DHL’s trade outlook conference call today witnessed a cautious attitude to 2025 forecasts and trends. Mike Parra, CEO of DHL Express Europe, expects impacts on trade between the US, Eurozone, and UK, and argues that DHL Express is supporting UK businesses in navigating these changes.

“There’s volatility and uncertainty for sure,” Parra said. “But globalization is not in retreat, as shown by our connectedness index recently. There has been a deceleration in global trade growth. Typically trade growth is double GDP growth, and that’s still the case for countries like Turkey. But currently trade is rising by the same as GDP in the UK and other countries,” which is not much therefore. “We are seeing growth in shipments by SEMs,” he added.

Saul Resnick, CEO of DHL Supply Chain UK, who was a guest on our Logistics Business Conversations Podcast recently, discussed inventory levels and infrastructure investments in the UK and what they reveal about business confidence in UK retail and manufacturing. “UK competiveness is under review,” he said. “FMCG investment is ok, as is moves to more automation and digitization. Omnishoring is trending. 90% of the affects of Brexit have taken place and we have adapted with our customers to these new arrangements.” In terms of inventory, “safety stock levels are down, so service is paramount. Products must be in the right place.”

“I thought we had seen the bottom last year, in terms of insolvencies and disruption in the UK, as a result of Brexit, but maybe it will be this year,” added Parra. “We’re getting closer to the full impact, it shall pass and the UK will bounce back. But what’s next? We’ve seen customer stop selling into the EU. On the plus side, our family of businesses offer consolidation warehousing and distribution to help.”

I asked Parra and Resnick about their opinion on whether the UK should join the forthcoming ‘Pan-Euro-Mediterranean’ (PEM) convention and customs agreement. Is this the single best thing the UK Government can do to boost growth? “Anything that attracts more trade we will support,” responded Resnick. Parra said, “any free trade agreement for the UK now will be seen as positive in nature. Trade equals jobs!”

DHL Express operates 130 flights per day from the UK, particularly the East Midlands Airport hub.

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With AMY, a compact AMR for loads up to 25 kg / 55 lbs., and the fleet manager NAVIOS, DS Automotion will be presenting groundbreaking concepts and solutions for production and logistics for any company size at LogiMAT 2025 in Stuttgart. Trade show visitors have the opportunity to experience the new concepts for small load transports with AMY in action both on-site and providing an interactive experience for visitors to try out our fleet management system, NAVIOS.

They are in operation around the clock.They take over precise delivery tasks in the production process, relieve human needs, and ensure on time and precise workflows. They can be adapted in various production areas.

At LogiMAT 2025 from March 11 to 13 in Stuttgart, visitors can take a close look at these solutions with the AMR AMY in live operation. Trade fair visitors can also gain detailed insights into the fleet management NAVIOS – highlighting features how intuitive and user-friendly its cockpit is to operate, and how flexible the layout can be configured, tested by interested parties through test programming at the trade show.

Efficiency booster for small parts handling

AMY was specifically designed for use in industrial production and intralogistics processes and impresses with its quite simple operation and high flexibility. Through a unique transfer concept with an active lift table, sources, and sinks can be implemented as passive stations. This makes cost-effective implementation and scaling in existing systems easier than ever before. The smart control software developed by DS Automotion itself enables rapid commissioning – individually or in swarms.

The AMR can operate completely autonomously or follow a virtual track avoid unexpected obstacles. In addition, like all current vehicles offerings from DS Automotion, AMY is equipped with a VDA-5050 interface and can process files with the Layout Interchange Format (LIF). Under the fleet manager NAVIOS from DS Automotion, AMY can also be operated in mixed mode with other vehicles from the leading manufacturer of mobile robotics for in-house logistics and assembly applications. This makes AMY particularly suitable as a cost-effective addition to existing systems.
Thanks to the three different load handling devices (LHD), which can be implemented depending on the complexity at the customer – even in existing infrastructures – AMY proves to be a versatile AMR for numerous applications. The first variant is a passive LHD that works with the help of gravity. The advantage of this variant is that the LHD does not require sensors or drives. This makes it particularly simple and cost-effective. It works together with the appropriate transfer station, which also does not require sensors. This makes it ideal for applications where the material is provided independently of the vehicle.

