Kuehne+Nagel and Capgemini today announced that they have entered into a strategic agreement to create an industry-leading supply chain orchestration service offering to provide end-to-end services across the supply chain network.

This will enable businesses to remain agile in today’s disruptive global ecosystem by creating resilient, efficient, and sustainable supply chain operations.

The new strategic agreement is the first of its kind in the market and combines Kuehne+Nagel’s industry leading logistics management and execution expertise with Capgemini’s state-of-the-art Intelligent Supply Chain Operations (ISCO) capabilities that delivers AI-enabled, cognitive, touchless operations and data-driven decision making. The service is especially targeted towards large corporations from the consumer, healthcare, and industrial sectors.

Gianfranco Sgro, Member of the Management Board of Kuehne+Nagel International AG, responsible for Contract and Integrated Logistics, says: “Supply Chain Orchestration is the hot topic in our industry and is in higher demand than ever. Kuehne+Nagel and Capgemini share a common vision of innovation and client orientation. Together, we serve our customers with the most comprehensive set of supply chain services available in the market. A step that fully embraces Kuehne+Nagel’s strategic Roadmap 2026 and Vision 2030 of becoming the most trusted supply chain partner supporting a sustainable future”.

Oliver Pfeil, CEO of Capgemini’s Business Services and Member of Group Executive Committee at Capgemini said, “Supply chain disruptions continue to pose new risks for businesses, so they are increasingly looking for tech-backed, comprehensive solutions that will enable them to navigate these disruptions and stay ahead of the curve. At Capgemini, we are committed to partnering with clients in reimagining their supply chain management. This new joint solution with Kuehne+Nagel will help us to drive increased business value and build future-ready supply chain networks for our clients.”

Leveraging the combined capabilities of Kuehne+Nagel and Capgemini, organizations can benefit from seamless information flow and data exchange, transforming their supply chains by building greater resilience and managing risks, shortening order cycle times, improving logistics and optimizing inventory. Orchestrated supply chains, with integrated planning and execution, also help to decrease total logistics costs, reduce carbon emissions, and improve resilience to disruptions.

Through this partnership, joint clients are supported in their decision-making processes for smarter anticipation and quicker response to risks or deviations, and better supply chain control.

Qatar Airways Cargo has evolved and grown into the world's leading air cargo carrier, with an extensive fleet and a robust network.

To commemorate this remarkable journey, the carrier reflects on its major achievements and innovations.

In 2003, Qatar Airways Cargo took delivery of its very first freighter, an Airbus A300-600, which was a converted passenger aircraft. It began regular operations to Amsterdam and Chennai, and shortly thereafter, to New Delhi. Today, the cargo airline operates to more than 160 belly-hold and over 70 freighter destinations with over 200 passenger aircraft and 31 dedicated cargo freighters.

Elisabeth Oudkerk, Senior Vice-President, Cargo Sales and Network Planning, expressed her joy and gratitude, stating: "As Qatar Airways Cargo celebrates 20 years of freighter operations, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our customers for their continuous trust in our services. We take immense pride in our history and anticipate contributing to the promising future of air freight."

Over the past two decades, Qatar Airways Cargo has continuously expanded its fleet, network, and product portfolio, becoming the world's number one cargo carrier. With the launch of its Next Generation strategy, Qatar Airways Cargo has defined its role in the air cargo industry by bringing a fresh and innovative approach to business across its network and operations: through enhanced products and services, cutting edge technology, a commitment to sustainability and diversity, investing in existing talent and attracting new ones.

Under the complete corporate mindset shift that is The Next Generation, Qatar Airways Cargo has achieved significant accomplishments including being the first airline globally to complete the suite of IATA CEIV certifications, the launch of the Kigali Africa hub in partnership with RwandAir, and the introduction of innovative products like Pharma, Fresh, Courier, and SecureLift.

Furthermore, Qatar Airways Cargo’s commitment to customer experience and innovation has made it a preferred partner for businesses worldwide. Having embraced digital transformation early, it has successfully launched its new website and a state-of-the-art ebooking portal Digital Lounge and partnered with marketplace platforms, bringing added-value to its customers. Additionally, Qatar Airways Cargo has committed to sustainability through its WeQare program, championing initiatives such as ‘Rewild the planet’ and launching a CO2 emission calculator.

