The British family-owned enterprise TJ Morris awarded WITRON a contract to design and implement a circa 1 million sq.ft distribution centre (DC) for food and non-food products. The highly automated facility in Doncaster is designed for a daily picking capacity of 646,000 cases and will supply over 300 stores from a range of 10,000 different dry goods from mid-2028. The signing of the contract is a particular vote of confidence, as a TJ Morris distribution centre of similar size will be put into operation by WITRON in St Helens in May 2025, and WITRON have already received the contract for the Doncaster Distribution Centre.

TJ Morris is one of the largest privately-owned companies in the UK and one of the fastest growing retailers in Europe. The innovative WITRON technology with its many benefits in terms of cost-efficiency, flexibility, ergonomics, and sustainability enables TJ Morris to keep this service level high throughout the expansion plans.

Logical Consequence

The distribution centre in Doncaster has the same design as the one in St Helens, with all product groups and logistics areas – from receiving to truck loading – integrated end-to-end into the highly automated overall process. All processes are controlled by an intelligent warehouse management system from WITRON. The material flow includes 470,000 pallet, tray, and tote storage locations, 104 stacker cranes, as well as more than 15 kilometers of conveyor technology – all designed and manufactured at WITRON’s headquarters in Parkstein.

Daily Picking Capacity

The automated system is designed for a daily picking capacity of 646,000 cases, which are picked with WITRON’s Order Picking Machinery (OPM) including 32 COM machines, the Dynamic Picking System (DPS), and the semi-automated Car Picking System (CPS). The dispatch of the picked load carriers is optimized by a fully automated shipping buffer – “just-in-time”, sorted by routes and stores, in the optimal truck loading sequence, considering the storage space utilization on the truck.

“In addition to the benefits for consumers in the stores, a decisive criterion for TJ Morris was also the focus on the employees who will work with WITRON technology in the distribution centre in the future. They will benefit from state-of-the-art, ergonomic workstations, which is an enormous competitive advantage in times of labor shortages”, explains Duncan Pointon, WITRON’s UK Sales Manager. „In addition, the issue of sustainability, is addressed in many different ways – for example through significant CO2 savings due to densely packed load carriers, optimal truck utilization, and fewer trucks on the roads. Furthermore, through space savings in construction and by significantly reducing excess goods, breakage, and waste.”

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Witron to Design and Build DC for Fast-Growing UK Retailer

The UK logistics and freight community has welcomed the news that the Lower Thames Crossing has been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Transport.

The announcement, made by the Department for Transport, follows a detailed examination process and represents a key milestone for what is set to become a major new route beneath the River Thames, connecting Kent and Essex. The project is being led by National Highways.

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) praised the decision, noting the long-running support from industry stakeholders.

“This is a great result for the campaign, backed by politicians and businesses, as well as BIFA, for a project that was first mooted in 2009 as a means of addressing the problems that congestion at the Dartford Crossing causes,” said Steve Parker, BIFA Director.

“Media reports indicate that work will commence in 2026 and could be complete by 2032. Our members, who manage the transport of a considerable amount of the UK’s visible trade, will be delighted.

“Delays in transit pose a risk to their reputations, and have significant financial consequences.”

The Dartford Crossing remains one of the UK’s busiest road links, and the new tunnel is expected to provide an alternative route to help alleviate traffic pressure. The decision to grant consent follows a period of extensive consultation and planning, and the project will now move into the next stages of development.

The Labour MP for Dartford, Jim Dickson said “This decision will unlock economic growth across the country and finally deliver a solution to the traffic chaos faced by my constituents on a daily basis.”

According to the government, the crossing is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project and is designed to support long-term growth, enhance road connectivity, and reduce congestion in a key part of the strategic road network.

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Industry Urges Supply Chain Resilience After Heathrow Closure

DHL Express has partnered with Tusk, a charity dedicated to accelerating the impact of Africa-driven conservation, to transport 17 critically endangered mountain bongo antelopes from the Rare Species Conservatory Foundation (RSCF) in Florida to a sanctuary on the slopes of Mount Kenya, run by the Meru Bongo and Rhino Conservation Trust. Bred in Florida, mountain bongos are on the verge of extinction with fewer than 100 left in the wild due to poaching, forest degradation and habitat fragmentation.

