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Category: Logistics

Retail News Asia is committed to providing both local and global retailers with the latest Logistics news throughout the Asian market. This on a daily base.

  • Lufthansa Cargo publishes winter flight schedule 2024/2025

    Lufthansa Cargo publishes winter flight schedule 2024/2025

    With the newly published timetable, Lufthansa Cargo offers its customers 89 weekly B777F freighter connections worldwide, seven more than in the summer timetable. A significant development in the winter timetable is a transpacific flight: a weekly rotation of a B777F freighter connects Frankfurt via Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) with Los Angeles (LAX) and then returns to the home hub in Frankfurt. This is the cargo carrier’s first direct connection from the Asian market to the U.S. network, offering cargo customers an even faster, high-quality connection between the two continents. With the expansion of new routes and direct connections, Lufthansa Cargo is underlining its long-term growth plans in a dynamic market environment and underlining its purpose of “Enabling Global Business”.

    “Lufthansa Cargo is constantly reviewing all possibilities to offer its customers seamless, high-quality connections and to enable global business even more efficiently and sustainably. With a comprehensive review of our existing schedule and network, we have been able to optimize our rotations. In the future, some of our freighters will have fewer stopovers, allowing our customers to benefit from direct connection and transportation of their freight within our global network,” said Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo.

    For the winter schedule, the cargo carrier is increasing its frequencies to destinations in India and China to accommodate the continued growth in e-commerce shipments and other goods requiring Lufthansa Cargo’s renowned quality services and solutions. The increase in frequencies is primarily due to the entry into service of the 18th B777F freighter in the fleet, which was transferred from the Boeing plant in Seattle to Frankfurt in mid-August. In addition, the A321F fleet will operate up to 34 weekly medium-haul and short-haul flights connecting our two Hubs Frankfurt and Munich.

    In the Asia-Pacific region, Lufthansa Cargo is increasing its weekly freighter capacity to Mumbai (BOM) and Taipei (TPE) by one flight per week. Chennai (MAA) will be served twice weekly in combination with Hyderabad (HYD) or Mumbai (BOM). With the recent addition of Shenzhen (SZX) and Zhengzhou (CGO) to its route network, the cargo carrier can now offer its customers a total of 50 weekly frequencies to Asia.

    In addition, the freighter rotation from Frankfurt via Tel Aviv (TLV) to Cairo (CAI) will be increased by one weekly flight with a B777F. The continental network will remain largely unchanged with the A321F fleet, which since July has also been offering cargo customers, particularly in southern Germany, a direct connection from Munich to Istanbul (IST) and back.

    The Winter schedule 2024/2025 can be booked from October 6 and takes effect on October 27. In addition to the freighter service, Lufthansa Cargo also markets the additional cargo capacity of up to 7,500 flights a week to over 350 destinations served by Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines and SunExpress – and since this summer also on numerous new connections to North America, such as from Frankfurt to Raleigh-Durham (RDU) or Minneapolis (MSP).

  • UPS bolsters healthcare logistics capabilities with cold-chain acquisitions

    UPS bolsters healthcare logistics capabilities with cold-chain acquisitions

    UPS announced that it has agreed to acquire Frigo-Trans, and its sister company BPL, (together “Frigo-Trans”) industry-leading, complex healthcare logistics providers based in Germany. Once completed, the acquisition will enhance UPS’s end-to-end capabilities throughout Europe for UPS Healthcare customers who increasingly require temperature-sensitive and time-critical logistics.

    “The fast-paced innovation in the pharmaceutical industry is creating the need to have more integrated cold and frozen supply chains,” said UPS EVP and President of International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions Kate Gutmann. “Frigo-Trans will help deepen our portfolio of solutions for our customers and accelerate our journey to become the number one complex healthcare logistics provider in the world addressing their needs.”

    Frigo-Trans’ network includes temperature-controlled warehousing that covers six temperature zones from cryopreservation (-196°C) to ambient (+15° to +25°C); a Pan-European cold chain transportation solution and temperature-controlled and time-critical freight forwarding capabilities.

    The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary regulatory reviews and approvals. The value and terms of the transaction are not being disclosed at this time.

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  • Etihad Cargo’s cutting-edge solutions bridge the gap between East and West for high-value shipments

    Etihad Cargo’s cutting-edge solutions bridge the gap between East and West for high-value shipments

    In the ever-evolving landscape of global logistics, ensuring the safety and security of high-value is paramount. Etihad Cargo, a leader in the air freight industry, continuously enhances its security measures to meet the demands of transporting valuable goods. By leveraging specialised products, technological advancements, and strategic partnerships, Etihad Cargo remains at the forefront of secure cargo handling.

    Added security when transporting high-value goods
    In the context of evolving security threats, Etihad Cargo ensures continuous enhancement and robustness of security measures for handling high-value cargo through its specialised SafeGuard product. For goods classified as “valuables,” which exceed a certain value per kilogram, Etihad Cargo also leverages the expertise of its sister company, Etihad Secure Logistics.

