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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.

  • Marken expands logistics footprint with Touchdown International acquisition

    Marken expands logistics footprint with Touchdown International acquisition

    Marken has acquired Touchdown International Ltd, a privately held specialty logistics company in Taiwan, for an undisclosed sum. Touchdown is dedicated to the life sciences industry and complements Marken’s strategy to continue expanding in the Asia Pacific region.

    Touchdown was founded in 2013 as a specialty courier with specific expertise in clinical trials logistics.  In 2015, Marken entered into an exclusive sales and agency contract with Touchdown, which allowed Marken to quickly establish its brand with local pharmaceutical and life science clients.  With a dedicated staff and fleet of vehicles, Touchdown provides courier services across Taiwan for biological samples, clinical trial drug shipments, API-, and other clinical trial materials. The acquisition enables Marken to expand its service offerings in Taiwan by leveraging both Marken’s and UPS’ global transportation networks.

    With the acquisition of Touchdown, Marken now has its own operational presence in Taiwan and adds its 46th global location to a continually expanding network of logistics sites, depots and regional offices.  The new legal entity will be named Marken Taiwan Ltd. with its headquarters in Taipei.

    Mike Wu, the founder and CEO of Touchdown, will remain with Marken as the new general manager in Taiwan. Mike commented, “We have worked hard to establish Marken’s brand locally in Taiwan. We respect Marken’s approach to clinical trial logistics and are proud to introduce their services to our local life science clients. We are very much looking forward to becoming part of the Marken family.”

    Michael Culme-Seymour, VP APAC for Marken stated, “Asia continues to be a vital part of Marken’s strategic growth plans.  With the acquisition of Touchdown, we now have a solid footprint in Taiwan, whose pharma market is expected to grow to US$84 billion by 2020. We can now serve our clients in Taiwan with the depth and breadth of our global services.”

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  • Kale Logistics Solutions joins IPCSA

    Kale Logistics Solutions joins IPCSA

    Global IT solutions provider Kale Logistics Solutions has joined the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA). Kale Logistics is focused on providing cutting-edge technology solutions to the logistics industry. Its broad solutions portfolio ranges from Internal Business Automation Systems (ERP systems) to Community Solutions that help various players in the logistics value chain to communicate and transact with each other electronically.

    Speaking about Kale Logistics, which has more than 2,000 clients across the globe and has plans to start operations in Europe, CEO Amar More said, “We are experiencing a wide demand for our solutions in America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Far East and are already working with several industry associations and airports. By joining IPCSA, we will be able to share and enrich our industry experience, learnings and adoption strategies by interacting with global industry peers. There is a great potential within IPCSA for collaborating and combining each other’s solutions to enable fast turnaround times and a digital infrastructure for trade facilitation. We look forward to building digital corridors between the other community system operators and connecting the global logistics industry more closely.”

    Richard Morton, secretary general of IPCSA, said, “We are delighted to welcome Kale Logistics Solutions as our newest member. IPCSA continues to expand its influence geographically and is representing its members at the highest levels, including through our consultative status at the International Maritime Organization and Special Consultative Status at UN ECOSOC.”

    IPCSA was originally founded as the European Port Community Systems Association in 2011, by six European-based PCS operators. It was relaunched in 2014 as an international association, reflecting its growing membership outside Europe. Today, IPCSA’s members operate across the world, exchanging electronic information at more than 100 sea and air ports, rail and inland waterways, and border crossing points. This equates to more than 250 million TEU and six billion tonnes of world trade a year.

    IPCSA’s membership provides representation in each of the five UN Regional Commission regions. This geographical reach enables it to address the needs of members on a regional as well as international basis.

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  • SingPost Centre to have Gong Cha flagship

    SingPost Centre to have Gong Cha flagship

    Never mind bubble wrap, the new SingPost Centre in Paya Lebar is about to have the flagship store for bubble-tea chain Gong Cha as it returns to Singapore.

    Under construction, the store will open in December.

    In May, the brand announced it was leaving Singapore and that its outlets would be replaced by new local chain LiHo. However, Royal Tea Taiwan, the company behind Gong Cha, revealed a couple of months later that the chain would return under a new master franchisee. Former Mr Bean co-founder/MD Kang Puay Seng is leading the return of the brand.

    The new SingPost Centre mall will officially launch next Thursday.

