of approximately 10.2% in Jebel Ali Port, Jebel Ali Free Zone, and the National Industries Park. The investment by Hassana implies a total enterprise value of approximately US$23 billion for the three flagship assets.
This investment is the second tranche of the sale by DP World, a global infrastructure-led supply chain solutions provider, of a strategic minority stake in these three UAE assets, following the first tranche US$5 billion investment which successfully closed in June 2022.
Jebel Ali Port, Jebel Ali Free Zone and National Industries Park together comprise a best-in-class group of infrastructure assets, with a solid long-term track record of growth. Combined, they form a world-class integrated ecosystem for the supply and logistics chains of over 8,700 companies from around the world, serving more than 3.5 billion people globally. The three assets will remain fully consolidated businesses within the DP World Group, and their day-to-day operations, customers, service providers and employees will not be affected.
The Addleshaw Goddard team, which was led by partner Ian Le Pelley, acted as co-advisers to DP World alongside Clifford Chance. The DP World legal team was led by James Pointon, with assistance from Angela Wang.
Ian Le Pelley said: “It was a real pleasure advising DP World on this complex second tranche investment in three of their key UAE assets. Jebel Ali Port is the largest international gateway port in the Middle East, and Jebel Ali Free Zone is the largest free zone, and these critical infrastructure assets play an important role in the global economy. This partnership will serve to enhance DP World’s assets and allow DP World to capture the significant growth potential of the wider market. In addition, the investment will further strengthen DP World’s balance sheet and support its target of achieving a strong investment-grade rating for the DP World group.“
GWC outline extensive logistics mandate during Qatar 2022TM as the country looks forward to hosting more major international mega-events in the future.
The resounding success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ lays a platform for the country to host major international events long into the future. The tournament will also significantly boost the development of business sectors across the country – including logistics.
Sheikh Abdulla Bin Fahad Bin Jassem Bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman, GWC, said: “we have spent years preparing for this mega-event and stood ready to support Qatar, the local organizing committee and FIFA to deliver a memorable edition of international football’s showpiece event. We are also determined to leverage this tournament to deliver a robust economic legacy that benefits businesses large and small for generations to come – in line with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.”
A colossal undertaking
Delivering the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world involved a gigantic logistical mandate, which was handled in Qatar by GWC; the Official Logistics Provider for the tournament.
The numbers involved are staggering: GWC handled more than 15 million cans of beverage, 1.8 million pieces of equipment, 117,900 pieces of furniture, 20,400 traffic and safety assets, 34,700 office supplies and 20,000 spectator and traffic barriers. This was in addition to all the tournament equipment, including kits, uniforms and footballs. Transporting fresh food and beverages to a host of tournament sites was another key deliverable. For the media, GWC handled more than 30,000 pieces of equipment, including cameras, tripods and lighting, with everything delivered to and from eight stadiums, 36 team base camp hotels, two airports, two seaports, media hubs, fan zones and other sites.
Serving the logistics requirements of an event as large as the FIFA World CupTM needs a forward-thinking strategy in order to deliver a seamless operation. GWC implemented a control tower approach for Qatar 2022TM which delivered according to a master delivery schedule (MDS). This acted as the central point for all logistical activities; from the time an order needs to be picked up, where it has to be delivered, the time it is due and its current status.
Vision coming to fruition
From a logistics standpoint; people, processes and technology are the key ingredients, according to GWC’s Group CEO, Ranjeev Menon. “When you are delivering the logistics mandate of the FIFA World CupTM, detailed planning is imperative,” said Menon. “What we saw during Qatar 2022TM was the result of years of preparation. It was our plans – and those of our stakeholders in Qatar and globally – coming to fruition.”
“In order to optimise the value chain and unlock maximum potential, it is essential for companies to get the right balance between people, processes and technology. At GWC, we believe the success of Qatar 2022TM was people-driven, technology-fuelled and goal-orientated,” Menon added.
Qatar’s growing MSMEs sector
Hosting the FIFA World CupTM has cemented Qatar’s status as a global hub for major international events – laying a platform for significant economic development, in particular helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) flourish in the country and across the region.
In early 2022, GWC opened Al Wukair Logistics Park, its largest logistics park to date. Covering an area of 1,500,000m² that caters specifically for MSMEs. The site provides all their commercial needs, as well as affording an opportunity to network with like-minded businesses. GWC is an enabler and catalyst for MSMEs – helping them to establish and grow their businesses and leverage Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup.
Menon said: “MSMEs have benefitted massively from the World Cup in a vast range of sectors, including logistics. The challenge now is for MSMEs to leverage the tournament’s legacy and grow their businesses, supported by the platform which Qatar built.”
Menon praised Qatar’s leadership for fostering a conducive business environment and helping the logistics industry to flourish – boosted significantly by hosting the biggest sporting event on the planet.
“We have received massive support from all sectors from day one of our journey. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the vision, commitment and passion of Qatar’s wise leadership,” said Menon.
“One area of particular support would be Qatar’s management of the public-private-partnership, something GWC is proud to be taking part in. Through this partnership, we are committed to developing Qatari abilities and reinforcing the logistics sector’s role and contribution to economic development, while offering direction to government projects for new approaches and modern vision in managing national projects efficiently and sustainably.”
Integrated systems and dedicated staff
Delivering Qatar 2022TM involved an extensive range of services, including asset management and tracking, asset recovery and dissolution, pre-receipt processes, warehousing, pick, pack and dispatch, logistics fleet management, materials distribution, vehicle delivery permit distribution, freight forwarding, customs clearance, reverse logistics and last mile delivery.
A prime example of such operation was the distribution of +200,000 match tickets both locally and internationally. The operation included collection of tickets, parking passes and other ticketing accessories, sorting, segregating, inventory creation, all the way to international and local delivery.
The compact nature of the tournament proved a huge advantage. Qatar delivered the most compact edition of the FIFA World CupTM in modern history, with every stadium located within an hour’s journey time from central Doha.
Menon said: “From the very beginning, Qatar highlighted the opportunity to host a compact World Cup for the benefit of fans, players and officials. While it has been amazing for fans to attend more than one match a day, Qatar’s geographical footprint has also proved to be hugely beneficial in terms of logistics, making it simple for people and products to be in the right locations at the right time.”
A dedicated 50,000m² warehouse footprint, plus more than 150 dedicated vehicles – all within 45 minutes of any stadium and more than 400 key sites – were the foundations for success. More than 200 truck drivers covered 1,900,000km of distribution journeys over 288,000 hours, backed by 1,200 venue operations staff and six bespoke logistics systems. All were dedicated to delivering on-time and in-full for a host of stakeholders, including FIFA, participating teams, commercial affiliates, broadcasters, media, fans, staff, suppliers and vendors.
“The key to everything is long-term planning, dedicated training for thousands of staffs and a range of relevant test events. We benefitted significantly from staging tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup, on two occasions, and the FIFA Arab Cup, along with local events such as the Amir Cup,” said Menon.
“Going forward, we will focus on the further integration of artificial intelligence and automation, to make it simpler and quicker to deliver our objectives. We have also seen a major focus on sustainability and delivering environmentally-friendly solutions during the FIFA World CupTM and we will continue to support these trends to continue in the future,” added Menon.
He continued: “The final lesson learnt is that hosting mega-events in a compact setting is not only preferable for fans and players – it is also hugely beneficial for organisers and the people and businesses involved in logistics planning and delivery.”
The importance of reverse logistics
While the players head back to their clubs and competing week to week in leagues around the world, GWC will focus on reverse logistics, which means returning every item to its next destination.
Menon said: “Just about everything that arrived in Qatar needs to be returned home safely. Reverse logistics is a major part of our operation, and our work will continue long after the trophy has been lifted. We will work closely with our stakeholders to carefully demobilize every item and ship it securely back to its next destination.”
A bright future
Menon is looking forward to a positive future for Qatar, GWC and the logistics sector.
He said: “What has been clear from day one is that hosting the FIFA World CupTM is part of a long-term plan for Qatar. It is accelerating the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 and helping a number of industries to grow and develop, including the vital logistics sector.
“Our goals now are to continue supporting the country in its mission to host major international events, building on the incredible legacy of hosting the first FIFA World CupTM in the Middle East and Arab world, and expanding our footprint into countries across the region. We are very confident a bright future lies ahead for both Qatar and GWC.”
Tristar Group conducted its 8th annual External Stakeholders’ Workshop with its customers, suppliers, private companies, media partners and NGOs who were updated on the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy and goals. The gathering was held at the Tristar head office in Jebel Ali last December 14.
The attendees were asked to rate Tristar’s Materiality issues related to ESG and Sustainability. The results will be shared by Tristar in its 2022 Sustainability Report in line with the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) Ten Principles and GRI Standards.
The UNGC has required all member-companies to submit an annual Communication on Progress or COP which mentions their adherence to its Ten Principles covering Labor, Human Rights, Environment and Anti-corruption.
The external stakeholders were also enriched with the insightful speeches of Habiba Al Marashi, Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), about the ‘Importance of Stakeholder Materiality’, John Katsos, Associate Professor of Business Law, Business Ethics and Social Responsibility at the American University of Sharjah, on ‘Managing Sustainably During Times of Crisis: Tackling Climate Change, Globalization, and Inequality’, and Suman Ghosal, Business Head- Digital Assurance, Supply Chain & New Product Development at DNV Business Assurance India Limited, regarding the developments on ‘Sustainability in Supply Chain’.
The three highlighted the importance of private companies to imbibe the culture of sustainability and to utilize the concept of the Materiality framework and assessments to look at challenges and risks beyond profitability related to climate change, globalization, inequality and the impact of these challenges on the overall community at large.
Eugene Mayne, Founder & Group CEO of Tristar in his opening address said: “We believe we can make more positive impacts by not only addressing our own contributions, but also, by empowering our stakeholders and engaging with our broader ecosystem to create solutions that facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy. We invite all of you to come on board with this commitment and maintain a say in our future direction.”
Al Masaood Commercial Vehicles and Equipment (CV&E), the sole distributor for UD Trucks in Abu Dhabi, has received two awards, ‘President Award 2022’, and ‘Parts Sales Team of the Year 2022’ – at the annual UD Trucks Partner’s Conference 2022 held recently in Dubai.
The division was honoured for its constant efforts to raise the standard of the customer services at all touch points and overachieve sales targets, outperforming other regional dealers in these segments. The awards were presented to Mohamed El Zeftawi by UD President; in the presence of all GCC partners during the conference at the Dubai Queen Elizabeth II Hotel.
The ‘UD Trucks President Award’ is a special award category that was awarded to Al Masaood CV&E by Mourad Hedna, President of UD Trucks MEENA. The division received the award in recognition of its consistent excellent work in truck sales for the waste management industry, its continued focus on marketing, expanding and elevating their services through the division’s all-new facility, and improving the customer experience with outstanding Parts Sales results throughout the year.
Meanwhile, Al Masaood CV&E’s remarkable growth in automotive parts sales was recognised with the ‘Parts Sales Team of the Year 2022’. The award demonstrates the team’s perseverance and passion, as well as the division’s dedication to achieving the goals established by UD Trucks. With the increased sales of automotive parts, the UD Trucks’ parts purchases exceeded the target of 44 per cent to 69 per cent.
Mohamed El Zeftawi, General Manager, Al Masaood CV&E, said: “We are truly honoured to receive these awards. This strengthens our position in the market as a leading company in
the commercial vehicle and heavy equipment sector and recognises our efforts in contributing to national and economic development. These awards also highlight the effort that our teams have invested to ensure that the overall experience of our customers is as seamless, convenient, and value-added as possible. Customers are at the heart of all our operations, and as such, we are continually seeking to elevate their experience with us across all our touch points. We also express our gratitude to UD Trucks MEENA for this honour and look forward to strengthening and diversifying our long-standing collaboration, to enhance our products and services to meet the customer needs and requirements in Abu Dhabi.”
The UD Trucks Middle East, East and North Africa Partner’s Conference is a dedicated event for UD Trucks’ distributors and partners in the MENA region. This year’s edition offered each participant the opportunity to present their success stories with the brand and review its past year’s performance as well as discuss new strategies for the coming year.
As a household name in the industry, Global GSA Group has never been so active. With a new office in Greece and having acquired three companies in Italy this year, the GSA is demonstrating how its extreme flexibility, extensive local expertise and highly engaged workforce are driving its success.
True to the company’s motto “Making the impossible possible!”, the Global GSA Group’s team distinguishes itself not only by its dedication and passion but also by its access to the right network locally. “We are currently present worldwide with a team of energetic, reliable and experienced professionals with the highest standard of expertise, which we have been perfecting since our beginnings. This constitutes a real strength and a substantial asset to our partner airlines’ business.” says Ismail Durmaz, Chief Executive Officer.
Founded in 1995, Global GSA Group was able to adapt to the industry’s constant evolutions, including digital transformation to become a forerunner in the world of GSAs. This agility enabled it to successfully support its clients in particularly difficult periods such as the Covid pandemic and beyond. By exceeding clients’ expectations during those troubled times, Global GSA Group proved it has what it takes to tackle any challenging situation.
Aytekin Saray, Chief Commercial Officer explains: “Although the last few years have been a testing time for airlines, we proved that we were a reliable partner. Thanks to our strong local ties, we managed to supply them with regular market information, enabling them to always be a step ahead and to adapt their strategy accordingly.”
Today, Global GSA Group boasts 74 offices in 46 countries, represents 62 airlines and ranks in the top 5 GSAs worldwide. Always seeking to conquer new territories, it is planning to further expand its presence worldwide, with a focus on the South America and Southeast Asia regions.
As Global GSA Group continues its rising curve in an increasingly tense climate, 2023 clearly promises to be the year it unleashes the true lion inside it, reinforcing its unique position on the market as the ideal committed partner with solid solutions.
The new facility double’s the group’s food storage capacity with room for further expansion
Jaleel Holdings, one of the leading UAE-based investment companies, has opened its new US$ 24.5mn (AED 90mn) facility at Dubai Industrial City, a member of TECOM Group.
As a part of the region’s largest industrial hub, the facility comprises the latest store of UAE’s largest consumer goods wholesaler, Jaleel Cash & Carry and the integrated logistics centre of Crosswell Logistics.
The ceremony was presided over by HE Mariam Bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment. Also in attendance was Abdulla Belhoul, CEO, TECOM Group, and Saud Abu Alshawareb, Executive Vice President, Industrial Leasing, TECOM Group; MV Kunhumohammed, Chairman, Jaleel Holdings; Sameer K Mohammed, Managing Director, Jaleel Holdings, among other dignitaries including government officials and VIPs.
Jaleel Holdings owns and operates retail, wholesale, distribution and processing companies in the fresh food and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sectors. With a presence in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain and Ghana, the group is one of the largest consumer goods distributors in the region.
Crosswell Logistics
The facility also includes Crosswell Logistics, a fully-owned subsidiary of Jaleel Holdings and Contract Logistics Services provider. It offers more than 28,000 palletised tons of multiple-temperature controlled storage ranging from ambient to -20 C and transport services.
This Facility allows Jaleel Cash and Carry to ensure a 30-day stock for all customers and fulfil the daily requirements of hotels, restaurants, caterers, retailers, offices, and bulk-buying families. The 30-day stock is also large enough to serve 5% of UAE’s population.
“The opening of the new facility of Jaleel Holdings is a significant step in this direction, which will go a long way in supporting a sustainable supply chain and marketing homegrown products,” observed HE Eng. Mohammed Mousa Alameeri, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
“Food security and sustainability rely on advanced manufacturing. Government strategies and initiatives such as ‘Operation 300bn’ and ‘Make it in Emirates’, are attracting significant investment with benefits in key sectors like fresh food and FMCG, while providing a roadmap for sustainable and innovation-led operations.,” stated Alshawareb.