    Leonard Rodrigues, Director Revenue Management & Network Planning at Etihad Cargo explains, “The partnership, in combination with our SafeGuard product, provides state-of-the-art security measures, including secure transit via dedicated, armoured vehicles and security personnel.” For vulnerable goods, such as electronic products, Etihad Cargo offers SecureTech, a process-based product that controls more aspects of the transportation process. SafeGuard and SecureTech serve the transportation needs of both valuable and vulnerable goods, ensuring high standards of safety and security.

    Enhanced security and transparency
    Technological advancements enable more intermediate milestones for tracking, reducing physical touchpoints and human intervention. Leonard says, “This approach increases digital updates, enhancing functional tracking while minimising the risk of errors and security breaches.”

    Etihad Cargo’s digital transformation initiatives have significantly enhanced the safety and security of high-value cargo during transit. A dedicated Cargo Control Centre team monitors shipments and alerts stakeholders if there are any deviations from the SLA. Recognising the crucial role of technology, Etihad Cargo plans to introduce live monitoring, allowing customers to view the real-time status of their shipments. By engaging with multiple service providers, Etihad Cargo aims to implement the best solutions.

    Enhancing efficiency and security in high-value cargo handling
    In June 2024, Etihad Cargo expanded its partnership with SF Airlines, increasing the frequency of flights between mega hubs Abu Dhabi and Ezhou to boost cargo connectivity and capacity between China, the UAE and other global destinations.

    Strategic partnerships, such as this, enhance Etihad Cargo’s ability to handle and transport goods, especially in the e-commerce sector, by leveraging state-of-the-art facilities and digital controls.

    Leonard highlights that SF Airlines’ Ezhou hub employs dedicated staff and advanced digital systems to increase handling security. The partnership, which provides full control over the process unlike traditional reliance on third-party providers, ensures more efficient and secure management of high-value cargo. This is especially true for goods from China, where much of today’s mobile phones and consumer technology are manufactured. The entire platform is digitally monitored, and all staff are under the direct control of the operator. The collaboration allows Etihad Cargo to benefit from dedicated teams and enhanced oversight, improving overall efficiency and security in transporting valuable and vulnerable goods.

    Elevating security and customer trust with SecureTech
    Etihad Cargo’s state-of-the-art facilities and security protocols ensure the security of high-value electronic devices transported under its SecureTech program. Security supervision is provided at every stage, from acceptance to transit, buildup, and delivery. This comprehensive approach ensures continuous monitoring and protection throughout the transportation process, safeguarding high-value electronic devices from potential risks.

    Leonard adds that the introduction of SecureTech has significantly enhanced customer trust and satisfaction for high-value or vulnerable cargo shipments. “We saw a 40% growth in Q1 compared to last year following the launch of SecureTech. The main USP is the handling and security we offer, ensuring electronic shipments are protected throughout transit, with the added option to clear cargo immediately upon arrival at the destination.” Through this, Etihad Cargo has created more alignment and clarity throughout the supply chain, ensuring consistency in service delivery and allowing customers to understand exactly what they are receiving.

    Strategic location, efficient cargo transit
    The location of Etihad Airlines and Etihad Cargo’s hub, Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, significantly enhances the efficiency of high-value cargo transit. The airport features security vaults, special storage areas, security escorts, and CCTV surveillance, making it a secure hub. Serving as a central hub, the airport receives shipments from multiple destinations.

    Leonard notes that for Etihad Cargo’s SecureTech product, top markets include Vietnam, China, Hong Kong, and India; while for SafeGuard products, top markets include Singapore, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and India. Additionally, Abu Dhabi’s central location is ideal for handling high-value cargo efficiently between these key markets and connecting destinations across the carrier’s global network, essentially bridging the gap between East and West.

    Looking forward, Etihad Cargo is exploring new technologies to further secure and optimise shipment handling. “The goal is to provide more information with less human intervention, ensuring every shipment follows a pre-approved path and progresses as expected, with alerts being sent if shipments deviate from this path. This approach focuses on utilising advanced technology rather than increasing human involvement,” Leonard concludes.

    As global trade and security challenges are evolving, Etihad Cargo remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation and excellence. By continuously refining its security protocols, embracing technological advancements, and fostering strategic partnerships, Etihad Cargo ensures that high-value goods are transported with the utmost care and precision. With ambitious plans to further enhance their digital monitoring capabilities and streamline operations, Etihad Cargo is well-positioned to lead the industry in secure cargo handling. In bridging the gap between East and West, Etihad Cargo not only meets the demands of today but also sets new standards for the future of high-value shipments.

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  • J&T Express turns to net profit in H1 2024

    J&T Express turns to net profit in H1 2024

    J&T Global Express Limited a global logistics service provider, announced its 2024 interim results for the first half of 2024. In the first half of the year, J&T’s revenue reached US$4.86 billion, representing a year-over-year increase of 20.6%. Revenue of its core business, express delivery services, reached US$4.74 billion, marking a YoY increase of 33.7%. Gross profit showed a YoY increase of 176.8% to US$540 million.