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  • X2 Logistics Network member handles transport for project cargo of oversized equipment

    X2 Logistics Network member handles transport for project cargo of oversized equipment

    X2 Logistics Network member Centauro was nominated to handle Integrated Multimodal Logistics by Sea and Land of an Autoclaved Cellular Concrete Plant (HCA) from Shanghai, China to the province of Santa Fe, Argentina. After participating in a competitive bid along with locals and multinational freight forwarders, Centauro was honoured by client’s nomination due to the proven experience and trajectory of the company in the development of projects in Argentina.

    Centauro arranged the overall negotiation and vessel contract, as well as port operations and road transportation upon arrival at Port of Buenos Aires to client’s plant. A fluid and permanent contact was maintained with all parties involved including a European technologist, the Chinese manufacturer and the Argentine importer with the aim of complying times and logistical restrictions presented in the project.

    The shipment of the three largest pieces, 35 metres long and 74 tonnes each, together with the rest of the components, was shipped on vessel BBC Oregon, taking 55 days transit time from Shanghai to Buenos Aires. The unloading operations in Buenos Aires port were also supervised and controlled by Centauro staff as well as the conditioning and road transportation of the big pieces to the customer’s premises using three multi axle trailers, flat bed carts and support equipment in convoy with special road permits and police custody.

    The multimodal service from Shanghai to Santa Fe was performed in 62 days, delivering the cargo at final destination with full customer satisfaction. This first stage of the project will be completed soon with the shipment of more than 80 containers from Northern Europe ports using Port of Rosario, Argentina as local entrance port.

    X2 founder & CEO Richard Overton commented, “It makes me extremely happy to see the kind of work fellow X2 Members are doing. I have no doubt in my mind that we are going to be seeing a lot more amazing projects before our 5th Anniversary Conference which is coming up in February 2018.”

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  • DHL to create, manage European distribution centres for Eaton’s electrical business

    DHL to create, manage European distribution centres for Eaton’s electrical business

    DHL Supply Chain has signed a long-term agreement with the global power management company Eaton to create and manage three distribution centres for their Electrical business in Europe.

    Over the next few years, the contract logistics specialist within Deutsche Post DHL Group will consolidate Eaton’s major standalone distribution centre capabilities throughout Europe into three high-performing and integrated primary distribution centres. These will be located in Germany, UK and Czech Republic, where the current DHL managed distribution centre will be expanded.

    “Eaton has been a valued partner for years and we are delighted to further intensify our collaboration. Based on DHL Supply Chain’s broad expertise in devising integrated supply chain solutions, we developed the Rheinbach concept for a full warehouse consolidation, starting with planning, construction, fit out and full automation to the initial setup and operation,” said Oscar de Bok, CEO, DHL Supply Chain Mainland Europe, Middle East & Africa.

    In Rheinbach, Germany, a new building is being planned which will serve Eaton’s customers in Western Europe. The green field construction is scheduled to start in the fourth quarter 2017, with DHL storing and distributing different electric components such as switch cabinets, fuses and control devices in the new warehouse after its completion in 2018. The goal is to create a more efficient warehousing concept enabled by a fully automated solution and thereby reducing overall run times to meet increased customer demand.

    “Providing tailored contract logistics solutions is one of our globally proven strengths and the newly to-be-constructed warehousing solution will help Eaton to prepare its business for a successful future,” Karsten Schwarz, CEO, DHL Supply Chain Germany and Alps said. “The new facility will not only provide a significant increase in productivity due to its innovative set up but also demonstrates DHL’s commitment to the wider Bonn region.”

    As both DHL and Eaton have a strong commitment for sustainability with corresponding goals, the new warehousing site is to comply with the standards of the German Society for Sustainable Construction (DGNB) and will be built to achieve the silver certificate of the association.

    “DHL is very experienced in warehousing and distribution as well as supply chain solutions and we can help with their environmental focus and drive energy efficiency by applying Eaton’s power management technologies to their facilities. It’s a very interesting partnership where we support each other’s growth while we keep focused on our core businesses,” said Klaus Gaeb, vice president, Supply Chain and Operational Excellence, Eaton EMEA.

    As DHL already has a significant footprint in Europe, this revised distribution approach would also provide strong future prospects to the majority of distribution centre employees from Eaton covered by this agreement, who have been given the opportunity to join DHL following the completion process.

    With these new agreements, Deutsche Post DHL Group and Eaton are taking the next step in extending their strategic partnership. Since 2008, DHL has been supporting Eaton in the review and improvement of its supply chains across the globe, winning the company’s Best Supplier Award in 2016.