The second LHD variant can also handle gravity roller conveyors and belt conveyors. This allows for easy connection to conveyor technology. There are also passive transfer stations for this system. The third option is a platform for manual loading and unloading. For this purpose, the vehicle is called to stations where the user manually places the load and then sends AMY on to next destination. For all three variants, a suitable web interface is available for operating the mobile robots: from generating the transport order to calling and acknowledging the vehicle.

NAVIOS — the holistic fleet manager

The key to optimizing and automating processes in production and logistics lies in an efficient fleet manager. NAVIOS from DS Automotion offers customers the opportunity to efficiently control their vehicle fleet – whether AGVs or AMRs. Thanks to an intuitive user interface and flexible layout configuration, users can easily and individually adapt their operations. Thanks to VDA-5050 compatibility, seamless communication between all mobile robots is also possible. The layout design of the driving course is visualized using a navigation map. The integrated route planning tool ensures maximum efficiency. This means that users can change the layout during operation, and the vehicles automatically receive the updated conditions. Users have access to extensive, meaningful analysis functions around the mobile robots and material handling.

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Zebra Technologies today announced it intends to acquire Photoneo, a leading developer and manufacturer of 3D machine vision solutions. The 3D segment of the Machine Vision market is the fastest growing, and this acquisition will further accelerate Zebra’s presence in the category.

By combining Photoneo’s 3D machine vision solutions with Zebra’s advanced sensors, vendor-agnostic software and AI-based image processing capabilities, customers will benefit from a unique portfolio of offerings to address their most challenging use cases. These include high value applications such as bin picking, depalletizing, creating digital twins, and inspecting objects used in automotive manufacturing, logistics and other key markets.

Photoneo’s intelligent sensors are particularly effective within the vision-guided robotic segment. They are certified to interface with many of the largest robotic manufacturers for a variety of use cases including robot-arm applications for bin picking. Photoneo differentiates itself through parallel structured light technology in complex 3D applications which provides a faster, more accurate, higher resolution and more robust solution comprised of both hardware and software.

“This acquisition addresses the needs of customers globally who want to maximize the potential of machine vision within their frontline operations,” said Bill Burns, Chief Executive Officer, Zebra Technologies. “Building on Zebra’s proven expertise in autonomous data capture, inspection software and deep learning AI capabilities, this combination expands our portfolio of highly differentiated 3D sensors and advanced 3D machine vision software. We look forward to welcoming the Photoneo team to the Zebra family.”

Zebra has made strategic investments in the Machine Vision market, most recently in the acquisition of Matrox Imaging in June 2022 to augment its portfolio of fixed industrial scanners and machine vision sensors. By acquiring Matrox Imaging, Zebra accelerated its position as a provider of machine vision hardware and a broad range of software development libraries and apps now unified within the Zebra Aurora software suite.

In 2024, Zebra and Photoneo created an OEM relationship for Photoneo’s cameras that expanded Zebra’s 3D portfolio offering.

“Zebra Technologies will provide an ideal environment for Photoneo to further accelerate its innovation,” said Jan Zizka (pictured), Co-founder and CEO, Photoneo Brightpick Group. “By combining world-class 3D sensors from Photoneo with Zebra’s global reach and best-in-class 3D software, customers will be able to unlock considerable business value from machine vision across new, exciting use cases.”

This acquisition is accretive to Zebra’s profitable growth profile while advancing the company’s portfolio of machine vision solutions. Zebra expects to fund the purchase price with cash on hand. The transaction is subject to closing conditions and expected to close in the first quarter of 2025. Financial terms of the acquisition are not being disclosed.

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Zebra Technologies today announced it intends to acquire Photoneo, a leading developer and manufacturer of 3D machine vision solutions. The 3D segment of the Machine Vision market is the fastest growing, and this acquisition will further accelerate Zebra’s presence in the category.

By combining Photoneo’s 3D machine vision solutions with Zebra’s advanced sensors, vendor-agnostic software and AI-based image processing capabilities, customers will benefit from a unique portfolio of offerings to address their most challenging use cases. These include high value applications such as bin picking, depalletizing, creating digital twins, and inspecting objects used in automotive manufacturing, logistics and other key markets.

Photoneo’s intelligent sensors are particularly effective within the vision-guided robotic segment. They are certified to interface with many of the largest robotic manufacturers for a variety of use cases including robot-arm applications for bin picking. Photoneo differentiates itself through parallel structured light technology in complex 3D applications which provides a faster, more accurate, higher resolution and more robust solution comprised of both hardware and software.

