Data is the way forward, in order for cold chains to reduce unnecesssary waste, says Arindam Roy, Vice President, Client Partner at Straive.

Food and medical waste are crippling both our people and planet. A shocking 40% is believed to be lost along the value chain, and the consequences for the environment and communities are staggering.

The question, though, shouldn’t just be about how these goods get from A to Z. Other variables, like storage equipment conditions and temperature, make or break whether they’re actually usable once delivered. In fact, faulty temperatures were flagged as a culprit in estimated annual vaccine losses that total 50%. But these very factors are among the top challenges in cold-chain logistics, alongside poor documentation, human error, and compliance hiccups.

Technology and data science are at the crux of addressing these hurdles to ensure both safe and speedy delivery. Organizations in logistics need to rewire data methods and digital transformation strategies in order to optimize operational efficiency while boosting business outcomes. Here’s how.

Confront data reporting challenges

It’s no secret that logistics is reaching new levels of pressure. Geopolitical uncertainty, tariffs, climate change, and staff shortages are forcing providers to rewrite their operational strategies and make every mile count. To navigate this challenging landscape, providers are turning to technology, including AI.

However, while organizations have looked to digital solutions to drive better customer experiences and maximize efficiency, data reporting and management continue to be a weak spot. Integrating AI-powered automation is only one part of the digital puzzle. Reporting on collated data and translating it into actionable insights is another element altogether.

Relying on outdated Management Information Systems (MIS), which generate descriptive, backward-focused reports and business insights, is creating burdens. In an industry where things drastically change from one moment to the next, organizations must move from a reactive to a proactive data reporting approach. Teams need real-time, deeper, predictive analytics that facilitate agility as part of the wider bid to strengthen customer relations, slash delivery timeframes, and optimize operations on the ground.

Build a comprehensive, future-forward roadmap

Many technology transformations fail to take into account how digital tools actually pan out in real-world applications. These blind spots create unforeseen issues down the line, such as data silos, unexpected costs, and poor interoperability. That’s why organizations must build a thorough blueprint that encompasses advisory considerations through to final implementation.

First, build a roadmap of high-impact initiatives to identify a clear pathway towards data maturity. At this stage, the focus is on strategic data science initiatives crucial to driving corporate strategy and business goals while aligning with operational needs and challenges.

Once the prioritized initiatives and challenges are mapped out, the next stage is experimentation. This is the point where various solutions are tested and measured, and qualified pilots are brought forward to the production stage. Piloted solutions should meet certain performance criteria before deploying them, such as improved turnaround times.

Gain company-wide buy-in

Careful consideration should be given to ensuring seamless integration and nurturing adoption among business teams and other departments in everyday processes. Crucially, there are industry best practices in change management to fuel widespread adoption of data science solutions and other technologies. This revolves around practical know-how, so teams are well-versed in the business benefits of integrated solutions and familiar with working alongside them. Any business value generated from integrated data science solutions should be tracked and quantified using an ROI framework.

Moreover, digital transformation of any kind is not a one-and-done event. Future-forward strategies must be constantly monitored to ensure continuous improvement and tangible growth. Organizations committed to long-term digital transformation outcomes must establish a governance committee with institutionalized processes. This committee is supplemented by robust data engineering and technology expertise.

Importantly, strong deployment strategies feature a phase-wise approach to continuously identify an ongoing set of data science initiatives to propel organization-wide impact. This ensures continuous growth and the momentum of digitization as an ROI driver.

Maximize operational outcomes

Providers need more agile and proactive digitally-powered operations that keep pace with shifting supply and demand gaps. As mentioned, it’s important for organizations to ground their digital tools in real-world scenarios as part of maximizing outcomes, but many fail to do so.

For example, simulating warehouse operations enables teams to forecast potential demand spikes with a higher degree of accuracy. It’s also an excellent way to gauge any gaps in how data management systems and integrated tools collate and generate actionable insights. The predictive capabilities of digitally powered data management empower teams to tackle core challenges such as wasted miles, missed deliveries, customer complaints, insufficient supply or inventory.

Moreover, predictive insights can flag any potential additional burdens, such as possible detention charges, which can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars per year. This alone takes a significant weight off operational costs and empowers logistics organizations to be more resilient.

Data science transformation does not happen overnight, but following these steps creates a progressive and comprehensive strategy that keeps logistics one step ahead and moving forward.