    In H1 2024, all of J&T’s profit metrics swung to positive. The Company reported a net profit of US$31.026 million, a significant turnaround compared to the loss of US$670 million over the same period last year. Adjusted net profit was US$63.248 million, compared to a loss of US$260 million over the same period last year. Adjusted EBITDA soared by 795.6% to reach US$350 million. Adjusted EBIT also turned positive and reached US$120 million, underlining a healthy and sustainable level of profitability.

    During the Period, J&T’s total parcel volume increased by 38.3% YoY to 11.01 billion. The business scale of all operating regions continued to expand, with parcel volume consistently achieving double-digit growth. In Southeast Asia, parcel volume increased by 42% YoY to 2.04 billion, raising its market share to 27.4%. In China, parcel volume grew by 37% to 8.84 billion. In newer markets such as Saudi Arabia and Mexico, parcel volume surged approximately 64% to 140 million.

    China’s parcel volume growth leads the industry; cost per parcel reduction drives adjusted EBIT to profitability for the first time
    During the Period, J&T’s market share continued to rise, with a 37% YoY growth in parcel volume outpacing its peers. J&T’s market share, in terms of parcel volume in China, reached 11%, up 1.1 percentage points YoY. This was primarily driven by J&T seizing the growth opportunities brought by the rapid growth of social e-commerce and enhancing customer acquisition with cost-effective services. At the same time, J&T continued to explore its business development in China’s lower-tier markets, cooperating with a number of e-commerce platforms to undertake consolidation delivery business targeting at remote areas, thereby helping e-commerce vendors and e-commerce platforms to expand to areas that were originally difficult to reach.

    In the first half of the year, J&T revenue in the Chinese market was approximately US$3 billion, a year-on-year increase of about 36%. The adjusted EBITDA reached US$200 million, and the adjusted EBIT turned positive for the first time, reaching US$59.595 million. This is mainly due to the Company’s relatively stable revenue per parcel in the first half of the year, with the unit cost per parcel of express delivery continuing to decline. Specifically, the unit cost per parcel dropped by about 6% to US$0.32. Benefited from to the continuous implementation of refined management and operational optimization in each process in China, which has continually enhanced the strength and efficiency of our entire network.

    Maintaining its lead in SEA for four consecutive years with growing market share; continually optimizing service quality
    J&T’s full coverage and well-established logistics network in SEA, as well as its cost-effective services and strong customer relationships, have continued to serve as competitive advantages. As a result, the Company’s parcel volume in the region increased by 42% YoY. J&T’s market share reached 27.4%, up 2 percentage points compared to 2023.

    In SEA, J&T continues to seize opportunities in the e-commerce market and actively develop non-e-commerce platform customers. The Company also benefits from both the overall rise in e-commerce volume and the emergence of social commerce, while maintaining a strong commitment to service quality. In H1 2024, the Company’s average parcel delivery time in SEA was shortened by 13.8% YoY.

    In the first half of 2024, revenue of the Company’s SEA operations increased by 22% to US$1.52 billion, adjusted EBITDA grew by 13% to US$210 million, and adjusted EBIT grew by 46% YoY to reach US$130 million.

    New Markets business maintained rapid growth and actively expands local e-commerce customer base
    J&T continues to penetrate new markets, rapidly expanding its business scale. The volume of packages in J&T new markets is growing at a high speed. While maintaining close cooperation with Chinese cross-border e-commerce platforms, we are actively developing and maintaining good relationships with major local e-commerce platforms such as Noon in the Middle East and Salla in Saudi Arabia. At the same time, the demand for parcel services from individual customers and commercial organizations in new markets is increasing. To better serve this need, we have launched the J&T SPEED product in the Middle East.

    In 1H 2024, revenue from new markets reached US$290 million, representing a near 1.2x YoY increase. This growth was fuelled primarily by a 64% YoY surge in regional parcel volume. During the Period, gross profit turned positive, reaching US$35.022 million, while the adjusted EBITDA loss narrowed significantly to US$7.84 million compared to the same period last year.

    Continue to enhance service experience: Solidifying the path to global development
    J&T is committed to providing customers with an enhanced logistics service experience by continuously building its own sorting centers, enhancing the efficiency of self-operated transportation fleets, and investing in automated equipment across various markets. As of 30 June 2024, the Company had approximately 8,000 network partners and around 19,900 outlets. The Company operated 237 sorting centers equipped with 254 automated sorting lines. Its transportation network comprised over 4,100 line-haul routes, utilizing more than 9,900 vehicles, including over 5,700 that were company-owned.

  • Australia Post announces three-year strategic partnership deal with IKEA

    Australia Post announces three-year strategic partnership deal with IKEA

    Australia Post and IKEA announced a new strategic partnership, entering into a three-year agreement to further expand IKEA’s delivery footprint in Australia.

    With ten stores in six states and territories Australia-wide, the Swedish retailer’s focus on omnichannel retailing through e-commerce and remote selling channels has sparked exponential parcel growth over the past five years, with over 500,000 parcel orders being fulfilled in FY24. Under the new multi-million-dollar deal, Australia Post becomes their primary eCommerce fulfilment partner for small and medium parcels, accounting for approximately 65% of IKEA Australia’s total number of parcel orders.