“Apart from the Cash and carry store we have our new integrated logistic venture in the same facility with a 28,000 MT storage capacity. We will be offering world class 4PL Services to the market through this facility,” noted Sameer K Mohammed.
UAE’s largest consumer goods wholesaler
The facility will be the company’s largest in the region, with a total built-up area of 281,000 sqft and an investment of more than US$ 24.5mn. Benefiting from Dubai Industrial City’s proximity to key transport networks, including land, sea, air, and soon Etihad Rail, Jaleel Holdings will be able to cater to customers across the GCC and Africa.
The new facility will enable the group to double its storage capacity, currently built for 19,000 pallets (approximately 28,000 tonnes).
Built for sustainability
The new facility features an ammonia plant to manage the temperature in the facility and prevent harm to the environment. An average of 9,000 litres of water from the cooling equipment is recycled daily for all irrigation, sanitation, and flushing requirements.
Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) accounted for over 50 per cent of Dubai’s Polymers and Petrochemical trade, valued at more than AED 49 billion in 2021
Global economies are facing increased pressure from uncertainty in oil prices, capacity, and supply chain disruptions. The petrochemicals sector is not exempt from these global challenges. Despite this, Jebel Ali Free Zone’s (Jafza) petrochemical sector witnessed stability. One indication of this is the increase in export volumes in 2021, which grew 52 per cent year-on-year. Additionally, last year, the free zone alone accounted for over 50 per cent of Dubai’s Polymers and Petrochemicals trade, valued at more than AED 49 billion.
Enabling Seamless Trade
DP World, through its local and regional assets, multimodal connectivity, cost-effective supply chain solutions and digital trade platforms has supported petrochemical trade lanes and ecosystems worldwide. The company plays a crucial role in facilitating the growth of the regional and global petrochemicals sector through Jebel Ali.
The integrated logistics offerings, supported by connectivity across international petrochemical
trade lanes and the ecosystem at the Jebel Ali hub, give the industry the most attractive logistic
proposition. Additionally, its vast network of global liners has contributed to the success of the
UAE and the region.
The Jebel Ali Connectivity
DP World’s petrochemical hub, which spans the port and the free zone, handles over one-third of the UAE’s polymer and petrochemical trade through Jebel Ali Port. With storage being an essential factor in the industry, finding a suitable site with convenient connectivity for trade and transport, and a very high standard of safety due to the nature of the products is integral. Jebel Ali Port’s solutions meet all these requirements while ensuring reduced costs and time-efficient operations for customers.
Jebel Ali Port complements the traders’ ambitions with tank terminals and warehousing, specialised storage space for packed lubricants, fuels and industrial chemicals, ISO tanks storage and hazardous goods warehouses.
The port comprises tank terminals with 11 dedicated berths for liquid handling, spread over an area of 2 million square metres with over 1 million cubic metres of liquid bulk storage space. The Chemical berth is well equipped with a storage capacity of over 250,000 cubic meters to store various grades of chemicals.
Prominent industry players such as DOW, BASF, Total and Gulf Petrochem are now headquartered within Jafza and create the basis of a healthy ecosystem of almost 600 companies in the sector. Jafza’s strategic location is also ideal for serving demand in the Middle East and Africa. Its industrial facilities for processing and value-added services make it the perfect base for chemical and petrochemical traders serving growing markets in the Indian Subcontinent and the Middle East.
WestJet Cargo, the air cargo division of WestJet, has spent the last few months putting a solid structure in place in order to take its cargo activities to another level.
Today, WestJet Cargo is able to confirm the launch of 4 dedicated Boeing 737-800 freighters on March 26, 2023 to massively increase its operations, thereby meeting the growing demand of the Canadian market.
Kirsten De Bruijn, WestJet Executive Vice President of Cargo is confident about the future: “WestJet Cargo is about to enter a very promising and exciting period in its development. The arrival of our new fleet will enable us to meet the rising demand of the Canadian market, more than ever before.”
2023 will undoubtedly be a significant year for WestJet Cargo. Further announcements about the forthcoming launch will be issued very soon.
WestJet Cargo, the air cargo division of WestJet, has spent the last few months putting a solid structure in place in order to take its cargo activities to another level.
Today, WestJet Cargo is able to confirm the launch of 4 dedicated Boeing 737-800 freighters on March 26, 2023 to massively increase its operations, thereby meeting the growing demand of the Canadian market.
Kirsten De Bruijn, WestJet Executive Vice President of Cargo is confident about the future: “WestJet Cargo is about to enter a very promising and exciting period in its development. The arrival of our new fleet will enable us to meet the rising demand of the Canadian market, more than ever before.”
2023 will undoubtedly be a significant year for WestJet Cargo. Further announcements about the forthcoming launch will be issued very soon.
New facility effectively doubles capacity – can handle 30 trucks and 12 body repairs at a time
New workshop will strengthen UD Trucks’ market share
UD and Al Masaoods’ support communities with Abu Dhabi 2030’s goals
UD Trucks and Al Masaood senior executives met ahead of the launch of a new facility in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi, that is scheduled to open soon to support the growing number of customers of the Japanese truck manufacturer. This brand-new state-of-the-art service centre will help UD Trucks to meet growing demand without compromising on quality or customer satisfaction, and by putting a high value on uptime.
UD Trucks Senior Vice President, Jacques Michel, UD Trucks Middle East, East & North Africa President, Mourad Hedna, along with Hani Tannir, CEO Group Industrial at Al Masaood, met with customers and discussed the brand’s long-term vision and direction as well as its future within the Isuzu Motors Group. Customers from across the emirate attended the event, which allowed them to visit the brand-new facility and learn more about its capabilities.
This new facility will double the brand’s servicing capacity in comparison to its previous facility, providing service space for 30 trucks and 12 body repairs. The number of technicians has also increased substantially – from 21 to 39.
By focusing on providing and delivering the highest quality customer service and after sales support, the new workshop reflects the commitment of both UD Trucks and Al Masaood to positively contribute to the Abu Dhabi and Al Ain communities in accordance with the Abu Dhabi 2030 vision, which seeks to develop a resilient and sufficient infrastructure that can support economic growth in the years ahead.
The workshop is expected to contribute to strengthening UD Trucks’ market share by providing sustainable aftersales services, while Al Masaood will continue to provide the highest standards of support to UD Trucks customers on a larger scale. Also included in the expanded workshop will be a large parts warehouse, which will result in faster turnaround times.
TMS with intelligent automatic routing: sustainable and efficient route planning for logistics of the future
EPG (Ehrhardt Partner Group) is considered one of the global market leaders in the field of warehouse management systems (WMS). The international group of companies bundles its solution portfolio in its supply chain execution suite EPG ONETM and recently added a new transport management system (TMS). For intelligence (the TMS algorithm), EPG now relies on the innovation power of Greenplan – one of the strongest innovators in route planning. By working with Greenplan, EPG is expanding its TMS solution to include a unique and powerful algorithm for automatic routing and scheduling solutions, with efficiency increases of up to 20% compared to standard solutions on the market. By working with EPG, Greenplan is gaining a partner whose global presence and complementary supply chain product portfolio provide an ideal basis for joint global growth.
EPG’s work with Greenplan is the result of a successful cooperation in which both companies have already jointly implemented logistics projects. From now on, customers also always benefit from Greenplan’s innovative route planning algorithm as part of a TMS project with EPG. Both companies are counting on the strong synergy potentials to strengthen their joint market position.
Intelligent complete solution for transportation management
For Greenplan, the decades of experience, the global reach and position as well as EPG’s distinctive expertise are decisive arguments for the cooperation. Greenplan CEO Dr Clemens Beckmann: “With EPG, we can now offer a complete TMS solution in addition to perfect route planning. This, along with EPG’s global presence, will help us achieve our ambitious growth targets.”
Significant savings thanks to unique algorithm
For EPG, the addition of an intelligent route calculation algorithm to the product portfolio is now the next development step: “We have been aware of the need in the market for a modern and powerful TMS solution for some time now. With Greenplan’s solution, we have now found the ideal complement in the form of a unique and powerful algorithm that can be optimally integrated into our TMS,” says Marco Ehrhardt, President of EPG. Especially given the shortage of skilled workers we are currently experiencing, increasing demand for sustainable and efficient solutions in logistics as well as rapidly rising transport and energy costs, the cooperation with Greenplan is an equally important step for both companies. In addition, there are synergy effects with EPG’s existing product portfolio, such as the WFM workforce management system for scheduling drivers in the transport sector or in field service management.
For Greenplan, the investment by a major and strong stakeholder in the industry is a significant milestone in the company’s still relatively young history and a clear indicator of the quality of its own software. This also supports the company’s goal of becoming one of the global market leaders in the field of TMS. Greenplan was founded in 2020 as a subsidiary of DHL and has been completely independent since the management buyout by its founders, Dr Clemens Beckmann and Florian Merget, in early 2022. In 2020, Greenplan won the “PostEurop” innovation prize of the Association of European Postal Companies. In spring 2021, one of the leaders of the Greenplan algorithm, Prof Dr Stephan Held, achieved first prize in the “Amazon Last Mile Challenge” by a significant margin over the runner-up, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This year, Greenplan was selected as one of seven scale-ups for the econnections programme. Here, seven companies, including Dutch Post, bol.com and Deloitte, have joined forces to deliver 500 million e-commerce items more sustainably in the future.
Etihad Cargo’s partner, DSV, has become the carrier’s first transport and logistics partner to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to offset the carbon emissions of its shipment
Etihad’s first NetZero transatlantic flight from Washington Dulles to Abu Dhabi utilised SAF combined with SAF Book & Claim, demonstrating the potential to utilise current technology to achieve net-zero aviation
The NetZero flight, operated with Etihad’s Boeing 787 “Greenliner” programme, incorporated SATAVIA technology to prevent warming aircraft contrails
Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Aviation Group, has announced that DSV Global Transport and Logistics has become the carrier’s first partner to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to offset the carbon emissions of its cargo shipment.
Via the book and claim system, Etihad Cargo facilitated DSV’s SAF purchase, enabling the transport and logistics provider to offset CO2 emissions and reduce non-CO2 climate impact. Etihad Cargo transported DSV’s cargo shipment from Washington Dulles to Abu Dhabi on Etihad’s first transatlantic NetZero flight on 13 November.
Etihad’s Boeing 787 “Greenliner” combined SAF with contrail prevention technology from its partner, SATAVIA, to actively manage carbon emissions and non-CO2 climate effects from contrails, or condensation trails, which cause surface warming and are responsible for up to two-thirds of aviation’s climate impact.
Martin Drew, Senior Vice President – Global Sales & Cargo at Etihad Aviation Group, said, “Etihad was recently named the Environmental Airline of the Year, and Etihad Cargo is committed to providing solutions that enable its partners and customers to achieve their sustainability ambitions. Etihad Cargo is witnessing more focus on sustainable air cargo from customers who are seeking to establish partnerships that provide SAF utilisation, carbon offset initiatives and management of non-CO2 climate impact. Etihad Cargo’s partnership with DSV to transport cargo utilising the SAF book and claim system has showcased the power of collaboration and demonstrated the future of net-zero aviation. The successful delivery of DSV’s shipment has proved net-zero air cargo operations are possible and is the first step in transforming the possible into the routine.”
Offering partners and customers the option to transport cargo more sustainably via the SAF book and claim system is the latest step in Etihad Cargo’s sustainability journey. In alignment with Abu Dhabi Environment Vision and Etihad Aviation Group’s sustainability strategy, Etihad Cargo has pledged to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The carrier is targeting a 20 per cent reduction in emissions intensity by 2025 and aims to cut 2019 net emissions by 50 per cent by 2035.
Demonstrating the carrier’s commitment to achieving sustainability through partnerships, Etihad Cargo became the first Middle Eastern carrier to join TIACA’s BlueSky verification programme, enabling the carrier to assess its progress against eight critical sustainability criteria via an evidence-based desktop verification process. Etihad Cargo also recently announced a partnership with IATA to trial a cargo-specific CO2 emission calculation tool, which will provide a valuable proof of concept for the cargo component of the IATA CO2 Connect carbon calculator. During the three-month trial, Etihad Cargo will share data on fuel burn, load factors and other key variables from flights and cargo shipments and advise on various use cases. IATA and Etihad Cargo will use the world’s first cargo-dedicated CO2 emissions calculation tool to manage and report on sustainability progress to provide the entire value chain, including shippers, forwarders, investors and regulators, with reliable and trustworthy data.
The monitoring and transparency of global supply chains are becoming increasingly important. This is where Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and Finnish startup Logmore come in the picture: Jointly, they are launching a passive dynamic QR data tracker named “Hellmann Smart QR”. It measures temperature, humidity, light as well as shocks and generates a new QR code with each measurement, which is displayed on the device and can be downloaded via cell phone camera upon cargo arrival. By integrating this additional data into the already established platform-based Hellmann tracking systems SmartAir! and Smart Ocean, each deviation can be directly associated with a specific point in the cargo’s journey.
“Hellmann Smart QR” enables cost-efficient and user-friendly visibility along the entire supply chain for sensitive cargo such as perishable goods or pharmaceuticals. With the help of push notifications, deviations become visible at a single glance and available directly after scanning both via cell phone or the cloud-based platforms SmartAir! and Smart Ocean. This makes it easy to track and assign responsibilities within the supply chain.
“With the integration of “Hellmann Smart QR” into our existing digital tracking platforms, the passive data trackers already used millions of times are for the first time combined with a real-time solution: Through this new tool and its passive data tracking, we achieve an equally efficient but more cost-effective solution compared to active tracking systems. At the same time, the new tool generates tracking data up to 95 percent faster than other passive trackers,” says Stefan Borggreve, Chief Digital Officer, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.
In November 2022, Hellmann acquired the rights to the exclusive distribution of the hardware developed by Logmore in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Mexico, making it the responsible local product contact.
“Not only our very strong international logistics network, but also our Smart Solution product portfolio provides the perfect framework for the new Smart QR System. With “Smart QR”, Hellmann establishes a unique data link between system environments which provides our customers with comprehensive transparency along the entire transport chain,” adds Henning Pottharst, Product Manager Smart Solutions, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.
The former Vice Chairman and CEO, SABIC and Founding Chairman, GPCA, will be recognized at a special award ceremony during the 16th Annual GPCA Forum on 6 December 2022 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the voice of the chemical and petrochemical industry in the Arabian Gulf, is proud to recognize Mohamed Al-Mady, former Vice Chairman and CEO, SABIC (1998 – 2015) and Founding Chairman, GPCA (2006 – 2015), with the 4th GPCA Legacy Award “Al-Rowad” (الرّواد) – The Honor of a Lifetime.
Mohamed Al-Mady will be recognized at a special award ceremony during the 16th Annual GPCA Forum on 6 December 2022 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for his role in developing and advancing SABIC and making tremendous contributions to the chemical and petrochemical industry in Saudi Arabia. Al-Mady, a renowned industry pioneer, will be awarded during GPCA’s flagship event, where industry peers and senior leaders are expected to pay tribute to his accomplishments and celebrate his legacy.
During his management of the company, SABIC’s global ranking grew from 25th in 1998 to 4th in 2015. Between 1998 and 2015, under Al Mady’s leadership and thanks to the government’s support, SABIC’s assets quadrupled to USD 87.5 billion, its production capacity grew to over 65 million metric tons, net profit increased dramatically to over USD 5 billion, and its employees more than doubled.
Al-Mady is the latest industry pioneer to be recognized with the GPCA Legacy Award alongside H.R.H. Prince Faisal Bin Turki Bin Abdulaziz AI-Saud, Advisor to the Royal Court, Saudi Arabia and former Advisor to the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources; Yousef Bin Omair, former Minister of Petroleum and Natural Resources, UAE, former Group CEO, ADNOC and former Chairman, Borouge (3rd GPCA Legacy Award, 2021); Abdulaziz Al Zamil (1941 – 2019), former Minister of Industry and Electricity, Saudi Arabia, and former Chairman, SABIC (2nd GPCA Legacy Award, 2019); Ghazi Al-Gosaibi (1940-2010), former Minister of Industry and Electricity, Saudi Arabia, and founding Chairman, SABIC; Yousef Al Shirawi (1927 – 2012), former Minister of Development and Industry, Bahrain; and Abdulbaqi Al-Nouri (1929 – 2010), former Chairman and MD, PIC, Kuwait (1st GPCA Legacy Award, 2017).
