Host James Cracknell OBE welcomed a record-breaking audience of over 550 attendees to the British International Freight Association’s (BIFA) 2024 Freight Service Awards. The prestigious event, celebrating its 36th anniversary, took place at The Brewery in London. During the event Cracknell announced nine winning companies and two outstanding individuals across 11 award categories.

BIFA Director General Steve Parker extended heartfelt congratulations to the winners and finalists, highlighting the achievements of the 34 freight forwarding companies that made it to the nine service category shortlists — six of which earned recognition in multiple categories. Additionally, he commended the 12 finalists in the two individual award categories.

In the Air Cargo Services category, which was sponsored by IAG Cargo, Uniserve Holdings Limited triumphed over fellow finalists Brunel Air Cargo, Kerry Logistics (UK) Ltd, and Metro Shipping Ltd.

Winner of the Ocean Services Award, sponsored by Port Express, was Denholm Good Logistics Limited, which overcame strong challenges from fellow finalists Atlantic Freight Ltd, Kerry Logistics (UK) Ltd, and NNR Global Logistics UK Ltd.

Deugro (UK) Ltd took first place in the Project Forwarding category, sponsored by Macbeth Insurance Brokers, ahead of fellow finalists, Maersk Logistics and Services UK Ltd, Perform Logistics Ltd, and Westbound Logistics Services Ltd.

In the Specialist Services category, sponsored by Descartes + Thyme IT, the winner was John Pipe International, whilst the other finalists included Daily Freight Services Ltd, Irish Freight Solutions, Metro Shipping and Samphire Cargo Ltd.

Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics was revealed as the winner of the Supply Chain Management category, sponsored by Descartes + BoxTop Technologies, seeing off strong competition from fellow finalists Noatum Logistics UK Ltd, Seafast Logistics Ltd, and Uniserve Holdings Limited.

Scooping first place in the Sustainable Logistics & the Environment Award category, sponsored by American Airlines Cargo was DHL Global Forwarding, which overcame excellent entries from fellow finalists, DSV Road Ltd, Ital Logistics Ltd, Peterson Freight Management, Rhenus Logistics Ltd, and Wallis Shipping Services Ltd.

United Worldwide Logistics took first place in the Extra Mile Award, sponsored by Descartes, ahead of the entries from fellow finalists Carousel Logistics Ltd, Killick Martin & Company Ltd, Pro-Logist Ltd, Seafast Logistics Ltd.

Victorious against fellow finalists Deugro (UK) Ltd, PFE Express Ltd, and Unsworth UK, Speedy Freight triumphed in the Staff Development category, which was sponsored by Albacore Systems.

In the European Logistics category, which was sponsored by TT Club, the winner was Cargo Overseas, with the other finalists being Mercury Freight Ltd, NNR Global Logistics Ltd, and Transportify Ltd.

Winner of the Apprentice of the Year category, which was sponsored by Menzies LLP was Joseph Freestone (Woodland Group), who beat off strong competition from Dylan Cheesman (Unsworth UK), Keira Greenough (Cardinal Global Logistics), Leah Griggs (Laser Transport International), Luis Matthews (Ligentia UK Ltd), and Iwan Williams (United Worldwide Logistics Ltd).

Meanwhile, Thomas Bedöcs from DHL Global Forwarding impressed the judges with his commitment to the industry to win the Young Freight Forwarder of the Year category, which is sponsored by Virgin Atlantic Cargo. Fellow finalists were Charmaine Anderson from Blue Water Shipping UK Ltd, Georgia Gibson from Cargo-partner, Magdalena Krasinska from Unsworth UK, as well as both Ben Thompson and Charlie Griffiths from NNR Global Logistics UK Ltd. Charlie was highly commended by the judges.

Parker remarked: “Once again, BIFA was delighted with the number and diversity of entries received. It was fantastic to gather in person to celebrate excellence in the freight forwarding industry. Now in their 36th year, these awards are justifiably regarded as the most prestigious in the sector. I would also like to express our gratitude to all the sponsors for their invaluable contributions. Representatives from the category sponsors dedicated their time to judging and selecting the winners, ensuring the competition’s continued success.”

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Peak periods, like the run-up to Christmas, remind us how easily materials handling operations can come under strain. With demands soaring and pressure mounting, even the most efficient operations can be pushed to their limits, writes Lee Longbottom of Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.

Relying on hand pallet trucks could be holding your operation back. From legal compliance to workplace injuries, the costs of maintaining the status quo are often far higher than they appear. Power pallet trucks are a practical solution to common warehouse challenges, helping you work faster, safer, and more efficiently.