As Qatar Airways Cargo enters its next decade, it remains dedicated to digitalization and sustainability and looks forward to continuing being at the forefront of air cargo’s innovation and customer-centric solutions.

Atlas Air Worldwide (“Atlas” or the “Company”), a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services, today announced the appointment of Martin Drew as Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, effective September 25, 2023.

In this role, Mr. Drew will lead the Company’s comprehensive corporate strategy, including its transformational growth initiatives. Mr. Drew will report to Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, and serve on the Company’s Executive Leadership Team.

“We are thrilled that Martin is joining our leadership team at this exciting and pivotal moment for Atlas,” said Mr. Steen. “Martin is a highly recognized leader in aviation and will be an incredible asset to our team as we leverage our diversified business model, unrivaled global network and best-in-class assets for long-term success. His vast experience in cargo and passenger operations, entrepreneurial leadership style and solutions-oriented approach will help guide the Company to new heights.”

In his oversight of corporate strategy, Mr. Drew will seek to drive strategic growth and diversification across Atlas’ services, geographic footprint, and partnerships that support the Company’s mission to be its customers’ first choice and most valued partner.

“I am thrilled to join Atlas, an industry leader renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and customer satisfaction. The Company’s strong foundation, coupled with its forward-thinking approach, has positioned it as a leading force in the aviation industry,” Mr. Drew said. “I look forward to bringing my passion for driving change and strategic mindset to make a lasting impact on the Company’s continued growth and success. Atlas’ dedication to transformation and its visionary leadership have set the stage for an exciting journey ahead.”

Mr. Drew was most recently Senior Vice President Global Sales, Marketing, Brand and Cargo at Etihad Airways in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. where he oversaw all aspects of Etihad Cargo and was a member of the airline’s leadership team. He first joined Etihad Airways in 2005 and during this time spent 18 months working with Jet Airways as Vice President, Cargo in Mumbai, substantially growing the airline’s cargo business. He also previously held the position of Vice President Europe and Americas with responsibility for Etihad’s activities in Europe and the Americas, including Passenger Sales, Marketing, and Alliances. Prior to that, he held senior positions at Lufthansa and DAS Air Cargo.

A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk), the global integrated logistics company, has opened its doors to a brand-new and technology-driven Warehousing & Distribution (W&D) facility in Douala, Cameroon.

Situated within the Douala Port Zone, Maersk’s new facility is the ideal site for cargo moving in and out of one of the most important ports in the country along the West African coast, one that also serves as a gateway to several markets within Central Africa.

"With the rapid expansion of the middle-class population in the region, there is a growing demand for goods, especially in the FMCG sector. The Port of Douala plays a crucial role in meeting this demand, as it handles over 70% of imports into Cameroon, serving both the nation's population and its landlocked neighbours within the Central African Economic and Monetary Community. The conversations with our customers have revealed a gap between the demand and supply for modern Warehouse & Distribution (W&D) facilities that can provide the additional capacity needed in this market. As a response, we have decided to invest in a technology-driven Warehouse Management System (WMS) facility. This strategic move not only bridges the demand-supply gap, but also offers our customers a cost-effective and efficient solution. We are expanding our logistics footprint in Southern West Africa and will scale up as per the customers’ demands." Michel Koffi, Managing Director, Maersk Southern West Africa.

Maersk’s new W&D facility in Douala will be spread over 16,000 sq. m., including more than 12,000 sq. m. covered space that provides more than 8,000 pallet positions. The facility will provide for dry warehousing and distribution with a focus on deconsolidation and fulfilment. Being a bonded facility, it will also provide for the storage of cargo in the customs clearance process. Maersk will also arrange value-added services at this facility, such as palletisation, packing and kitting.

The state-of-the-art facility with modern WMS will provide customers with accurate and real-time visibility of their inventory. Full traceability using lot, batch, and serial numbering will ensure efficient movement of goods. Ultimately, the optimised operations using technology will aid in reducing waste and inventory errors and provide an improved experience to customers.

Maersk has a clear goal of being Net Zero by 2040, and every new investment being made has deep considerations in terms of the decarbonisation of logistics. The new facility by Maersk in Douala is no exception. 100% internal lighting will be done using low-consumption LED lights, and all external lighting will be powered by solar energy. All forklifts required in the W&D operations will be battery-operated and charged using solar energy. At the beginning of operations, 15% of the site’s electricity requirements will be fulfilled by solar panels installed at the site itself, with a plan to scale up in the coming years.

