Hellmann Worldwide Logistics announces its financial results for 2024, reflecting significant growth, expanded reach in key markets, and a solid financial foundation: Despite a persistently challenging market environment, Hellmann achieved a remarkable revenue increase of 9 %, reaching EUR 3.8 billion, up from EUR 3.5 billion in 2023. This growth highlights the company’s strong performance and reinforced global market position. Hellmann’s ability to outperform in a volatile market is further demonstrated by its gross profit development, which exceeded the industry average. The number of shipments remained stable at 20 million, reflecting consistent operational performance and a continued commitment to providing reliable logistics solutions, even amid disrupted and challenging market conditions. Hellmann’s solid financial position is reinforced by a 10 % increase in equity to EUR 444 million.

In 2024, Hellmann further advanced its strategic agenda: Key investments were made in modernization initiatives and a comprehensive digital strategy aimed at streamlining productivity and enhancing the digital customer experience. A key milestone in Hellmann’s growth strategy and global expansion was the acquisition of HPL Apollo, its U.S.-based joint venture, to strengthen the company’s global presence in temperature-sensitive logistics. Additionally, Hellmann took a major step toward the future with the restructuring and internationalization of its Management Board and the establishment of a global sustainability organization, underscoring its ongoing commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Looking ahead, under the leadership of Jens Drewes — who succeeded Reiner Heiken as CEO in June 2024 — the Management Board has set out a clear strategic roadmap for 2030 and beyond. With a strong focus on customer centricity, enhanced productivity, and sustainable growth, the company is building on a solid foundation as it moves to expand its global presence and further strengthen its competitive position across all product segments.

“Thanks to our great team around the world, we were able to continue our growth journey also in 2024 – despite ongoing challenges in the market,” says Jens Drewes, CEO Hellmann Worldwide Logistics. “Building on this solid foundation we are ready to enter the next strategic stage and accelerate international growth – side by side with our customers.”

“Our strong 2024 financial results reflect the robustness of our business model and the strength of our global network,” says Martin Eberle, CFO Hellmann Worldwide Logistics. “The strong increase in revenue and equity positions us well for the next phase of growth. We remain focused on driving financial performance while investing in innovation and sustainability.”

Hellmann also released its 2024 Sustainability Report today, showcasing significant achievements across all three pillars of sustainability — environmental, social, and governance — and reaffirming its commitment to responsible business practices.

Choosing the right Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) course can be challenging, especially when you’re balancing regulatory requirements, certification needs and practical hands-on experience. For maritime operations tied to the supply chain, qualified radio operators are more than just a compliance checkbox. GMDSS training is a lifeline during emergencies and key to efficient maritime communication.

Consider these top GMDSS training courses that combine certification credibility with training depth. Whether you’re training crews, upskilling communication officers or looking for a flexible online alternative, these five options provide a range of formats to suit your team.

1. MITAGS – GMDSS Marine Radio Operator’s License Course
Location: Baltimore and Seattle

Delivery: In-person

Certification: GMDSS Radio Operator’s License, STCW A-IV/2 License

The Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS) offers one of the top GMDSS training courses in the U.S. The program spans two weeks and meets strict Coast Guard and IMO/STCW 2010 standards.

Trainees are taught to operate all forms of GMDSS equipment, including satellite systems, MF/HF and VHF DSC radios, NAVTEX receivers, EPIRBs and SARTs.

Although it requires a full-time commitment, the program’s intensity pays off. MITAGS provides live radio labs, simulators and direct guidance through FCC licensing procedures. This makes it an excellent choice for companies that want certified, confident radio operators on deck.

Key features:
● Meets CFR and STCW requirements with FCC licensing support

● Extensive hands-on training with full GMDSS console simulations

● Real-world distress drills and emergency communications practice

● Highly experienced, Coast Guard-approved instructors

MITAGS sets the industry benchmark for businesses that prioritize thorough, standards-based training and want mariners prepared for complex emergency scenarios. It also provides a pathway for career advancement beyond entry-level roles by helping people become more competitive for these positions.