  • DHL is new worldwide title sponsor for DR1 Drone Racing Series

    DHL is new worldwide title sponsor for DR1 Drone Racing Series

    DHL has signed on as the latest title sponsor for a new drone racing series – DR1 presents the “DHL Champions Series, Fueled by Mountain Dew”. This racing championship is organised by DR1 Racing, the premiere drone racing organisation that brings together top pilots and racing teams to compete at exhilarating locations throughout the world, including the Post Tower in Bonn, Germany, the headquarters of Deutsche Post DHL Group. This October and November, the races will be broadcast and streamed online by Eurosport, Fox Sports Asia and Twitch.TV, potentially reaching more than 300 million homes around the world.

    This new racing series gives DHL the opportunity to continue bolstering its leadership position in the development of drone technology, which plays a vital part in the future of logistics, and extending the reach of the DHL brand to a broader business and consumer audiences through a thrilling new sport. Locations for the first season of the DHL Champions Series are expected to include the United States, Germany and Ireland. DR1 events are already being broadcast in more than 100 countries.

    “This new racing series is an exciting opportunity for DHL to showcase our passion for drone racing and illustrate our extensive history in developing innovative and sustainable approaches towards future logistics solutions,” said Ken Allen, CEO, DHL Express. “Similar to Formula E, drone racing represents an exciting new e-racing series, which is why DHL took the opportunity to engage as the logistics partner and title sponsor for DR1’s premier league racing series.”

    DHL has been developing and testing its Parcelcopter for more than four years for deliveries in geographically ambitious areas. It has successfully deployed the Parcelcopter for fully automated deliveries in high-altitude and severe weather conditions in the Bavarian Alps and remote locations on German North Sea islands, successfully integrating them into the overall logistical processes of the DHL Parcel unit. DPDHL’s engagement in this area of research has also won the Group the “German Mobility Award 2016” (Deutscher Mobilitätspreis 2016).

    DHL Supply Chain has deployed drones in Mexico and Brazil for security surveillance, monitoring sites and assets for theft and damage. Drones can also be used as aid deliveries as part of disaster relief missions after natural disasters.

    “We are excited by the potential of innovative technologies in transforming logistics operations in the future. Drones, with their flight capabilities, for example, can significantly cut short the time needed during the last mile delivery. These innovations allow us to more efficient as well as effective in allocating resources, which in turn will benefit our customers as waiting times for deliveries get shortened and more predictable,” said Frank-Uwe Ungerer, managing director, DHL Express Singapore.

    “Our commitment to our customers remains at the core of what we do. Embracing new technologies is aligned to our company’s goal of being at the fore of innovation in logistics, so that we maintain pole position as the preferred logistics partner in Asia Pacific.”

    Joining DHL and Mountain Dew as sponsors of the Champions Series are Air Hogs, makers of the official DR1 Micro Race Drone and FPV Race Drone, and the US ARMY, which is sponsoring DR1’s Twitch Channel program, “DR1 Drone Tech” that airs before each race.

    “We are thrilled to have DHL join the DR1 organisation as the title sponsor for the DHL Champions Series Fueled by Mountain Dew,” said DR1 CEO and founder, Brad Foxhoven.

    “Along with Mountain Dew, who has been with us since our first race last year, we have established a racing series that combines epic outdoor racing, elite pilots and racing teams, and a racing format that creates excitement and engagement for the pilots, viewers and spectators.”

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  • Record numbers for Asia Fruit Logistica

    Record numbers for Asia Fruit Logistica

    Asia Fruit Logistica was a hive of business activity recently, with more than 13,000 trade visitors from 76 different countries pouring through the doors of AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong on 6-8 September 2017. Visitor numbers were up by 16 per cent on last year’s event, setting a new attendance record.

    Opening Press Conference: (L-R) Wilfried Wollbold, commercial director Asia Fruit Logistica; John Hey, editor Asiafruit Magazine; Chris White, managing director of Asiafruit’s publisher Fruitnet Media International.

    Some 70 per cent of visitors came from Asia, with 20 different markets across the Asia-Pacific region represented. The main origins in terms of visitors were China, Hong Kong, India, Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, New Zealand, Japan and Australia.

    “We’re delighted with the dynamic business activity on the show-floor during Asia Fruit Logistica this year,” said Wilfried Wollbold, commercial director of organiser Global Produce Events. “The results underline Asia Fruit Logistica’s role as the leading continental trade exhibition for the fresh produce business in Asia.”

    Visitors to Asia Fruit Logistica found a show that had expanded by almost a third compared with last year’s event in terms of exhibition space. Exhibitor numbers increased by more than 150 on the 2016 edition. A total of 813 exhibitors from 43 different countries took part, while 24 national pavilions featured at the event.

