DB Schenker is supporting its pharma business with increased Good Distribution Practice (GDP) compliance. The company now has certifications in accordance with GDP standards for 157 of its stations. These certifications cover key markets in the Americas, Europe and Asia for the global trade of medical goods. By achieving this milestone, DB Schenker can now cover 80% of the world’s healthcare flows with their recent certificates, making it one of the world’s largest GDP-compliant logistics networks. DB Schenker can now even better meet the evolving needs of the global pharmaceutical industry,” said DB Schenker. Within the next twelve months, the global logistics service provider plans to certify over 180 of its stations to be able to organise and manage GDP-compliant logistics. Veronique Dameme, head of global vertical market healthcare at DB Schenker. said: “At the end of every healthcare supply chain there is a patient. That’s why we ensure that medical products are stored and distributed in accordance with the highest standards. “The successful GDP certification of our facilities marks a significant milestone on our roadmap and shows our ongoing pursuit of excellence in pharmaceutical logistics.” Healthcare is a highly regulated industry governed by various guidelines, making GDP compliance critical. With Good Distribution Practice, DB Schenker follows a guideline that ensures that the integrity and quality of pharmaceutical products is maintained throughout the entire supply chain process.

DHL Supply Chain becomes a lead logistics partner (LLP) for Vitesco Technologies. This new logistics cooperation strengthens robustness and resilience of supply chains in the automotive industry. Vitesco Technologies focuses on maximum sustainability, resilience and efficiency in logistics. As of March 2024, the logistics flows of Vitesco Technologies’ twelve European locations will be centrally managed by DHL through the LLP Center of Excellence in Warsaw, Poland. This corresponds to around 100,000 transport movements within the supply chain to the plants as well as from the plants to the customers – and thus accounts for about a third of Vitesco Technologies’ total freight volume. “The main driver of our business is the development and production of sustainable technologies for the mobility of tomorrow. We want to run this business in a CO2-neutral way by 2040. Sustainable logistics solutions are an important step along this path, which we will be taking together with DHL Supply Chain in the future,” says Thomas Kirchermeier, Head of Supply Chain Management at Vitesco Technologies. The big advantage of the new logistics concept is that, as a Lead Logistics Partner, DHL Supply Chain bundles the freight volumes of numerous large companies to generate synergy effects and thus achieves new potentials for optimization. The logistics experts make use of the entire market of freight carriers and forwarding agents and can provide the fastest, safest, most environmentally friendly, and most cost-effective transport solutions. This benefits Vitesco Technologies and all customers: supply chains become more robust and more reliable.

“Complex regulatory procedures and a lack of cohesive policy enforcement across states create logistical inefficiencies,” shares Xerrxes Master, President, AMTOI. He adds, “The adoption of technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain has increased but is not yet widespread, particularly among SMEs, highlighting a digital divide and as India commits to reducing its carbon footprint, the logistics sector struggles to balance growth with environmental sustainability, emphasizing the need for greener logistics solutions.” He continues, “The trajectory of India’s multimodal logistics sector in 2024 reflects a blend of achievements and ongoing challenges. The government’s continued focus on infrastructure development and policy reforms sets a solid foundation for growth. Yet, the full potential of this sector hinges on addressing the existing operational inefficiencies, embracing digital transformation comprehensively, and prioritizing sustainability. As India looks towards the future, the alignment of strategies across governmental, industrial, and technological spheres will be paramount in realizing the vision of a seamless, efficient, and sustainable multimodal logistics network. Collaborative efforts, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability are key to navigating the complexities of this vital sector, propelling India towards becoming a global logistics leader.”

In an impressive feat of organisation, GMR Air Cargo & Logistics-Goa (MOPA Airport) has sent its first tonne of mangoes to Muscat, Oman. Led by Purushottam Singh Thakur, Business Head, GMR, ACL and his team, this flight marks a significant step in the company’s global logistics commitment. Present at the event were Suresh Pillai Airport Manager, Oman Air Goa, Haridas, Assistant Commissioner, Goa Customs, Shrikanth Bhandarkar, Chief Commercial Officer, GOX, Prashanth CS, Assistant General Manager, Commercial, GOX, and Chandrakanth Rachakonda, Commercial Manager, GOX.

