The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) signed MoU with the King Salman International Airport (KSIA) to collaborate towards enhancing the profile of cargo and logistics within the region and globally by leveraging the irrespective strengths towards promotion, training and capacity building, innovation, and sustainability leadership.  The primary objective of the MoU is to support the profile of cargo and logistics within the region and also globally. “This signing of this MoU is important to the industry as it signals the strong support of the association’s mission not only to unite the industry but to set the vision for the air cargo industry, disseminate and enhance knowledge and promote and encourage business, social and technological innovation. We are excited to get to work with our colleagues at KSIA and appreciate their vision to further air cargo not only within their region but also globally.” stated Steven Polmans, TIACA Chair. Marco Mejia, Acting CEO of KSIADC, said: “This strategic membership marks a significant milestone for KSIA and its partners as they collectively strive to enhance Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics powerhouse. KSIA remains dedicated to its mission of delivering a world-class airport, logistics, and cargo solutions; and fostering Saudi Arabia’s economic development.” “Over the last few years, TIACA has been focused on spotlighting the importance of air cargo across the globe, the training of the future of the next leaders, creating a sustainable future and shining a light on innovation within the industry. The signing of this MoU couldn’t be more of a natural step and we look forward to working with KSIA to accomplish the tasks at hand.” stated Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA.

DHL Express and DHL Global Forwarding are furthering their sustainability goals through a contract renewal with IAG Cargo, to use an additional 60 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on behalf of DHL. The new contract covers 2024 and 2025 emissions and will result in a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 165,000 metric tons of CO2e. The annual emissions reduction would be equivalent to removing a B747-400 freighter from DHL’s intercontinental operations from the UK to US – which makes the partnership the largest SAF agreement between an airline and a customer to date and underlines DHL’s leading role in sustainable air freight solutions.  The SAF used in this collaboration is certified by International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) and is derived from sources such as used cooking oil and food waste. Compared to conventional jet fuel, this type of SAF has been proven to achieve around 80% lower lifecycle emissions. The SAF used will mainly be delivered to London Heathrow. “We strongly believe that collaboration is the foundation of a more sustainable future. Both DHL and IAG Cargo share a strong commitment to carbon footprint reduction. We are pleased that we can now mark another milestone on our journey towards more sustainable air freight,” said Travis Cobb, EVP Global Network Operations & Aviation at DHL Express.

According to the latest report by Savills India, “The industrial and logistics sector demonstrated remarkable resilience in Q3 2024, achieving an impressive absorption of 17.5 million square feet up from 11.4 million square feet in Q3 2023.” This represents a substantial Y-o-Y increase of 53.5%, solidifying India’s status as a burgeoning hub for industrial and logistics operations. Tier I cities led the charge in absorption, accounting for 14.0 million square feet (80%) of the total, while Tier II and III cities contributed 3.5 million square feet (20%). This growth was driven primarily by sustained demand from the third-party logistics (3PL) sector, which comprised 38% of total absorption, alongside manufacturing at 16%. Notably, there was a sharp rise in demand from the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and fast-moving consumer durables (FMCD) sectors, contributing 17%. In addition to strong absorption rates, the sector witnessed a fresh supply of 19.3 million square feet in Q3 2024, reflecting a 9% year-on-year growth compared to Q3 2023. Tier I cities accounted for the majority of this supply, with 16.4 million square feet (85%), while Tier II and III cities contributed 2.9 million square feet (15%). Grade A spaces accounted for 54% of the total absorption, reflecting changing occupier preferences, especially toward sustainable and ESG-compliant spaces, the report added.

Godrej & Boyce ramps up capacity to meet the increased demand and has invested into extensive training programs in partnership with NGOs and training schools for forklift operators. Through these programs, 3500 operators have been trained and the firm plans to train 300 more operators by FY 25. The firm has introduced various advanced features in its equipment which includes Seat Belt Interlock System, Safety Lights for pedestrians and other moving equipment, Operator Presence Sensor (OPS) along with Enhance Safety System (ESS) that disables lifting, tilting, attachment functions and forklift movement. “At Godrej & Boyce, we are committed to raising the bar in warehouse safety and operational efficiency. Our indigenous innovations and comprehensive training programs not only align with the ‘Make in India’ initiative but also contribute significantly to the nation’s development. By focusing on sustainability and skill enhancement, we are ensuring that Indian companies lead the way in creating safer, more efficient workplaces”, Anil Lingayat, Executive Vice President and Business Head, Material Handling business of Godrej & Boyce, said.

TVS Industrial & Logistics Parks (TVS ILP) has entered into Indore market by securing 20 acres of prime land in Pithampur Sector 7 from MPIDC (Madhya Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation) and the company has plans to invest Rs 200 crore in developing a state-of-the-art logistics park, which will cater to the growing demand for quality warehousing in the region and create a strong market for local products. Additionally, the project is expected to generate employment for over 1,000 people in and around Indore, providing significant job opportunities for the local community. Located just 25 kilometres from Indore city centre, the Pithampur facility offers excellent connectivity via NH-47 (Indore-Ahmedabad Highway), positioning it as a key logistics hub. Indore’s central location in India allows for seamless movement of goods to all regions of the country, providing businesses with an optimal supply chain network. As a well-connected SMART city, Indore has become an attractive hub for industries looking to improve operational efficiencies and reach expansive markets.