As a partner of Tusk, DHL used its expert and specialist logistics services to provide point-to-point air transfer for the bongos. Meeting the requirement that the full herd be transported together; DHL provided a dedicated aircraft which carried the antelopes 7146 nautical miles directly from Palm Beach International Airport (Florida) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Kenya.

The bongos were transported in custom-built crates, alongside 6 tonnes of pelleted feed and 3 specialist animal care staff including a veterinarian and 2 bongo specialists from the US. The mountain bongos were released into a 20-acre sanctuary, which has been set aside for their long-term management and recovery by the Kenya Forest Service. The sanctuary plays a critical role in the national recovery plan and is key to the ongoing success of the project.

Formed by 12 female and 5 male bongo antelopes, the herd will remain in the paddocks to safely breed. The offspring will then slowly be reintroduced into Mount Kenya’s forest ecosystem, from which they have been absent for over 40 years.

Mike Parra, CEO DHL Express Europe, says: “We are so proud to be able to leverage the power and expertise of our global network to assist in transporting these critically endangered bongo antelopes to their new sanctuary in Kenya. The logistics of moves such as this are incredibly complex, with the welfare of the animals being everyone’s top priority. A huge thank you to our partners at Tusk, the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and everyone involved in making this important conservation mission a success”.

Mike Watson, CEO of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy which helped to coordinate this complex repatriation, says: “Bringing the bongos back to Kenya is a great moment in the restoration of the country’s natural heritage. For decades, these animals have been largely absent from the very forests where they belong, and this project will be crucial in reversing that loss. Seeing them set foot on Kenyan soil again is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when organizations work together.”

DHL Flies Bongos

Dr. Paul Reillo, RSCF Founder and President, says: “There is simply no higher calling for humanity than to protect what remains of nature. The mountain bongo’s story of decline and recovery has been entirely on our watch, and the species’ future lies with all of us. The bongo’s resilience is a story of hope for wildlife and people alike, merging elevated partnerships, proven expertise, vital resources and amazing courage. This humbling, profound project exemplifies true wildlife conservation in real time.”

Charlie Mayhew, Founder and President of Tusk, says: “The return of 17 critically endangered mountain bongos from Florida to Kenya is a significant step in restoring this critically endangered species to its native habitat, and demonstrates the conservation progress that can be made through collaboration. We are hugely grateful to our global partner DHL Express for their generous support in transporting the bongos – yet another key milestone in the partnership between our organizations. DHL’s dedication to environmental sustainability, and its role as a responsible corporate partner in supporting Tusk’s mission to protect Africa’s wildlife and natural habitat, is invaluable.”

Led by the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (LEWA), the relocation of the bongos was a collaborative effort supported by the Meru Bongo & Rhino Conservation Trust (MBRCT) and the RSCF. The local communities surrounding the sanctuary will play a key role in running the conservation program, creating education and employment opportunities that will support the region. In this context, Tusk acts as official partner of DHL Express, working closely together with LEWA, MBRCT and RSCF to provide highly efficient solutions for funding wildlife conservation programs.

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Pacifying Air Cargo

The beauty of traveling by private jet has to do not only with in-flight amenities, but all the details of the experience, including the time to be spent on the ground, can make the difference between a regular flight and an extra-luxury one .

The time to spend on the ground, in the exclusive VIP Lounges at airports, should be spent in the best possible way, relaxing and enjoying all those exclusive services, away from the hustle and bustle of normal terminals. In this article we will discuss the best VIP Lounges at airports and the aspects to consider when choosing to charter a private jet.

The choice of departure airport for private flights.

When making private flight arrangements, when choosing the airport from which to take off, it is important to consider not only the strategic location but also the level of hospitality offered. Sometimes, available airport VIP lounges can make a big difference in the overall experience of private jet travel. Opting for an airport with a well-equipped lounge and high-quality amenities means starting your trip in comfort, reducing stress and enjoying a personalized experience.

VIP lounges at airports offer a number of benefits that make waiting an even pleasant, but most importantly, stress-free experience:

• Privacy and Tranquility. Reserved access, away from the crowds and hustle and bustle of the main terminals.

• Exclusive Amenities. Gourmet restaurants, spas, showers, private meeting rooms and high-speed Wi-Fi.

• Direct Access to FBOs. For passengers in private jets, many VIP lounges offer a direct connection to FBOs (Fixed-Base Operators), ensuring fast and uncomplicated boarding.