    China remained the single-largest exhibiting country at Asia Fruit Logistica, with bookings and company participation expanding by more than 50 per cent compared with last year’s event. The other leading exhibiting countries were Italy, Egypt and Australia, which ranked second, third and fourth respectively in terms of exhibitor bookings.

    Spain leapt into the top five exhibiting countries for the first time with more than 40 Spanish companies showcasing their products and services. South Africa surged into sixth place, with exhibitor numbers tripling to 33 companies.

    Close to half of all exhibitors at Asia Fruit Logistica came from the Asia and Oceania regions. Europe made up almost a quarter of all exhibitors, followed by the Americas (15 per cent), Africa (12 per cent) and the Middle East (four per cent). Five countries also made their debut appearance as exhibitors at the show, including Costa Rica, Finland, Jordan, the Ukraine and Uzbekistan.

    AsiaFruit Congress offers expert insights

    Asia Fruit Logistica offered visitors an unrivalled combination of business, networking and information opportunities. It all got under way with the AsiaFruit Congress, Asia’s premier fresh produce conference event, which took place on Tuesday 5 September, the day before Asia Fruit Logistica opened its doors. More than 400 high-level industry professionals from around 40 different countries attended the conference, which was addressed by expert speakers covering a range of hot topics.

    AsiaFruit Congress opened with a session exploring the rapidly changing food retail landscape in Asia. Shirley Zhu, who leads the South East Asia research programme for global food and grocery analyst IGD, provided a macro-view of the key trends in Asia’s food retail market. The session then zoomed in on the merging of online and offline (O2O) retail channels. AsiaFruit Congress moderator Chris White interviewed Paul Sheh of Alibaba-backed O2O retailer Hema Supermarket, followed by Walmart China’s Winstone Chee and Sam’s Club China’s Yoep Man, about their respective strategies.

    In the other general sessions at AsiaFruit Congress, Zespri’s global marketing manager Jiunn Shih delivered a dynamic insight into consumer-centric fresh produce marketing, while Rabobank’s chief Asia-Pacific strategist Michael Every offered a thought-provoking perspective on the changing global trade landscape.

    Asia Fruit Awards: celebrating excellence

    AsiaFruit Congress also hosted the presentation of the Asia Fruit Awards. Presented by Asiafruit Magazine and Asia Fruit Logistica to celebrate excellence in Asia’s fresh produce business, the Asia Fruit Awards recognise Asia’s best companies in the fields of marketing, importing and produce retailing.

    Major apple and pear cooperative Belgian Fruit Valley won the Marketing Campaign of the Year for ‘Truval Pears’, a long-running campaign to develop new markets for a new product across Asia. Freshmart Singapore took out the Importer of the Year Award, while the Produce Retailer of the Year Award went to Alibaba-invested O2O retailer Hema Supermarket.

    More information opportunities on the show-floor

    Visitors to Asia Fruit Logistica found plenty of information opportunities on the show-floor with two Hall Forums this year. Hall Forum One – the AsiaFruit Business Forum – offered practical workshops covering topical subjects in the fields of packaging, marketing, and production and trade

    Hall Forum Two turned the spotlight on the worlds of hi-tech and logistics. Each morning, Smart Horticulture Asia explored data management and disruptive technologies at different stages of the supply chain. Each afternoon, Cool Logistics Asia offered practical workshops on cold-chain management covering a range of issues, from the future of container shipping to exporting to Asia by air.

    The next edition of Asia Fruit Logistica takes place on 5-7 September 2018 at AsiaWorld-Expo Center in Hong Kong. AsiaFruit Congress takes place on 4 September at the same venue.

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  • UPS-SF Holding joint venture receives regulatory approval in China

    UPS-SF Holding joint venture receives regulatory approval in China

    UPS and SF Holding, the parent company of SF Express, have announced the approval of their planned joint venture by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM). The JV enables UPS and SF to collaborate on development and provision of international delivery services from, initially, China to the US and, in the future, to other trade lanes. The JV approval is a positive development for international trade and allows the two leading companies to leverage their complementary networks, service portfolios, technologies and logistics expertise.

    UPS is one of the world’s largest express delivery companies and a leading global supply chain integrator. SF is a market leader in express delivery in China, with extensive China-wide network coverage, comprehensive service capabilities, and the highest brand recognition in the Chinese small package industry. The newly approved joint venture is a continuation of UPS and SF’s collaboration that began in 2015, when UPS Worldwide Express service was made available at SF’s Heike retail stores in Shanghai and Shenzhen.

