Located in Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian province in southeastern China, is a state-of-the-art automotive facility that boasts an impressive manufacturing pace of one car every 100 seconds, all while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability.

This is Jetour’s “Dark Factory”, referred to as such because of the advanced automation and robotics utilised where minimal human intervention is required during production.

Jetour’s Fuzhou Factory also incorporates several sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, with efforts including energy-efficient technologies, the use of renewable energy, waste reduction and recycling, and water-saving solutions.

With Jetour expanding globally at a rapid pace, this Fuzhou factory enables the production of intelligent, advanced and digitised vehicles for global customers, with an annual capacity of 200 000 units, with plans to double its output to 400 000 units per year after expansion plans which begin this year.

The Fuzhou Factory has a complete vehicle manufacturing process, including stamping, welding, painting and assembly. In the welding workshop, all welding points are performed automatically by robots. With its advanced manufacturing system, the facility not only assures an average manufacturing pace of 100 seconds per car but also meets the demand for flexible manufacturing. Its multi-model production capability means that the factory can shift focus based on changes in customer demand, with four models on two platforms at any given time.

Jetour has also implemented an advanced material management system, with autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) efficiently managing daily logistics within the factory. The AMRs intelligently drive along preset paths to transport parts, improving production efficiency daily.

In the coating facility, programmed robots complete 18 tasks per hour, averaging 200 seconds per car. This high-quality painting process prioritises energy efficiency, automation, high quality and intelligence.

The final assembly line includes unmanned tire assembly and CNC robot bonding technology for windshield installation significantly improving sealant precision for rain proofing and noise reduction

By leveraging big data and AI, Jetour’s Fuzhou facility processes a “smart brain” that monitors efficient quality control across all aspects. Through a “0+3″manufacturing approach, Jetour pursues “Zero Defects” in products, 100% error-proof assembly, 100% qualified vehicle inspection, and 100% traceability of quality information.

Since launching in 2018, Jetour has sold more than 1.46 million vehicles across 62 countries. Locally, the brand has sold over 1 500 vehicles since launching in September last year with their Dashing and X70 Plus models. Besides these Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus models, as well as the T1 and T2 series which should be available locally within the next year, the Fuzhou factory will be producing eight new products over the next two years, covering the urban SUV series, the off-road SUV series, and the pickup series. Jetour will soon begin to progressively introduce hybrid products into international markets, striving to become the leading brand in the hybrid electric off-road SUV segment as well.

The latest Hino 700, launched in South Africa in 2023, is carving niches for itself in the local market. One of the operations where the latest Hino is shining is in transporting cattle in Namibia. Outstanding fuel economy and a low overall cost of ownership are major plus features allied with the rugged construction of the truck and trailer.

The Hino 700 2841 6×4 freight carrier tractor pulls a custom-built trailer built by Motor Body Construction (MBC) in Johannesburg. The combination can carry a total of 22 tons. The maximum number of slaughter oxen loaded so far has been 33 but it could carry up to 56 oxen weighing 230 kg each, with 28 on the truck and a further 28 on the trailer.

The combination was built to the order of Gobabis Toyota and is being operated by dealer principal Theo Redelinghuys as a service to the Gobabis cattle farming community. The service has proved especially worthwhile to local farmers during the drought season by transporting cattle to auction or the abattoir at reasonable tariffs. Most of the operations have been in the Omaheke district of Namibia, which is as large as the Free State, but the rig has been to destinations all over Namibia already.

The combination has covered more than 28 000 km to date and is proving particularly well suited to the varying road conditions in Namibia, which range from rough gravel roads to tarmac. Fuel consumption is averaging 2.6 km per litre.

“The competitive Hino 700 is proving ideal for this type of operation with a rear axle set up that provides diff-lock and cross-lock. It also has advanced driver safety features, and the Hino brand’s attributes of quality, durability, and reliability,” explained Redelinghuys. “Gobabis Hino realised that a solution was needed to assist cattle farmers who have an ageing fleet of trucks and trailers to take their livestock from far-flung farms on unpaved roads to market. The Hino 700 combination has been given bold branding based on that of Hino’s Dakar Rally racing trucks by Vista Branding in Gobabis and feedback from the farming community has been most positive,” he added.

Hino South Africa has handed over four mobile offices to the Gauteng Government Roads and Transport Department, which are to be used as Smart Driving Licencing Testing Centres by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC). Two of the units will be used for driver and learner testing and the other two for eye-testing and driver’s licence renewals.