This year, a specially developed Hall of Fame at the Annual GPCA Forum will showcase the Arabian Gulf Chemical Industry Pioneers who were recognized at previous editions of the Award. The exhibit will encompass interactive media narrating their achievements with a mixture of video, audio and text, providing delegates with a fully immersive experience of the history of the regional industry and the personalities who overcame the challenges of their time to establish a globally competitive regional industry.
Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA, commented, “We are honored to be recognizing Mohamed Al-Mady with the 4th GPCA Legacy Award “Al-Rowad” (الرّواد) for his contributions to the development and growth of the chemical and petrochemical industry of Saudi Arabia, including for putting SABIC on an upward trajectory of growth and significant global expansion. One of Al-Mady’s key legacies in the region as our founding Chairman is the establishment of GPCA in 2006 as the first and only regional association to represent the interests of the chemical and petrochemical industry. I look forward to welcoming over 2,500 delegates from 90+ countries and 600 companies from across the globe to celebrate the legacy of Mohamed Al-Mady and make his achievements known to the current and future generations of young leaders.”
Launched in 2017, the GPCA Legacy Award takes place on an annual basis and honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to foster and strengthen the chemical industry in one or more of the GCC states.
Bridgestone, a global leader in tyres and sustainable mobility solutions, has applied its very latest tyre technologies and specialist expertise in supporting electric mobility to the development of bespoke tyres for the BMW iX, the company’s first all-electric vehicle since its pioneering BMW i3. The ultra-low rolling resistance Bridgestone Alenza tyres feature a host of cutting-edge technologies that perfectly complement the BMW iX’s performance and character.
The custom-engineered tyres feature Bridgestone’s proprietary and lightweight ENLITEN technology to reduce tyre rolling resistance and weight by up to 20%[1], helping to keep the BMW iX’s overall weight to a minimum, and delivering increased vehicle mileage as a result.
The BMW iX’s EV-marked Alenza tyres also feature a specially-developed material compound and tread pattern, complementing the BMW iX’s four-wheel drive transmission and eDrive Technology to deliver outstanding performance, extraordinary range and impressive acceleration.
Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HyperloopTT) has entered into a definitive merger agreement with Forest Road Acquisition Corp. II (NYSE: FRXB, FRXB.WS, and FRXB.U) and will trade under the ticker “HYPE” upon closing.
HyperloopTT is a leading technology licensing platform for the disruptive hyperloop technology, with extensive intellectual property (IP) assets, consisting of 66 global patents1 and more than 80 trademarks.
Strong relationships with the United States Department of Transportation (“USDOT”) and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (“DG MOVE”) have resulted in legislative and regulatory advancements and opened pathways to expedite commercialization.
HyperloopTT’s “Hyperloop-as-a-Service” business model will enable it to potentially earn both upfront and recurring licensing fees for sharing its technological IP and know-how with customers including governments, infrastructure operators, and transportation operators.
HyperloopTT relies on an innovative, crowd-powered development model based on a global network of technologists, scientists, engineers, expert contributors, and partners, minimizing costs while maximizing development speed.
The transaction will result in the issuance of $289 million of common stock to the shareholders and convertible note holders of HyperloopTT at close, and the combined company will assume the outstanding options and warrants of HyperloopTT.
HyperloopTT expects to receive up to $330 million of net proceeds, assuming no redemptions, to fund growth and accelerate technology, testing, and resourcing globally, enabling potential customers to build the next generation of transportation.
Global supply chain software specialist Ehrhardt Partner Group (EPG) has deployed its innovative Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) LFS at Schneider Electric’s Sarre-Union warehouse and distribution center in France, boosting logistics capacity at the facility by 15 per cent.
Responsible for all enclosures and related accessories to Schneider Electric’s local distribution centers and third-party suppliers all over the world – the equivalent of 30 trucks per day leave the site carrying a collective 30,000 tons of goods, with over 7500 products in storage, and 15,000 pallets in internal and external locations – reliable and always-on IT and software systems are vital in running the 10,000 sq ft warehouse and distribution center efficiently.
As a company with almost 200 years of history in sustainable innovation, Schneider Electric is a leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, and the provision of electrical distribution equipment and secure energy equipment for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure, and industry.
Prior to the upgrade, the center’s previous WMS was built on a legacy mainframe, and with existing data becoming less reliable, Schneider Electric looked to EPG to install a flexible, state-of-the-art WMS that could both match their own specific needs more closely as well as future-proof the business at the same time.
Fast, trouble-free implementation
LFS is EPG’s off-the-shelf WMS, customized to intelligently connect the planning and control of all material flows in a logistics facility. It actively guides the movement of all manual and automated storage units with 100 per cent safety and transparency, a clear advantage over rival systems.
Implementation of the project was trouble-free, and required no downtime at Sarre-Union, despite the added pressures of the Covid lockdown, which did delay the first ‘go-live’ target date. The entire process of took 18 months, and the EPG team worked closely with Schneider Electric teams with initial workshops and project specification to prepare for the customization, tests and deployment.
Immediate performance uplift
Since implementing LFS, the center has since significant improvements to its processes, including a 15 per cent uplift in logistics capacity. In just three months, the center was outperforming previous benchmarks and has boosted capacity by 15 per cent.
Schneider Electric is delighted with the flexibility benefits provided by the multiple functionalities incorporated within the customized LFS. “All configurations are controlled by our own key users, who can manage the jobs, change the flows and processes all by ourselves,” confirms Department Operations Manager Kevin Cartolano. “The label management facility enables us to print directly via LFS. The benefits of that include no fixed batch jobs and no downtime needed to integrate new orders. Meanwhile, the printer management function permits key users nominated by us to manage individual printers.”
Schneider Electric managers and staff were also impressed with the system’s easy-to-use interface. This makes it more comfortable for relevant teams to adopt, particularly as it is flexible enough to be used on several platforms as required throughout the facility, such as tablets, handheld units, laptops and desktop computers.
“Schneider Electric is delighted with the flexibility benefits provided by the multiple functionalities incorporated within the customized LFS,” Kevin Cartolano shared. “The quality and speed of communication provided by EPG’s versatile and expert support personnel have been commendable, and we look forward to working with EPG on many future upgrading projects.”
Hellmann Worldwide Logistics is launching three new Industry Solutions for growing sectors “Consumer Goods”, “Technology” and “Industrial”. With the additional offering of highly specialized logistics services for these individual industries, Hellmann is significantly expanding its services and optimizing processes along the entire value chain for its customers – from procurement, production, and distribution to returns processing and repair management. The three new so-called “verticals” complement Hellmann’s five existing Industry Solutions which are already successfully established on the market for the automotive and cruise industries, the fashion and pharmaceutical industries, and producers of renewable energies.
While the “Consumer Goods” sector focuses primarily on global transportation solutions by providing the optimal combination of all available modes of transport as well as setting up online stores and providing support at the point of sale, the “Industrial” and “Technology” Industry Solutions will additionally provide traditional contract logistics services such as supply and returns management.
All Industry Solutions aim to cover the entire life cycle of products with end-to-end logistics concepts from a single source and thus meet the specific requirements of each sector. The “Technology” vertical is aimed particularly at manufacturers of consumer electronics, high-tech goods and robots. The “Industrial” vertical is targeted at producers of machinery, power and hand tools and producers of industrial electronic components. Consumer goods include products with comparatively short life cycles, such as toys, non-perishable foods, electrical and household appliances, as well as cosmetics and personal care products.
“With the three new Industry Solutions, we are taking another strategic step on our growth track. Based on Hellmann´s global infrastructure and the sophistication of our processes, we consistently develop individual logistics concepts for our customers, making us a reliable and future-oriented partner even in times of increasing demands,” says Patrick Oestreich, Chief Commercial Officer, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.
GWC was recognized as the “Employer of Continuous Collaboration” by Qatar University in acknowledgment of their partnership and the role GWC has played in supporting the University’s endeavours. The award was presented by Dr Hassan bin Rashid Al-Derham, President of Qatar University, and was received by Hamad Mohammed R M Abuqaba Al-Marri – HR Director on behalf of GWC. Speaking about this award and what it meant to GWC, Hamad Mohammed Al- Marri remarked that GWC has always been committed to interacting with students and guide them, as the leaders of the future. The company takes its role in supporting Qatar Vision 2030 and the economy very seriously. Partnerships such as this play a critical role in giving students a glimpse of the real-world challenges and what can be done to overcome them. This Award is a recognition of the role that companies, such as the GWC, play in fostering innovation and promoting talent. This collaboration gives students an opportunity to connect the dots between theory and reality. GWC, the leading provider of integrated logistics solutions in Qatar, caters to both the largest and most influential companies in Qatar, as well as small and medium enterprises, providing them world-class turnkey solutions customized to their specific needs. It has developed these solutions while gaining nearly twenty years of experience in the local and international markets. -Ends- About GWC جامعة قطر تكرّم شركة الخليج للمخازن (جي دبليو سي) الدوحة: حصلت شركة الخليج للمخازن على جائزة “جهة العمل ذات التعاون المستمر” من قبل جامعة قطر تقديراً للشراكة التي تجمع بين الجهتين ودور الخليج للمخازن في دعم جهود ومساعي جامعة قطر. قدّم الجائزة الدكتور حسن بن راشد الدرهم، رئيس جامعة قطر، واستلمها نيابة عن الشركة، السيد حمد محمد أبو قبا المري، رئيس إدارة الموارد البشرية. بالحديث عن هذه الجائزة وما تعنيه للخليج للمخازن، قال السيد حمد محمد المري أن الخليج للمخازن لطالما كانت ملتزمة بالتفاعل مع الطلبة وتوجيههم ليصبحوا قادة المستقبل، وهي تسعى من خلال دورها إلى دعم رؤية قطر الوطنية 2030 والاقتصاد في البلاد. إن الشراكات من هذا النوع تلعب دوراً أساسياً في إعطاء الطلاب لمحة عن تحديات الحياة الواقعية والعملية وما يمكن فعله للتغلب عليها. تأتي هذه الجائزة تقديراً لدور الشركات، على غرار الخليج للمخازن، في تعزيز الابتكار وتشجيع المواهب الجديدة. كما أن هذا التعاون يمنح الطلبة فرصة للتعرّف على كيفية تطبيق الأمور النظرية على الواقع العملي. تقدم الخليج للمخازن، المزود الرائد للحلول اللوجستية المتكاملة في دولة قطر، خدماتها لأكبر الشركات وأكثرها نفوذاً في قطر، فضلاً عن الشركات الصغيرة والمتوسطة، مما يوفر لهم حلولاً عالمية المستوى ومتكاملة، ومخصصة حسب احتياجاتهم الخاصة، وقد طوّرت الخليج للمخازن هذه الحلول من خلال خبرتها التي اكتسبتها على مدى قرابة عشرين عامًا في الأسواق المحلية والدولية. – النهاية – نبذة عن شركة الخليج للمخازن (GWC)
Established in 2004, GWC has become the leader in logistics and supply chain solutions in the State of Qatar and one of the fastest growing companies in the region. The company offers best in class logistics and supply chain services that include warehousing, distribution, logistics solutions for hazardous materials, freight forwarding, project logistics, sporting events and equestrian logistics solutions, fine art logistics, supply chain consulting services, transportation, records management, and local and international relocation services. The company provides these services, utilizing a global freight network of more than 600 offices and a solid logistics infrastructure spanning over 3.8 million square metres. GWC is the first regional supporter and official logistics provider for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
Challenge Airlines MT has brought back to Malta the Flemish Tapestries in its inaugural fight.
“320 years ago, these valuable Flemish Tapestries made their way by ship from Belgium to Malta. Today, we are honoured and delighted to have been chosen to return them again to their home in St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta,” Yossi Shoukroun, CEO of Challenge Group, commented on the occasion of the welcoming ceremony held on 15 November 2022, to celebrate the transportation of the Flemish Tapestries to Malta, from Liège, Belgium, where the historic masterpieces had undergone meticulous and careful restoration.
In a similar vein, their return journey was planned in collaboration with Maltese government departments and the private sector, with the same dedication and attention to detail that characterises all of Challenge Group’s logistics services. For Challenge Airlines MT, the transport of these priceless tapestries signified both a celebration of history as well as the creation of a new historic moment: the valuable cargo was the first to be carried by the airline on its inaugural flight, having been awarded its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by Transport Malta on 01 November 2022. As a mark of respect and in honour of the occasion, Challenge Airlines MT provided both the flight as well as logistical support.
Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, Ian Borg, emphasized the joint commitment of all those involved: “It is a pleasure for us to see that, with a strong intervention from our Embassy in Belgium, through Clint Tanti and the rest of the employees, we were able to bring these tapestries to Malta without any costs for the Maltese Government. Above all, these can now be enjoyed by the public and the tourists who choose to visit the St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta.”
Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, outlined the historic and sentimental value for Malta and its visitors: “These tapestries have been a property of the Co-Cathedral for 350 years. The finished restoration of these tapestries is certainly a step forward for the wider appreciation as well as a unique experience for those who will see them in the coming years.”
For Challenge Group, the Flemish Tapestries coincidentally have additional significance: “Not only do we have the utmost respect for this priceless and unique cargo but, in a way, these tapestries also reflect Challenge Group, since they depict Christian art scenes from Jerusalem, Israel, and were carefully woven over a period of four years in Belgium for Grand Master Fra Ramon Perellós y Roccaful of Malta. Hence, they combine the three countries where Challenge Group has set up hubs and for which we hold Air Operator Certificates.” added Yossi Shoukroun. He went on to thank the Maltese authorities for Challenge Airlines MT’s AOC.
Challenge Airlines MT, registered as 9H, owns a fleet of two B767-300ER, each capable of uplifting a payload of 60 tonnes. Ten pilots are stationed at the Group’s headquarter in Malta, ready to operate regular flights between Liège (LGG), Tel Aviv (TLV), Sharjah (SHJ), New York (JFK), and Indian Sub-Continent (ISC), in the coming future.
• Mercedes-AMG F1 and PETRONAS announced a multi-year renewal of Title and Technical Partnership from 2026 onwards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
• The renewal extends the sport’s most successful title partnership, with 115 Grand Prix wins and eight constructors’ championships so far since 2010.
• The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and PETRONAS will take on the exciting challenge of developing a standard-setting 100% advanced sustainable fuel for the 2026 power unit regulations.
• The partnership will expand to include a greater focus on new sustainable technology solutions beyond the racetrack.
The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team is delighted to announce the renewal of the Title and Technical Partnership between the team and progressive energy group, PETRONAS from the 2026 season onwards. Not only will this renewal power the partnership towards two decades of success at the pinnacle of motorsport, but it also signals a commitment to a more sustainable future – and the determination to excel in the exciting technical challenge presented by the 2026 power unit regulations. The partnership extension was announced in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia at the iconic PETRONAS Towers.
“We are doing something a little bit unusual – announcing a partnership that will begin in four years’ time. This sends an important message: our team and PETRONAS are no longer just partners, we are family, and we will be one team for many more years to come,” said Toto Wolff, CEO and Team Principal.
“From 2026, advanced sustainable fuel will be at the heart of F1 performance – and this gives us a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in this domain, through both the power unit and PETRONAS Fluid Technology Solutions™. We are excited to be racing into the future alongside PETRONAS, with the ambition to set the standard once again, in our on-track performance and by pioneering the transition of a global sports team to a net-zero future.”