    “We’re delighted to help the many customers in China who will now be in a position to trade more easily across borders and better compete on the global stage thanks to product offerings from the UPS and SF joint venture,” said Ross McCullough, president of UPS Asia Pacific. “UPS has an aggressive multi-year growth plan in China. Aligning our two networks will increase our market presence by connecting China’s consumers and manufacturers to the US and around the world with logistics solutions that strengthen cross-border B2B and B2C capabilities. This JV is highly symbolic of UPS’s confidence in long-term growth opportunities in China.”

    “The establishment of this joint venture boosts global expansion of Chinese enterprises beyond local borders,” said Alan Wong, group vice president of SF. “SF and UPS are able to maximise the strengths of both companies to continuously innovate and create more competitive products that deliver strong value for customers.”

    The alignment of UPS’ and SF’s transportation networks provides customers with greater coverage, additional routing options, increased capacity, and more choice in transit times and service options.

    With the joint venture approved, customers seeking an economical solution for less urgent shipments can opt for Global Reach Plus, the new joint venture deferred express product that features the full visibility and reliability of a premium express service. Customers are expected to gain:

    • Time-in-Transit Reliability with 5-7 business days deliveries jointly powered by UPS & SF’s combined networks.
    • End-to-End Visibility: Visibility from door-to-door using SF’s tracking tool, integrated with UPS’s industry-leading technologies.
    • Single Point of Contact for customer service via SF; shipment pick-up by SF at the origin & delivery by UPS at the destination.
    • Flexibility: Late order cut-off time for shipment pick-ups, and multiple delivery options including the use of UPS My Choice and UPS Access Point network.

    The joint venture supports these highly competitive joint service offerings on the China-to-US lane, with planned expansion to markets in the rest of the world. Both companies can now utilize their own assets to boost operational effectiveness and efficiency for businesses while aligning business processes in order to provide seamless customer care for all parties shipping out of China.

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  • DB Schenker Australia is opening one of the largest multi-client contract logistics facility in the Southern Hemisphere

    DB Schenker Australia is opening one of the largest multi-client contract logistics facility in the Southern Hemisphere

    DB Schenker Australia is opening its new contract logistics facility in Hoxton Park, NSW. Size does matters to Schenker!

    With the size of the internal site being nearly 8 football fields which equals 50,000 sqm and 15,000sqm external under cover area, this facility is a great addition to Schenker Australia’s Contract Logistics portfolio. As of today, Schenker Australia operates 25 sites with the total capacity of 330,000 sqm.

    Hoxton Park is a multi-client facility for consumer electronics, FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) and fashion/retail customers.  With its high profile location close to M7, M4 and M5 it has excellent access to the Sydney metro and national network.

    “Hoxton Park is the newest and largest contract logistics facility for DB Schenker in Australia. Our staff will provide for our customers first class logistics services in this well positioned facility right on the Sydney freeway network. We will also utilise the facility as a hub for our domestic transport network” said Ron Koehler, Chief Executive Officer Australia and New Zealand “For our FCL container movements we will be able to move containers cost effectively to Hoxton Park for timely distribution to our customers in Sydney”, concluded Ron Koehler.

    The facility will incorporate Automated Transport Sortation Systems that will allow for the consolidation of multiple Customers’ freight, into the rapidly growing Schenker Domestic Transport business.  In addition, a vast array of Value Added services will be provided on site including an Advanced Technical Centre providing configuration and testing for IT devices.

    “DB Schenker Australia is consolidating existing business into Hoxton Park as well as adding new substantial business” said Michael Harich, Director of Contract Logistics/Supply Chain Management AU/NZ. “Hoxton Park is a key part of our 2020 strategy to grow to 500,000sqm in Australia and at the same time combine existing smaller sites into larger facilities to generate synergies”.

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  • DB Schenker is the exclusive logistics provider of Prada’s fashion show

    DB Schenker is the exclusive logistics provider of Prada’s fashion show

    This is the third time that DB Schenker will handle the logistics for such a big fashion event for the Italian luxury fashion house in China. The event takes place at Shanghai’s Rong Zhai mansion; a city owned sumptuous 1918 building which has been restored by Prada in cooperation with Shanghai’s government to host the show.

    DB Schenker will be responsible for the delivery of Prada’s articles of clothing and accessories for the show from the retailer’s warehouse in Shanghai to the event’s venue. Furthermore, DB Schenker will move all items into the mansion and position them according to Prada’s requirements. After the show, DB Schenker will manage the move-out of the high-end goods which includes careful sorting, repacking and return to Prada’s warehouse.