Intralogistics pioneer Libiao Robotics has further strengthened its international footprint with the successful inauguration of a state-of-the-art robotic parcel sorting centre for Correo Argentino at its Monte Grande facility, near Buenos Aires. The installation is the first of its kind in Latin America and marks a major step forward in the modernisation of Argentina’s national postal infrastructure.

The new facility is powered by 240 autonomous Libiao robots operating across 1,180 square metres, and is capable of sorting up to 9,000 parcels per hour, increasing the site’s previous capacity three-fold. Designed primarily for small and medium-sized e-commerce parcels up to 5kg, the system handles the bulk of both domestic and international parcel flows.

At the heart of the project is the Libiao T-Sort Sorting System, which combines artificial intelligence, advanced sensors and dynamic routing algorithms to deliver high-speed, high-accuracy sortation. Parcels are inducted via 13 workstations, scanned using barcode or QR code recognition, and then transported by Libiao’s distinctive and tried-and-tested ‘mini yellow’ robots to 130 destination chutes, serving 60 destinations across the Buenos Aires metropolitan area and 70 locations nationwide.

“This project demonstrates how intelligent robotics can transform postal and parcel operations, even in large, geographically diverse countries,” said Libiao’s Global Head of Sales Ronan Shen. “We are proud to support Correo Argentino in building a future-ready network that is faster, more accurate and scalable for continued e-commerce growth.”

Speed, Accuracy and Scalability

The Libiao T-Sort Sorting System is specifically engineered for high-throughput parcel and e-commerce environments. Unlike conventional fixed conveyor sorters, the modular robotic design allows customers to scale capacity simply by adding more robots or destinations, without major structural changes. Key benefits include:

• High throughput in compact footprints – ideal for space-constrained urban hubs
• Flexible destination configuration – easy to reassign outputs as networks evolve
• High sorting accuracy – reducing mis-sorts and rehandling
• Rapid deployment – significantly shorter installation times compared to traditional systems
• Lower total cost of ownership (TCO) – fewer mechanical components and simplified maintenance

For Correo Argentino, the installation supports its wider transformation programme, following a strong financial turnaround and continued investment in automation. A second sorter for larger parcels up to 30kg is already planned for 2026, alongside the introduction of RFID tracking, automated weighing and robotic container handling.

Growing Presence

Libiao Robotics is a leading global provider of robotic sorting, picking and material handling solutions for the logistics, e-commerce, post & parcel, retail and manufacturing sectors. The company’s portfolio includes the T-Sort Sorting System, the AirRob Bin-to-Person System, goods-to-person systems, and integrated warehouse control software.

Libiao has delivered hundreds of projects worldwide for major postal operators, 3PLs and retailers, and continues to expand its presence across Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, supporting customers with local project delivery, service and technical expertise.

“European logistics operators are facing the same challenges as their counterparts worldwide: rising labour costs, peak volatility and relentless e-commerce growth,” added Ronan Shen. “Robotic sortation offers a proven, future-proof route to higher productivity and operational resilience.”

Once again this year, visitors to the META-Regalbau stand at LogiMAT Stuttgart, in Hall 1 – Stand H01 and H05 will be able to discover some new and proven highlights from an extensive world of storage technology. The focus will be on new digital solutions such as the META customer portal and the rack planner. In addition, storage solutions in conjunction with conveyor technology and the tried-and-tested standard shelving systems are central elements of the trade fair presentation.

New rack planner

This year, the Stuttgart trade fair will mark the launch of the new customer portal and the new rack planner at META – these digital solutions will be presented for the first time at LogiMAT. With these new web-based systems, META takes collaboration with customers to a new digital level. The customer portal is the new digital point of contact and central platform for all customers. The intuitive rack planner features extended planning and configuration options – visitors and customers can therefore look forward to the presentation of the new functions.

Conveyor technology solutions

Under the name META-ILS (ILS = Innovative Logistic Solutions), META offers individual customer solutions for complex tasks in the field of warehouse automation with conveyor technology. Customers worldwide benefit in the long term from efficient conveyor technology combined with high-quality storage technology. At LogiMAT, consultants will be on hand to provide advice on possible solutions and will be happy to showcase already implemented conveyor technology projects from around the world.

Innovative and proven

The premium supplier of storage technology will be presenting its extensive META portfolio of solutions in a new layout on over 130 m2 in Hall 1. The team of warehouse technology experts will be happy to answer any questions you may have about either new products or tried-and-tested solutions – such as warehouse technology, steel construction, factory equipment and comprehensive services such as racking inspections.