The units will travel to remote areas of the country, as well as having the flexibility to service built-up areas where the current facilities are unable to cope with the large numbers of people waiting to obtain or renew driving and vehicle licences.

“Hino South Africa was involved previously in having 33 mobile offices built for a government department, with the final units delivered in February this year,” explained Itumeleng Segage, Hino SA’s General Manager. “These mobile offices are proving to be a valuable asset in taking services to remote areas, ensuring that underserved communities have access to essential services without the need to travel long distances.”

The RTMC mobile offices were launched at a Hino sponsored function in Refilwe, Cullinan, in the City of Tshwane. The event was attended by several high-ranking government officials, including Gauteng MEC for Transport Ms Kedibone Diale-Tlabela.

The mobile offices are based on the Hino 300 816 SWB A/T chassis cab and were fitted with specially built bodies by SA Vans and Conversions/Bubhezi, in Pinetown KwaZulu-Natal.

This Hino 300 model is powered by a turbocharged 4-litre diesel engine developing 110 kW @ 2 800 r/min and 420 N.m of torque at 1 400 r/min and driving the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

These mobile offices include wheelchair hoists and will be used initially in Gauteng. If the project proves successful for government, more units will be procured for other regions in South Africa

Nairobi Edition Sets New Benchmarks in Cargo and Logistics, Driving Multimodal Connectivity and Trade Innovation Across the Continent
Nairobi, Kenya – February 22, 2025 – The 7th edition of air cargo Africa and the debut of transport logistic Africa concluded on a high note, cementing Kenya’s position as a strategic logistics hub. The event, hosted at The Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi, welcomed over 4,100 attendees from 50+ countries, 150+ global brands, 450+ delegates, and 60+ expert speakers, marking its growing influence on the global supply chain.
With Kenya emerging as a key logistics gateway, discussions focused on its expanding trade corridors, Nairobi’s ascent as a regional aviation hub, and Mombasa’s dominance as East Africa’s largest seaport. The event successfully facilitated multimodal partnerships, bridging Africa with key markets across the Middle East, Europe, and the Far East. Hon. Caleb Kositany, Chairman, Kenya Airports Authority, emphasized the significance of the event, stating: “This is not just a discussion platform—it is a solutions-driven initiative that is redefining Africa’s logistics landscape. The integration of air, maritime, rail, and road networks is crucial to unlocking Africa’s true potential as a global trade powerhouse.”
Unprecedented Global Participation
The event attracted a strong lineup of industry leaders, highlighting Africa’s expanding role in global logistics:
• Aviation and Air Cargo: Kenya Airways, South African Airways, EgyptAir, TAAG Angola, Ethiopian Airways, Astral Aviation, and Airlink Cargo.
• Logistics Leaders: AGL, EFL, Suhara Logistics, and Mitchell COTTS Freight Group showcased integrated transport solutions.
• Middle East & Europe’s Engagement: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Sharjah Airport emphasized the region’s growing investment, while Menzies Aviation, Swissport, Lufthansa Cargo, and Boeing reinforced Europe’s commitment.
• Asia-Africa Trade Connectivity: Companies like We Fly and HACTL bolstered the presence of the Far East in African trade.
Allan Kilavuka, Group Managing Director & CEO, Kenya Airways, remarked: “Africa is poised for a logistics revolution. To harness this potential, we must accelerate infrastructure development and innovation. This event is an enabler, driving strategic investments and fostering collaboration to transform Africa’s trade ecosystem.”
Strengthening Industry Collaboration and Policy Alignment
The event saw active participation from key trade associations and logistics associations, ensuring industry-wide engagement like Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), Kenya International Freight & Warehousing Association (KIFWA), Shippers Council of Eastern Africa (SCEA), Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI), Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya (FPC).
Emile N. Arao, Director General, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), highlighted Kenya’s aviation evolution: “We are not just regulators; we are enablers of progress. By embracing emerging technologies like UAS, SAF, and advanced cargo transport solutions, we are positioning Kenya as a leader in aviation and logistics.”
Key Industry Insights and Innovations
The trade fair provided critical industry takeaways:
• Health & Humanitarian Logistics Conference: Hosted by The Humanitarian Logistics Association (HLA), sessions addressed local procurement, last-mile delivery, AI-driven logistics, and building resilient supply chains.
• Site Visits: Delegates explored Astral Aerial Solutions’ drone services hub and Reltex Leihua Kenya’s humanitarian aid tarpaulin factory, gaining firsthand insights into Africa’s evolving logistics sector.
• STAT Times International Awards: Recognized trailblazers in air cargo and logistics, celebrating innovation and excellence across the continent.
Exhibitors Applaud Business Impact
The event received strong endorsements from leading logistics players, underscoring its effectiveness in fostering business partnerships:
“air cargo Africa 2025 has reaffirmed its position as a premier industry platform where meaningful business happens. The high level of engagement enabled us to expand our regional partnerships, sign strategic agreements, and strengthen our air cargo network across Africa. As trade volumes grow, platforms like this are essential for fostering collaboration and driving efficiency in the continent’s air freight sector.”
— Racheal Ndegwa, CEO, Swissport Kenya
“This event has been a crucial platform for driving multimodal connectivity and strengthening Africa’s position in global trade. As demand for seamless logistics solutions grows, the trade show has enabled us to engage with key stakeholders, explore strategic partnerships and showcase MSC’s commitment to integrating sea and land solutions. The conversations and collaborations here will play a vital role in shaping the future of supply chains across the continent.”
— Captain Fiorenzo Castellano, Managing Director, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
“Africa is a thriving engine of global trade, and both transport logistic Africa and air cargo Africa have been important platforms for shaping the future of air cargo in the market and beyond. The exhibition facilitated insightful discussions, fostered strategic partnerships, and highlighted the transformative role of innovation in driving global trade. As a facilitator of global trade, Emirates SkyCargo remains committed to strengthening connectivity and unlocking new opportunities for the industry.”
– Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo

Bhupinder Singh, President IMEA (India, Middle East, Africa), Messe München & CEO, Messe München India, concluded: “The resounding success of air cargo Africa & transport logistics Africa 2025 is a testament to Africa’s emergence as a key architect of the future of global trade and supply chain innovation. No longer just adapting to global trade dynamics, Africa is proactively defining its role as a strategic hub, fostering resilient, technology-driven, and sustainable logistics ecosystems. As Africa continues to strengthen its trade networks, our focus remains on fostering collaboration, driving efficiency, and enabling sustainable growth that benefits businesses, economies, and communities alike.”
Looking Ahead to 2027
Building on its momentum, Messe München has confirmed that air cargo Africa & transport logistic Africa will return in 2027, promising an even larger and more influential platform for global logistics stakeholders.
For more details, visit: https://aircargoafrica.aero/en/
For Business and Exhibitor Inquiries:
Romaldine Fernandes | romaldine.fernandes@mm-india.in | +91 9819056866
For Press and Media Inquiries:
Saher Khanzada | saher.khanzada@mm-india.in | +91 22 42554723

Transnet is currently under significant scrutiny due to the recent Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) which ranked South Africa’s ports among the lowest of 405 evaluated worldwide. The challenges faced by the country’s ports have been further exacerbated by inclement weather conditions, impacting their operational efficiency. The latest Cargo Movement Update (CMU), prepared by Business Unity South Africa and the South African Association of Freight Forwarders, highlighted a significant week-on-week decline in container handling capacity, dropping from 8,244 to 5,737 containers daily. This 30.3% decrease in throughput capacity is attributed primarily to extreme weather conditions and equipment breakdowns, which have severely disrupted port operations.

The Port of Durban, one of the major ports in South Africa, experienced closures to incoming traffic due to adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the Eastern Cape ports faced operational challenges due to strong winds and vessel ranging, further impacting the overall efficiency of port operations. These disruptions come at a time when the global sea freight industry is grappling with intensified capacity shortages. The container shipping market has been particularly affected, with notable issues such as Maersk ceasing operations of a trans-Pacific service just eight weeks after its commencement, and nearly 50% of westbound Asia-Europe sailings failing to meet their scheduled departure times due to ongoing port congestion in Southeast Asian hubs.

Amid these capacity challenges, global freight rates have continued to rise for the ninth consecutive week, with a 13% increase recorded last week. Since the end of March, the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index has seen a 76% increase, with no signs of decline in the near future. The containership charter market also remains strong, with rates increasing by 10% last week, further compounding the challenges faced by the global supply chain sector.

In response to these manifold challenges, public sector ocean freight executives in South Africa and beyond have criticized the World Bank’s latest CPPI. Locally, a logistics principal who requested anonymity suggested that the CPPI does not provide a fair comparison, as it lumps together ports with vastly different sizes and service-related dynamics. This critique raises questions about the validity and accuracy of the World Bank’s data metrics, especially given the institution’s disclaimer that it cannot guarantee the accuracy of its research.