2. Maritime Institute – General Operator’s Certificate (GOC) GMDSS Course
Location: San Diego

Delivery: In-person

Certification: GMDSS Radio Operator’s License, STCW A-IV/2 License

The Maritime Institute in San Diego delivers a streamlined, 10-day TGMDSS course that covers all necessary systems and emergency procedures. It’s a practical option for businesses that need fast, effective training without sacrificing quality.

The course is structured to prepare candidates for the FCC Element 7 exam. It focuses on real-time response and decision-making. Though it’s shorter than most, the hands-on sessions with VHF, MF/HF, SSB, NAVTEX and survival radios ensure participants gain the confidence to handle GMDSS radio operations in the field.

Key features:
● The accelerated approach is ideal for limited downtime

● Prepares for the Element 7 GMDSS test with mock exams

● In-depth training on NAVTEX, EPIRBs, SARTs and DSC systems

● Suitable for operational crew and support team upskilling

If you’re looking for a time-efficient program that doesn’t cut corners, this course offers both speed and quality in the nation’s largest specialty cargo maritime hub.

3. MPT USA — GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Delivery: In-person

Certification: GMDSS GOC, STCW A-IV/2 License

MPT (Maritime Professional Training) USA offers a 10-day GMDSS training course that balances classroom instruction with simulator-based practice. The program meets all U.S. Coast Guard and STCW requirements and is ideal for mariners on large vessels or commercial fleets. To qualify, applicants must have an FCC Element 1 certificate or a Marine Radio Operator Permit (MROP).

Hands-on labs cover satellite communications, DSC functions, NAVTEX and emergency protocols. While the time investment is longer than some other courses, it ensures a deeper understanding of each system and its integration.

Key features:
● Comprehensive simulator labs and live equipment use

● Includes U.S. Coast Guard license preparation and guidance

● Structured drills to reinforce distress protocols

● Excellent for maritime professionals preparing for global roles

This is a strong choice for companies that want to go beyond compliance and build long-term communication reliability into their maritime operations.

4. Coral Nautical — GMDSS GOC
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Delivery: In-person

Certification: GMDSS GOC, STCW A-IV/2 — U.K. MCA and AMERC Approved

Coral Nautical Institute provides one of the most detailed GMDSS courses available, clocking in at over 130 hours of instruction and simulation. While the course length may not suit every company, Coral Nautical’s approach guarantees mastery of equipment and protocols to advance maritime careers.

This course goes well beyond the basics. It includes lectures, computer-based training, hands-on equipment use and simulator-led scenarios. Participants leave with a strong grasp of distress alerts, satellite networks, and the coordination of search and rescue communications.

Key features:
● MCA- and AMERC-approved with global recognition

● 17-day in-depth training for high-responsibility GMDSS roles

● Practical exercises with both terrestrial and satellite systems

● Emphasizes SOLAS compliance and SAR coordination

For high-risk shipping operations or multinational fleets, Coral Nautical delivers the depth and global recognition needed to meet international expectations.

5. Northeast Maritime Online – GMDSS Radio Operator Course
Location: Online

Delivery: Virtual, self-paced

Certification: GMDSS Radio Operator’s License, STCW A-IV/2 License

While in-person training offers an immersive experience, not every business can afford to send staff off-site. NEMO (Northeast Maritime Online) addresses this gap with a fully virtual GMDSS training program.

It includes interactive modules, practice exams, and simulation tools that replicate emergency conditions and equipment operation. Although it borrows from a 70-hour in-person course, learners can work at their own pace while still receiving support from instructors. This solution scales well for remote or global teams and keeps training costs low.

Key features:
● HALO simulator software for interactive GMDSS practice

● Instructor-supported modules and built-in exam prep

● Designed for flexibility with asynchronous learning

● Ideal for remote teams or multilocation maritime operators

This is a smart, scalable option for businesses that need to train multiple people across locations without compromising learning outcomes.