    With 23% of all IKEA Australia parcel orders delivered to areas outside the reach of metro stores, Australia Post will support the expansion of IKEA deliveries across its extensive network, reaching even the most regional and remote parts of Australia. The widespread Australia Post collection points across Australia will also greatly benefit IKEA customers, who will be able to pick up their IKEA parcel orders from convenient locations such as their local Post Office.

    Australia Post CEO and Managing Director, Paul Graham, highlighted the partnership as strategically beneficial for both companies.

    “Australia Post is proud to be chosen as IKEA Australia’s trusted delivery partner. With our robust infrastructure and commitment to reliability and efficiency for customers, we have built the largest delivery network in the country.

    “We look forward to supporting the continued growth and momentum of this iconic brand as they expand their customer reach in Australia through our extensive delivery capabilities.”

    IKEA Australia CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer, Mirja Viinanen, said:

    “As an omnichannel retailer, our goal is to bring IKEA to more people, in more ways and in more places, making it easier and more convenient than ever before for Australians to shop with us to create homes they love.

    “We’re famous for our flatpack furniture, however what our customers don’t always realise is much of the IKEA home furnishing range is available to them in a parcel via the post. Partnering with Australia’s largest delivery provider allows us to greatly enhance our accessibility for our customers in this way.

    “We are excited to work together with such a highly trusted brand as Australia Post, who shares our values when it comes to excellence in customer experience and a dedication to sustainability and look forward to a successful new partnership.”

    Australia Post is projected to deliver over 250,000 IKEA parcels each year under the agreement, offering both Parcel Post and Express Post delivery options for customers across the country.

    Sustainable delivery solutions also underpin the partnership, with Australia Post operating the country’s largest electric delivery vehicle fleet, contributing to IKEA Australia’s ambition to offer zero-emission deliveries.

    The three-year partnership launches this October.

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  • eleport and Etihad Cargo partners in line with growing trade flow between Southeast Asia and Middle East

    eleport and Etihad Cargo partners in line with growing trade flow between Southeast Asia and Middle East

    Teleport, an integrated logistics provider, and Etihad Cargo have partnered to inject cargo capacity and frequency into their respective cargo network between Southeast Asia and the Middle East, with plans to increase frequency shortly. This move is against a backdrop of growing airfreight demand and trade between the two regions.

    Trade between the Gulf nations and emerging Asian nations continues to show high growth momentum, surging 35% from US$383bil in 2021 to US$516bil in 2022, and is expected to reach US$757bil by 2030, outstripping growth rate with Western nations such as the US, UK and the Euro Area. At the same time, air freight demand continues to pose double-digit growth across all regions, having risen 14.1% as of June 2024.

    Since signing the partnership in May this year, Teleport has deployed its freighters for Etihad to ship machines, raw materials, phones and chip sets among others, from Ho Chi Minh to Kuala Lumpur twice a week, with onward connection via Etihad’s capacity to Abu Dhabi and beyond. This partnership also enables both parties to maximise the available passenger belly capacity especially out of leisure hubs such as Bali and Phuket, by leveraging on each other’s network strength. Etihad will deepen its connectivity in Southeast Asia on the back of Teleport’s extensive network in the region, while Teleport leverages Etihad’s strong global network to expand its network reach into the Middle East, Europe, Americas and the African regions. By the end of this year, the partnership is expected to see 1600 tonnes of cargo moved between the two destinations with the potential for an increase in flight frequency and new routes.

    Stanislas Brun, Vice President of Cargo at Etihad Cargo said, “We continue to anchor our strategy on key partnerships that will enable us to better serve our customer needs while supporting global trade. This recent partnership with Teleport is important to enhance our connectivity to Southeast Asia, and we are confident that through the integration of their freighter operations and our capacity, we are able to continue to grow and build a more efficient and robust network that better serves both regions, and quickly. The market environment is highly favourable to grow our presence here today, and with a strong air partner like Teleport.”

    Jagedeswaran Nadrajah, Head of Air Partners at Teleport, commented “The integration of Etihad’s global network with our largest Southeast Asia network has opened up a more dynamic way to connect cargo between these two regions – leveraging on the strengths of both our networks. This is valuable to both our existing and new customers trading between two important regions. This sort of synergy is testament to what Teleport has been building through its Air Partners programme as a win-win solution for all Teleport Air Partners, where we can continue to build and grow, and never fly empty.”

  • Vietnam’s exports to US accelerate

    Vietnam’s exports to US accelerate

    Vietnam’s exports to the U.S. surged 24.4% year-on-year to $66.09 billion in the first seven months, the highest growth rate among its export markets.

    In the seven-month period, American buyers spent a monthly average of close to $9.6 billion on purchasing goods from Vietnamese suppliers.

    With the U.S. accelerating goods purchases for the year-end festive season and the volume of their goods in stock plunging, the number of orders from U.S. buyers is expected to grow significantly.

    Vu Vinh Phu, an economic expert, predicted Vietnamese exports to the market such as electronics, leather and footwear, garment textiles, farm produce, machinery and equipment will continue to recover in months to come.