The criticism highlights a broader issue within the global port performance assessment framework. The varying conditions and operational contexts of different ports make it difficult to create a standardized measure that accurately reflects the performance and efficiency of each port. This disparity is evident in the case of South African ports, which are facing unique challenges that are not necessarily comparable to those faced by ports in other regions.

The current situation underscores the need for more nuanced and context-specific evaluations of port performance. While the CPPI provides a useful benchmark, it should be complemented with other assessments that take into account the specific conditions and challenges faced by individual ports. This approach would provide a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of port performance, helping to identify areas for improvement and inform targeted interventions.

The current CPPI ranking has highlighted the serious difficulties that South African ports confront, which are made worse by bad weather and equipment failures. Complicating matters further are the wider problems plaguing the global maritime freight business, such as declining capacity and growing freight rates? The necessity for more complex evaluations that take into account the distinctive circumstances of various ports is brought up by criticisms of the CPPI’s methodology. To guarantee effective and reliable port operations, addressing these issues would call for a coordinated effort from all supply chain sector players.

Nacala Logistics achieved a significant milestone in 2024 by transporting 647 kilotonnes (kt) of miscellaneous cargo, marking an increase of 117 kits from the previous year. This achievement reflects the company’s ongoing investment in infrastructure and expansion, particularly with the commencement of cargo transportation to Zimbabwe and the resumption of traffic in key areas such as Kanengo and Mchinji in Malawi, as well as Chipata in Zambia.

According to Nacala Logistics, these strategic destinations play a crucial role in strengthening regional trade connections and promoting economic growth in the Nacala Corridor. The company views this success as a testament to its growing logistics capacity and an indicator of even greater potential in 2025.

In addition to cargo transportation, Nacala Logistics has expanded its operations through strategic partnerships. At the end of 2024, the company signed a contract with Cimentos de Moçambique (CIM) for the annual transportation of 150,000 tons of coal from Moatize to Nacala, where the CIM factory is based. This agreement underscores Nacala Logistics’ role in supporting the industrial sector by ensuring a reliable and efficient supply chain.

Nacala Logistics was established through the merger of multiple concessionaires, including Northern Development Corridor (CDN), Nacala Integrated Logistics Corridor (CLN), Central East African Railways (CEAR), and Vulcan Logistics Limited (VLL). The unification of these entities was aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, streamlining services, and fostering a stronger commercial relationship between service providers and users in the region.

The company operates an extensive rail network covering 970 km in Mozambique, spanning key locations such as Nacala, Moatize, Lichinga, and Entre-Lagos, with a route passing through Cuamba. In Malawi, the company oversees a 730 km railway network connecting Nayuki, Limbe, and Chipata, with a route through Liwonde. These extensive rail links serve as vital transportation corridors, facilitating trade and economic development across the region.

A critical component of Nacala Logistics’ operations is the Nacala-à-Velia Port Terminal. Recognized as the deepest natural port on Africa’s east coast, the terminal can accommodate ships with a capacity of up to 200,000 tons. This enhances the company’s ability to handle large-scale shipments and further supports regional and international trade.

With its expanding logistics capabilities, infrastructure investments, and strategic partnerships, Nacala Logistics is poised for further growth in 2025. The company remains committed to improving connectivity and trade efficiency across Southern Africa, reinforcing its role as a key player in the region’s economic development.

South African Airways (SAA) celebrated the grand opening of its new office at Arcades Shopping Mall in Lusaka, an event attended by key stakeholders such as senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and other distinguished guests. This occasion underscores SAA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing service delivery and solidifying its presence in Zambia.

Among the attendees was Engr. Nkumbu Siame, the Director of Transport at the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, who delivered a speech on behalf of Hon. Eng. Counsel Museba Frank Tayali, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, who was unable to attend due to prior commitments. In his address, Engr. Siame emphasized the importance of SAA’s renewed presence in Zambia.

“The return of South African Airways to Zambia is a testament to the resilience of the aviation sector,” said Engr. Siame. “This isn’t just about business expansion; it reaffirms the confidence SAA has in Zambia’s aviation industry and economic potential. Our government is committed to creating an environment that supports aviation growth, enhances connectivity, and ultimately benefits the Zambian people.”