Since 2010, the partnership has been founded on a shared ambition to achieve world-class performance. In the space of nearly 13 seasons so far, we have won together eight constructors’ world championships and 115 Grand Prix victories – an achievement unmatched in F1. And this success has been underpinned and enabled by continuous technical innovation.
Through this experience, PETRONAS develops class-leading fluids for consumers around the world, namely PETRONAS Primax fuel, PETRONAS Syntium engine oil and PETRONAS Tutela functional fluids.
Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik, PETRONAS President and Group Chief Executive Officer said, “What you are witnessing today bears testimony to the shared conviction of both PETRONAS and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team: that the synergy and shared ambition of both parties will deliver a pathway to responsibly provide the sports and our customers with energy that is cleaner and more sustainable.
“Given the accumulated experience as a team over the last decade, and the technical capabilities and expertise sourced from our combined talents, PETRONAS looks forward to
charting the next chapter with a focus on advanced sustainable fuel for Mercedes and its customer teams. Together with our partners, PETRONAS will keep pushing boundaries with our Fluid Technology Solutions™ through innovative offerings. At the heart of our efforts will be sustainability – as we all progress towards a lower-carbon future,” he added.
For 2026, the sport has set its most significant challenge yet with its ambition to race towards a more sustainable future. With a target of 50% electrification of the power unit and development of road-relevant 100% advanced sustainable fuels, the new rules will require innovative solutions to lead the way in the sport’s next era. Currently in line with the 2022 regulations, PETRONAS is supporting Mercedes and its customer teams with advanced sustainable E10 fuel, comprising 10% second-generation non-food based ethanol E10, which reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions overall.
Datuk Sazali Hamzah, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Downstream said, “With our longstanding partnership and extensive experience in formulating the Fluid Technology Solutions™ for the team, PETRONAS is fully equipped with the capacity and capabilities to perfect the technology to produce and supply 100% advanced sustainable fuel for the next-generation power units.”
“In that same vein, we are already on track with developing a greenfield biorefinery and co-processing at our facilities to supply sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a cleaner and more viable option for aircrafts in our effort to support the aviation industry needs,” added Datuk Sazali. This is in line with Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) which is expected to come into mandatory effect by 2027 as well as Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile’s (FIA) net zero by 2030 commitment – both of which will affect the logistics operations of F1 teams.
The planned biorefinery will also have operational flexibility to produce hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) for on-road vehicles, diesel-powered trains, and marine transportation as well as petrol range products which can be included and/or upgraded for on-road vehicles. Beyond that, PETRONAS also offers a suite of cleaner energy solutions such as EV chargers and fluids, liquefied natural gas and solar as well as other renewable energy solutions as a concerted push to support its partners’ sustainability goals.
“PETRONAS is an important part of our heritage and history, and we’re delighted that they will continue as our Title and Technical partner long into the future,” commented Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Commercial Director, Richard Sanders. “The partnership with PETRONAS will now span two decades and we look forward to making this the most enduring and successful sponsorship in elite global sport.”
Formulating a vision and strategy to sustain profitability is one of the most important expectations from the C-Suite. However, executing that strategy and taking it from top floor to shop floor also requires a strategy affirms Sandeep Walia, Chief Transformation Officer—CTO, Slimstock Middle East Africa (MEA).
In all competitive businesses, strategy execution is as important as strategy formulation. Organisations that derive greater value-add from their strategies are ones that have an effective way of putting them into action on the tactical and operational level, which is where S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning), on top of S&OE (Sales & Operations Execution), plays an essential role.
Since it originated in 1980s, Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) has become a business management process of choice for thousands of organizations all over the world. S&OP is a structured process that aligns all functional areas of a Business (Commercial, Marketing, Finance, Operations, and others) under an aligned set of assumptions to achieve goals set in the Strategic and Operating Plans.
What is S&OP? S&OP aims to be a decision-making forum where plans are reviewed and validated, key business issues are identified, and different organizational functions come together to align on strategic, tactical, and operational objectives. The key input for any monthly S&OP review is the annual Strategy / Operating Plan that aims to ensure strong alignment between Business and Supply Chain Strategy.
Supply chain strategy ultimately comes down to making choices. Businesses evaluate the needs of their customers and consumers, and the unique CVP (Customer Value Proposition) that can be offered. It becomes important at this stage to ensure that Supply Chain design is in line with CVP that a business is trying to deliver.
If the focus of the business is on NPS (Net Promoter Score), CX (Customer Experience), Customer Service but Supply Chain is focusing only on costs / working capital, there will be lost opportunities surely.
* Ensure risks are identified, and mitigationplans are in place
* Cost and working capital efficiency
At the heart of S&OP is a four-step monthly planning cycle, comprising a series of scheduled review meetings. Product portfolio review: What changes are taking place (and when) over the horizon to ensure an attractive product portfolio, that will deliver market share and profitability objectives? Which products will be introduced, discontinued, or changed; what will be the effect of marketing-led promotional activity and what is the timephased product plan?
Demand review: Assess forecasting capability and sales planningperformance, and to use this information to generate the latest view from marketing and sales, under-pinned with volume and revenue projections. The sales views reconciled to gain consensus on a ‘most likely’ demand plan.
Supply review: What is the impact on the supply chain of changes in demand and the timing of product development? Are there material constraints in supporting the new demand plan and is there sufficient resource? What are the options and opportunities?
General Management Business review: Review of key performance indicators and analyses of trends in operational & financial performance Highlighting gaps vs business and strategic plans Validating Action Plan. The objective at each step of the scheduled review is to sign-off the ‘plan’.
Sign-off implies: * The plan is realistic and can be achieved with existing resources available * The plan meets the business requirements
Why is S&OP important? S&OP helps the organization align on single version and source of truth so that decisions are taken from holistic standpoint. The five-step approach below, if followed with discipline can add value to top / bottom line ambitions of organizations.
How are we performing now? * Have we met our stated objectives YTD (year to date)? * If not, how does it impact our YTG (you’re the greatest) assumptions? * What do we need to get back on track?
Is the agreed plan valid? * Are the assumptions sound, wellunderstood, agreed upon and likely to produce the expected result? * Is the plan realistic?
Is the plan sufficient? * Does it help us achieve our monthly, quarterly, yearly AOPs (Annual Operations Planning)?
‘What if’ scenarios? * Is the plan sensitive to “upside and downsides? * Is the management aware of alternative scenarios? * Do we have contingency plans?
Which resources are required? * Do we have all bases covered? * Any additional capital or resources needed to execute the above agreed plan? * Which decisions need to be made? What are the key challenges S&OP aims to resolve? The consequences and pitfalls of silo-planning are common knowledge and very well documented. Moving from a silo-based culture to a cross-functional collaborative planning is a transformational journey that takes time. If done properly, S&OP helps to align sales, marketing, finance, operations on a realistic achievable plan to satisfy the business growth and ambitions. S&OP ensures demand signals reflect the state of the market and customer expectations and there is an adequate supply response for it.
S&OP process aligns the organisation on corporate health and wealth related KPIs and helps to evaluate ways to improve:
* OTIF (on time in full) / Customer Satisfaction / Gross Margins * Working Capital Utilization * Asset utilisation / ROA (Return on Assets) * Inventory turns * Productivity / efficiency * Demand accuracy
What are the main benefits of S&OP? Apart from the organisational, cultural, and other intangible benefits, there are some key benefits of implementing a X-Functional S&OP. See chart
How to get S&OP right? The key to ensure that S&OP adds value to the Business relies on few fundamentals: S&OP requires the hands-on participation of executive management, up to and including the leader of the business (President, CEO, COO, General Manager, Managing Director, and other key appointments) because: * S&OP needs to occur at the level where bottom-line responsibility resides * S&OP contributes to decision making around policy, strategy, and risk * Demand side dynamics and Supply side constraints need effective steering * SLT (Senior leadership team) participation ensures consistent behaviors across organization.
S&OP is cross-functional and collaborative. It involves, at a minimum, Sales / Marketing, Operations/Supply Chain, Product Development, Finance, and General Management because: * It allows to raise potential problems and conflicts in a proactive manner before they become crises. * All business problems are most effectively solved cross-functionally, not in a silo.
Making S&OP work in a company is largely a matter of managing change. It is not in the data; it is not in the software; it’s not in the process charts – it is in the people. S&OP is a decision-making process that balances demand and supply at the aggregate level, aligns operational planning with financial planning, links strategic planning with day-to-day sales and operational activities, and sets the tactical direction of the business.
Executive Management rarely has the time or the desire to deal with large amounts of detail, nor should it be necessary It is extremely important to split the decisions that we need the senior leadership team to take during S&OP into two categories 1. Review and Respond – Operational Horizon 2. Plan and Align –Tactical / Strategic Horizon at aggregated levels of product and location hierarchy
The most critical part to get right is to set the FOCUS of the Organisation when implementing or running S&OP across strategic, tactical, and operational horizons.
On the Strategic horizon, the business leaders need to have visibility on what are the different risks to their sustainable profitability goals and accordingly initiate transformational initiatives to mitigate those risks. Disruptions can come from anywhere, FOCUS on strategic horizon allows leaders to ensure that businesses are resilient and ready to deliver when needed.
On the Tactical horizon, the goal of the business leaders is to ensure that Corporate Health &Wealth is in safe waters and all the GROWTH assumptions are agreed and aligned cross-functionally
On the Operational horizon, the aim for the business leaders is to manage the volatility and gaps between demand and supply, capacity, and resources available versus the need to achieve a high degree of proficiency in AOPs and more.
The carrier introduces new routes and frequency increases to support its customers.
Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading air cargo carrier is poised and ready post the COVID pandemic with strategies in place to adapt to the changing environment and customer needs. The cargo carrier has further boosted its growing network, with increased flight frequencies to multiple popular destinations in the Middle East, Europe and Americas that will benefit its customers’ business globally to meet growing demand this winter season.
Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo said, “We are always ready to adapt to our customer needs and there is a great potential for growth in many regions as our winter schedule changes indicates. We are happy to introduce frequency upgrades and give our customers access to more direct capacity which will ultimately benefit their business. In line with our Next Generation strategy, we will always put customer at the heart of everything we do by continuing to invest in our fleet, infrastructure, network, products, service and technology.”
Qatar Airways Cargo serves over 20 passenger and freighter destinations in the Middle East. The carrier recently launched a new freighter service to Riyadh, the capital and largest city in Saudi Arabia, operating Boeing 777 freighters twice a week, with 100 tonnes cargo capacity each way, per flight. Cargo capacity is also set to increase to and from other Middle Eastern cities, as the airline increases its flights from 2 to 4 for Kuwait, and from 1 to 3 for Muscat by adding two A310 freighters per week to each of these cities.
In Europe, the cargo carrier offers its air freight services to and from 48 destinations, operating both, belly-hold cargo services as well as freighters. The carrier recently launched two new freighter stations in Athens, Greece and Vienna, Austria. Qatar Airways Cargo will operate once a week Boeing 777 freighter to Athens with 100 tonnes of cargo capacity each way, per flight and once a week A310 freighter to Vienna, with over 35 tonnes of cargo capacity each way, per flight.
Effective 15 November 2022, Qatar Airways Cargo has also introduced belly-hold cargo services to Dusseldorf, expanding its network in the European region. The launch of daily flights between the two cities increases cargo capacity from Germany to over 1,500 tonnes each way, each week. The carrier will also be increasing its flights to Amsterdam by adding three weekly freighter flights effective 5 November 2022 and three weekly passenger flights effective 23 December 2022.
Lastly, in the Americas, the airline covers 21 passenger and freighter destinations and has introduced additional frequency to Chicago increasing its freighter flights from 10 weekly to 11 weekly in addition to a daily passenger service.
The cargo carrier recently launched its Next Generation strategy, with digitalization as a key pillar. Qatar Airways Cargo has also pioneered its next generation Digital Experience platform with a revamped, comprehensive, and intuitive cargo customer portal called Digital Lounge bringing added value to the airline’s customers, offering better engagement and interaction, increased productivity and time management, as well as better visibility, transparency and performance monitoring. Qatar Airways Cargo’s customers will benefit from the many enhancements to the portal such as booking, tracking and tracing, account management, and reporting.
Qatar Airways Cargo increases:
Muscat – from 1 weekly to 3 weekly effective 2 November 2022 (in addition to daily Passenger flights)
Kuwait – from 2 weekly to 4 weekly effective 3 November 2022 (in addition to 35 weekly Passenger flights)
Amsterdam – from 11 weekly to 14 weekly effective 5 November 2022 (in addition to 10 weekly Passenger flights eff. January 2023)
Chicago – from 10 weekly to 11 weekly effective 5 November 2022 (in addition to daily Passenger flights)
Qatar Airways Cargo new freighter stations:
Riyadh – from 0 weekly to 2 weekly effective 1 November 2022 (in addition to 12 weekly Passenger flights)
Athens – from 0 weekly to 1 weekly effective 5 November 2022 (in addition to daily Passenger flights)
Vienna – from 0 weekly to 1 weekly effective 4 November 2022 (in addition to 10 weekly Passenger flights)
Fans from all over the world can look forward to 29 days of football, music, culture, and lifestyle – a true festival of football!
During the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the FIFA Fan Festival will take place at Al Bidda Park – in the centre of Doha, in the heart of Qatar. Special attention will be given to entertaining all types of fans, from devoted supporters to music, food, culture, and lifestyle enthusiasts. A highly anticipated test event is also announced for Hayya Card holders on 16 November ahead of the actual fan festival that coincides with the World Cup from 20 November to 18 December. It is the place to be for all football fans!
In addition to watching 64 matches live on giant screens, fans will be able to participate in and enjoy a wide range of cultural and educational experiences. Each is designed to help them connect and engage with the global football culture. The FIFA Fan Festival™ will have something for everyone.
A reimaged World Cup experience
An integral part of every fan’s football journey, this festival focuses on making football a global, accessible, and inclusive sporting event, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience to fans. The reimagined festival is set to augment the fan experience by providing millions with the opportunity to celebrate their shared passion for football while experiencing the best in music, entertainment, culture, food, and games in a safe, friendly, and highly entertaining environment.
Logistics and supply chain will play a major role in bringing such a global event to fruition with the goal of making the FIFA Fan Festival™ a memorable experience for locals and visiting fans alike. “Providing fans from various regions of the world the opportunity to take back a memorable World Cup experience is a tall ask which will be made possible by employing a complex set of logistics operations”,explains Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO of GWC, the Official Logistics Provider for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
Logistics behind the fan experience
Bringing to life the world’s biggest football festival is no easy feat. Setting up such an extraordinary event often involves an exhaustive checklist that needs careful planning and execution. At the heart of it, logistics has a critical role to play in ensuring that everything runs on time and smoothly without any bottlenecks. All towards ensuring that fans do not fall short of a splendid experience!
Football brings with it numerous associated experiences such as F&B, hospitality, and retail, thus enabling local, regional, and international brands an opportunity to serve the fans. Creating an exciting and safe environment for football fans to enjoy the game alongside these associated aspects will be a massive logistical undertaking. The planning, construction, and operation of such a venue is a complex logistical exercise that involves various critical factors such as the installation of power, water supply, drainage, catering, perimeter fencing, etc, in addition to provisions for security and medical facilities.
A resource-consuming project, the fan festival calls for support from specialist event logistics agencies, right from the preliminary planning to transporting furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E), setting up the venue, to ensuring smooth supply chain operations throughout the duration of the festival. Ensuring success for the largest football party on the planet comes down to immaculate planning and execution, right from shipping consignments inside the host country to warehousing under product-ideal conditions, from where replenishments can be distributed to the end destination.
The goal of the FIFA Fan Festival™ is to provide fans with an experience of a lifetime. To that end, dedicated teams from GWC will continue to work hard behind the scenes providing solutions such as safe warehousing, venue delivery, installation set-up, site dismantling after the festival, and return shipping to the next destination. As the Official Logistics Provider, GWC will be at the heart of all the action providing the necessary logistical support to make the FIFA Fan Festival™ a grand success.