Find Top GMDSS Training Courses for Your Team
In an industry where communication failures can lead to safety risks or cargo delays, investing in the best GMDSS training courses is essential. Whether you choose MITAGS for its depth or a virtual alternative for remote scalability, make sure the course aligns with your team’s responsibilities to optimize safety, compliance and confidence at sea.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Driving business tourism and fostering regional connectivity through strategic partnerships

As global business travel continues to gain recognition for its economic value, Zambia’s leading scheduled airline, Proflight Zambia is taking to the skies as it positions itself as a key enabler of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) travel both domestically and across the region.
Proflight Zambia has recognised this growing segment and is working hand in hand with corporate bodies, professional associations and tourism agents to facilitate seamless business travel. The airline offers discounted fares, group travel packages and flexible booking options for MICE delegates, whether flying within Zambia or to regional destinations such as Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa.

“As Proflight Zambia, we want to ensure that business travel is an enabler of industry growth and national development,” said Proflight Zambia’s Director of Flight Operations, Captain Josias Walubita. “Our MICE travel solutions form part of our broader mission to connect people, dreams, ideas and industries across Zambia and beyond.”
MICE travel, also known as business tourism, primarily encompasses events where corporate groups come together for networking, strategy sessions, large-scale conferences, annual general meetings (AGMs), events and exhibitions. These activities not only generate travel demand but also stimulate local economies through increased spending on hotels, hospitality, entertainment and transport.
In recent months, Proflight Zambia has collaborated with a wide range of stakeholders, including Zambian Breweries for the Mosi Day of Thunder music festival, Africa’s Eden Travel Show, the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Engineering Institute of Zambia, the Zambia Medical Association and Zambia’s national sport climbing team, as well as international agents attending the Zambia Travel Expo (ZATEX).
To further enhance this support, the regional airline has introduced an annual MICE calendar—a curated schedule of upcoming meetings/ conferences, events and exhibitions across the country. This calendar enables efficient flight planning, and the allocation of travel discounts and sponsorships tailored to travellers’ needs.
“Through our internal MICE Tracker, we proactively identify key business events across the country via desk research and strategic partnerships, particularly with the Zambia Tourism Agency— which manages the national MICE destination calendar,” said Capt. Walubita. “This alignment ensures we remain in sync with Zambia’s broader tourism and investment ambitions.”
With the airline’s extensive domestic network covering provincial cities and towns such as Ndola, Livingstone, Kasama, Mfuwe, Mansa and Solwezi, Proflight Zambia is making it easier for delegates to access even the most remote conference locations, thereby contributing to balanced regional development and promoting local tourism. The airline also plans to commence scheduled flights to Mongu, with operations expected to begin in the third or fourth quarter of 2025.
Ultimately, business tourism plays a crucial role in supporting Zambia’s ambition to become a regional hub for business engagement, knowledge exchange and investment. Improved travel access through airlines like Proflight Zambia boosts the country’s appeal as a preferred destination for international conferences, expos, meetings and networking events.
Proflight Zambia’s commitment to business connectivity is clear. Whether flying executives to a mining conference in the Copperbelt or tourism expos in Livingstone, the airline is proudly flying Zambia’s business growth—one event at a time

Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo arm of the world’s largest international airline, has bolstered freighter connectivity between European destinations and key points on its vast global network. Building on its geographic advantages, headquartered in the centre of the world, Emirates SkyCargo serves as a vital bridge between East and West, facilitating the flow of trade quickly, efficiently and reliably.

Emirates SkyCargo plans to deploy an additional two weekly charter freighters enhancing the connectivity between Milan and Southeast China, via Dubai, starting Q3 2025. Anticipated commodities from Milan, include fashion and pharmaceuticals, as well as general cargo.

The current weekly freighter connecting Dubai World Central (DWC), Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) and Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ), will now receive an additional stop in Beirut (BEY) before returning to Dubai, enhancing connectivity to the Levant. Serving as a feeder gateway to and from Western European markets, Maastricht is one of the region’s busiest cargo hubs, particularly for general cargo and pharmaceuticals, both of which Emirates SkyCargo expects to transport to Beirut in large volumes. Likewise, Zaragoza Airport boasts excellent road and rail connectivity with Spain’s main economic and industrial, and handles significant volumes of fashion and apparel, which will now move to Beirut more directly.

Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Harnessing the power and connectivity of Emirates’ global network, a fleet over 260 passenger and freighter aircraft, and a multi-vertical portfolio of specialist logistics solutions, we have the scale and flexibility to keep trade flowing, even in the face of market instability.

“As we receive our new Boeing 777 freighters, we are deploying them quickly and strategically to serve the unwavering demand across our network. Whether by layering on frequencies or adding new route stops, we will continue to evolve our operations, schedule and network in line with global trade patterns, to ensure we provide an unbeatable service to our customers.”
Emirates SkyCargo freighters serve more destinations in Europe than any other region on its vast global network, including two cargo-only destinations, and is complemented by passenger operations to 40 destinations. The high-frequency flight scheduled, comprised of 45 freighter flights and 545 passenger flights every week, ensures that goods from Europe move seamlessly and at speed across the globe.

In the last financial year, Emirates SkyCargo uplifted an average of 6,900 tonnes from Europe every week, strengthening international trade lanes with the movement of pharmaceuticals from Denmark and Belgium, perishables such as fresh salmon from Norway and whisky from Glasgow, valuables from Geneva, automotive shipments from Frankfurt and, of course, general cargo from every destination. 43% of the volume was transported to the UAE and Middle East, and a further 32% was carried to the Far East and Australasia, highlighting Emirates SkyCargo’s vital role as a bridge between European manufacturers, traders and exporters with businesses all over the world.

Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo arm of the world’s largest international airline, has bolstered freighter connectivity between European destinations and key points on its vast global network. Building on its geographic advantages, headquartered in the centre of the world, Emirates SkyCargo serves as a vital bridge between East and West, facilitating the flow of trade quickly, efficiently and reliably.

Emirates SkyCargo plans to deploy an additional two weekly charter freighters enhancing the connectivity between Milan and Southeast China, via Dubai, starting Q3 2025. Anticipated commodities from Milan, include fashion and pharmaceuticals, as well as general cargo.

The current weekly freighter connecting Dubai World Central (DWC), Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) and Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ), will now receive an additional stop in Beirut (BEY) before returning to Dubai, enhancing connectivity to the Levant. Serving as a feeder gateway to and from Western European markets, Maastricht is one of the region’s busiest cargo hubs, particularly for general cargo and pharmaceuticals, both of which Emirates SkyCargo expects to transport to Beirut in large volumes. Likewise, Zaragoza Airport boasts excellent road and rail connectivity with Spain’s main economic and industrial, and handles significant volumes of fashion and apparel, which will now move to Beirut more directly.

Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Harnessing the power and connectivity of Emirates’ global network, a fleet over 260 passenger and freighter aircraft, and a multi-vertical portfolio of specialist logistics solutions, we have the scale and flexibility to keep trade flowing, even in the face of market instability.

“As we receive our new Boeing 777 freighters, we are deploying them quickly and strategically to serve the unwavering demand across our network. Whether by layering on frequencies or adding new route stops, we will continue to evolve our operations, schedule and network in line with global trade patterns, to ensure we provide an unbeatable service to our customers.”
Emirates SkyCargo freighters serve more destinations in Europe than any other region on its vast global network, including two cargo-only destinations, and is complemented by passenger operations to 40 destinations. The high-frequency flight scheduled, comprised of 45 freighter flights and 545 passenger flights every week, ensures that goods from Europe move seamlessly and at speed across the globe.

In the last financial year, Emirates SkyCargo uplifted an average of 6,900 tonnes from Europe every week, strengthening international trade lanes with the movement of pharmaceuticals from Denmark and Belgium, perishables such as fresh salmon from Norway and whisky from Glasgow, valuables from Geneva, automotive shipments from Frankfurt and, of course, general cargo from every destination. 43% of the volume was transported to the UAE and Middle East, and a further 32% was carried to the Far East and Australasia, highlighting Emirates SkyCargo’s vital role as a bridge between European manufacturers, traders and exporters with businesses all over the world.