Ahead of the festive season, Jeena & Company is gearing up for an anticipated 10-20% increase in shipment volumes compared to 2023. The company is set to handle the festive demand surge with strategic workforce expansion and advanced operational planning. To enhance operational efficiency, Jeena has proactively secured capacity for both domestic and international shipments. Approximately 30% of the company’s seasonal hires will be sourced from tier 3 cities, ensuring necessary manpower to meet the anticipated demand. These hires will play a crucial role in supporting logistics operations during the festive season. This initiative is in alignment with the company’s commitment to inclusivity that aims to create more opportunities within India’s expanding logistics sector. Jeena is also utilising 100% of its available warehouse space, including temporary facilities, to manage the anticipated rise in customer demand. This comprehensive approach ensures the company can meet increased demand and maintain swift turnaround times for its customers, even during the busiest weeks of the festive season. “As trusted partners, we are fully prepared to meet the rising demand this festive season, going above and beyond to ensure maximum efficiency and seamless service. Our proactive approach includes working closely with customers well in advance, expanding into new regions for talent, and building a stronger, more resilient team. With strategic planning and the right resources in place, we are confident in our ability to manage the seasonal surge while maintaining the highest standards of service” Prediman K Koul, Chief Executive Officer, Jeena & Company.

Uzbekistan Airways (CSA – Rainbow Aviation Pvt Ltd) commences it’s Goa (GOX) – Tashkent (TAS) route with onward connectivity to other destinations including Kazakhstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and many more. Starting October 27, 2024, the service will operate from GMR MOPA (GOX), ensuring seamless logistics for your cargo needs. Rainbow Aviation serves as the CSA for Uzbekistan Airways in BOM and GOX.

Emirates SkyCargo has announced an order for more Boeing 777 freighters that will be used to expand its all-cargo fleet. The Dubai-headquartered airline has placed a firm order for five 777Fs, on top of its existing order for nine of the model. The aircraft will be used to expand its freighter fleet to 21 777Fs from its current 11 units when they are all delivered by the end of 2026. Emirates had also previously announced plans to convert 10 777-300ER passenger aircraft into freighters and said it remains “invested” in the plan, although no update was given to the timeline for re-configuration. The airline also operates three Boeing 747-400BDSF aircraft. The decision to order more aircraft comes on the back of expectations for rising cargo demand and as Dubai plans to expand Al Maktoum International airport (DWC).    

Uniworld Logistics announced its rebranding as ‘The World’s Trusted Logistics Partner Since 2002.’ This rebranding marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, reflecting its commitment to empowering India and beyond with innovative and reliable logistics solutions. This rebranding is not just about a new look; it is about reaffirming our commitment to our clients, our partners, and our employees. It is about embracing the future with confidence and determination. We are proud to be a company that empowers India, driving growth and development through our logistics solutions. As we align with the vision of Vikshit Bharat, we are prepared to take on the challenges and opportunities that come with India’s rapid development. Uniworld Logistics is committed to supporting this vision by enhancing our infrastructure, adopting cutting-edge technologies, and fostering sustainable practices. We are dedicated to playing a pivotal role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2030 as envisaged by our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Our strategic initiatives and innovative solutions are designed to meet the evolving needs of our clients and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.

Allcargo Gati continues to strengthen its market presence in Meerut’s flourishing sports goods cluster. Specialising in the transportation of these high-demand sports items like table tennis equipment, badminton gear, bats, and balls. The cluster services key regions with 45% of its shipments directed to the South, 20% to the East, 20% to the West, and 15% to the North. Allcargo Gati is providing services to more than 80 customers, contributing significantly to the growth and visibility of the cluster. The key markets serviced by Allcargo Gati include retail hubs in Surajkund, Sports Complex, Partapur Industrial Area, and Victoria Park, where large retailers and wholesalers drive direct sales of these popular sports items. Ketan Kulkarni, Deputy Managing Director, Gati Express and Supply Chain Pvt. Limited (GESCPL) commented, “The Meerut sports goods cluster contributes roughly 25% of India’s total sports goods exports. Over the past 20 years, the cluster’s remarkable growth in producing high-quality sports equipment highlights the resilience and innovation of Meerut’s manufacturers. At Allcargo Gati, by focusing on our advanced technological solutions we streamline operations, optimize supply chains, and enhance delivery speeds, ensuring that the Meerut’s MSME can meet the growing demands and stay ahead of industry trends.” Uday Sharma, Chief Commercial Officer, Allcargo Gati Limited stated, “The Meerut cluster, comprising of both MSMEs and household units, has seen a significant growth over the past few years.  However, challenges like fluctuating demand, and logistical complexities continue to put pressure on the industry’s supply chain. Our long-standing experience with extensive transportation in this region has allowed us to refine logistics processes, ensuring timely deliveries despite these obstacles.”