    These product categories have seen improvement in quality and competitive pricing thanks to substantial foreign direct investment in production and export activities as well as their deep integration into supply chains, making them more favoured and trusted by U.S. importers.

    If the current growth momentum is maintained, bilateral trade could reach $135 billion this year.

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  • FedEx expands International Connect Plus service to the U.S. and Europe, boosting growth opportunities for Asian SMEs

    FedEx expands International Connect Plus service to the U.S. and Europe, boosting growth opportunities for Asian SMEs

    Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, is expanding FedEx® International Connect Plus (FICP), its international, day-definite, e-commerce shipping service. Already available for e-tailers to send shipments within Asia Pacific markets, the expanded service will now connect to destinations in the U.S. and Europe. Initially, this service expansion will be available to e-tailers operating in China, Hong Kong SAR, and Japan, with other Asia Pacific markets being added later this year.

    The expanded coverage of FICP is the company’s latest effort to support the growth of cross-border e-commerce from Asia to the U.S. and Europe. E-commerce sales in Asia are projected to reach $13,209 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 17.6% from 2023 to 2030. China and Japan remain the largest Asian Pacific markets with robust cross-border e-commerce activity, providing extensive business opportunities for SMEs. With this expansion, e-commerce merchants in these markets can now offer their customers an international shipping solution with prices that offer greater value, while ensuring most shipments will be delivered between two to three business days to the U.S. and Europe.

    Greater value – The FICP allows businesses to enjoy greater savings at competitive day-definite transits and provide their customers greater value by matching attractive prices with their specific delivery needs.

    Flexibility and control – Besides home delivery, the FICP service enables e-tailers to give their end customers the flexibility to pick up their package from hundreds of available pick-up locations, and the option to change delivery date and location.

    Seamless Integration – Both online and offline shipping automation solutions are available for e-tailers to enjoy a paperless experience.

    Peace of mind – FedEx extensive parcel tracking capabilities gives e-tailers and customers visibility throughout the entire delivery journey.

    “FICP has been received enthusiastically by our e-commerce customers who value it as the optimal balance of expedited delivery and cost-effectiveness,” stated Salil Chari, senior vice president, Marketing & Customer Experience, Asia Pacific, FedEx. “At FedEx, we are focused on providing businesses with a comprehensive range of shipping solutions tailored to their specific requirements. The expansion of FICP, in conjunction with our other digital offerings, enhances our ability to support our customers and facilitate the continued growth of cross-border e-commerce from this dynamic region.”

    FedEx provides end-to-end e-commerce solutions that make order fulfillment easy and efficient for merchants while providing convenience and reliability for customers receiving deliveries. It recently launched cross-border e-commerce handbooks for merchants looking to expand in China and Japan. FedEx Picture Proof of Delivery was introduced to bolster e-commerce residential deliveries, in the company’s continued efforts to digitize its services and improve the customer experience while supporting e-commerce growth in the region.

    FICP also comes with the reliability of FedEx international, day-definite delivery service, coupled with its customs clearance expertise. It is further supported with capabilities including tracking, sending notifications to recipients, and flexible delivery options and visibility features via FedEx Delivery Manager® International.

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  • DHL and Envision team up for sustainable innovations in logistics and energy

    DHL and Envision team up for sustainable innovations in logistics and energy

    Envision Group, a leading global green technology company, and DHL Group, the world’s leading logistics company, signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement to foster a comprehensive cooperation in logistics solutions and mutually accelerate the progress of sustainability targets. The partnership covers four main areas: logistics solutions, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), green energy, and the joint development of a “Net Zero Industrial & Logistic Park”. The partnership will combine DHL Group’s extensive logistics expertise with Envision’s knowledge of renewable energy solutions, aiming to accelerate the advancement of environmental energy initiatives. Both companies are committed to sustainability with targets to reach net-zero emissions.

    SAF is a key focus area in the scope of this partnership. Both companies recognize SAF as a critical component in reducing carbon emissions in air transportation and advancing the decarbonization of the aviation industry, with DHL aiming to increase the SAF mix to 30% by 2030. In this strategic collaboration, Envision will provide SAF for DHL, supporting the logistics company’s goals of reducing carbon emissions while securing global supply. Envision will also explore renewable feedstock sources and technology routes to continuously advance decarbonization in the air transportation sector.

    Zhang Lei, Chairman of Envision Group, said, “The transportation sector, mainly sustainable fuel, represents a critical frontier in the transition to zero-carbon emissions but is currently trailing targets largely due to high costs associated with green hydrocarbons and their derivatives. Envision aims to address this cost barrier through systematic technological innovation, revolutionizing the production of SAF products, and facilitating the large-scale industrial development of this “new oil” to support global efforts towards carbon neutrality.”

    Additionally, Envision will provide comprehensive green energy transition solutions, including electricity, to support DHL’s renewable energy goals through focused green power procurements.

    The agreement establishes DHL as a key strategic partner for Envision’s development plans, leveraging DHL’s extensive network across over 220 countries and territories to support Envision’s goals in entering new markets for renewable energy. As Envision’s preferred logistics partner, DHL will deploy fully integrated logistics solutions to improve efficiency and quality, ensuring seamless global supply chain management, and comprehensive support in navigating regulatory requirements and operational challenges.