In this regard, it is good to specify that the vast majority of airports are perfectly equipped to offer high-quality services to VIP travelers, however, there are some that, more than the others, may be the best choice for private jet charterers.

What do the best VIP lounges at airports offer?

These exclusive spaces offer quiet and comfortable environments with ergonomic armchairs, relaxation areas and, in some cases, even dedicated sleeping areas with chaise lounges or recliners.

VIP lounges at the best airports, guarantee a pleasant stay while waiting for your private jet to take off, while beguiling your time in exclusive activities, such as an aperitif or a gourmet meal of high quality food, fine wines and a wide selection of champagne.

For those who need to work, the lounges provide high-speed Wi-Fi, workstations with electrical outlets, printers and scanners, as well as meeting rooms for private meetings.

Although, waiting times before private jets take off are short, some VIP lounges offer wellness services such as spas, massages and private showers, ideal for cooling off during a longer layover.

Finally, the personalized concierge service ensures, for private jet passengers, priority access to security checkpoints and direct connection to FBOs (Fixed-Base Operators), making boarding even faster and stress-free.

Top-rated airport VIP lounges in Europe.

Here are some of the most renowned VIP lounges, which stand out for the quality of their services:

1. PS Lounge – Paris-Le Bourget Airport

Considered one of the leading airports for private jets in Europe, Le Bourget in Paris offers the PS Lounge, designed to meet the highest demands. Here you can enjoy:

2. VIP Terminal – Munich Airport.

The VIP terminal in Monaco is a masterpiece of design and functionality. It offers:

• Luxury lounge with spaces for relaxation and work.

• Dedicated security checks.

• Private transfer direct to your jet.

3. Sky Lounge – Vienna Airport

This VIP lounge at the airport in Vienna is renowned for its elegant design and personalized services, including:

• Private showers and relaxation areas.

• A wine bar with an exclusive selection.

• Panoramic views of the slopes.

4. Signature Elite Lounge – London Biggin Hill Airport.

Biggin Hill is a landmark for private jet flights from London. The Signature Elite Lounge offers:

• Quick check-in and security checks.

• Personalized concierge services.

• Exclusive environments to relax before the flight.

Also read our article on London’s Biggin Hill Airport (great for private jets)

Why is it important to choose airports with the best VIP lounges when chartering a private jet?

VIP lounges are a key element of the private jet travel experience. With their direct connection to FBOs, passengers can:

• Avoid the long lines at security checkpoints.

• Access their jet directly from the lounge without going through the main terminals.

• Enjoy a personalized experience, with dedicated staff ready to meet every need.

Rent your private jet on PrivateJetFinder and gain access to the most exclusive VIP lounges

VIP lounges at European airports are a key element for those who choose to charter by private jet. With exclusive amenities, personalized services, and direct access to FBOs, these lounges provide an unparalleled experience.

If you are planning your next private flight, visit PrivateJetFinder to find out how to make your trip even more special. The staff is always up and running and ready to help you plan your next luxury flight. From choosing the right private jet for your needs, to the best airports equipped with the most exclusive VIP lounges, every detail is critical to turning your trip into a memorable experience.

The UK logistics and freight community has welcomed the news that the Lower Thames Crossing has been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Transport.

The announcement, made by the Department for Transport, follows a detailed examination process and represents a key milestone for what is set to become a major new route beneath the River Thames, connecting Kent and Essex. The project is being led by National Highways.

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) praised the decision, noting the long-running support from industry stakeholders.

“This is a great result for the campaign, backed by politicians and businesses, as well as BIFA, for a project that was first mooted in 2009 as a means of addressing the problems that congestion at the Dartford Crossing causes,” said Steve Parker, BIFA Director.

“Media reports indicate that work will commence in 2026 and could be complete by 2032. Our members, who manage the transport of a considerable amount of the UK’s visible trade, will be delighted.

“Delays in transit pose a risk to their reputations, and have significant financial consequences.”

The Dartford Crossing remains one of the UK’s busiest road links, and the new tunnel is expected to provide an alternative route to help alleviate traffic pressure. The decision to grant consent follows a period of extensive consultation and planning, and the project will now move into the next stages of development.

The Labour MP for Dartford, Jim Dickson said “This decision will unlock economic growth across the country and finally deliver a solution to the traffic chaos faced by my constituents on a daily basis.”