“This acquisition addresses the needs of customers globally who want to maximize the potential of machine vision within their frontline operations,” said Bill Burns, Chief Executive Officer, Zebra Technologies. “Building on Zebra’s proven expertise in autonomous data capture, inspection software and deep learning AI capabilities, this combination expands our portfolio of highly differentiated 3D sensors and advanced 3D machine vision software. We look forward to welcoming the Photoneo team to the Zebra family.”

Zebra has made strategic investments in the Machine Vision market, most recently in the acquisition of Matrox Imaging in June 2022 to augment its portfolio of fixed industrial scanners and machine vision sensors. By acquiring Matrox Imaging, Zebra accelerated its position as a provider of machine vision hardware and a broad range of software development libraries and apps now unified within the Zebra Aurora software suite.

In 2024, Zebra and Photoneo created an OEM relationship for Photoneo’s cameras that expanded Zebra’s 3D portfolio offering.

“Zebra Technologies will provide an ideal environment for Photoneo to further accelerate its innovation,” said Jan Zizka (pictured), Co-founder and CEO, Photoneo Brightpick Group. “By combining world-class 3D sensors from Photoneo with Zebra’s global reach and best-in-class 3D software, customers will be able to unlock considerable business value from machine vision across new, exciting use cases.”

This acquisition is accretive to Zebra’s profitable growth profile while advancing the company’s portfolio of machine vision solutions. Zebra expects to fund the purchase price with cash on hand. The transaction is subject to closing conditions and expected to close in the first quarter of 2025. Financial terms of the acquisition are not being disclosed.

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Getac Technology Corporation, provider of rugged computing and mobile video solutions, has announced the launch of its next generation ZX10 10-inch fully rugged Android tablet, which combines lightweight design with powerful AI-ready performance and intuitive Android functionality for exceptional performance in the field. The next generation ZX10 is aimed at professionals working in industries such as public safety, utilities, and transportation and logistics, who need devices they can trust in the challenging environments and scenarios they encounter daily.

Powerful AI-ready performance

At the heart of the next generation ZX10 are Qualcomm’s QCS6490 processor and Neural Processor Unit, which are purpose-built to support advanced AI capabilities and deliver astonishing performance even at lower power levels. Additional key features include advanced memory (8GB LPDDR5) for lightning-fast data transfer, and up to 256GB Universal Flash Storage for a smooth and seamless user experience when running multiple applications simultaneously. Elsewhere, the device boasts an upgraded 1,000 nits LumiBond screen with sunlight readable technology and capacitive multi-touch display, for effective operation in the rain and while wearing gloves. An optional active digitizer with stylus is also available for fast, accurate note taking and data entry in heavy rain and/or extremely low temperatures.

Highly configurable connectivity and battery options

The next generation ZX10 includes dual SIM technology (Nano SIM + eSIM) for optimal mobile network coverage, while Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 and optional dedicated dual-band GPS offer rapid data transfer and location positioning capabilities. For those with more extensive data collection and communication needs, the device can be configured with 4G LTE and 5G Sub-6, Near Field Communication (NFC) (non-payment) and a barcode reader. The ZX10 features a hot-swappable dual-battery design that supports full-shift operation without downtime or delays. It can also be configured with a single battery for customers who wish to mount the device on forklifts or other vehicles. Optional high-capacity Li-ion battery pack are available for those who require longer battery life.

Android tablet on the market

Like all Getac devices, the ZX10 is built rugged from the ground up to thrive in challenging environments. MIL-STD-810H certification, IP66 certification and 6ft drop resistance ensures it can stand up to the rigours of intensive field work, while an operating temperature range of -29°C to 63°C / -20°F to 145°F provides further peace of mind in adverse weather conditions and extreme operational scenarios. Despite these comprehensive fully rugged credentials, the ZX10 weighs just starting from 906 grams, making it one of the lightest 10-inch fully rugged tablets currently available on the market.

Intuitive Android operating system

The next generation ZX10 is powered by the intuitive Android operating system (Android 13 is installed as standard), for incredible versatility and ease of use. It is also verified as an Android Enterprise Recommended rugged device, meeting all the specifications and requirements of Google’s rigorous testing process. This means it will receive full security updates every 90 days for five years after the launch date, along with regular patches and feature enhancements over this period. Getac is also committed to supporting a minimum of three Android OS versions for each product generation, futureproofing the ZX10 and ensuring an exceptional Android experience at all times.