Alongside the FIFA Fan Festival™ at Al Bidda Park, refer to the various other Entertainment Destinations planned in Qatar to add to the world-class fan experience: The Corniche in Doha City, MiddleBeast presents Aravia in Al Wakrah, Lusail Boulevard, Arcadia Spectacular in Ras Bufontas, Al Khor Fan Zone and Industrial Area Fan Zone.
· Top 15 top energy Korean companies at the second edition of the Korean Energy Week in UAE hold over 278 potential partnership meetings and sign 12 MoUs
· CEPA will catalyse joint ventures, investments in renewables and carbon-neutral initiatives between Korea and the UAE
Dubai, November 11, 2022: Korean companies in the second edition of the Korea Energy Week UAE said they have bagged deals worth over AED 385 million during the two days of the expo, and said they are looking at deepening investments and business partnerships in the UAE in sustainable green energy initiatives with a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries in the immediate pipeline.
In a statement, organisers of the just concluded Korea Energy Week UAE 2022, Verifair Dubai, (www.verifair.org) said a majority of exhibitors at the show represented the renewable energy sector, keen to make inroads into the UAE’s sustainable energy market with the increasing focus on circular economy and carbon-neutral alternative energy projects, which will contribute to achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2050 for the UAE.
“There is a significant number of joint venture projects with the quantum of investments running into billions of dollars taking place in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region, which will mutually benefit both the countries in supporting strategic carbon neutrality in their respective countries,” said Mr. Chul Won IM, President, Energy Value Enterprise Development Institute (EVEDI)., adding that such partnerships are crucial to drive renewable energy projects and tackling climate change challenges as well as in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The organisors of the high-profile expo were Ministry of Trade, Energy and Industry, Korea, along with the futuristic investment destination, JeollaNamdo, Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), operators and developers of the Arab world’s first nuclear power plant, Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, Jeonnam Technopark, EVEDI and Interfairs Korea.
This year over 278 potential one-on-one partnerships meetings were held at the exhibition and so far 12 MoUs have been signed, while more are in the pipeline.
“The opportunities for Korean companies to join hands with Middle Eastern partners have significantly increased, particularly in the energy sector, and this will offer a win-win situation for businesses from both countries,” said Mr. Ki Hyun CHO, General Manager, KEPCO.
According to Mr. Dong Ok KIM, Director, Jeonnam Technopark, the scope for investments in renewable and alternate energy projects and in 4IR tech have also expanded. He cited some of the recent projects for green hydrogen and ammonia in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
“Korea and the UAE have a strong bilateral relationship for over 40 years, and the impending CEPA will further boost this, added Mr. Jung Seob KIM, New Energy Industry Section chief, Jeollanam-do province.
The UAE is the largest trading partner of Korea in the Arab world with a bilateral trade valued at US$9.4 billion as of 2020 and more than US$2 billion in the first half of 2021.
“There are many more MoUs in the pipeline from the robust partnership meetings at the expo, and we are confident that the size of the deals will increase in the coming days as the discussions between many Korean and the UAE companies conclude,” said Jeen Joshua, Director, Verifair Dubai, adding that CEPA will be another milestone in catalysing bilateral cooperation between both the countries.
Taking another step forward in a trend that has been transforming the shipping industry, Leschaco, a global logistics service provider with more than 140 years of experience, has decided to digitize its House Bill of Lading (HBL) transactions. To do so, it has partnered with WAVE BL, a leading provider of secure digital document solutions.
In a typical digital HBL transaction, Leschaco receives a Master Bill of Lading (MBL) on the WAVE BL platform and then issues multiple House Bills of Lading (HBLs) to each exporter in the transaction. These, in turn, receive their HBLs and transfer possession to the importers. Each importer surrenders its HBL to Leschaco, and Leschaco surrenders the MBL.
Because each eBL transfer is performed digitally within minutes on the WAVE BL platform, entire document transactions can be completed in hours rather than the multiple weeks that paper-based transactions can require. Part of the simplicity of these transactions’ stems from the fact that WAVE BL allows all parties to connect on a single, unified network.
Leschaco’s move to digital BLs was prompted by the unreliable nature of paper BLs, particularly during periods of instability. Courier delays had been holding up cargo releases and financing processes, and the tendency of paper BLs to be lost or misplaced had long been a pain point for customers. In adopting WAVE BL’s electronic BLs, Leschaco was able to eliminate these inefficiencies as well as benefit from WAVE BL’s anti-fraud safeguards and outstanding customer experience.
Digitization is rapidly transforming the global shipping industry. Leschaco’s pioneering use of electronic House Bills of Lading – one of the first in the industry – is a further demonstration of how digitization can replace every type of paper-based communication.
WAVE BL’s CEO, Noam Rosenfeld, adds: “Leschaco’s use of electronic HBLs is an exciting milestone. Digital is the direction the industry is going in, and we’re proud to offer a solution that’s easy to use and tailored to the industry’s needs. One of our top priorities is making the transition to eBLs as easy as possible, with full support along every step of the way.” Constantin Conrad, CDO of the Leschaco Group added: “Fast and secure transport of commercial documents is an essential part of the supply chain. Digitalization is becoming more and more important. Leschaco was therefore looking for a digital solution and selected WAVE BL as our provider. The Leschaco eBL solution will increase our customer satisfaction and make our documentation more efficient and sustainable.”
• Fleemo™ by Toyota is a dynamic cloud-based solution for commercial fleet managers in the UAE
• Fleemo™ can monitor vehicle locations, driver behaviour, trip history, dispatch planning, delivery navigation and real-time delivery management
• Solution supports Android and iOS applications for driver navigation and e-signature for delivery proof, as well as optimisation for delivery routes
Al-Futtaim Toyota, the exclusive distributor of Toyota vehicles in the United Arab Emirates, has launched Fleemo™ by Toyota, a dynamic fleet management solution for their commercial customers in the UAE. Fleemo™ by Toyota supports the real time monitoring of fleets on a comprehensive dashboard and helps users optimise dispatched deliveries from their laptops and mobiles.
Fleemo™ is supported by Toyota Tsusho Connected Middle East (TTCME), and can be installed in any vehicle of any brand. As a first step, Al Futtaim Toyota will roll out Fleemo™ with the Toyota LiteAce compact Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) in the UAE.
Commenting on the launch, Carlos Montenegro, Managing Director Fleet Strategy at Al-Futtaim Automotive said: “Based on Toyota’s famed cornerstones of quality, durability and reliability, we are thrilled to launch Fleemo™, a one-stop cloud-based fleet management system that facilitates agile and cost-competitive transportation. Having an optimal analysis of driving behaviour, petrol consumption, route selection, maintenance schedules and more will reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) of every vehicle equipped with the Fleemo™ solution. With its initial rollout through the Toyota LiteAce, we are confident that Fleemo™ will become an essential part of fleet management operations across the UAE.”
Offering a deep data service to monitor the health and performance of vehicles, Fleemo™ facilitates enhanced visibility across a wide range of information, from vehicle locations, driver behaviour, trip history and incident location records to dispatch planning, delivery navigation and real-time delivery management.
Featuring a simple dashboard that supports daily operations for fleet owners by visualising the current status of fleets, Fleemo™ provides a comprehensive overview of processed data such as device telemetry, fleet administration, and manager and driver data. Through the help of a simple app, users can monitor the available vehicles and upcoming maintenance status, get deep insight into their fleets’ fuel usage and mileage, assess the impact of events by analysing driving behaviour tendencies, track delivery status through order completion, and check the rate of vehicle utilisation for more efficient delivery management.
Optimising the LiteAce
With a clear focus on last-mile deliveries, fleet optimisation, and maximising efficiencies, Fleemo™ is a dynamic fit for the Toyota LiteAce, which caters to a wide range of customers, including fleet businesses in need of compact commercial vehicles and last-mile delivery service providers in the UAE’s flourishing e-commerce market.
With a four-speed automatic transmission, 750-kg payload, 3.4 m3 of load space, and sliding doors on both sides, the Toyota LiteAce offers outstanding loading capacity and comfort, along with practical and reliable performance. This capability will be further enhanced through the use of Fleemo™, enabling Al-Futtaim Toyota to take the lead in a segment where demand is skyrocketing as the UAE consolidates its position as a global hub of commerce and logistics.
Multiple other features of Fleemo™ will also help boost its deployment for the Toyota LiteAce and vehicles in similar categories. Fleemo™ supports Android and iOS applications for driver navigation and e-signature for delivery proof, and allows drivers to easily navigate to the next waypoint as mathematical optimisations calculate the most efficient delivery route automatically.
The system requires essential data input before onboarding, such as the driver and fleet manager details and vehicle information, after which all necessary data is displayed in the tab of vehicles for both drivers and managers.
One of the most integral parts of Fleemo™ is its dispatch planning capabilities, where the system generates plans on the web application that is sent to drivers to monitor and navigate to the next waypoint. Fleemo™ also supports multiple driver assignments, a feature especially beneficial for fleet operators who might assign the same vehicle to multiple drivers. The feature helps other use cases, such as corporate car-sharing, which enhance vehicle utilisation for companies.
The wide range of industry-leading features make Fleemo™ an essential choice among the UAE’s commercial vehicle users – ideally suited for a diverse catalogue of sectors ranging from leasing companies providing services to large MNCs, courier companies and retailers, corporate fleets and SMEs.
The All-New Zero-emission Hydrogen-Electric Commercial Vehicle in Lead up to Production of Hydrogen HGV
Hydrogen Vehicle Systems (HVS) is a new UK-based hydrogen vehicle emerging OEM and an innovator in the heavy commercial vehicle segment
Today HVS takes the wraps off its 5.5-tonne technology demonstrator, developed from initial design to full dynamic prototype in just 10 months, showcasing some of the technology that will power HVS’ HGV
HVS will launch an all-new zero-emission 40-tonne hydrogen HGVfeaturing a unique powertrain and radical cab design, making it the first indigenous UK Hydrogen HGV, designed and built from the ground up.
A reinvention of commercial vehicle design, aimed at optimising range, payload, weight distribution, direct vision, aerodynamics and ergonomically-practical cab design, produces a sector-leading vehicle.
HVS’ investment partner, EG Group, enables route-to-market through fleet operator connections and infrastructure development via their international refuelling site network
HGVs are the second largest contributors to UK transport emissions. They make up a disproportionate amount of road transport emissions (18%) whilst only contributing 5% of vehicle mileage. HGV numbers are increasing on the roads, so this emissions figure is likely to increase.
H.R.H. Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al-Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy, will deliver the inaugural address at the 16th Annual Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Forum, which will be held in Riyadh for the first time from December 6-8, 2022. Hosted by SABIC, this year’s forum will be held under the theme ‘Chemistry in Action: Shaping a Sustainable Future.’ H.R.H. the Minister of Energy will also lead the inaugural panel discussion with Gulf energy ministers.
“The Annual GPCA Forum arrives at an important time, as the chemical industry contends with some of its most critical challenges and opportunities yet,” said Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA. “Climate change, food insecurity, and economic upheaval are converging to create a future that looks increasingly uncertain. With a fantastic speaker line-up, we hope to shed light on how the chemical industry can continue to provide solutions to global challenges, the role of innovation and digitalization in helping to achieve this, and what plans companies have got in place to meet their commitment towards sustainability and decarbonization,”
It is noteworthy that the forum’s program this year includes various events, such as a ministerial panel with regional energy ministers, one plenary address, two keynote sessions, two inaugural sessions, and four leadership dialogues.
The welcome address will be delivered by Eng. Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh, Chairman, GPCA, and Acting Chief Executive Officer, SABIC. Chemical industry leaders, including Amin Nasser, President and CEO Saudi Aramco; Dr. Martin Brudermuller, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, BASF; Peter Vanacker, CEO, LyondellBasell; and Conrad Keijzer, CEO, Clariant, will participate in sessions discussing vital topics such as how the chemicals sector can thrive in the era of sustainability and decarbonization.
Other esteemed industry leaders to speak at the forum, include H.E. Mohammed A. El-Kuwaiz, Chairman of the Board, Capital Market Authority Saudi Arabia; Ken Grahame, Managing Director, Head of Global Chemicals Investment Banking, Goldman Sachs; Mutlaq Al-Morished, CEO, Tasnee; Hazeem Al-Suwaidi, CEO, Borouge; Olivier Thorel, Vice President of Chemicals and Hydrogen, Aramco and Board Member, SABIC; Eng. Fahad Alajlan, President, King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC); Abdulrahman Shamsaddin, CEO, SABIC Agri-Nutrients; Dick Richelle, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO, Royal Vopak; and Suliman AlRumaih, Group CEO, SALIC.
The forum’s Leadership Dialogues will shed light on some of the most pressing issues impacting the chemicals sector today, including clean energy transition; turning the ESG theory into action; shaping future chemicals supply chains; and innovation in the agri-nutrient industry.
Launched in 2006, the Annual GPCA Forum has established itself as the premier event for the global and regional chemical industry. This year, the forum is set to attract over 2,500 delegates from more than 600 companies in 91 countries.
Forum highlights the pivotal role of MSMEs in powering Qatar’s economy
With just little over a fortnight to go for the greatest show on earth, the GWC Forum 2022 set the spirit of the soon-to-be-staged FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Games into motion. The second annual Forum, titled ‘Ready for the Game’, highlighted how Qatar’s economy will continue to flourish after the World Cup.
The event kicked off with opening remarks from the special guest speaker FIFA Secretary General, Fatma Samoura, who addressed the forum with a video message. During her video address, Samoura said: “MSMEs represent the backbone of a successful and diverse economy. They create jobs and foster innovation. Qatar has been a hive of innovation in recent years – developing cooling technologies for stadiums and state-of-the-art public transport infrastructure, including the Doha Metro and light rail tram systems.”
“GWC, its partners and stakeholders are utilising the assets and experience of hosting the FIFA World Cup to deliver an economic legacy that is aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. One of Qatar’s great strengths is its determination to leverage the power of hosting the FIFA World Cup like no other country in history. And it is heartening to see that legacy being delivered even before the big kick-off.” She added.
The first panel discussion titled ‘Direct and Indirect Impact of Qatar 2022 on MSMEs’ included contributions from Jose Dhooma, Head of Event Logistics and Transport, FIFA, Fatma Al Nuaimi, Communications & Media Executive Director, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), Nazli Berberoglu, General Manager, Coca-Cola, and Syed Maaz, Chief Business Development Officer, GWC.
Dhooma said hosting the FIFA World Cup in Qatar had raised the bar for a vast number of businesses.
“There is a better understanding of international requirements as a result of the World Cup,” he commented. “Many businesses now have FIFA on their CV. This helps them to grow. When they work with FIFA, they’re working to an international standard. It is great for whatever Qatar does in future – whether it is sporting events, conferences or anything else. You should also consider the people involved in the organising committee – they will be thinking how they can create companies and take their services around the world. Working on a World Cup gives people confidence.”
Al Nuaimi said the SC had worked closely with MSMEs in Qatar and the region on a large number of infrastructure projects, including stadium developments.
“We have been engaging MSMEs from the start, whether it is building stadiums or training sites. A number of businesses will be involved in the entertainment and fan experience activations during the World Cup, including event companies and food and beverage businesses. Whenever we have opportunities, we make sure to involve MSMEs – many businesses have been developed here since Qatar won the rights to host the World Cup.”
Berberoglu commented on Coca-Cola’s commitment to working with MSMEs.
“We support a large number of businesses and help them take advantage of opportunities,” said Berberoglu. “We always try to take a long-term approach and build a sustainable ecosystem. One example came during COVID-19 when we helped small businesses create home delivery strategies and worked with them to digitise their businesses so they could better serve their customers.”
She also spoke about two main issues addressing the 21st century. Women Empowerment and Recycling / Waste Management. “Under the directives of Coca Cola, we have been driving our market under these guidelines and empower women and also make sure we pay a careful attention to the recycling industry of our bottling plants across the world,” she asserted.