    “The partnership framework with Envision represents a further step towards global sustainability leadership for DHL Group. By leveraging our unparalleled logistics expertise and unique global network, we are committed to supporting Envision in their international expansion and logistical challenges.” said Tobias Meyer, Chief Executive Officer at DHL Group. “Together, we will lead the change in integrating green technologies and optimizing supply chains, setting new benchmarks for sustainable innovation and global environmental impact through the energy transition.”

    Envision and DHL will also explore opportunities for the joint development and construction of a “Net Zero Industrial & Logistic Park” across various industry sectors. The “Net Zero Industrial Park” is a new class of industrial parks that are fully powered by a comprehensive clean energy solution and integrates the supply chains of several industries, such as electric vehicle and battery manufacturing. The Park aims to advance new electric power systems models and foster green industrial ecosystems, while ultimately expediting the global green transition for customers. Initially launched in China by Envision, it is now expanding to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, with the support of DHL, providing innovative solutions for global zero-carbon transformation.

  • DHL Express and CIMB join forces to reduce CO₂e through sustainable aviation fuel

    DHL Express and CIMB join forces to reduce CO₂e through sustainable aviation fuel

    DHL Express has signed an agreement with CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Group”) to welcome the banking group onboard its GoGreen Plus programme.

    The partnership enables CIMB to leverage the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to mitigate the CO2e emissions associated with its international shipments. Through the partnership, CIMB will deploy the programme across Malaysia and Singapore.

    CIMB recognises the importance of aligning business interests with climate practice. In September 2022, the Group announced a net-zero by 2050 goal for Scope 3 emissions, emphasising the indirect greenhouse gases generated through transportation and distribution activities. DHL’s GoGreen Plus service helps to facilitate a pathway towards cleaner operations and contributes to scaling the wider SAF ecosystem.

    SAF is considered the aviation industry’s most promising means of decarbonisation. Made from alternative raw materials such as used cooking oil, waste, and hydrogen, SAF cuts approximately 80 percent of carbon emissions for air transport shipments over its lifecycle compared to conventional jet fuel. In collaboration with DHL Express, CIMB expects to lower the carbon emissions of its time-definite international air shipments from Malaysia and Singapore by 20 percent via DHL. An independent auditor, Société Générale de Surveillance, verifies the greenhouse gas emission reductions to be counted against CIMB’s Scope 3 carbon emission footprint.

    “Many of our customers look at sustainability as a business imperative today. In Asia Pacific alone, more than 12,000 customers have signed up for our GoGreen Plus service and this number continues to grow consistently,” said Ken Lee, CEO DHL Express Asia Pacific. “As a leading express logistics company, we always connect people and businesses across borders. GoGreen Plus serves as a vital avenue for businesses to cut carbon emissions, and we are convinced more will come on board.”

    “SAF is widely acknowledged as a truly viable route to decarbonising the aviation sector. There is still significant progress to be made, as SAF makes up only 0.1 percent of aviation fuel consumed today. We are impressed with the leadership CIMB has demonstrated in the sustainability space and we are delighted to have CIMB partner us for this important initiative. This motivates us to accelerate efforts to promote SAF availability, accessibility, and affordability so that our customers realise their environmental ambitions,” said Julian Neo, Managing Director of DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei.

    “Sustainability is a key focus at CIMB and central to that are our 2050 net-zero commitments. In our roadmap to achieve these targets, we have long advocated the need to strategically partner and drive innovative solutions. CIMB is pleased to be partnering DHL in their sustainable fuel proposition that will help us mitigate our Scope 3 carbon emissions and in that regard, help us get closer to our 2050 net-zero commitments. DHL’s innovative solution in bringing such an option to its key clients is commendable and will accelerate the commercialisation of such technology,” said Gurdip Singh Sidhu, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Malaysia and CIMB Bank Berhad.

    Launched in February 2023, GoGreen Plus is among the DHL Group’s initiatives to achieve net-zero missions by 2050, which is made possible by three of the most significant SAF agreements with bp, Neste, and World Energy. The air freight network accounts for around 70 percent of the company’s carbon footprint, so sustainable air transportation solutions are crucial for greener logistics.

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  • Emirates Group announces senior appointments

    Emirates Group announces senior appointments

    His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates Group Chairman and Chief Executive, announced senior appointments to support the organisation’s growth and strengthen its leadership bench.

    This latest list of promotions and senior appointments includes 7 UAE nationals, many of whom have grown their careers at the Emirates Group in different roles and continue to play key roles in the organisation’s success.

    HH Sheikh Ahmed said, “These appointments reflect the expanded scale, breadth, and ambition of our business. I’m heartened that we have been able to fill these roles with internal talent, including UAE nationals. The Emirates Group will continue to invest in being an employer of choice for the best talent in the industry, to deliver world-leading products and services, and reflect Dubai’s vision to be number one in everything we do.”