Lessor Vaayu Group has delivered the world’s second A320 passenger to freighter (P2F) aircraft to Cairo-based Sky Vision Airlines. This is the second aircraft that UAE-headquartered Vaayu has leased after its first A320P2F was leased to New Delhi-based Pradhaan Air Express, a sub-lessee of Vaayu. Vaayu Group chairman and president Emad AlMonayea said: “Vaayu’s vision is to become a significant player in the air cargo space in the years to come. Our second aircraft is quite strategic considering the opportunities Middle East & North Africa presents.” Sky Vision Airlines chief executive Amr Abd EL Zaher said: “We are happy to take delivery of MSN 2724 with V2500 engines to start our cargo operations. “We are pleased with the fact that Vaayu has joined us since they bring with them a great record in the aviation sector. Their invaluable expertise and their single-minded plans to increase cargo capacity bodes well for us.” The aircraft was converted by EFW, a joint venture (JV) between Singapore-based ST Engineering and France-headquartered Airbus, and leased to Vaayu by Juniper Aviation Investments, ST Engineering’s freighter aircraft leasing JV. “We are extremely encouraged by the demand for the A320P2F, which is a clear testimony of the versatility, benefits and value that the freighter platform brings to the market,” said senior vice president and head of aircraft and freighter leasing of ST Engineering Tan Boon Keng. Vaayu plans to expand its footprint in the air cargo space with the addition of another A320P2F this year, which will enhance capacity and improve its network.

Continental Carriers officially inaugurated India’s first Air Freight Station in New Delhi. “The idea of this Air Freight Station was conceived by my father late Shri T N Vohra at the time when the concept of cargo handling/processing at an off-airport location was unknown to the logistics industry in India,” shared Vipin Vohra, Chairman, Continental Carriers. “Although a successful model in other countries, we, in India, only dreamt about having an off-Airport Cargo Terminal where the export cargo could be handled/processed before it gets transported to the Air Cargo Terminal at the Airport in ‘ready for carriage’ condition for delivery to the respective Airlines.” He adds, The vision of a Continental Carriers Pvt Ltd, for launching India’s first RA-3 accredited green field Air Freight Station is to provide efficient, reliable, and cost-effective Air Freight services to its customers worldwide. The company’s aim is to be a leader in the Air Freight industry, with a reputation for excellence in customer service and operational performance. Continental Carriers Pvt Ltd aims to provide customized solutions to meet the unique needs of each customer, whether they are small businesses or large corporations. Our aim through AFS is to revolutionize air cargo handling in India, ultimately leading to decreased logistics costs for companies. We strongly believe this initiative will significantly transform the logistics industry, and we call upon the logistics community to join us in making it a success.”

ECS Group announces a strategic worldwide partnership with CMA CGM AIR CARGO, a division of CMA CGM Group, a global player in sea, land, air, and logistics solutions. Starting April 1, 2024, ECS Group will be appointed as CMA CGM AIR CARGO GSSA, commercializing air freight capacities on flights operated by CMA CGM AIR CARGO. By joining forces, ECS Group and CMA CGM AIR CARGO aim to redefine industry standards in operational efficiency, service quality, and technological innovation. Together, they will pioneer innovative solutions and deliver a premier customer experience while enhancing operational efficiency. With 9 flights per week between Paris and China/HKG, on B777 aircraft, ECS Group is committed to providing customers with transparent and efficient access to leading air transport solutions, optimizing CMA CGM AIR CARGO’s commercial performance and strengthening its presence in the air freight market. Flexibility and innovation are key drivers of success in this dynamic industry. Through their Augmented GSSA model, ECS will offer CMA CGM tailor-made cooperation models, ensuring adaptability to market fluctuations and local requirements. These customized solutions will be meticulously crafted to meet the specific needs and challenges of CMA CGM, providing a seamless and efficient partnership experience that drives mutual growth and success. Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, expresses enthusiasm for this new partnership: “Collaborating with CMA CGM AIR CARGO represents a unique opportunity to combine ECS Group’s expertise in GSSA with CMA CGM AIR CARGO assets. Together, we are determined to pave the way in air freight transport, offering innovative solutions and operational excellence to our clients worldwide.” In conclusion, ECS Group and CMA CGM AIR CARGO embark on an exciting new chapter in air freight transport, pushing …