    DB Schenker’s repeated assignment as Prada’s exclusive logistics provider for its fashion shows in China results from nearly ten years of excellent collaboration. Since 2008, DB Schenker has been serving Prada with retail logistics solutions comprising inbound air freight shipments from Italy to China, national distribution by air and road to 40 Prada retail stores across China, store-to-store transfer shipments and reverse logistics from stores as well as increased e-commerce customers stimulated by China’s rapidly growing retail e-commerce market. In addition, DB Schenker handles Prada’s outbound air freight shipments for its off-seasonal products from China to outlet stores worldwide.

    “We are truly excited to support Prada’s fashion show once more with our logistics expertise. Prada’s trust in our service performance honors us and proves our professional and reliable logistics capabilities for the high-end fashion sector in China”, says Thomas Sørensen, CEO North/Central China, Schenker China Ltd. 

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  • DHL Supply Chain’s APAC head of marketing joins JLL

    DHL Supply Chain’s APAC head of marketing joins JLL

    Global real estate services firm JLL has appointed Ross Ballantyne (pictured) as head of corporate solutions marketing, Asia Pacific. Based in Singapore, Ballantyne will focus on driving marketing and engagement in JLL’s Future of Work framework, a “unique” outlook on the changing world of work and its impact on the next generation of real estate.

    He will report to Nicole Worthington, chief marketing officer, JLL Asia Pacific. Ballantyne was most recently the head of marketing, Asia Pacific at DHL Supply Chain for close to three years, and according to his LinkedIn, has been with the company for over seven years. As the head of marketing, he responsible for driving the marketing and external communications agenda across 14 countries in the region, to accelerate business growth and enhance customer retention rates.

    Prior to that, Ballantyne was marketing manager, North Asia for 10 months, during which he was responsible for coordinating marketing activities across China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.

    He also created digital marketing campaigns to drive awareness of DHL Supply Chain’s service offering and new growth opportunities, via online advertising, LinkedIn and electronic direct mailers. At DHL Supply Chain, Ballantyne also took on the role of marketing manager for the automotive industry across Europe. He also worked at JP Morgan Chase.

    “We’re delighted to welcome Ross Ballantyne to JLL as head of corporate solutions marketing, JLL Asia Pacific. Ross’s extensive experience, gained both in the UK and Singapore, will be a great asset as we continue to develop and implement creative, innovative marketing strategies that deliver business growth and superior client experience,” Worthington said.

  • GreyOrange installs 50th Sorter at Pos Indonesia

    GreyOrange installs 50th Sorter at Pos Indonesia

    Automation and robotics company GreyOrange has announced its 50th installation of a high-performance, advanced Sortation System for Pos Indonesia, the national postal company which distributes parcels and mail across Indonesia, the largest and fastest growing e-commerce market in South East Asia. The third largest e-commerce market globally, behind China and India, its fast-growing e-commerce market is projected to reach US$130 billion by 2020.

    GreyOrange, headquartered in Singapore, is recognised as one of the world’s top 50 robotics companies by Robotics Business Review, and specialises in the design, manufacture and deployment of advanced robotics and automation systems for distribution and fulfilment centres.

    Gilarsi W. Setijono, CEO, Pos Indonesia said, “The growth in retail and e-commerce in Indonesia has been phenomenal and it is well-timed for the Logistics industry to adopt the newest technologies. The increasing demands for fulfilment and last mile delivery – which call for higher efficiency, accuracy and traceability – have grown steadily. We needed a Sortation system that lets us handle a bigger volume so that we are able to fulfil same or next day deliveries accurately and efficiently. The GreyOrange Sortation system lets us do that.

    Nalin Advani, CEO, GreyOrange Asia Pacific said, “We are pleased that Pos Indonesia has selected the GreyOrange Linear Sorter to handle its fast increasing volumes. This Sorter is our 50th installation globally in under four years, and quite special to us. We are proud to work with the team at Pos Indonesia to design and deploy a sortation system unique for the demands of Indonesia, to deliver the highest throughput and efficiency.”

    The GreyOrange Linear Sorter, comprising advanced software and a high-speed sorter, has been tried-and-tested for a wide variety of applications to handle high-volume sortation. Within three years of its launch, customers in the e-commerce, consumer goods, apparel and retail industries have commissioned these Sorters across Asia and Latin America.