According to the government, the crossing is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project and is designed to support long-term growth, enhance road connectivity, and reduce congestion in a key part of the strategic road network.

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Industry Urges Supply Chain Resilience After Heathrow Closure

CIRRO Fulfillment, a global e-commerce fulfillment provider, is strengthening its European network with two new state-of-the-art fulfilment centres in Spain and Italy. The Madrid facility has been operational since January, while the lease for the Novara (Lombardy) site was finalized in March. This expansion enhances CIRRO’s ability to offer faster, more efficient fulfilment solutions while reinforcing its commitment to sustainability in the e-commerce sector.

The 10,312 sqm Spanish facility, located in Villaverde just 17 km from Madrid Airport, is BREEAM Excellent-certified. Strategically positioned, it provides easy access to Avda. de Andalucía, M-40, M-45, and A-42, as well as public transport, ensuring seamless connectivity. With advanced logistics infrastructure and direct links to key transport routes, the facility enables efficient nationwide distribution and expanded coverage across Spain and the broader Iberian region.

In Italy, CIRRO’s new fulfilment centre occupies 12,312 sqm within a LEED Gold-certified logistics complex in San Pietro Mosezzo, Novara, near Milan. Strategically positioned for optimal distribution, the facility offers direct access to the A4 and A26 highways, enabling fast transportation across one of Italy’s most dynamic economic regions. It also includes 12 loading docks, designed to handle high-volume logistics with speed and efficiency while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability.

Charles Lu, Head of Business Development Europe at CIRRO Fulfillment, stated, “In 2023, Southern Europe saw remarkable growth, with a 14% increase in turnover, reaching €166 billion and becoming the second-largest market in Europe. Our new fulfillment centers in Spain and Italy further strengthen our European warehousing network, enabling faster deliveries, enhanced connectivity, and more sustainable operations. By leveraging state-of-the-art infrastructure and strategic locations, we continue to empower e-commerce businesses to scale efficiently and meet evolving market demands.”

This expansion marks a significant milestone in CIRRO Fulfillment’s mission to provide innovative, sustainable, and efficient fulfillment solutions across Europe and beyond.

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New Fulfilment Centre Opened by CIRRO

The recent closure of Heathrow Airport has sparked renewed urgency around resilience and supply chain risk management, prompting organisations to take a hard look at just how dependent they are on single transportation hubs. In an era where resilience is no longer optional, the disruption underscored how even a brief shutdown at a major logistics node can ripple across global networks—halting the movement of goods, delaying critical shipments, and challenging operational continuity.

More than ever, businesses are reassessing the structure, resilience and vulnerabilities of their supply chains. Heathrow, as a vital gateway for international freight and passenger traffic, has once again highlighted the dangers of over-concentration. The message is clear: without diversified routing, flexible infrastructure, and real-time visibility, supply chains remain one disruption away from gridlock.

Heiko Schwarz, Global Supply Chain Risk Advisor at Sphera, commented:

“While there are still many open questions surrounding the fire itself and how its impacts were so severe, from a supply chain perspective, this disruption should serve as a real-world stress test. Once the dust settles, businesses will be looking at how reliant they are on singular critical infrastructure hubs, whether it’s Heathrow, LAX, or Doha. No one can predict these kinds of events, but they can prepare what their response would look like.

“Whether it’s this fire, the Icelandic ash cloud in 2010, or the Suez Canal blockage in 2021, these incidents underscore the need for end-to-end visibility, scenario planning, and supply chain diversification. Organizations that understand the interconnected nature of their supply chains, maintain viable alternative routes, and invest in resilience will be far better placed to keep operations running when the unexpected strikes.”

From our perspective as a logistics business, the disruption hit close to home. After visiting Chicago for ProMAT 2025, our colleague Ian Wright joined many travellers stranded following cancellation to all Heathrow-bound flights – just one example of how a localised infrastructure failure can ripple across global routes.

As we reported last week, the fire at a nearby power station caused a major outage, forcing Heathrow to cancel all flights and remain shut until midnight. While the passenger impact was widely covered, we highlighted that the real and lasting implications for UK supply chains were largely overlooked in mainstream reporting.

This incident is a clear reminder that supply chain resilience can’t remain theoretical. Businesses must invest in contingency planning, alternative routing, and real-time visibility to protect operations against these increasingly frequent disruptions.

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Heathrow Airport Closes after Power Station Fire