Maaz outlined GWC’s contribution to the MSME sector, including the development of 4 million square meters of logistics infrastructure and an ever-expanding ecosystem for small enterprises.
“The MSME sector has grown a lot in the last 10 years and is now a major driver for the economy,” said Maaz. “GWC has created an infrastructure to make it easy for MSMEs to set up in business. We are now managing a huge amount of warehousing in the country, including Al Wukair Logistics Park, which was built specifically to support MSMEs.”
The second panel session, titled ‘The Way Forward’, looked into the trends and challenges faced by MSMEs. Participants included Charles Nahas, Regional General Manager, Microsoft, Dr Manal Al Zaidan, Director of Pharmacy, Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Dr Christos Anagnostopoulos, Assistant Professor, HBKU, and Dr Kamilla Swart, Associate Professor, HBKU. The panellists discussed the impact of the FIFA World Cup on their various sectors and outlined the trends they expected to see after the tournament.
Nahas spoke on three points related to MSME’s namely startups, home grown businesses and commercial / small shop owners.
“We go out of our way to assist all three levels of MSME’s with innovative ideas to equip them for the current and future build of their company,” he emphasized.
Dr. Christos Anagnostopoulos, Assistant Professor, Hamad Bin Khalifa University observed that they have been doing research for the last 10 years and will continue to use this in the development not only for potential World Cup organizers, but also the MSME’s in their quest for market intelligence which will equip them on the global stage. “They will also help MSME’s to leverage their geographical location of Qatar to the region and Middle East,” he noted.
Hamad Al Abdan, Director of Business Development & Investment Promotion, Ministry of Commerce of Industry, gave a presentation about the 1,000 Opportunities scheme, which invites businesses in the private sector to partner with global brands. He also discussed the business ecosystem in Qatar, describing the FIFA World Cup as a golden opportunity for the country’s economy to prosper in future.
Aysha Khalifa Al Romaihi, Manager of Special Programmes – Incubation, Qatar Development Bank (QDB), gave a presentation about Scale7 – the country’s first fashion and design incubator, set up to support creative entrepreneurs.
The final workshop was led by Dr Adel Elomri Assistant Professor, HBKU, and Dr Laoucine Kerbache, Professor, HBKU, and focused on the research undertaken to track the impact of Qatar’s FIFA World Cup and how the education sector can work with industry to support students and alumni.
Following the event, Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC, said: “GWC is proud to be at the forefront of MSME development – helping the current and next generation of businesses in Qatar as the country aims to deliver the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.”
“This year’s forum has illustrated the impact of hosting the FIFA World Cup and how Qatar is leveraging the numerous opportunities that hosting a sporting mega-event offers. We look forward to continuing our work with partners across various industries as we strive to power Qatar’s economy long into the future.”
Menon continued: “I would like to thank all our valuable partners and stakeholders for taking part in another successful edition of the GWC Forum. We look forward to continuing the conversation as Qatar reaps the benefits of hosting the FIFA World Cup in legacy mode.”
The forum partners included QNB Group as strategic partner, research partner Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), media partner beIN SPORTS and Floward the gift sponsor.
The discussions were moderated by Al Jazeera English Senior Presenter Emily Angwin.
Etihad Cargo, Etihad Airport Services and Abu Dhabi Airports are preparing to launch a new state-of-the-art pharmaceutical cool chain facility at the Abu Dhabi hub.
The facility will double the cool chain capacity at the airport and support the logistics requirements for the latest in specialised medication and life science.
The 3,000-square-metre facility is equipped with the latest technology and is in full alignment with Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a life science and pharmaceutical hub.
Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Aviation Group, in partnership with Etihad Airport Services and Abu Dhabi Airports, are preparing to launch a new state-of-the-art pharmaceutical cool chain facility. Due to go into operation soon, the facility will significantly expand Abu Dhabi International Airport’s (AUH) pharmaceutical handling and storage.
Prior to the opening of the new pharmaceutical facility at the carrier’s Abu Dhabi hub, Etihad Cargo transported over 50,000 tonnes of cool chain products, including pharmaceutical and healthcare products via its PharmaLife product and fresh produce via its IATA CEIV Fresh-certified FreshForward product, in the past twelve months. The launch of the expanded, dedicated pharmaceutical hub will double Abu Dhabi Airport’s cool chain storage capacity and enhance the airport’s capabilities for the storage, handling and transportation of cool chain products.
“Etihad Cargo is proud to have collaborated closely with Etihad Airport Services and Abu Dhabi Airports to launch the new pharmaceutical storage and handling facility. The expanded infrastructure will offer best-in-class pharmaceutical shipment solutions to Etihad Cargo’s customers and is the latest step in supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision to cement its position as a global pharmaceuticals and life sciences hub,” said Martin Drew, Senior Vice President Global Sales & Cargo at Etihad Aviation Group. “This joint venture located at Etihad Cargo’s hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport provides the perfect location to link the Middle East to not only Asia and Europe, but also the US and Africa, so life-saving medicines and the latest treatments can be transported seamlessly around the world to those that need them the most. Investment into the carrier’s infrastructure and Abu Dhabi hub will enable Etihad Cargo to meet the future challenges of the pharma supply chain and will play a significant role in co-creating a robust and future-proof healthcare ecosystem here in the UAE and around the world.”
The additional 3,000 square-metre facility comprises the latest technology and features, including bulk loading docks with levellers, high-speed roll-up shutters, insulation and a real-time temperature monitoring system, which will enable faster and more efficient loading with stricter temperature controls, increased storage space, additional build-up and breakdown zones for improved production workflows and upgraded cool chain facilities for Etihad Cargo’s PharmaLife handling and storage operations. The new facility will also feature new x-ray screening for customs inspections within a fully temperature-controlled environment and new dedicated thermal covers.
Steven Polmans, Vice President of Business Development & Regulatory Affairs at Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) said, “The upcoming launch of this dedicated pharmaceuticals storage and handling facility will enhance AUH’s capabilities as a cargo hub and aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a global business, pharmaceutical and life science hub. The strong collaboration between Etihad Cargo, Etihad Airport Services and Abu Dhabi Airports will continue to increase pharmaceutical cargo volumes and further position Abu Dhabi as a major solutions provider in the logistics supply chain.”
The new cool chain facility will enable the safe storage and handling of a vast range of pharmaceutical products requiring different temperatures and conditions. To meet the requirements for transporting dangerous goods in frozen and deep-frozen conditions, PharmaLife provides premium tailored solutions to handle temperature-controlled conditions from -80 to 25 degrees Celsius via the carrier’s portfolio of leased active and hybrid containers. Etihad Cargo also utilises traditional containers that meet standard temperature requirements, from 2 to 8 and 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Jubran Al Breiki, General Manager at Etihad Airport Services – Ground & Cargo, said, “This state-of-the-art pharmaceutical facility has been made possible through the partnership between Etihad Airport Services, Etihad Cargo and Abu Dhabi Airports and the expertise each brings to a project of this scale. In addition to offering a fully equipped pharmaceuticals centre, temperature-controlled rooms and 24/7 end-to-end cargo support, the innovative systems within the facility enable pharmaceuticals to be effectively tracked and traced. This benefits Etihad Cargo’s customers and all other stakeholders with greater transparency, real-time status updates and makes the transportation of cargo quicker and more efficient.”
From the newly established pharmaceuticals hub, Etihad Cargo will continue to work closely with customers and partners to ensure the smooth, efficient, safe and on-time delivery of pharmaceuticals and life sciences products. To meet the requirements of personalised medication and treatment, including cell and gene therapies, Etihad Cargo is exploring the utilisation of artificial intelligence to improve forecasting and automation to enhance the carrier’s current capacity and capabilities.
Via the expanded cool chain facility, Etihad Cargo will also be further investing in sustainable solutions to make the transportation of pharmaceuticals more environmentally friendly, in line with Etihad Aviation Group’s sustainability plans and pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The carrier has already replaced 3,000 containers from its original aluminium unit load device (ULD) fleet with a more environmentally friendly, lightweight version. More recently, Etihad Cargo entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with B Medical Systems to develop and launch the world’s first airline-specific passive temperature-controlled container. In the coming months, Etihad Cargo will be participating in Pharma. Aero’s green pharma lane project, expanding on the successful launch of Pharma Corridor 2.0.
SkyTeam Cargo the global Cargo alliance, announced the re-election of Teddy Zebitz, the Chief Executive Officer of Saudia Cargo, to be the chairperson of the SkyTeam Cargo Executive Board for another consecutive term. The appointment was endorsed at their recent meeting in London, which is composed of the cargo executives of all Cargo alliance members and oversees SkyTeam Cargo’s global strategy.
With his re-election, Mr. Zebitz will continue to strategically lead the SkyTeam Cargo board for a further period of two years.
“I am honored to have been re-elected to the Cargo Executive Board and look forward to paving the path for SkyTeam Cargo’s success. We are proud of how much we have accomplished in the past two years, and we have set strategic goals in place for the near future that will further elevate SkyTeam Cargo’s global position as the largest cargo alliance. We will continue to empower our people, while collaborating with our customers and partners, providing innovative and customized solutions to help them achieve their goals and realize their ambitions,” said Mr. Zebitz.
With over 40 years of global industry expertise, and before leading Saudia Cargo, Mr. Zebitz has worked across several markets such as China, Southeast Asia, the United States, and Europe.
SkyTeam Cargo the global Cargo alliance, announced the re-election of Teddy Zebitz, the Chief Executive Officer of Saudia Cargo, to be the chairperson of the SkyTeam Cargo Executive Board for another consecutive term. The appointment was endorsed at their recent meeting in London, which is composed of the cargo executives of all Cargo alliance members and oversees SkyTeam Cargo’s global strategy.
With his re-election, Mr. Zebitz will continue to strategically lead the SkyTeam Cargo board for a further period of two years.
“I am honored to have been re-elected to the Cargo Executive Board and look forward to paving the path for SkyTeam Cargo’s success. We are proud of how much we have accomplished in the past two years, and we have set strategic goals in place for the near future that will further elevate SkyTeam Cargo’s global position as the largest cargo alliance. We will continue to empower our people, while collaborating with our customers and partners, providing innovative and customized solutions to help them achieve their goals and realize their ambitions,” said Mr. Zebitz.
With over 40 years of global industry expertise, and before leading Saudia Cargo, Mr. Zebitz has worked across several markets such as China, Southeast Asia, the United States, and Europe. SkyTeam Cargo’s Executive Board will continue to benefit from his extensive leadership background gained from his previous experience in executive roles at SAS and Emirates Airlines.
Tetra Pak, the global leader in food processing and packaging solutions, held a signing ceremony with Nuitree Food to establish a specialized plant-based manufacturing facility in the UAE to provide a comprehensive End-to-End processing and packaging solutions delivery.
The collaboration is set to be one of the region’s premier solutions by Tetra Pak, a regional pioneer and Nuitree Food, a UAE based company which is part of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulla AlQasimi Group of Companies. The solution comes in line with both entities’ visions on sustainability. Tetra Pak’s strategic vision is to provide sustainable food packaging that ensures food safety and availability, while reducing the environmental impact on our planet.
According to a Tetra Pak study, by 2032, the market for plant-based foods is expected to be worth $34.5 billion, as consumption habits and patterns are changing rapidly. Together with a better awareness of the food production process and the rise of today’s more ethical consumer, there is a positive perception that plant-based products are nutritionally sound. Whether it is local manufacturing, GMO-free ingredients, packaging, or transportation; transparency, sustainability, and sourcing are crucial factors.
Omro Kakah, Managing Partner of Nuitree Foods, added: “With the global food and beverage trends moving towards healthy and sustainable Plant-Based Alternatives, we are proud to be leading this shift in the diary and beverage industry in the UAE and the region. Our partnership with Tetra Pak with its vast experience in such projects reflects our commitment to producing high quality Plant-Based Diary alternatives products that transcend global competition. We are also glad to announce that this project will include establishing the region’s first Technology and training center of its kind. This will facilitate Research and Development and promote innovation in our product offerings as well as provide training facility for students who wish to advance their career in the beverage sector.”
Niels Hougaard, Managing Director, Tetra Pak, said: “At Tetra Pak we are committed to helping our customers bring their visions for the future to life. We are proud to be collaborating with a forward-thinking company like Nuitree Food, to advance the plant-based industry in the UAE and the region to meet expanding demands. Tetra Pak has always been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and solutions, and we will continue to provide businesses with sheer excellence to enable our customers to advance their ambitions.”
CargoAi, airfreight’s fastest growing digital enabler, and Chain.io, the leading cloud-based integration platform that connects partners across the global supply chain, announced a strategic technology partnership that will supercharge the freight forwarder experience. The partnership will allow most large and medium-sized freight forwarders on Chain.io’s network to easily connect to CargoAi’s platform to make instant bookings to the GSAs and airlines, while remaining on their own TMS.
“These functionalities were requested by most of our existing users. We are delighted to solidify this strategic partnership with Chain.io to enable new efficiency gains and drastically improve the visibility of our airline partners around the world” says Matt Petot, Founder and CEO of CargoAi.
The CargoAi platform provides a simple end-to-end interface for freight forwarders to make quotes, schedules, bookings, shipments, tracking, purchase orders, as well as reporting capabilities. With the addition of Chain.io, users can now complete the same experience within their TMS system, without navigating between multiple airline websites or making different phone calls.
“Our partnership with CargoAi extends the powerful network we offer to freight forwarders,” said Brian Glick, Founder and CEO of Chain.io. “Technology is more impactful when it doesn’t live in silos, so the ability to make instant bookings with CargoAi and get air visibility from within a TMS will give forwarders more efficiency and flexibility.”
The partnership will commence with Rates, Capacity, eBooking and Tracking information as well as CO2 calculation, bringing modern capabilities to the TMS, and enabling airlines and GSAs who are live on CargoAi to be directly accessible and visible.
In 2025, Volvo Group’s truck plant in Ghent, Belgium will start to produce battery modules. To date, partners supply both cells and modules to the Group. The investment decision to install battery module manufacturing capacity in Ghent is another important step for the Volvo Group to shape its future value chain for battery systems. The battery module manufacturing line in Ghent will be able to use battery cells both from partners and from the planned battery cell plant in Sweden.
“We have started the investment process to establish battery module manufacturing in Ghent. The building is expected to be 12,000 m2 and be located at the Volvo Group manufacturing site. The new high-tech module factory will consist of an almost fully automated process with robots. This means that employees with the necessary competences will be recruited, both externally and by building on our internal competences,” says Jens Holtinger, Executive Vice President Group Trucks Operations. The investment frame for this first step of module manufacturing is Euro 75 million.
The Volvo Group truck assembly plant in Gothenburg, Sweden, is already building heavy-duty electric trucks as the first global manufacturer in the world. In the second half of 2023 the plant in Ghent will also start to produce battery electric heavy-duty trucks. The battery packs needed to power these electric trucks are built in the Ghent plant. Volvo Group’s ambition is that at least 35% of the vehicles sold worldwide will be electric by 2030.
GWC (Q.P.S.C.), one of the region’s fastest growing companies, announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2022.
During the nine-month period ending on September 30, 2022, the company achieved a net profit of QAR 174.20 million. The company also achieved total revenues of QAR 1.11 billion, and earnings per share of QAR 0.30 during the same period ending on September 30, 2022.
Speaking about GWC’s mandate for the future, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Fahad Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman, GWC stated, “in this historic year of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, GWC continues its endeavor to provide logistics services that will support the success of this mega event, and also continues to support and empower micro, small and medium enterprises in Qatar by giving them a platform to establish their businesses and grow beyond 2022 in line with the vision of 2030.”
Being the Regional Supporter and Official Logistics Provider for the World Cup, GWC is playing a very crucial and pivotal role in the successful organization of this sporting event and is well- prepared to deliver timely, seamless and efficient suite of services pre, during and post event.