    Pos Indonesia handles parcel and mail volume exceeding 500,000 pieces a day and provides fulfilment and last mile delivery for government, state-owned enterprises, online entrepreneurs, and major e- Commerce platforms – Lazada and BukaLapak among others. The GreyOrange Linear Sorter was selected as it combines a line of high-speed conveyor – capable of handling an assortment of parcels in various shapes and sizes including polybags, plus irregular packages – and advanced software customised to handle the volume and types of parcels and mail specific to Pos Indonesia.

    Agus F. Handoyo, Mail and Parcel Director, Pos Indonesia added, “This sortation system was prearranged using a technology-driven approach. Firstly, the end-to-end digitalisation results in a system which integrates seamlessly with data used by our shippers, e-commerce companies and customers; from reading barcodes to capturing gross and volumetric weights, and digital images, which leads to faster and easier parcel traceability. In addition, customers get a better experience in terms of accuracy of delivery.”

    Getting more parcels to their right destinations is important due to the high costs of reverse logistics for parcels returns, especially in Indonesia where locations are spread over 17,000 islands.

    Meet with GreyOrange and Indonesia distributor PT Global Prima Sakti at Stand B1 at Indonesia Transport, Supply Chain and Logistics, on 10-12 October, at Jakarta International Expo Kemayoran, to see the latest high-performance products and solutions.

  • Yusen Logistics raises the bar with two milestones

    Yusen Logistics raises the bar with two milestones

    Yusen Logistics Singapore Pte Ltd marked two significant milestones on 20 September 2017 in Tuas – a groundbreaking ceremony for its first future-ready warehouse and the commissioning of Swisslog Autostore, an automated ultra-high-density storage and robotic order-picking technology.

    Breaking ground to superstruct a new warehouse on existing site and launching the Swisslog Autostore that is newly installed within its current Tuas warehouse, Yusen Logistics is advancing existing operation productivity by:

    • Optimising storage volume for a 1,260 square metre floor area, in existing building, from
    • 2,000 cubic metres to 3,500 cubic metres;
    • Increasing throughput for receiving, sorting and put-away by 18 times;
    • Upskilling 60 per cent of manual labour by transforming manual tasks to digital skills;
    • Increasing high volume and high mix order fulfilment rate by 200 per cent; and
    • Creating new data analytical jobs – Executives analysing data from various digital systems to uncover new patterns for operational improvements and to improve customers’ supply chain efficiency and effectiveness.

    Ready by Q1 2019, the new three-storey ramp-up warehouse is designed and built by Boustead Projects and offers seamless process integration with the existing building. Advanced robotic, radio-frequency identification (RFID), vision recognition system and autonomous technology will be installed and integrated with Swisslog Autostore, to transform the conventional warehouse operation to smart data driven logistics operation.

    The new warehouse comprises 20,000 square metres of storage area, with 36 loading bays and an 8,000 square meter rooftop parking area for up to 100 trailers.

    “We are always applying insight, service quality and innovation to be the world’s preferred supply chain logistics company. This new warehouse in a strategic location is equipped with the most advanced technology. We will create sustainable growth for Singapore by providing high quality supply chain logistics service that will meet our customers’ needs,” said Kenji Mizushima.

    “Data driven operation provides the infrastructure for process customisation. The capabilities to provide customisable work processes mean Yusen Logistics can tailor specific services for the various industry verticals. This is a unique capability. Singapore is a global transportation hub with extensive trade links and market connectivity. Storage space with tailored quality, reliable and consistent value-added services provide competitive advantages to our customers who use Singapore as a regional distribution centre,” said Francis Kwa, head of contract logistics and information system, Yusen Logistics Singapore Pte Ltd.

    Yusen Logistics’ vision of connecting people, businesses and communities to a better future, through logistics, focuses on providing customers with the Japanese Kaizen Culture of continuous improvement of work processes and efficiency. Embracing Smart Technology is a logical step from the Kaizen Culture.

    “We are transforming ourselves to get closer to our customers and helping them with challenges that they are facing. With a vision to create sustainable growth for society, Yusen Logistics works towards driving productivity, space and operational efficiency by re-skilling our employees through partnership with educational institutions to be ready for the future and be equipped with the skills for automation. We strive to create better connections where we convert insights into actions to optimise their supply chain in the most effective and efficient way,” said Ng Kim Hung.