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  • HKIA reports continuous growth in passenger and cargo volume in May

    HKIA reports continuous growth in passenger and cargo volume in May

    Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) released the air traffic statistics for Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) for May 2024. During the month, HKIA handled 4.07 million passengers and 29,855 flight movements, marking year-on-year increases of 30.8% and 34.5%, respectively.

    Mainland China’s Labour Day “Golden Week” holidays starting at the end of April had contributed a significant traffic growth among all passenger segments in May. Traffic to and from Southeast Asia, Mainland China, and Japan recorded the most notable boosts during the month.

    Cargo throughput saw a year-on-year increase of 19.0% to 416,000 tonnes in May. HKIA has continued to record double-digit year-on-year growth in cargo volume each month this year. Export traffic remains the main driver of the growth, recording a 30.1% increase compared with the same month last year. Among key trading regions, cargo traffic to and from North America, Europe and the Middle East increased most significantly during the month.

    For the first five months of this year, the airport handled 21.0 million passengers or 58.9% higher than the low base during the same period in 2023. Flight movements also increased 50.5% year-on-year to 145,140, while cargo volume rose by 18.0% year-on-year to more than 1.9 million tonnes.

    On a 12-month rolling basis, passenger volume was 47.3 million, marking an increase of 157.9% comparing with the previous comparable period. Flight movements increased by 76.3% year on year to 324,805, as cargo throughput also grew 13.1% year-on-year to 4.6 million tonnes.

    In terms of route development, HK Express Airways inaugurated a new direct flight service linking HKIA and Sanya Phoenix International Airport, Hainan on 10 May. With four pairs of flights each week, the new route provides more choices for travellers visiting Hainan.

    Meanwhile, HKIA’s “Marine Ecology and Fisheries Enhancement Strategy” project won the highest Platinum Award in the ACI Green Airports Recognition 2024, in the biggest airport capacity category of over 35 million passengers per annum. Organised by the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, the award recognises airports with outstanding achievements in biodiversity and nature-based solutions.

    Peter Lee, General Manager, Sustainability of AAHK said, “We are honoured to receive this award, which commends our voluntary and continuous efforts to explore and enhance local marine biodiversity and fisheries resources around HKIA and North Lantau waters.  The efforts, namely eco-enhancement of seawall designs, deployment of artificial reefs and shellfish reefs, and fish restocking, were first investigated by experts, with pilot tests following on intended to determine the viability and real-world value of promising enhancements.  With positive biodiversity impacts identified, we are in the process of scaling up these initiatives around HKIA, and importantly, these nature-based efforts will serve as a useful reference for future implementation by others across broader Hong Kong waters.”

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  • Etihad Cargo expands European freighter network with launch of Madrid

    Etihad Cargo expands European freighter network with launch of Madrid

    Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is expanding its freighter network with a new route to Madrid. Starting 15 July 2024, Etihad Cargo will operate two weekly Boeing 777 freighter flights between Abu Dhabi and Madrid, adding over 200 tonnes of cargo capacity for Europe.

    The launch of a twice-weekly freighter service between Abu Dhabi and Madrid will increase the total number of flights to Spain to 25 per week. Etihad Cargo provides belly capacity via 10 passenger flights to Madrid, 10 to Barcelona and three seasonal flights to Malaga launched as part of the airline’s summer schedule. This expansion highlights the strategic importance of these destinations, particularly Madrid as a key European fashion hub, and aims to boost e-commerce connectivity from Asia to Europe via Etihad Cargo’s Abu Dhabi hub.

    This new route complements Etihad Cargo’s existing European freighter network, which includes six weekly flights to Amsterdam and three weekly flights to Frankfurt. With the addition of Madrid to the network, the total number of Etihad Cargo’s freighter flights to Europe will increase to 11 per week. Customers will also benefit from additional belly hold capacity offered as part of the carrier’s summer schedule, which includes the launch of two weekly seasonal flights to Nice. Flights to Athens will increase to 14 per week, with two operating via seasonal destination Mykonos and two via Santorini. A new route to Antalya will operate with three weekly flights, and flights to Istanbul will increase from ten to 14 per week starting 22 July 2024. Additionally, Dublin will see three more flights from 23 July 2024, totalling ten per week.

    Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, stated, “Launching Madrid as Etihad Cargo’s latest European freighter destination supports the growing demand for e-commerce flows between Asia and Europe. Madrid’s role as a key fashion hub makes it an essential destination for the carrier’s freighter network.”

    Etihad Cargo’s hub in Abu Dhabi serves as a crucial link between East and West, providing efficient and reliable cargo services to meet the specific needs of the fashion industry and other sectors dependent on timely e-commerce deliveries.

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  • DHL Express leads the way in electrification of ground fleet at Brussels Airport

    DHL Express leads the way in electrification of ground fleet at Brussels Airport

    As part of the Stargate project of Brussels Airport, DHL Express leads the way in the field of electric ground-handling equipment. Following a successful test phase, one in three tractors and loaders of DHL Express that sorts and transports time-critical shipments from Brussels Airport, will be fully electric this summer. The cargo transporter’s crew buses and tarmac cars are already one hundred percent electric. This investment is a first step for DHL Express towards reducing its CO2 footprint on the ground by more than half. The necessary charging infrastructure will be provided, both on the tarmac, by Brussels Airport, and at its own buildings.