As tensions rose over Greenland, Trump’s renewed threats to impose tariffs on EU and UK goods and his visit to Davos once again put transatlantic supply chains under pressure. Businesses are already feeling the impact. The prospect of tariffs is slowing US imports, triggering stockpiling and causing customs delays, particularly for spare parts and critical components. UK manufacturers and retailers – especially in automotive and consumer goods – are facing higher costs, disrupted production and growing uncertainty around availability.

Andrei Danescu, CEO of UK-based warehouse logistics firm Dexory, discusses how the threats to impose tariffs play out in the real economy. He works closely with global manufacturers and logistics operators and hears, in practical terms, how political flashpoints translate into warehouse disruption and why robotics and real-time data are becoming essential as volatility increases.

“Just the threat of tariffs is distorting global supply chains. US-bound imports are slowing as companies pause orders, stockpile critical components and rush deliveries, triggering customs delay and warehouses filling with the wrong stock, in the wrong place, at the wrong time.

“This is the commercial reality behind renewed tariff threats against the UK and EU and the broader use of economic and territorial pressure. The message to business is clear: geopolitics now overrides efficiency!
“For UK manufacturers and retailers, especially in automotive and consumer goods, the impact is immediate. Predictable delivery rhythms will break, forcing many to over-order or risk stoppages. ‘Just in time’ becomes ‘just in case’, tying up cash and warehouse space.

“The lesson is simple: tariffs destabilise supply chains and, in an economy already running hot, uncertainty is its own tax. All organisations can do now is prioritise warehouse visibility to inform decision making.”

Real-time data insights are transforming logistics performance, driving down costs and improving CO2 emissions management. Adding Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Transport Management Systems (TMS) is set to further enhance the depth and breadth of data, extending automation and enhancing predictive insights, as Elmer Spruijt (pictured, below), VP, Global Sales, Descartes explains.

Real-Time Visibility

The growing availability of real-time data throughout global supply chains is transforming operational performance. Real-time shipment tracking is allowing companies to automatically update end customers with accurate delivery timescales. Immediate access to a global logistics network provides a real-time view of carrier options, facilitating next level decision making based on costs, timing, performance record, even CO2 emissions. Used in tandem with a TMS, real-time data can drive automation, such as carrier confirmation and the creation of relevant transport documents, as well as customer updates.

Of course, in a complex, multi-layered global logistics network, data gaps are inevitable, which is where the addition of AI into this process is set to deliver significant benefits. For example, when a truck’s telematics device goes offline for any reason, the back-up information is provided via a mobile app. If, however, the driver has not downloaded the app, the vehicle cannot be tracked. Using an AI agent to automatically contact the driver and request installation is a simple, cost-effective process that quickly resolves any data gaps.

Streamlining and Automating

A similar approach can be used if a carrier’s data feed is compromised. An AI agent automatically contacting the carrier to request a network reset, as well as any specific missing information, such as proof of delivery, that got lost during the glitch, can seamlessly resolve the issue.

While these processes could in the past have been undertaken manually, in an industry enduring tight margins and significant disruption, this has rarely been a cost-effective option. Yet with customer invoicing increasingly automated and prompted by proof of delivery, any missing tracking data can result in payment delay. The closer organisations can move towards 100% shipment tracking throughout every journey, the more automation can be achieved, further improving efficiency and reducing the need for manual exceptions management.

Expanding Business Value

Furthermore, AI can also help to improve the depth of Scope 3 emissions reporting, building on the existing insight provided by a TMS about the CO2 generated by each vehicle based on a number of factors, including size, weight, distance and speed. Where vehicle specific information is not available, and the TMS defaults to generic estimates, the addition of AI to this process allows the system to explore more data sources, adding greater accuracy to the emissions assessment process.

AI is also set to play a key role in combating the escalating risk of freight fraud. Measures such as enhanced carrier vetting and onboarding are key to improving the verification of carriers, monitoring insurance and preventing fraud.

The adoption of AI throughout the transport management industry is at an early stage. But the significant on-going investment now, building on the value of real-time data resources to improve efficiency, add automation and enhance predictive analytics is compelling. For those organisations still reliant on out-dated systems and intermittent data updates, the gulf in agility and resilience is becoming a concern. As AI adds ever more valuable intelligence to efficient transport management, the adoption of innovative technology is delivering a step change in competitive advantage.

End-of-line packaging machine manufacturer Lantech offers a range of innovative packaging systems to provide the logistics and e-commerce sector with fast, flexible packaging machines that aim to set new standards in warehouse logistics and optimize the shipment of goods.