“For field-based professionals, device weight can have a significant impact on productivity, particularly when carrying and/or operating it for extended periods of time,” says James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. “Not only is the next generation ZX10 the lightest 10-inch fully rugged tablet currently available on the market, but its powerful combination of AI-ready performance, extensive configurability, fully rugged reliability, and intuitive Android OS makes it one of the most versatile as well.”

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The British and Irish Lions rugby team has announced DHL Express as the official tour logistics partner – marking 20 years together.

The 2025 Qatar Airways Lions Men’s Series will be the 20th anniversary of DHL being a proud partner of the Lions, delivering seamless logistics solutions to ensure the team can focus on what they do best. As with the 2021 Series in South Africa, the players in Australia will sport the DHL logo on the back of their Lions jerseys – highlighting that DHL is the team behind the team.

John Pearson, CEO DHL Express said: “Twenty years of delivering The British & Irish Lions is a huge achievement and privilege – one which we do not take lightly. Rugby plays a key role in our extensive sponsorship portfolio, and over the years of ‘delivering rugby to the world’, our brand has become synonymous with rugby on a global level, with longstanding partnerships with the likes of Harlequins, Munster, DHL Super Rugby Pacific and European Professional Club Rugby Champions Cup and Challenge Cup.

“The sport of rugby represents key values that resonate strongly with our own DHL brand values. For this reason, I am delighted to be continuing our partnership with The Lions – further affirming our commitment to rugby and to keeping the world connected and we look forward to engaging with the fans along the way.”

As a key partner of the Lions since 2005 DHL will support both in Ireland and on Tour during next year’s Series.

Ben Calveley, CEO of The British and Irish Lions said: “To have DHL as our trusted team behind the team for 20 years now shows just how crucial their support is to The British & Irish Lions. Getting all of the details right off the pitch, like ensuring the safe delivery of our kit and equipment, gives the Lions the best possible chance of success on the field of play. So we are delighted to be working alongside DHL again as our Official Logistics Partner as we head to Australia in 2025 – following our first ever home game on Irish soil in Dublin next June.”

In 2025 the Lions will bring together the best players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales for a Tour of Australia from June 28 to August 2, including three highly-anticipated Test matches against The Wallabies.

As Official Logistics Partner, DHL will provide specialised and tailored logistics solutions for the team – delivering around 8 tonnes of equipment, ranging from scrum machines, and training gear to medical equipment. From coaches, support staff and management, to DHL employees and fans, they all play a key part in the team behind the team.

The DHL logo will appear on the back of the Lions Player Jersey, which will be available to buy in Spring 2025. This slim-fit design will be identical to what the players will wear on the field, with the looser-fitting supporter replica jersey available now. The premium Canterbury jersey will feature the full range of tour sponsors that will be worn on the field – Howden, DHL and the Qatar Airways Series mark.

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Three quarters of businesses worldwide are overhauling their supply chains by working with more rather than fewer suppliers to mitigate risks in an increasingly fragmented global environment.

Research unveiled by Economist Impact and DP World at the World Economic Forum highlights this strategic pivot, driven by geopolitical uncertainty which is likely to grow with the ‘America first’ policies of the new administration in the United States.

The fifth annual Trade in Transition study surveyed over 3,500 supply chain executives across the world. The findings reveal firms are being forced to adapt at speed to rising protectionism and shifting geopolitical alliances.

Countries perceived to be non-aligned, such as Vietnam, Mexico, India, the UAE or Brazil, are emerging as vital trade hubs. A significant 71% of executives agree these countries mitigate trade risks, while 69% view them as critical for addressing gaps created by global conflicts.

Around 40% of firms are increasing their US-based sourcing and a further 32% are adopting dual supply chains to mitigate against geopolitical risks. Friendshoring — relocating supply chains to politically aligned countries — complements these strategies, with about 34% of businesses pursuing this approach to navigate tensions between global powers.

Economic challenges remain a priority, with 33% of executives citing prolonged inflation and high interest rates as chief concerns. By leveraging neutral hubs, diversifying suppliers and adopting advanced technologies like AI, businesses are better positioned to navigate this era of economic and geopolitical complexity.