Jeena & Company announced the merger of the 67-year-old JBS Group based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This strategic move aims to provide comprehensive logistic services, encompassing both international and domestic sectors. JBS Group, founded in 1957 by Mr. J B Shah, stands as an ISO-certified, AEO group with diverse entities specializing in Customs Clearance, Multimodal Transport Operations, and IATA cargo handling. JBS Group holds its own Customs Broking License, IATA accreditation, and nearly 30 years of experience in FMC registered Bill of Lading. This addition brings an extra 95 pin codes to the existing 300+ PAN-India pincodes. Post-merging, J B Shah Logistics will assume the name JBS JEENA Logistics, combining the esteemed legacies of the 67-year-old JBS Group and the 124-year-old Jeena Group. With this development, JBS JEENA Logistics anticipates a 100% projected growth, leveraging the combined expertise and resources of both legacy entities. As a part of the merger, Jeena & Company will acquire the customers, team, and assets of the JBS Group and expand its Custom Clearance footprint in Gujarat. With JB Shah Logistics’ impactful presence in Gujarat, Jeena aims to leverage its freight forwarding business. Speaking on this, Sam Katgara, Partner, Jeena & Co. said, “As a brand, we are moving in the direction that we envisaged and it is giving us positive results. With the merging of the JBS Group, we inked a partnership that brings together two esteemed, legacy organizations with a rich history and complementary capabilities, positioning us as a leading provider of end-to-end logistics solutions in the region. Together as JBS Jeena Logistics, we feel greatly confident to create value for our customers and stakeholders through our combined force.” JBS JEENA Logistics is poised …

Air India and Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) have entered into an agreement intended to develop Bengaluru as a premier aviation hub for southern India. As part of this initiative, Air India has also signed MOU with the Government of Karnataka to establish MRO facilities at BLR airport. The initiative also aims to boost air travel connectivity to and from India over the next few years. The agreement marks a significant milestone in the Indian aviation industry. Air India (along with other Tata Group airlines – AIX and Vistara) and BIAL will collaborate to enhance international connectivity, operational efficiency, and passenger experience over the next five years. This includes strengthening the group’s presence at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB or BLR airport) through an enhanced network and establishing a dedicated domestic lounge for premium and frequent travellers of Tata Group airlines Air India and Vistara. This underscores Air India’s commitment to strengthening its presence in Bengaluru and over time, expand its global footprint to meet the growing demand for direct long-haul routes originating from Southern India. This partnership will stimulate the MRO ecosystem and is projected to generate over 1,200 new job opportunities for highly skilled individuals in the state. Campbell Wilson, Managing Director and CEO of Air India, said, “Airline-airport synergy is key to elevated customer experience and efficient operations, while Bengaluru is highly attractive as an origin and destination market as well as a connecting hub. We are therefore delighted to be strengthening our relationship with BIAL with a view to developing a greater presence at the airport, expanding air connectivity as well as building a major MRO center. This partnership agreement is a significant milestone in the …

Construction work on the State’s first multi-modal logistics park began recently in Tiruvallur district. It is being built at a cost of ₹1,500 crore on 181 acres of land. The work is being carried out in build operate transfer (BOT) mode and the first phase, during which road connectivity would be provided, will be completed in two years. “We already have a four-lane wide road, which is the State Highway. It will get some upgrades, including a flyover, and will be connected to the Chennai Peripheral Ring Road,” said officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) implementing the project. Apart from road connectivity, the park will also get rail connectivity. “We have begun acquiring lands for laying the 10-km-long railway line to connect it with the Kadambathur railway station,” the officials said. The park is being built on an all-open, dry land with no structures. The rail connectivity work will take at least four years to complete. The park, which is coming up as part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the objective of which is to offer smooth intermodal freight movement, will have facilities that include automated warehouses, cold storage and customs facilities, cargo terminals, and truck terminals. Various commodities, including textile, apparel, grain, electronics, consumer goods, and automobiles and automobile components may be handled at the logistics park. Over a period of 45 years, this facility is expected to cater to a cargo volume of 7.17 million tonnes.