The C-1000 Case Erector is renowned for its efficiency and square cases. It produces up to 30 cases per minute with flexible dimensions ranging from 200 x 150x 150 mm to 500 x 325 x 520 mm. Users reliably receive right-angled shipping cartons that provide maximum stability and are ideal for transportation.
The case erector produces 90-degree angles regardless of the type of the corrugated board, changing temperatures or humidity and varying plano dimensions. Users are assured of rectangular shipping boxes that are ideal for the logistics chain and offer maximum stability. Depending on customer preference, the bottom of the case is sealed with Hotmelt or tape.

Space saving

The C1000 case erector can however also be multiplied with 2-3 or 4 magazines then called Multi Format Case erector. The MFC increases the flexibility of the packaging process by allowing cases of different sizes to be erected with just one machine. This compact solution has up to four magazines that can be configured separately and filled during operation. This allows different case sizes to be produced on a single machine without the need for changeovers or production interruptions. The MFC saves valuable production space compared to using multiple conventional case erectors with a single magazine. Even more space is saved thanks to the central output point for the cases, as there is no need to combine different conveyors into a single output system.

Choice of many cases sizes

The MFC can handle cases with dimensions ranging from 200 x 150 x 150 mm to a maximum of 620 x 450 x 650 mm. The maximum throughput speed is 1080 cases per hour. The MFC is also equipped with Lantech’s Total Control System. This ensures accurate control during the erection process, resulting in perfectly square cases. These square cases prevent jamming and are easier to load, stack and palletize.

Lock loads to pallets

For professional securing of loads on pallets, Lantech offers an efficient packaging solution with the QL400XT semi-automatic pallet wrapper. This machine reduces each wrapping process by two minutes per cycle by automatically attaching the film to the pallet and cutting it after wrapping. This is made possible by the patented ‘XT Cut and Clamp’ function, which is purely mechanical and requires no compressed air or electricity.

Another advantage is the intelligent ‘Load Guardian’ control system. The system creates special profiles with the correct tension for frequently occurring loads. This saves time and prevents operating errors. The QL-400XT stretch wrapper can process up to 35 pallet loads per hour, with a maximum diagonal of 1830 mm and a maximum height of 2030 mm. The processed film can be pre-stretched up to 300 per cent.

Visit Lantech at Logimat Hall 1 Stand B72 from 24th – 26th of March in Suttgart

While the political debate centres on geopolitics, the more immediate issue for businesses is how origin-based tariffs would be applied across deeply integrated European supply chains. Components and materials often cross multiple borders before final assembly, leaving many organisations uncertain where tariff exposure truly sits, particularly beyond Tier-1 suppliers.

Steffen Schulze Selting, Vice President, Value Engineering at Sphera, told us, “tariffs are being used more frequently as a tool within global trade, and supply chains are where the consequences are most immediately felt. For businesses operating across Europe and the UK, the challenge is not simply the headline tariff rate, but the complexity that sits beneath it.”

Trade policy issues

“Highly integrated supply chains mean that materials often cross multiple borders before final assembly. When tariffs are applied based on country of origin, many organisations struggle to determine where exposure truly sits, particularly beyond Tier 1 suppliers, where direct commercial relationships end, and reliable origin data becomes harder to obtain. That uncertainty makes it difficult to assess risk at pace.

“The backdrop to this is a shifting global trade map. Climate-driven changes in the Arctic are opening up new potential shipping routes via Greenland, shortening transit times between Europe and Asia. Control and access to these routes will carry long-term implications for global supply chains well beyond the immediate geopolitical debate.

“If the current tariff threat results in escalation, it would add pressure to supply networks that are already managing climate risk. Understanding where goods originate and which products or regions are most exposed is critical to assessing cost exposure and operational impact when trade conditions shift.”

Supply chain management and omnichannel e-fulfilment company, Bleckmann, has announced that Kurt Pierloot will step down as Chief Executive Officer after 6.5 years of leadership. The transition is by mutual agreement, with Kurt continuing to support the company in a number of strategic projects in the coming weeks to ensure a smooth handover.

During his tenure, Pierloot oversaw significant growth and strengthened Bleckmann’s position in the market. Revenue increased from approximately €280 million in 2018 to around €730 million, while profitability improved substantially- even through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also led large-scale automation programs, investing in advanced technologies to drive efficiency, scalability, and sustainability, establishing Bleckmann as a forward-thinking leader in omnichannel logistics.

Pierloot also spearheaded an ambitious acquisition strategy, including a majority stake in Spain’s B2Tex group, a specialist in fashion logistics. This expanded Bleckmann’s presence in Southern Europe, enhanced service capabilities, and created new opportunities for clients and growth.