Speaking at the launch of the report at the World Economic Forum in Davos today, DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, said:

“Global trade today is more complex than ever, demanding agility, resilience, and innovation. At DP World, we empower businesses with the global infrastructure, local expertise, and advanced technology needed to thrive in this evolving landscape across fragmented markets. The latest research by Economist Impact provides invaluable insights into the future of trade in this new era. With it, we aim to foster dialogue, innovation, and resilience within the global supply chain ecosystem, empowering businesses to adapt and thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.”

John Ferguson, Global Lead, New Globalisation, Economist Impact, added:

“In 2025 and the foreseeable future, global trade will be shaped by three forces: shifting geopolitics, climate change, and a new wave of AI and automation. Yet, businesses are not retreating from international trade but are stepping up to the challenge. Firms that stay agile and cost-efficient will have the edge. Firms that also combine risk management with AI experimentation and openness will be best placed to win in this new chapter of globalisation.”

Click here to view the full report.

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Asyad Group SAOC, a global integrated logistics provider, today announces its intention to offer at least 20% of the issued share capital in Asyad Shipping Company SAOG  through an Initial Public Offering and to list its ordinary shares for trading on the Muscat Stock Exchange.

The Offering comes as part of Asyad Group’s vision to drive its operational growth, diversify its business portfolio, and achieve sustainability and long-term growth. Since its inception through the end of 2023, Asyad Group has consistently delivered a strong and sustainable financial performance, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21% in revenue and 73% in net profit. This growth has been underpinned by the Group’s expansion into over 90 geographical markets, including into major global economies such as China, India, the United States, and the GCC.

Asyad Group’s success is anchored in its competitive strategy to address global market needs with integrated logistics solutions. This has been made possible by the efforts of a dedicated team of more than 10,000 members who have propelled exceptional growth in the Group’s commercial and operational performance. By combining innovation, expertise, and a customer-centric approach, Asyad Group has established itself as a global leader in the logistics sector.

Established in 2003, Asyad Shipping is one of the world’s largest providers of diverse shipping and maritime solutions. It is competitively positioned to meet the needs of high-growth markets such as Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and the Americas. ASC operates 89 multi-purpose vessels reaching over 60 countries, linking Omani and global ports, and providing reliable and competitive shipping solutions to all major industrial sectors. It is also distinguished by its long-standing strategic and commercial partnerships with many major international clients.

Wholly owned by Asyad Group, Asyad Shipping leverages the Group’s advanced infrastructure and shared resources to provide comprehensive solutions to customers around the world. Additionally, its integration within Asyad Group’s major ports, economic and free zones supports the efficient handling, exporting and importing of cargo and containers with reduced waiting times at ports, and thus maximizes its competitiveness and sustainable business growth across major markets.

Sohar International Bank has been appointed as the issue manager. Oman Investment Bank, Sohar International Bank, EFG Hermes, Jefferies and JP Morgan, have been appointed as joint global coordinators. Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and Société Générale have been appointed as joint bookrunners.

Key details of the offering

Asyad Group SAOC owns 100% of Asyad Shipping prior to the Offering. The Selling Shareholder expects to offer at least 20% of the total issued share capital of Asyad Shipping, with the Selling Shareholder retaining the right to amend the size of the Offering at any time at their sole discretion in line with the applicable laws and the approval of the FSA.

The Offering will be offered in two tranches to eligible and qualified institutional investors in Oman and other institutional investors in a number of countries and retail investors in Oman. It will be conducted in the manner approved by the FSA and will be carried out concurrently.

Asyad Shipping Company offers a comprehensive range of maritime shipping solutions across five key business segments: Container Ships, Product Tankers, Dry Bulk Carriers, Crude Tankers, and Gas Carriers. The Liner Shipping segment, operated through its subsidiary Asyad Line Co., connects Omani ports to strategic markets in the GCC, China, and Southeast Asia, while also providing value-added services such as storage, transportation, and customs clearance. Additionally, ASC transports crude oil, liquid cargoes like refined petroleum and chemicals, and handles both raw materials and finished goods under long-term contracts in the metallurgical sector.

Asyad Shipping also plays a pivotal role in global LNG and LPG transportation and is poised for growth with plans to expand its fleet by adding two eco-friendly LNG carriers, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

With one of the largest globally diversified fleets, ASC is competitively positioned to supply high-growth markets, such as Asia, the Middle East and North Africa through its fleet of 89 vessels, with a total aggregate capacity of more than 9.5 million DWT as of 30 September 2024.

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