Maersk’s customers will get several benefits by utilising this facility for bonded as well as non-bonded storage and distribution. Bundled with ocean transportation, customs clearances, intermodal transportation and other services, Maersk will provide truly integrated logistics solutions to its customers. Such a solution also adds greater control over supply chains and offers higher resilience. With everything put together, customers will get cost advantages, too, as all their logistics requirements get fulfilled under the same roof.

Southern West Africa encompasses the following countries: Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinee and Sao Tome and Principe.

Embraer announced today that American Airlines has signed an MoU with Embraer to join its Energia Advisory Group, an experienced and knowledgeable team of airlines, lessors, suppliers, and other aviation experts advising Embraer on its development of sustainable aircraft for the future.

The MoU with Embraer will see the companies working together to define and establish the real-world requirements for sustainable, emission-free, and commercially viable aviation.

American is a recognized leader in the drive for sustainable flight and was named 2023 Eco-Airline of the Year by Air Transport World. American operates the youngest mainline fleet and the largest regional fleet among U.S. network carriers and in 2022 consumed more than two million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel. It has also invested in the development of hydrogen-powered propulsion and infrastructure.

American will work with the advisory group and Embraer to help define performance and design requirements for its four Energia concept aircraft. These aircraft, ranging from 9-to-50 seats, will use a range of electric, hydrogen and hybrid propulsion technologies.

“We are delighted to work with Embraer to help develop Energia concept aircraft,” said Jill Blickstein, Vice President of Sustainability at American. “As the operator of the largest U.S. regional fleet, we believe industry collaborations aimed at advancing decarbonization technologies are critical to helping aviation reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We look forward to working with Embraer and the other members of the Energia Advisory Group to develop next generation, zero emission aircraft.”

“It’s essential for Energia’s success that we involve a wide variety of air operators. American joining our advisory group, with their huge presence and expertise, is a significant step for the Energia project,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation. “This group has developed into a core part of the program because of the breadth and depth of the expertise the different members bring to the table. We’re excited to work together with a world leading airline on the biggest challenge our industry faces.”

The creation of the first-ever green shipping corridor across the Pacific is taking shape.

Today, a voluntary partnership of leading maritime goods movement stakeholders, including the Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Shanghai, some of the largest carriers in the world, and key leading cargo owners unveiled a Green Shipping Corridor Implementation Plan Outline to accelerate emissions reductions on one of the world’s busiest container shipping routes across the Pacific Ocean. The plan is the first of its kind and was developed with support from C40 Cities as part of its effort to reduce carbon emissions from the largest cities in the world.

The plan is an important step toward decarbonizing the global supply chains that power our economies, and transitioning toward zero lifecycle carbon emission ships. It will showcase cutting-edge goods movement technologies, decarbonization applications and best management practices to enhance efficiency, and catalyze technological, economic and policy efforts to progressively decarbonize shipping and port-related activities.

As part of the historic plan, the carrier partners will begin deploying reduced or zero lifecycle carbon capable ships on the corridor by 2025, and work together to demonstrate by 2030 the feasibility of deploying the world’s first zero lifecycle carbon emission container ship(s). Carrier partners include CMA CGM, COSCO Shipping Lines Co., Ltd., Maersk, and ONE. Core partners include the Shanghai International Port (Group) Co., Ltd., the China Classification Society, and the Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre of Asia.

Participants of the Green Shipping Corridor Partnership will take steps to reduce carbon emissions and harmful pollutant emissions impacting air quality, through methods such as expanding use of shore power and supporting the development of clean marine fueling infrastructure. Cargo owner partners have set goals to contract with carriers to use zero lifecycle carbon emission shipping services, and in an effort to measure progress toward decarbonization, all partners will develop metrics to track decarbonization progress.

Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, said: "This trans-Pacific green corridor will be a model for the global cooperation needed to accelerate change throughout the maritime industry. Reducing emissions in this corridor will yield substantial reductions. For perspective, most of the emissions associated with moving cargo by ship occur in the mid-ocean part of the journey between ports. This corridor will help reduce mid-ocean emissions while continuing the work we have done to cut emissions within our ports."