Besides gearing up for this, GWC recently delivered two pandas – S’hail and Thuraya to the Al Khor Panda Park. These pandas, which have been gifted by China as a token of friendship and Qatar being the host for the World Cup, were taken to their new home successfully in temperature controlled containers with all safety and security measures in place.
Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC remarked, “despite increased workload in the lead up to the tournament, GWC remains diligent in terms of commitment, quality standards and health and safety. We are eagerly awaiting the start of this mega sporting event which will set a new benchmark for how such events’ logistics are planned, executed and delivered.”
He further added, “we remain committed to keep environmental protection at the heart of all our services. Whether it is a beach clean-up, tree plantation or recycling wooden pellets to delivering a sustainable FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.”
GWC also took part in the Qatar Sustainability Week earlier this month to highlight the work being done by GWC to protect the environment.
For the first time in the region, Dubai hosts assistive technology to serve 50 million persons with disabilities
Wide participation of the “Living Independently” initiative in providing direction to the inventions of Arab innovators to serve people of determination
Ahmed bin Saeed: “The UAE is among the first countries that have put in place a sustainable enablement strategy”
Ahmed Aboul Gheit: “We are glad to participate, and the Expo is a qualitative start to serve persons with disabilities”
WHO: “The number of persons with disabilities worldwide will reach 2 billion by 2050”
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, Patron of AccessAbilities Expo (AAE), stressed that the UAE is among the first countries in the world to have put in place a sustainable enablement strategy to help empower people of determination on different levels.
“There are amazing efforts by the relevant entities in the government and private sectors to build an inclusive society for the people of determination and their families, as part of the national policy devised by our wise government to ensure they get the opportunities, experiences and distinguished lifestyles available to any other individual in our country,” H.H. said.
H.H. expressed happiness as to the size of local and international attention to and participation in the 4th edition of AAE that serves as a global platform showcasing cutting-edge technologies and rehabilitation programmes that are not only of vital importance to people of determination, but are also of key significance in terms of strengthening countries’ cooperation on the level of building a sustainable future catering to their aspirations. H.H. indicated that the “Living Independently” initiative organized by the Union of Arab Chambers in cooperation with the League of Arab States and UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, in the Expo represents a qualitative addition to this event in terms of availing the opportunity to learn about the capabilities of Arab innovators and how to direct their innovations to serve millions of people of determination in the countries of the region, and qualify them to be part of the business and projects ecosystem that supports their quest towards more self-reliance as successful business owners.
His Excellency Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary General of the League of Arab States, expressed his happiness to participate in this important Arab international event, which represents a qualificative start to the benefit of persons with disabilities not only in the Arab states, but also across the whole world. H.E. thanked His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum for his continual patronage of this important international event during which there will be the launch of the “Living Independently” initiative that represents a significant additional step in the framework of the League of Arab States mandate and efforts to support the implementation of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
In this respect, H.E. Aboul Gheit commended the close cooperation with the Union of Arab Chambers and its initiative, as a representative of the private sector, to promote independent decent living for this important segment, through technological programmes and distinctive entrepreneurship projects targeting all types of disabilities.
H.E. Secretary General expressed that the “Living Independently” initiative forms an important pillar of his initiative that aims to prepare the Second Arab Decade of Disabled Persons (2023-2032), which serves this important segment in the various social, economic and legal fields, consolidating its rights and actively supporting efforts aimed at its full integration in society, as well as the implementation of relevant Arab and international conventions and treaties.
The “Living Independently” Initiative
The General Secretariat of the Union of Arab Chambers had launched, with the support of the Arab League of States and in cooperation with UNIDO Bahrain the Living Independently Initiative, and signed on March 30th a joint cooperation agreement with the management of the AAE, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed and His Excellency Ahmed Aboul Gheit, with the aim to showcase the innovations of Arab entrepreneurs during the exhibition with a view to support the technologies that serve people of determination.
The initiative aims to encourage Arab innovators and entrepreneurs to manufacture advanced systems, programmes and technologies to serve persons with disabilities in the context of a competition that is subjected to high standards, according to which the technology most appropriate to the needs of people of determination is selected and the necessary funding is solicited.
Sharing minds and opportunities to serve people of determination
Ghassan Suleiman Amhaz, Managing Director of the Expo, said: “We are proud of the event’s achievements on the level of providing cutting-edge technologies to the 50 million people of determination in the Middle East, and we thank the government entities and private companies that contribute, through the Expo, to providing a better life for this dear segment of our society and helping to empower them at all levels.”
“The sharing of minds and opportunities to serve people of determination is part of the vision of this event that reflects the exceptional attention provided by the UAE and other countries in the region to provide a decent living for this dear segment of our society; hence enabling them to live independently, while also working to attract cutting-edge technologies that play a crucial role in making their lives better,” he added.
Innovative products to serve all types of disabilities
From November 15-17, Dubai will witness the launch of the widest and most impressive display of innovative assistive technology products and rehabilitation services, through the 4th edition of AAE-2022, which will focus on ensuring access to products and services that enhance the capacities of people of determination.
The largest of its kind in the Middle East, North Africa and the Indian sub-continent region, the Expo will turn into the largest platform for manufacturers and distributors of assistive products, as well as government authorities, rehabilitation centres, and health and educational centres dealing with people of determination. The event, which will be held at Halls 5, 6 and 7 of the Dubai World Trade Centre, represents the ideal solution to meet the aspirations and expectations of more than 50 million people of determination living in the Middle East and North Africa.
Event organisers, Nadd Al Shiba PR & Event Management, expect the number of participating government and private sector companies and centres to rise to 250 exhibitors from 50 countries, and to attract more than 10,000 professional visitors from different countries of the world.
4,500 Global Technologies
The over 4,500 global advanced technologies on display – serving motor, visual, hearing, intellectual and autism disabilities – play a crucial role in empowering people with special needs, who constitute between 10-15% of the population of a given country. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates the number of this segment at present at about one billion people around the world; the number is expected to jump to 2 billion people by 2050 as a result of ageing, wars, ill health, poverty, lack of services and other reasons.
Hosting the FIFA World Cup™ will significantly boost enterprise as the nation fulfils the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.
The second annual GWC Forum, titled ‘Ready for the Game’, will be held on 1 November – coinciding with 20 Days To Go to the start of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, Brazil’s national team base camp during the tournament.
The event follows last year’s inaugural forum, titled ‘Getting you in the Game’, which attracted more than 800 delegates from 59 countries. The successful 2021 forum generated extensive media coverage, with the hybrid nature of the event attracting strong online engagement amidst COVID-19 restrictions.
This year’s forum, which will be moderated by Al Jazeera Network’s Senior News Anchor Emily Angwin, will highlight the businesses’ benefit from Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup™, which will be held from 20 November to 18 December.
Leading the charge in the logistics and supply chain solutions space is GWC Logistics. As the Official Logistics Provider for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, GWC is playing a major role in tournament preparations. It is also helping to deliver an economic legacy by enabling Qatar’s blossoming micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“Empowering Qatar’s MSME sector is one of our long-term goals and we look forward to sharing a range of insights from high-level local, regional and international participants during this year’s forum,” commented GWC’s Group CEO, Ranjeev Menon.
“We believe MSMEs will supercharge Qatar’s economy in the coming decades as the country leverages hosting the biggest sporting event on the planet,” continued Menon. “The FIFA World CupTM is bringing new opportunities to Qatar and is enabling economic growth across a range of sectors. As Qatar’s number one logistics and supply chain solutions company, we understand the significant role we are playing in capitalising on World Cup opportunities – and this is something we will illustrate during the forum.”
The hybrid forum aims to champion and enable MSMEs in Qatar by giving them a platform to showcase their successes and grow beyond 2022, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Special keynote message will be given by FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, who will address the forum on the vital role MSMEs play in building a nation’s economy and society.
GWC Forum 2022 partners include Hamad Bin Khalifa University (research partner) and beIN SPORTS (media partner).
A host of senior level speakers will represent the forum partners and other global brands, which will facilitate insightful discussions on the role of logistics at mega-events like the FIFA World Cup™. Panel sessions and workshops will offer a deeper dive into key subjects as delegates look to glean knowledge from the biggest sporting event ever to be held in the region.
Panel sessions
The first panel session will examine the direct and indirect impact of hosting the FIFA World Cup™ on MSMEs in various sectors of the Qatari economy.
The second panel session will delve into the trends and challenges faced by MSMEs by taking the discussion to major enablers of business transformation.
GWC, one of the largest logistics services providers in the region, has successfully transported Thuraya and Suhail to the Panda Park in Al Khor. These two giant pandas have been gifted by China to Qatar as a token of friendship and to celebrate Qatar hosting the FIFA World CupTM, which begins on 20 November 2022. GWC was responsible for the ground logistics and delivery once they arrived in Doha. This included customs clearance and transport from Hamad International Airport (HIA) to the Panda Park in Al Khor. The pandas were transported in two closed temperature-controlled trucks, with temperature set to plus five (+5oC) to plus ten (+10oC) degrees centigrade. GWC’s expertise in transporting precious and endangered species was tested and successfully passed test runs from the airport to Panda Park, Al khor to check if the temperature can be maintained as per the above conditions. Transporting such endangered species requires a high level of due diligence and attention to detail. GWC also conducted a site survey at Panda Park, Al Khor to check the location and safety of the place where the Pandas would be offloaded. An extra truck was with the contingent to deal with any emergency situation. The Company works closely and regularly with the Qatar Ministry of Environment’s Veterinary Affairs.
Department to ensure all processes comply with the highest standards of biosecurity at all times. GWC worked closely with Qatar Airport Services, General Authority of Customs, Hamad International Airport, Ministry of Interior and Qatar Airways along with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment representative to discuss and plan the scope and to facilitate this operation.
Egyptian carrier to operate two flights a week between Sharjah and Cairo
Sharjah Airport welcomed the inaugural flight of Nile Air, the largest private airline in Egypt, which flew in from Cairo International Airport. The carrier will operate two flights a week between Sharjah and Cairo on Friday and Sunday.
The welcoming ceremony organized by Sharjah Airport was attended by several department heads, stakeholders and strategic partners from the authority, alongside Ahmed Oraby, Deputy Chief Commercial Officer at Nile Air.
H.E. Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, said: “We are delighted to welcome Nile Air to Sharjah, and are pleased that they chose the emirate as a new destination to enhance air connectivity for travelers from both destinations. We are committed to constantly expanding the network of global destinations available to travelers and attracting new international carriers to Sharjah Airport, in line with the Authority’s aspirations to support tourism movement between the two destinations. This will also help meet our customers’ growing demand for travel and will support our strategy to strengthen Sharjah Airport’s position as a global aviation hub for passenger travel.”
Ahmed Oraby added: “We are pleased to have launched operations connecting Sharjah and Cairo international airports, especially at a time when Sharjah is witnessing an accelerated pace of development, not to mention its importance as a destination of great cultural and historical significance, which also makes it a unique tourism hub as well.”
Oraby also thanked Sharjah Airport Authority officials for the remarkable support they provided in realizing Nile Air’s expansion of operations to the UAE in accordance with the highest international standards of accuracy and quality, reflecting the Authority’s wise leadership values and governance.
Nile Air, which entered the UAE market in 2016, is the first and largest private airline in Egypt. The airline operates a fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircrafts in Egypt and offers both the economy and business class options to its customers, providing them with easy and comfortable choices to choose from.
Sharjah Airport offers a wide array of services and support to all its partners in order to ensure smooth operations and meet the evolving needs of its customers and travelers, ensuring their happiness and satisfaction.
The company will display its cutting-edge Fire Protection, Fire Detection, Security, and Telecommunications Systems in the show
Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, is participating at Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC 2022) slated to take place from October 31st to November 3rd.
Johnson Controls is a leading total integrated solutions provider for the oil & gas and petrochemical industry. As a pioneer in this space, the global company contributes to the safety and security of the industry’s high-value assets, including telecommunication solutions and digitalization across onshore and offshore plants.
At the upcoming exhibition, the company will showcase its end-to-end integrated solutions related to fire protection, fire detection, security, renewable energy, PAGA (public address & general alarm) and telecommunications systems used by leaders across high-risk verticals.
“ADIPEC is an important platform to connect with industry leaders across the spectrum with a common goal to revolutionize the energy sector. At Johnson Controls, we offer integrated solutions that not only deliver actionable insights for the industry, but also streamline processes and enhance operational performance. Our deep expertise and long-standing experience in the segment make us a trusted partner across the value chain,” said Mohammad Khalid, vice president and general manager, Middle East and Africa at Johnson Controls.
Johnson Controls’ vast Fire, Security and Telecommunication portfolio which includes renowned brands like Tyco, Ansul, Autocall, Zettler, Spector Lumenex, to name a few, sets the standard for the industry across the region. Its specialized division is dedicated to the needs of the offshore, onshore, LNG, and pipeline market segments through a comprehensive range of customized solutions. A key player in the renewable energy sector, Johnson Controls’ provide innovative, next-generation solutions that guarantee safe, reliable, and efficient operations.
Hosted by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), ADIPEC is known as one of the world’s most influential gathering for energy industry professionals. This year ADIPEC will accelerate the energy transition and unlock real value in a decarbonized future.
Bridgestone marks important step towards sustainability goals: Roma Plant, Italy becomes first to achieve Internationally Recognised ISCC PLUS Sustainability Certification
· Bridgestone takes an important step in support of its global ambition to achieve 100% sustainable materials by 2050, with ISCC PLUS certification at its high technology, specialised tyre manufacturing plant in Rome
· Bridgestone’s Aiken plant in America joins Roma plant in achieving ISCC PLUS certification, further advancing Bridgestone’s focus on the production of sustainable tyres
Bridgestone, a global leader in tyres and sustainable mobility solutions, announced that its tyre manufacturing plant in Rome, Italy (‘Roma’) has become the first tyre plant across the whole of Bridgestone to achieve the coveted and globally recognised International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS certification.
ISCC PLUS recognises compliance with and transparency around sustainability and traceability of raw materials including bio, bio-circular and circular-based material in the manufacturing process. Working towards a more sustainable world, ISCC PLUS aims to support the transition to a circular economy and bioeconomy by contributing to the implementation of environmentally, socially and economically sustainable production.
The certification, which evaluates all the sustainable raw materials in the value chain to determine and verify compliance with environmental requirements, also marks a step in Bridgestone’s ambitious global journey towards the use of 40% sustainable materials by 2030, and 100% sustainable materials by 2050.
Roma plant became the first tyre manufacturing facility of Bridgestone to achieve ISCC PLUS certification at the beginning of September thanks to its use of Bio-Circular and Circular-based materials. Bridgestone EMIA will be expanding the assessment programme across further plants in Europe from 2023.
Commenting on the ISCC PLUS certification Emilio Tiberio, COO & CTO at Bridgestone EMIA said: “We are on a journey to 2050 and the delivery, by then, of our major environmental goals; carbon neutrality and the use of 100% sustainable materials. This ISCC PLUS certification for Roma plant is a step along the way to become a leading sustainable solutions company and reflects our hard work and dedication to overcome the technological and market challenges to fully sustainable and renewable tyres.”
Bridgestone’s Roma plant isn’t the only facility to enjoy success with ISCC PLUS certification this month, as the Bridgestone Aiken County Passenger/Light Truck Radial tyre plant also became the first tyre manufacturing facility in America to earn ISCC PLUS recognition.
The sustainability certification at both Bridgestone’s Roma and Aiken plants aligns perfectly with the “Ecology” and “Energy” values in the Bridgestone E8 Commitment – the broad, global corporate commitment that clearly defines the value Bridgestone is promising to deliver to society, customers, and future generations in eight focus areas.
Air Europa Cargo recently came across SkyPallet whilst actively looking to address a pain point in one of its hubs; the airline is already feeling the benefits and looking to expand its use across its business.