Kurt has played a pivotal role in evolving Bleckmann into a highly resilient, innovative, and client-oriented company,

said Gökalp Çak, Chairman of the Board and Co-Founder of Netlog Logistics Group, Bleckmann’s major shareholder.

His strategic foresight, commitment, and people-centered approach have created lasting value and a solid platform for future success. We are deeply grateful for his contributions and look forward to his continued support on key strategic initiatives during this transition. We wish him every success in his next chapter.

To ensure continuity, Gökalp Çak will assume the role of interim CEO, supported by the Board and Executive Committee. This arrangement ensures seamless operations, with Bleckmann’s strategic plan and growth trajectory unaffected.

Reflecting on his time at the company, Pierloot said:

I have admired Bleckmann for its people and client focus and from the day I joined, I always enjoyed most working with our over 6500 talented and passionate colleagues as well as our client base of inspiring brands.

Bleckmann remains committed to its ambition to be the premier logistics partner for fashion and lifestyle brands across Europe and beyond. With a talented team and a clear strategy, the company is poised for continued success.

Logistics Business asked Jim Donaldson, Chief Technology Officer at Hitachi ZeroCarbon, for his views on electric commercial vehicle developments in the year ahead.

“Looking ahead to 2026, breakthrough advances in AI will arrive almost daily, and the real opportunity for our industry will be applying those innovations to accelerate decarbonisation at scale.

“While fleet operators are unlikely to hand control of charging infrastructure to large language models like ChatGPT, data-driven optimisation and other forms of AI are set to become essential to achieving fully electric fleets. In real-world deployments today, automated approaches are already lifting effective power capacity by around 20% compared with standard setups – enabling faster charging and more vehicles without the need for new infrastructure.

“Technology and data are also expected to play an increasingly critical role in managing battery assets. Even as battery technology continues to improve, vehicle performance will still vary widely across fleets. Data-led insights will be key to maximising in-life and second-life value, while rapidly identifying emerging reliability issues.

“Beyond the depot, 2026 is also likely to mark a shift in how electric fleets interact with the wider energy system. As grids face growing pressure from electrification, fleet infrastructure will increasingly be designed as flexible energy assets – able to balance demand, integrate renewables and respond dynamically to network constraints. Platforms that coordinate vehicles, chargers, on-site generation and grid signals in real time will be critical, turning fleets from passive energy consumers into active participants in a more resilient, low-carbon energy ecosystem.

“Ultimately, delivering on the full promise of the EV transition will depend on operations optimised by data-led automation. The future of EV fleet management is likely to be AI-driven systems that draw on schedules, vehicles, chargers and energy networks to automate energy and charging operations – maximising reliability at the lowest possible cost.”

Sallaum Lines announces the relocation of its headquarters from Switzerland to Limassol, Cyprus. This strategic move reflects the company’s long-term growth vision and its commitment to strengthening its presence within the European maritime world. Renowned as one of the world’s top global shipping centers and the largest shipping management hub in Europe, Cyprus has emerged as an ideal environment for maritime businesses. The relocation positions Sallaum Lines closer to key European markets, regulatory frameworks, and maritime stakeholders, enhancing operational efficiency and strategic alignment.

The vision for the new headquarters is to design a modern, collaborative, and innovative-driven space that promotes growth and empowers employees. The new corporate head office will host customer-centric operations, further reinforcing an ability to deliver reliable, efficient, and sustainable RoRo shipping solutions to clients worldwide.

Similarly, the corporate headquarters transition comes at a significant phase of growth as well as expansion for Sallaum Lines, underscored by major capital commitments and fleet modernization initiatives, including six new PCTC dual fuel vessels in order and a 20-million-euro investment at its terminal in Antwerp, Belgium.

The move to Limassol represents an exciting new chapter for Sallaum Lines… Relocating our headquarters to Cyprus will strengthen our capabilities, aligning perfectly with our vision guided by our strategic pillars that serve the best interest of the environment, society, innovation, our employees, and economic growth and expand our reach in the roro shipping industry. We look forward to capitalizing on the opportunities Cyprus offers and welcoming our employees, shareholders, and business partners to our new home.

shares Sami Sallaum, Chairman.

Sallaum Lines is a global RORO carrier specializing in the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation of automobiles, trucks, and project cargo. With a rapidly growing fleet and a presence across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the United States of America, the company is committed to sustainable innovation, operational excellence, and long-term global partnerships.