Mario Cordero, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Long Beach, said: "This initiative will drive emissions reductions across the world's largest ocean and lead to greener practices from supply chain participants along these vital trade routes. The new and innovative vessel technologies, increased availability of sustainable fuels and better practices created through this green corridor will also impact society's transition to a cleaner future far beyond the areas served by our ports."

Mark Watts, Executive Director of C40 said, “C40 is proud to support this first-of-its-kind green shipping corridor aimed at demonstrating that zero-carbon shipping at scale is feasible by 2030, and that less polluting ships and ports will also mean cleaner air, less noise and more jobs for local communities.”

APM Terminals is already sourcing ~40% of all the electricity it consumes globally from renewable sources – a nearly four-fold increase from 11% in 2020.

Decarbonised ports, as well as ships are proof that the supply chain transformation is happening here and now, says APM Terminals’ CEO Keith Svendsen.

One of the company's three breakthrough objectives, decarbonisation will be achieved by 2040 through electrification, energy optimisation, and sourcing of 100% renewable electricity such as solar energy, he confirmed.

Svendsen was speaking at an event to mark the first call of the world's first methanol-powered container ship at APM Terminals’ Maasvlakte II in Rotterdam. Compared with conventionally powered container ships, Laura reduces emissions by 65%.

The arrival of the ‘Laura Maersk’ was “another good example of purpose in action” said Svendsen. The vessel is “a game changer” in the decarbonisation efforts of the shipping and port logistics industry, he said.

The 172-meter-long vessel was named last week by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at a ceremony in Copenhagen, attended by Svendsen, and APM Terminals’ Head of Decarbonisation, Sahar Rashidbeigi.

Applauding the speed at which the Laura Maersk was developed – at around seven years ahead of estimations made as recently as five years ago – Svendsen said the key to her fast delivery lay in partnership.

As such, he called on APM Terminals’ partners – the governments, regulators, customers, vendors, and suppliers – to “act now – fast and together" to accelerate and scale decarbonisation and the energy transition to "reduce greenhouse gas emissions holistically in the transport chain.”

APM Terminals has committed to fully decarbonising its terminal operations by 2040, the advancement on its initial finishing line by 10 years.

Speaking on the quay alongside the Laura, he said the ship marks a crucial first step for the shipping sector and supply chains. Capable of carrying 2,136 twenty-foot containers (TEU) the Laura is a relatively small – yet symbolic – ship, said Svendsen.

More than 100 vessels of all types with methanol engines are in global orderbooks, however. Svendsen said: "We expect to see methanol fueled ships from Maersk and other shipping lines here in Rotterdam. The faster we create a big market for green fuels, the better and cheaper availability will be.

"We are in times in which we will create an ecosystem that will collectively reduce emissions from shipping and logistics much faster than we could have hoped," he said.

Since last week leading aircraft charter specialist, Air Charter Service, has been working around the clock to arrange flights to send aid to Libya following Storm Daniel and has already chartered aircraft carrying over 500 tons to the country, with more to follow in the coming days.

The storm caused catastrophic floods, leading to more than 11,000 losing their lives and thousands more displaced due to the extensive damage caused.

Ben Dinsdale, Director for Government and Humanitarian Services at ACS, commented: “At the weekend we had our first flights to Libya, into Benghazi, Al Abraq and Tobruk airports, with several more booked over the coming days – they mostly are carrying aid including shelter equipment, such as tarpaulins, tents and sleeping bags, as well as water purification tablets.

“Our European and Middle East offices have been the busiest in arranging these charters and so far we have used a variety of aircraft, including Boeing 747, Airbus A300 and Ilyushin IL-76. We are still receiving requests now, but the rate at which they are coming in has slowed down.”

Storm Daniel came just a week after the devastating earthquake that hit Morocco, which also caused a large loss of life, as well as widespread destruction. Dinsdale continued: “It seems unbelievable that there were two such devastating natural disasters, so near to each other geographically and in such a short period of time – I can’t remember anything remotely similar to this happening before. We were at the stage of trying to arrange a number of search and rescue flights into Morocco when the Moroccan government announced that it had restricted aid senders to just four governments. Then we heard about Libya, and most governments’ and NGOs’ attention turned to helping the victims there.”