During the launch, Mrs. Mildred Chalikulima, Country Manager for South African Airways in Zambia, underscored the airline’s mission to provide seamless travel solutions and world-class service to its customers. “The opening of this new office reflects our dedication to delivering excellence,” she stated. “We are strategically positioned to better serve our customers, enhance accessibility, and strengthen ties with our trade and business partners. SAA remains dedicated to supporting Zambia’s aviation landscape and facilitating regional connectivity.”

Mrs. Hellen Ngwira Mwamba, General Manager of AirlinePros Zambia (the General Sales Agent for SAA), also spoke at the event and highlighted the significance of this milestone. “This new office represents more than just a location; it symbolizes growth, accessibility, and progress,” said Mrs. Mwamba. “We are honored to manage the commercial operations of SAA in Zambia and are committed to ensuring that this partnership flourishes. This is a significant responsibility that SAA has entrusted to AirlinePros, and we appreciate the recognition and trust placed in us. Our dedicated team is ready to serve our customers and provide seamless travel experiences.”

The launch event served as a platform to celebrate the enduring partnership between South African Airways and Zambia. Guests had the opportunity to tour the new office space, interact with the airline’s leadership team, and reaffirm their commitment to fostering stronger business and tourism ties between Zambia and South Africa.

With the successful opening of its new office, South African Airways continues to strengthen its position as a leading airline in the region, dedicated to connectivity, service excellence, and sustainable aviation growth.

Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a SATS company, will advance air cargo handling innovation and sustainability at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as it celebrates the opening of the first new cargo terminal to be built at the airport in 30 years.

With the opening of the new facility at the end of January, WFS’ warehouse footprint at JFK now exceeds 1 million square feet across eight facilities, reinforcing its position as the airport’s largest provider of cargo handling services. WFS currently serves 38 international and domestic airline customers at JFK.

Mike Simpson, Chief Executive Officer, Gateway Services, Americas at WFS, said: “WFS is proud of its 41 years of service to our customers at New York JFK. Building 260 marks a new era for WFS and air cargo at one of the main gateways to the United States. This cutting-edge facility reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in our drive to serve customers better. Building 260 sets new standards for efficiency and safety and is a showpiece not just for JFK’s aviation ecosystem, but to the air cargo industry worldwide. The facility embodies our dedication to connecting the world through logistics and embraces new levels of digitalization and sustainability that will act as a model for other new cargo operations around the world.”

He added: “We thank our partners at Realterm for their collaboration in bringing this project to life and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for their support in making it a reality, as well as all the members of our own team who have been so committed to this project.”

With 350,000 sq. ft. of floor space, Building 260 represents a transformative step forward for WFS and the air cargo industry at JFK by embracing cutting-edge technology, environmentally sustainable practices, and robust safety and security protocols. The opening of the facility increases WFS’ cargo capacity at New York JFK by a further 25% and establishes the first-ever dedicated on-airport handling facility for temperature-controlled pharmaceutical products and perishable cargo. Over 3,000 sq. ft of cooler space enables the handling of perishable and pharmaceutical goods requiring variable temperature ranges of between 2-8°C or 15-25°C.

Adjacent to the new WFS cargo terminal is a ramp area that can accommodate up to three Boeing 747-400/777 or similar-sized wide body freighters and has already received its first arrival with Atlas Air.

Safety has been a prime consideration in the design of the facility and safety features include dock and polymer barriers to prevent accidental trailer movement, ensuring safe loading and unloading, as well as impact-resistant doors and column protection systems to minimize damage from forklifts and moving equipment, thus reducing downtime.

Designed to new standards of cargo operations, Building 260 is equipped with innovative features such as the latest Dock Management System to drive efficiency and predictability for cargo pickups and drop-offs. This is expected to reduce truck dwell times by as much as 25% by generating pre-alerts to reduce air waybill processing time. Customer experience will also be enhanced by the building’s Slot Booking System to manage traffic flow and provide clear visibility of shipment movements and availability, allowing WFS to schedule truck appointments at the building’s 44 truck docks based on shipment volume and complexity.

The digital journey of cargo shipments in Building 260 is also driven by the latest technologies, from Warehouse Progress Monitoring (WPM) to give customers real-time visibility, to Auto Dimensioning Equipment for compliance with carrier requirements, and IATA Dangerous Goods (DG) Autocheck for safety and security. The Automated ETV (Elevating Transport Vehicle) and Unit Load Device (ULD) Management systems have been designed to allow for tracking by flight and automated staging for cargo buildup and breakdown, which helps to streamline operations by minimizing forklift usage needed to move ULDs like aircraft containers and pallets.