    Lee Eng Keat shared his optimism for the growth potential of the logistics sector: “Singapore’s logistics industry has consistently been ranked among the world’s best, reinforcing our position as a global leading logistics hub. EDB is excited to support the ambition of companies like Yusen Logistics, to catalyse enterprise-level transformation and improve productivity through innovation and greater adoption of automation. This will also translate into new professional roles and career pathways for Singaporeans, as well as the upskilling of rank-and-file jobs, building the necessary talent competencies to further the strengths and capabilities of the industry.”

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  • Bolloré Logistics inaugurates multimodal hub in Le Havre

    Bolloré Logistics inaugurates multimodal hub in Le Havre

    Bolloré Logistics inaugurated its new multimodal hub on September 19, 2017, on the Logistics Park of Pont de Normandie 2 (PLPN2), in the heart of France’s leading foreign trade port. With this new site located near the multimodal terminal, Bolloré Logistics offers all the solutions to manage logistics flows throughout the Seine Valley.

    BLX new multimodal hub in Le Havre.

    Bolloré Logistics plays a key role in the logistical development of the Seine axis, where the company has four branches and runs a network of more than 700 employees. The location of the hub allows Bolloré Logistics to position itself as a leader in the organisation of multimodal transport. The 24,000 square metres warehouse built near the multimodal terminal reinforces Le Havre as a major port logistics hub. Thanks to the opening of this second logistics site in the Logistics Park area of the Pont de Normandie 2, Bolloré Logistics now has in Normandy a total of 110,000 square metres of warehouses, of which 39,000 square metres in Le Havre.

    “As a partner of HAROPA, Bolloré Logistics benefits from exceptional visibility on the three ports on the seine trade – Le Havre Rouen Paris – and an attractive and diversified offer in the treatment of international flows. Our platforms connected to all modes of transport – sea, air, road, rail, barges are designed to support the growth and sustainable development of our clients in the Port of Le Havre and the Normandy region,” said Laurent Foloppe, director of the Normandy Region.

    With a comprehensive range of services, combining its sector expertise, Bolloré Logistics meets the needs of its various customers by offering them multi-country expertise, its services of consolidation and full containers, logistics, road, customs integrating a range of services to added values. Bolloré Logistics’ strategy is to invest in the Hubs by positioning itself on the world’s major trading hubs, Singapore, Dubai, Miami … A position that allows Bolloré Logistics Le Havre to draw more flows and manage global logistics activities and supply chain of its customers.

    “Beyond being a maritime platform where we operate more than 10,000 consolidations per year or a warehouse offering all the services of storage, repackaging and value-added services, this new hub is indeed a multimodal platform intended to supply all the Greater Paris in which we wished to invest,” said Henri Le Gouis, CEO Europe of Bolloré Logistics.

    A Multimodal Green Hub

    Also known as “Green Hub”, the multimodal hub is fully in line with the Group’s CSR approach and is in perfect harmony with the environmental values of Bolloré Transport & Logistics.

    For this operation, Bolloré Logistics is committed to respecting the most demanding environmental standards in terms of responsible construction and to take action on essential points: installations that enable cost and CO2 control solutions, energy management, the preservation of water resources and the natural spaces of fauna and flora, adaptation of means of transport, quality of life at work … A CSR and QHSE approach hailed by the award of several environmental certifications: NF HQE , LEED 4 Silver, Ecocert and BiodiverCity.

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  • New trucks spur business use of Lalamove

    New trucks spur business use of Lalamove

    Hong Kong on-demand delivery app Lalamove has gained more business clients since introducing its fleet of high-top pick-up trucks.

    Its vehicles are now standardised and branded, while the drivers wear Lalamove uniforms, introduced last month. The trucks are closed to offer maximum protection to the goods in transit, and the drivers undergo regular training.

    In Thailand, one of its most active markets, Lalamove has 150 active trucks, with a pool of 500 drivers in Bangkok alone. It dropped its pricing in May for door-to-door delivery services in Bangkok, Chanthaburi Chonburi, Nakhon Rachasima and Rayong.

    Lalamove Thailand MD Chanon Klahan says there is a growing demand for logistics, specifically last-mile delivery, attracting the corporate market. “We are expanding to meet the expectations of this market. Our drivers accept jobs within 45 minutes, and we also provide business customers with insurance.”

    There are also flexible packages and delivery options that appeal to businesses seeking a more customised approach.

    Business delivery demands include a range of goods, such as IT equipment, office furniture, medical supplies, vehicle spare parts, industrial goods, gardening tools and equipment.

    Lalamove also works in Hong Kong, Manila, Singapore, Taipei and Vietnam, as well as in 43 cities in China. It employs more than 50,000 drivers.

    Thailand downloads of the Lalamove app have surpassed 240,000.