Easy, intuitive, and customizable are the three words that Air Europa’s Head of Cargo, Jordi Piqué, spontaneously comes up with when asked how he would describe working with SkyPallet. The airline opted for Wiremind Cargo’s flagship end-to-end capacity optimization product earlier this year, with a view to improving its flight planning processes in the warehouse and with its Global Handling Agent (GHA).
Air Europa Cargo discovered SkyPallet as a possible solution to optimization issues at one of its hubs. Given its intuitive, straightforward application, SkyPallet quickly became a welcome and integral part of daily operations within the warehouse and the GHA’s processes. SkyPallet’s comprehensive algorithms not only facilitate ULD build-up, but also enable greater capacity control, more efficient capacity usage, as well as anticipate key information relevant to issuing quotations to freight forwarders. Though Air Europa Cargo’s primary objective with SkyPallet was to improve its operations, its commercial teams are also now increasingly using the software to support their quotation decisions.
Though it is still too early to be able to draw on consolidated data to prove Air Europa Cargo’s success since using SkyPallet, the airline’s impression is that the software has already brought resource-efficiencies. Air Europa’s independent cargo subsidiary, founded in 2018, has systematically been looking to streamline existing processes and establish a strong and resilient cargo foundation. Digital solutions play a core role.
“Air Europa Cargo can look forward to around an average 4% improvement in its capacity utilization, as a Wiremind Cargo survey of other airlines and freight forwarding companies using SkyPallet, found,” says Nathanaël de Tarade, Chief Executive Officer of Wiremind Cargo. “We enjoy working together with Air Europa Cargo, as they have come up with ideas to make SkyPallet even easier for operational staff when applying the build-up plan. Our products grow through application and new perspectives, and we gladly adapt and enhance accordingly. The best digital solutions are those that adapt to changing requirements.”
Jordi Piqué agrees: “Wiremind Cargo’s flexibility, willingness, and speed in adapting the system to our requirements, is reflected in the carefully crafted solutions it produces. It clearly has the expertise and always puts the customer first – not only when it comes to online user experience, but also offline collaboration. Wiremind Cargo is always on hand when we need it.”
Dubai, UAE, 18 October 2022: Blue Carbon, recently founded in the UAE with an aim to support carbon removal projects around the world, hosted a four-day workshop for Angola’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry delegation in Dubai.
Commenting on the visit, Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, the Founder and the Chairman of Blue Carbon said, “We see great potential in Angola because of its huge forests which are natural ‘carbon sink’ sites. Therefore, we are confident that Angola can play an instrumental role in the world’s efforts to fight climate change.”
It may be mentioned that Angola’s forests are spread on over 69.3 million hectares of land, 55.6 per cent of its total territorial area, with 68.9 million hectares of native (natural) and 61,000 hectares of planted rainforests. Leveraging on preserving its forests, Angola has a significant potential globally to fight the negative effects of the climate change.
In order to collaborate with Angola in preservation of Angolan forests, Blue Carbon shed light on its newest and innovative solutions which play a key role in monitoring, reporting and verification of forest carbon, thus developing the most appropriate solutions.
As Blue Carbon supports carbon removal projects across the world, the discussion explored ways of bringing in nature-based solutions for Angola to help the country in its reforestation campaign.
Expressing her views on the occasion, Blue Carbon CEO Josiane Sadaka said, “We at Blue Carbon will explore ways of accelerating the transition of Angola into de-carbonized economy as well as intensify our global fight against climate change leveraging on Angola’s natural resources.”
Blue Carbon focused during the workshop on youth, being a significant segment of the Angolan population as the company underscored the importance of building local capacities in Angola via enabling sustainable knowledge and awareness programs as well as organizing workshops, webinars and e-learning sessions.
During the workshop, Blue Carbon also offered conducting national forestry inventory and aggregate data to Angola.
Participants of the workshop agreed that it is imperative to take constructive steps now in this direction, otherwise the world will have to face huge losses to prevent negative effects of climate change.
The participants stressed on the need to adopt serious measures for low carbon economy to ensure sustainability for generations to come.
GWC once again shows its commitment toward sustainability by taking part in Qatar Sustainability Week 2022.
The Qatar Sustainability Week, which is a national initiative, was organized by Earthna (formerly known as the Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC)) has taken place from 8-15 October 2022, with the aim to engage the relevant stakeholders and the community in a wide range of sustainability-oriented activities and raise awareness while showcasing Qatar’s progress in various areas of sustainability.
GWC, through its various initiatives, has endeavoured to keep environmental protection and sustainability at its core. Whether it is a beach clean-up, tree plantation or recycling wooden pellets to delivering a sustainable FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, GWC has put in place many active and passive measures.
With a strong focus on digitalisation and Qatar National Vision 2030, GWC has been working diligently to provide holistic and innovative solutions to its clients while keeping a firm grip on its ESG framework.
“When it comes to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, sustainability has been at the core of our design, preparation and delivery measures. We are determined to assist our various clients and stakeholders in all sectors by reducing the ecological footprint through streamlining their logistical operations,” remarked Jawaher Al Khuzaei, Marketing & Communications Director, GWC.
She further added on the importance of the Qatar Sustainability Week for GWC and the nation as a whole, as a platform to showcase all the work being done by the government and the private sector to protect the environment for the future generations. She highlighted that this year, besides continuing the usual initiative, GWC participated in the Community Garden, by repurposing used wooden pallets and creating 30 plantation beds. Sustainability initiatives and its continuous improvement have always been a part of GWC’s operations across all its facilities globally.
The inauguration was attended by Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District – Dubai South, Christian Drenthen, Board Member – Land Transport/Contract Logistics of DB Schenker; Christopher Smith, CEO – Middle East Africa of DB Schenker; and Ako Djaf, Vice President – Contract Logistics at SCM Middle East and Africa – DB Schenker; among other senior executives from both companies.
The third facility, which is also temperature-controlled, offers a total space of 90,000 Euro pallets providing warehousing solutions for different industries, including dangerous-goods storage and B2C e-commerce delivery services, leveraging its ideal connectivity to land, sea, and air freight transportation modes. The facility also has a 5,000 square-metre mezzanine floor exclusively designed for various value-added service activities.
Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District – Dubai South, commented: “DB Schenker’s new facility will strengthen the entire ecosystem of the Logistics District, thanks to its innovative solutions and best sustainable practices, all of which are a testament to its progressive business strategy. We will spare no effort to consolidate DB Schenker’s prominence and offer sustainable logistics solutions in line with the UAE Net-Zero 2050 strategic initiative. Global and regional players benefit from Dubai South’s customer-centric processes and the seamless, multimodal connectivity between road, air, and sea transportation. As part of boosting Dubai’s global position, we are committed to establish a progressive ecosystem to build a global logistics & e-commerce hub that caters to the evolving demands of our existing and potential clients.
In his comments, Ako Djaf, Vice President – Contract Logistics/SCM, DB Schenker Middle East and Africa, said: “We are delighted to inaugurate our third facility on Dubai South grounds toward strengthening the logistics industry and meeting the changing needs of our valued customers. As with the second facility, the new centre will further cement our sustainability commitment and agenda, and the construction of this expansive green logistics centre will elevate our capacity and network. The three-phase growth plan we established in 2015, with our facilities in proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali port — one of the most important transportation hubs globally — was an important strategic decision. Dubai South’s strategic location, as well as its revolutionary infrastructure and exceptional business facilitation, will enable us to sustain our growth in this competitive landscape. By designing models comprising catalysts anchored in sustainable best practices, DB Schenker aspires to facilitate the industry by leapfrogging the barriers toward net-zero targets.”
DB Schenker in the Middle East and Africa region facilitated the market entry of many international companies to expand their footprints across the globe in this high-potential market. This has made the company one of the fastest-growing logistics service providers in the region expanding the total area of its operated logistics centres from 40,000 to 325,000 square metres in the past seven years.
GWC Logistics has announced Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) as the research partner for this year’s GWC Forum, which will be held at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa on 1 November.
‘Ready for the Game – Empowering Qatar’s MSMEs’ follows the success of the inaugural forum in 2021, titled ‘Getting you in the Game’, which was attended by 800 delegates from 59 countries and attracted significant media coverage.
GWC – Qatar’s leading logistics and supply chain solutions company – is the Official Logistics Provider for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. As well as supporting tournament preparations, GWC is helping to deliver an economic legacy by supporting Qatar’s growing micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). HBKU will support the Forum’s objectives in capturing the direct and indirect impact of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM on MSMEs’ and the transformation affecting the sector in the aftermath of 2022.
This year’s hybrid forum will feature senior-level speakers representing partners and other global brands. Panel sessions and workshops will offer a deeper dive into key subjects as delegates glean knowledge from this year’s FIFA World Cup™, which will be held from 20 November to 18 December.
Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC, said: “We are delighted to announce HBKU as the research partner for this year’s GWC Forum, which will help businesses across Qatar understand the benefits of hosting the FIFA World Cup and the numerous post-tournament opportunities. HBKU is already collaborating with us closely to research the impact of Qatar 2022 – particularly in relation to the economy and the impact the tournament will have on MSMEs. The forum will further strengthen our ties as Qatar seeks to leverage the hosting of the FIFA World Cup and power the nation towards Qatar National Vision 2030.”
This is the latest collaboration between GWC and HBKU, following the announcement of a research initiative last year. GWC and HBKU are working together to assess the impact of Qatar 2022 on the country’s economy, with a focus on MSME empowerment.
In addition, GWC is working closely with the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) at HBKU to promote impactful and innovative research and development in the fields of engineering, technology and science, with a special emphasis on logistics and supply chain management. The outcomes will be geared towards boosting industry performance and achieving mutually beneficial opportunities, while offering a scientific approach to problem resolution for issues facing the industry.
Dr Laoucine Kerbache, Professor and Coordinator of the Engineering Management and Decision Sciences Division at HBKU’s CSE, said: “We are very pleased to be working closely with GWC in relation to this year’s forum, which will shine a light on the pivotal role MSMEs are set to play in powering Qatar’s economy beyond the FIFA World Cup. We have seen over recent years – due to the global pandemic and vaccine distribution challenges particularly – the crucial importance of logistics and supply chain management. HBKU is keen to support this industry through its various programmes as we help the development of Qatar’s economy and drive highly innovative approaches to research.”
Furthermore, the partnership provides for GWC to collaborate with HBKU’s degree programmes, including master’s and PhD programmes in logistics and supply chain management, and assist with research opportunities. It also aims to enhance knowledge diffusion between the private and education sectors to improve employment possibilities, and broaden the career paths of young professionals in the logistics sector.
Under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Tristar Group will host its 4th annual ‘Safety at Sea’ conference in Dubai on November 22 2022. The event will be attended by senior government officials, prominent leaders of the regional maritime industry, and representatives from numerous maritime organizations, in addition to seafarers.
Al Mansouri: The event honours seafarers who are the heroes of global trade, who actively contribute to the continuity of maritime operations despite challenges
Al Malek: The UAE is a logistics hub linking international shipping lines. Receiving more than 21,000 ships annually, it accounts for the largest share of ships reaching the region’s ports
Mayne: We are in the fourth year of organizing our ‘Safety at Sea’ conference and it is our endeavour to continue hosting this event annually to bring all stakeholders together for the ultimate benefit of our sea-going colleagues
The conference launched by the Maritime Logistics division of Tristar will continue to draw industry and global attention to the importance of the well-being of workers at sea such as their physical and mental health. The inaugural conference was held in Dubai on November 10, 2019, and was attended by more than 150 decision-makers and senior officials from the maritime industry and watched remotely by over 500 seafarers.
Supporting seafarers is a major goal
The UAE is a key logistics hub, connecting global shipping lines, and receiving over 21,000 ships annually, the largest number of ships heading to the region’s ports. With 27,000 local and international maritime companies, the country’s ports handle more than 17 million containers each year. These achievements would not have been possible without the dedication of thousands of seafarers who arrive in the UAE waters on ships from all over the world.
H.E. Eng. Hassan Mohammed Juma Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasised: “When we talk about the shipping sector in the UAE, we must recognise the influential role the country plays in the global maritime sector as it is one of the key maritime hubs globally. To ensure the sector’s development, we introduce initiatives, laws and legislations based on best practices, while also taking care of the seafarers’ community which is an integral pillar of the industry. We are constantly working to help them overcome the challenges they face onboard and beyond. The “Safety at Sea” initiative confirms our continuous support for seafarers and reflects our firm belief in the active role they play towards strengthening the role of the UAE as an unparalleled global maritime hub.”
H.E. Eng. Hassan Mohammed Juma Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasised: “When we talk about the shipping sector in the UAE, we must recognise the influential role the country plays in the global maritime sector as it is one of the key maritime hubs globally. To ensure the sector’s development, we introduce initiatives, laws and legislations based on best practices, while also taking care of the seafarers’ community which is an integral pillar of the industry. We are constantly working to help them overcome the challenges they face onboard and beyond. The “Safety at Sea” initiative confirms our continuous support for seafarers and reflects our firm belief in the active role they play towards strengthening the role of the UAE as an unparalleled global maritime hub.”
Al Mansouri added, “Safety at Sea also contributes to the UAE’s leading status as one of the top countries in protecting the rights of seafarers, especially bearing in mind the prominent role they played in facing the impact of the pandemic on the global economy. At the Ministry, it is our role and responsibility to put in place legislations and laws related to the maritime sector, whilst we ensure compliance and implementation of these laws. Our legal system thus also serves seafarers who significantly contribute to achieving the economic development of the UAE. The most recent of these achievements was the Cabinet’s decision regarding marine debris and violating ships, which binds all ships carrying the UAE flag or sailing in its waters to ensure the rights of seafarers and provide their requirements.”
Saudia Cargo is proud to announce its agreement with IATA to work on its Center of Excellence for Independent Validators for Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma) Certification, the global standards in the safe and secure air transportation and handling of pharmaceuticals. Saudia Cargo CEO Teddy Zebitz and IATA Senior Vice President Commercial Products and Services Mr. Frederic Leger signed the agreement on 28th of Sep on the sidelines of World Cargo Symposium, the largest and most prestigious air cargo event, held this year in London.
For the next few months, Saudia Cargo will continue rigorous preparations across multiple aspects of its operations, particularly on staff competency to handle pharmaceuticals, to comply with IATA’s requirements for CEIV Pharma Certification on top of GDP (Good Distribution Practice). The process is meant to ensure that critical healthcare cargo such as COVID-19 vaccines and other pharmaceutical and bioscience products are not compromised while they are being transported on air.
Commenting on this milestone to Saudia Cargo’s continuing drive as a globally competitive market leader, Teddy Zebitz, the company’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “This move shows Saudia Cargo’s commitment to the highest global quality standards and compliance when it comes to transporting pharmaceuticals and life sciences products. Human lives are paramount in our operations whether it involves staff or end-users. This give our customers and partners the continued confidence and peace of mind that the pharmaceuticals we transport are treated with utmost care in line with international standards.”
When it comes to transporting pharmaceutical products across continents, Saudia Cargo has successfully built a trusted name. For decades now, it has been the preferred shipper for vaccines and other medicines across the Middle East and Africa. As the company’s global humanitarian mission continues, it also demonstrated its strong commitment to UNICEF’s goal of distributing COVID-19 vaccines for free to developing countries.
Uniquely positioned bridging the East to the West, the Jeddah-based Saudia Cargo offers fast and efficient air transport services with minimal ground handling time. In recent years, the company unveiled its multimillion new cold chain facilities with state-of-the-art features at its sprawling new cargo terminal in Jeddah and other parts of Saudi Arabia. Saudia Cargo joined the rest of the world to save humanity, successfully carrying over 500,000 tons of cargo, mostly healthcare, and operated over 6,000 cargo flights.
In today’s new normal, the airline sees its role in handling pharmaceuticals as critical to people’s lives and livelihood that deserves deepening capabilities and expertise in the supply chain.