Collectively, these technologies will help to optimize WFS’ labor resources and productivity, ultimately reducing congestion and lowering wait times for cargo shipments. Operational efficiency is further enhanced by Building 260’s convenient location next to several major highways in New York for more seamless road transportation connectivity. Access to these highways make Building 260 highly accessible, ensuring efficient transportation for cargo operations, as well as WFS staff and contractors who work at the facility.

Sustainability solutions built into the new facility all support SATS’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) group priorities from electric forklift trucks to EV charging stations for both ground support equipment and customer/employee vehicles. The centralized ETV system for automated ULD dispatch to the ramp and warehouse also streamlines operations and reduces equipment usage.

“Building 260 reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional service and setting new benchmarks for the industry. It’s a milestone achievement that positions us to meet the future demands of global logistics with confidence and excellence,” added Wellington Dhumira, SVP Cargo, Africa at Logistics African Magazine.

The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) data for global air freight shows that demand for air cargo decreased by 10.6 per cent in 2020 compared to 2019 – the largest drop in year-on-year demand since IATA started monitoring it in 1990. This figure outpaces the 6 per cent drop in the global goods trade.

In South Africa, average international air freight cargo handled at OR Tambo International Airport in February 2021 was 806 136kg per day, compared to 854 139kg per day in February 2020, according to Business Unity South Africa statistics. That volume was down to about 300 000kg a day in April 2020 and only recovered to above 800 000kg daily in the last week of January 2021.

Pier Luigi Vigada, director Eastern and Southern Africa at Air France KLM Martinair Cargo, says that despite some positive results, the air freight industry was as affected as passenger services, and had to reinvent itself to ensure it could continue delivering to customers. “We had to face challenges at all levels, like customers not having enough staff to deliver to our warehouses, where we had to ensure working staff and environment were safe to operate and handle goods. Testing, disinfecting, sterilisation of goods and crew regulations were just some hurdles that soon became the norm for us.”

After lockdown in March 2020, Air France and KLM continued operating by deploying passenger aircraft for cargo-only flights and offering repatriation flights to Europe, along with their five-times-weekly Martinair Cargo flights. “The extra capacity deployed by the airlines came at an extra cost. Operating passenger planes to carry only cargo is a pricey operation if not supported by passenger revenues and is mostly deployed to sustain the industry where margins are very tight,” says Vigada.

Capacity and costs

CFR Freight air freight director Stephen Bishop says that getting cargo in and out of South Africa became a huge challenge because the bulk of the country’s cargo is carried in the holds of passenger aircraft. When carriers stopped operating passenger flights under lockdown conditions, capacity dried up rapidly. “Ethiopian Airlines helped keep the country and the continent running, operating as our major connection to the rest of the world, particularly the Far East. While the cargo industry was deemed an essential service under lockdown, there were challenges with ground handling companies operating on skeleton staff and a myriad new COVID-19 protocols”.

According to Vigada, air freight costs fluctuate alongside all other costs in relation to the supply-demand ratio. “Freight into South Africa comes from all over the globe, and pricing depends on where the cargo originates from and how constrained the capacity is on that leg – and, ultimately, on the capacity on the final leg. The demand for capacity has been massive all over the world; both capacity and volumes are currently lower than they were back in 2019.”

Bishop says that in Q2 of 2020, they saw inbound freight pricing increase five-fold, particularly from the East. “It was simple supply and demand economics – and prices remain two to three times higher now than they were before lockdown last year.”

With over 21 years’ experience in freight transportation, Multimodal Logistics (MML) offers bespoke transport solutions for all of its customers. “Since 2013, we’ve initiated a project to run our own fleet of vehicles and move away from the ‘clearing house’ model that we had previously used,” begins Tim Wray, Managing Director. “We’re a specialist container haulage operator, dealing in logistical solutions for freight containers. Today, our fleet, which comprises 65 vehicles and will increase to 70 in November, is split equally between the South and North of England to service UK ports, making use of established inland rail hubs. Through our established road and rail network, we can move containers from any major UK port. We also offer a range of European road and rail transportation services through international rail centers within Europe. Together with our European business partners, we have the expertise and infrastructure to ensure our customers’ cargo arrives on time and is tracked along its journey.

