Europe

Rhenus Road Freight is revolutionizing its European groupage freight network with the introduction of Groupage Network 2.0, a system aimed at optimizing structural processes. The initiative, currently undergoing a successful pilot phase in several European countries, with a focus on Germany, is set to enhance daily cross-border transport services. By streamlining operations, Rhenus aims to reduce transit times and significantly improve long-term reliability, benefiting customers across the continent.

Tunis, December 20, 2023 – Maersk proudly unveils a novel transport initiative linking the burgeoning Tunisian market to its primary liner services connecting Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The recently launched weekly service operates through a dedicated ro-ro vessel, shuttling between the Port of Rades and the pivotal hub port of Cagliari in Italy. Notably, this service provides an optimal connection between Morocco and Tunisia.

A new initiative has been launched at the Freeport of Riga, introducing a regular container train, often referred to as a “shuttle train,” connecting the “Rīgas universālais terminālis” (RUT) and the “Baltic Container Terminal” (BCT). This development aims to enhance the efficiency and safety of container delivery to vessels at these terminals. The implementation of this train service not only enhances freight movement within the port but also alleviates pressure on terminal infrastructure, port motorways, and city streets by reducing reliance on road transport. This shift is particularly beneficial for neighboring communities and residents of Riga.

Collaboration between North Sea Port and Port of Antwerp-Bruges gains momentum with the strategic investment in Pipelink. As part of this venture, North Sea Port will acquire a minority stake in Pipelink, a subsidiary of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, marking a crucial step in advancing pipeline projects on local, national, and international scales. Pipelink, with an extensive asset base of 750 kilometers of pipelines in Belgium, holds the potential to play a vital role in facilitating the modal shift and steering the energy transition.

At A.P. Moller – Maersk, there is a firm belief in the potential of global trade as a catalyst for development, provided it is conducted responsibly and sustainably. Following careful considerations, extensive consultations with local and international stakeholders, and elevated human rights due diligence, Maersk has determined that, with the right measures in place, it can continue its operations in Myanmar while upholding its commitment to responsible business practices. Since the coup in February 2021, Maersk has closely monitored the situation in Myanmar, prioritizing the health and well-being of its employees, supporting customers, and contributing to the local economy.

DP World has initiated the construction of a new welfare facility for drivers at its Southampton logistics hub in the UK. The GBP 15 million (EUR 17.5 million) project, anticipated to span 40 weeks, will enhance the working conditions for heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers. The state-of-the-art facility will feature amenities such as a restaurant, café, bathrooms, and showers, catering to the needs of drivers, and will offer secure parking for over 120 lorries with 24-hour security. Furthermore, the facility will incorporate sustainability measures, including photovoltaics on the roof for solar energy generation and a greywater rain collection system. The site for the driver welfare facility was leased by DP World from ABP, the operator of the Port of Southampton, in January of this year.

Global logistics leader, the Rhenus Group, proudly announces the successful attainment of Good Distribution Practice (GDP) certification for its Air & Ocean Division in Italy, reinforcing its steadfast commitment to maintaining elevated operational standards in the Life Sciences & Healthcare sector. The certification, achieved in November following a meticulous internal audit in September, reflects the culmination of a strategic plan initiated in June 2023 to fortify internal protocols.

Promising prospects illuminate Germany’s freight transport sector as the Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) unveils optimistic forecasts for the coming two years. Projections indicate an upward trajectory, with total modal transport performance expected to surge by approximately 2.1% in 2024 and 1.6% in 2025 compared to the previous year. In contrast to 2019, a steady growth of approximately 1.3% in total modal transport volume and 1.7% in total modal transport performance is anticipated, with notable increases projected for road haulage, combined transport, and air freight.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges and CMB.TECH proudly announce the successful launch of the Hydrotug 1, the world’s first hydrogen-powered tugboat. The Hydrotug 1 utilizes BeHydro V12 dual fuel medium speed engines, burning a combination of hydrogen and traditional fuel. This groundbreaking technology enables a 65% reduction in traditional fuel consumption and associated emissions. With a capacity to store 415kg of compressed hydrogen on deck, the Hydrotug 1 emerges as a revolutionary vessel, eliminating emissions equivalent to 350 cars annually and reinforcing CMB.TECH’s global leadership in the transition to eco-friendly fuel-powered ships.

Port of Hamburg Beteiligungsgesellschaft SE, a fully owned subsidiary of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (“MSC”), has concluded its voluntary public takeover offer to Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft (“HHLA”) shareholders. At the close of the extended acceptance period on December 7, 2023, the offer garnered acceptance from shareholders holding 7,325,366 Class A shares, equivalent to 9.74% of the share capital. Additionally, MSC independently acquired 12.21% of HHLA shares on the open market. In combination with the Class A and S shares held by the City of Hamburg, the joint venture partners now collectively control 92.30% of HHLA’s share capital.