Europe

DB Cargo announced the launch of one of the largest transformations in its history. The reorganization concept received a positive assessment from independent experts and was approved by the European Commission and the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Deutsche Bahn AG in March. This decision lays the foundation for comprehensive changes aimed at achieving economic sustainability and strengthening the company’s position in the European rail freight market.

Hamburg-based global logistics company Fr. Meyer’s Sohn (FMS) announced the acquisition of Oslo-based Norwegian logistics provider Front Shipping AS. The deal is part of FMS’s strategy to expand in the Nordic countries and strengthen its project logistics capabilities. Following the acquisition of the Swedish company in 2024, the integration of Front Shipping is the next step in creating a unified platform in Scandinavia with offices in Sweden and Norway.

Global logistics company DSV is reporting significant disruptions to cargo movements in the Middle East, but continues to support operations using its extensive network and partners to find alternative routes. Air freight is limited: international airlines have suspended flights to Israel, national carriers are operating partially, and the redistribution of cargo through China and Hong Kong is increasing pressure on key trade corridors and driving up tariffs. Sea freight is also affected: most shipping lines have suspended services to the Persian Gulf due to the cancellation of war risk insurance, and cargo is being rerouted to safe ports for onward delivery by land or rail.

The HHLA TK Estonia terminal in Muuga will be the first in Europe to use fully battery-powered Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) cranes, capable of operating an entire shift on battery power alone. The cranes, delivered by Konecranes, will arrive at the end of the year and will form part of the terminal’s strategy for sustainable development, emission reduction, and modernization of its container yard infrastructure.

The digital process for processing imported containers through the German Ports platform is entering its final stage, with transport companies and truck drivers now connected to the system. A valid digital permit is now required to receive a container, allowing terminals to verify carrier data in real time upon entry. This creates a unified digital chain from container arrival to release at German North Sea ports.

UIRR has called on EU institutions to press ahead with the modernisation of the Combined Transport Directive, presenting combined transport as a practical response to Europe’s energy challenges and continued dependence on imported oil.

CEVA Logistics announced a €9 million investment in the expansion and modernization of its finished vehicle handling (FVL) facilities in La Laboral, near the Port of Tarragona. The project includes an additional 94,000 square meters of operational space, equipped with hail protection, allowing for up to 4,500 additional vehicles and significantly increasing throughput.

MSC SAS Lux, a Luxembourg-based subsidiary affiliated with MSC, has submitted formal applications to the Greek and Cypriot antitrust authorities for approval to acquire a 50% stake in Sinokor Maritime. This represents the group’s tanker division, Sinokor Marine, while container shipping is managed by a separate entity, Sinokor Merchant Marine.

LTG Infra, a company within LTG Group, has entered the active development phase of a new digital tool, LTG Infra Mobile, to modernize railway infrastructure maintenance. Contracts have been signed with IT companies Saige Europe and Helmes for the project. The application is expected to be completed within eight months.

ÖBB Rail Cargo Group is strengthening its position in Southeastern Europe with the launch of regular freight services on the upgraded railway line between Budapest and Belgrade. The modernized section, approximately 350 km long, significantly increases capacity and reduces delivery times, improving the region’s connection to key European transport corridors. The line is particularly important for cargo flows from Greek ports, including the Port of Piraeus, as well as shipments from Asia to Europe.