Multimodal truck celebrating 21 years“Domestically, we deliver all types of cargo, both locally and nationally, from Cornwall to Scotland. We continue to invest in our fleet of own vehicles year on year. This time last year we had 53 trucks, and we will have 70 in November. When I first spoke to Transportation & Logistics International at the beginning of 2022, we had 37 trucks, which shows how we’ve progressively grown over the last few years. While that growth hasn’t always been straightforward, today, we’re the preferred supplier for many of our customers and are proud to deliver a consistent and reliable service.

“In July this year, we bought five new Volvo FH Aero turbo compounds, which are probably amongst the most efficient internal combustion engine vehicles on the road and have proven to be great vehicles thus far. Whilst we are monitoring trends, we’re not currently at the stage of looking into battery or alternative fuel powered vehicles in the short-term future. The nature of our work and the distances we travel dictate the types of vehicles we need, and to get the payload and range we require, we must focus on the most efficient trucks capable of meeting our needs. That’s not to say that we’re not open to new technology; over the next four-to-five years, we’ll look to incorporate hydrogen powered technology into our vehicles, hopefully with an operational range comparable to diesel trucks. There’s a long way to go yet,” he explains, “and there’s a lot of developments still to be made and particularly within the UK.”

Sharing best practice
On a more personal note, Tim goes on to share his invitation to join the Road Haulage Association (RHA) board of directors. “In 2018 I was invited on the regional council for the RHA in the South and East of England, and through this I was approached in 2022 to join the board,” he shares. “The RHA is a member-driven business and chooses to have people from its membership as part of the board to guide and steer them in line with what the members need. There are three members of the executive team and up to three representatives from each region on the board.

“After sitting on the board for two years, I was nominated to the role of Vice Chairman in early 2024 and have been officially fulfilling these duties since July. I was also appointed to the role of Chair for the South and Eastern region at the same time. With almost 38 years’ experience working mainly in the container industry, being part of the RHA enables me to understand the common issues we are all facing across the wider transport community and to share ideas and best practice with others. I am proud to be part of an organization that can take real-life issues directly to Westminster and look to find solutions to help improve our industry and continue to promote the positive aspects of our sector.

“I get involved at various levels with different companies in different areas of the industry. It’s very fulfilling and brings a different pressure to the day job, butMultimodal truck on a rugby pitch at night thankfully I can run it in parallel, as there are so many crossovers. It continues to increase my awareness of what’s going on in our industry, as well as promoting what we do daily. Transport and logistics are a backbone of this country; pretty much everything we have is transported by truck,” Tim continues.

“Since the pandemic, we have continued to experience dramatic cost increases, particularly for equipment, trucks, and staff. There’s also huge pressure on rates, as well as increasing port and railhead costs through the introduction of container booking schemes making a stealth tax on our daily operation. We are timed at every point of the supply chain from collecting the container, delivering it and returning it, with financial penalties associated at every level. So, trying to manage that is a considerable aspect of our operation. Up until Easter this year, volumes in the UK were very low and many companies were struggling to make any financial gains. However, we have seen volume return despite an ever-changing supply chain due to vessel rotations and safety threats causing rerouting in the Suez Canal.

“We’ve seen an early Christmas boost in numbers,” he states. “While I’m not sure how long that will last, it is busier and has been a better quarter. For the rest of the year and moving into 2025, we will continue to invest in new vehicles and new business. We’re also branching out to customers in different areas. We do also want to look at other business opportunities outside of freight containers, but it must be customer led. It’s important that our customers see us as a reliable part of their own supply chain.

“Over the next five years, I hope to have doubled our vehicle fleet from our current 53 vehicles and be able to do so profitably. We’ll also start to look at technologies that can enhance our competitiveness. Our industry is faced with a huge number of challenges. I think if anyone remains in business over the next five years, they’ve done well. The big are getting bigger and the small are either giving up or are acquired by larger organizations. As volumes pick up, there will be increased demand for drivers, which is already very challenging, but you must always look to move forwards. So, if we’re able to double our fleet and remain profitable, I’ll be very happy with that.

“The UK is a massive consumer with a small manufacturing base. As such, we are dependent on goods being brought into the country and our sector delivers on that. I would like to see more recognition across the board, from the government down,” Tim concludes. “Our industry and its employees, especially our professional drivers who remain key workers, must be appreciated as we raise the profile of our sector.”

www.mmlogistics.co.uk