    Over the past days and weeks, express carrier DHL has put eleven electric tractors (which can tow up to four cargo containers) and thirteen electric container lifts, belly loaders and pushbacks into operation at Brussels Airport.  And that is just the beginning, for in the coming months and years, DHL Express aims to develop a fully electric ground fleet in phases at the airport, with machines that are both more sustainable and quieter than their diesel counterparts. And of course, the electric charging stations will follow.

    ‘Electrifying a third of the ground equipment in just a few weeks – that’s quite a feat by our technical department. A heavy electric tractor or a high loader for an aeroplane are not exactly the kind of vehicles you take along to the garage. All the maintenance and training is carried out by DHL employees, now including that of the new electric tractors and chargers. From now on, we will continue to expand our electric ground fleet in phases; the fossil fuel machines will be systematically phased out and will soon be a minority.’ – Kirsten Carlier, CEO of DHL Aviation.

    DHL Express is being supported in the investments by the Stargate project, a Brussels Airport project with a consortium of 21 partners, including DHL Express, which has been awarded subsidies under the European Green Deal to develop projects for greener aviation.  In a first phase, DHL Express committed itself under the Stargate project to invest in a test project for electrical ground-handling equipment. The company has now significantly stepped up this effort, by electrifying a third of its ground-handling equipment in one go, intending to remain a leader in the electrification of its ground fleet at Zaventem in the coming years.

    ‘We are pleased that we are taking the next important step in the electrification of ground-handling equipment within our Stargate project, and that DHL Express is taking the lead. This can drastically reduce both CO2 emissions and the noise impact of ground operations, which is important for both staff and local residents. We will, of course, help to provide the necessary charging points on the tarmac. We will also be testing hydrogen-powered ground handling equipment within Stargate, in order to see which infrastructure is needed for this too, so that we can support all our partners in their evolution towards more sustainable ground handling equipment,’ says Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport.

    With the commissioning of eleven tractors and thirteen loaders and lifts, DHL Express already has by far the largest electric ground fleet at Brussels Airport. Emissions from ground-handling equipment account for 55 percent of the total CO2 footprint of DHL Express ground operations. Full electrification therefore means halving their CO2 emissions.

    Electric ground handling equipment may be available fully electrically powered, but what about the aircraft themselves? That’s a very logical and important question, according to DHL, which has an ambitious sustainability programme underway to make both time-critical shipments and last-mile deliveries greener.

    ‘Our focus is very clear – to reduce CO2 emission. Can it be done tomorrow? No, it needs to evolve, while we are making every effort worldwide to make aviation greener. We believe in a pragmatic approach, with honest and clear communication. An electric cargo plane, such as a Boeing 777 or Airbus A350, is still a long way off. Probably not even for the next decade, unfortunately. The problem is that the batteries would be too heavy for a cargo plane. The development of alternatives will require research and time. What is possible in the short term are smaller types of aircraft, for shorter distances. According to the current planning, DHL will put twelve e-cargo air freight planes into service in 2027. Who knows, maybe these electric planes may soon be flying at Brussels Airport too.’ – Kirsten Carlier, CEO of DHL Aviation.

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  • Lufthansa Cargo launches freighter operations from Munich

    Lufthansa Cargo launches freighter operations from Munich

    Lufthansa Cargo is expanding its operations at the southern German hub and will be operating freighters from the hub for the first time from 6 July 2024. An A321 freighter will connect Munich with Istanbul Airport twice a week, complementing the existing belly network from Munich. The new freighter connection is planned every Saturday and Sunday with flight numbers LH8350 / LH8351 and LH8346 / LH8347. Lufthansa Cargo customers can book their shipments on the new route with immediate effect.

    “We are looking forward to offering our customers this new freighter connection, which makes our global network even more attractive. For our southern German customers in particular, Munich Airport offers ideal conditions for the fast and reliable transportation of air freight, which ultimately also enables global business from another important European airport. With the launch of our cargo operations out of Munich, we are laying the foundation for aligning our network even more closely with the needs of our customers in the future and continuing to manage it flexibly,” explains Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo.

    Jost Lammers, CEO of Flughafen München GmbH: “The launch of regular cargo flights to Istanbul by Lufthansa Cargo is very good news for the Bavarian export industry and for Munich Airport. Above-average growth rates in the current year have already shown that Munich Airport is also becoming increasingly important as a hub airport for cargo. The attractiveness of Munich Airport as a cargo location will now receive a further boost through Lufthansa Cargo’s commitment.”

    Lufthansa Cargo operates its hub in Munich on a total area of 38,000 m². Among other things, the state-of-the-art CEIV-certified Pharma Hub MUC, in which temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products can be stored and handled under optimal conditions, is integrated into the premises. This means that the carrier can also transport almost all product and goods groups via Munich. Until now, these have mainly been transported from the Bavarian capital to destinations all over the world via the belly capacities of Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines, Austrian Airlines and SunExp