Let’s look at five key problems they can solve:

Handling heavy loads safely

Moving heavy loads is unavoidable. But relying on a hand pallet truck for the job? That’s a gamble. When shifting loads over medium or long distances they often fall short. Not only is this way slower, but it also increases the chance of damage to goods, racking, trucks… or even your staff.

It’s all too common to see hand pallet trucks pushed beyond their limits. Independent tests reveal that shifting a 2,000 kg load with a hand pallet truck requires an initial force of 49.6 kg — more than double the recommended limit for men and over three times the limit for women. Even keeping that load in motion exceeds guidelines by 53.3%.

It can be especially dangerous when stopping heavy loads, which often requires nearly twice the effort of keeping them in motion — particularly on wet or uneven surfaces.

Pedestrian power pallet trucks are the ideal alternative for shorter distances and confined spaces. They make moving heavy loads effortless with features like electric lift and drive, reducing operator strain and improving efficiency. For heavier or more frequent loads, platform power pallet trucks add a foldable or fixed ride-on platform, allowing operators to cover longer distances comfortably.

For even larger loads, sit-on and stand-in power pallet trucks (like the PREMiA EX range) can manage up to 3 tonnes, offering reliable performance — and braking — even in demanding conditions.

Navigating tight spaces

Warehouses and lorry trailers are notoriously busy, crowded, and often cluttered. Tight spaces can make even simple tasks frustrating. Hand pallet trucks require awkward three-point turns, slowing you down and increasing the risk of accidents.

Power pallet trucks, such as the PREMiA ES series, excel in confined areas. They’re built for agility. Their exceptionally short, compact chassis allows for seamless operation in very narrow aisles, maximising storage density.

Additionally, the market-leading lift height and linked castor wheels ensure stability when operating on ramps, loading docks, and uneven surfaces. Platform power pallet trucks with foldable operator platforms offer the same agility while allowing operators to switch between walk-behind and ride-on modes, adapting to the space available.

Features such as Dynamic Power Steering (found on PREMiA EX) make manoeuvring heavy items smoother and safer, ensuring steady control.

Both PREMiA EX models feature 360-degree steering. That means no more stopping for 3-point turns. By eliminating that pause, operators can pivot around smoothly, saving time with every turn. PREMiA trucks also feature an Intelligent Cornering System that automatically reduces speed during sharp turns.

What does this mean for you? Faster operations, fewer collisions, and better use of valuable storage space.

Staying on the right side of legislation

Operating hand pallet trucks in ways that exceed manual handling limits puts your business at risk of legal penalties. Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, employers must minimise risks associated with moving heavy loads. Failing to comply could result in prosecution, unlimited fines, and even imprisonment.

Switching to power pallet trucks helps ensure compliance. By drastically reducing the physical effort required to move loads, you’ll meet health and safety standards, protecting your business from legal and financial repercussions.

Reducing injuries

Using a hand pallet truck significantly raises the likelihood of workplace injuries, including repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) and back problems. These injuries are not just physically painful — they’re costly too. For example, in the Netherlands alone, RSIs cost businesses €2.1 billion annually, including €808 million in lost productivity.

Power pallet trucks dramatically reduce the physical effort needed to move loads, helping to prevent these injuries. Their advanced stability and control features also reduce the chance of accidents, keeping both operators and goods safe. Investing in power pallet trucks means fewer absences and a healthier, more productive workforce.

Future proofing

Material handling requirements are constantly evolving, driven by changes in customer demand, regulations, and technology. Hand pallet trucks are simply not equipped to keep up with these shifting needs.

Powered pallet trucks provide the flexibility and durability to handle a wider variety of load weights and sizes. You’ll be more easily able to adapt to future challenges. With features designed to reduce downtime, prevent injuries, and streamline operations, they’re an investment for the long-term.

Next steps

Powered pallet trucks are more than just a convenience — they’re a smarter, safer choice for your business. They reduce risks, improve efficiency, and help you stay ahead in a competitive market.

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This is the motto under which industrial truck specialist Clark is presenting its new Crossover series for the first time at LogiMAT 2025 in Stuttgart in hall 10, stand 10B78. These are a perfect combination of the proven features of an IC engine-powered forklift truck and environmentally friendly electric drives – without compromising on performance. In addition to the new COP2 order picking truck, other highlights include the new STE/SE three- and four-wheel forklift trucks with load capacities of 1.6 to 2 tonnes, which complement the S-Series Electric with additional models.

The right crossover model for every application

From 11 to 13 March 2025, visitors to the trade fair will be able to take a look at the two new L25-35XE and S25-35XE crossover series with load capacities of 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes for the first time. The crossover electric forklift trucks are the next logical step for Clark in its endeavours to further electrify the counterbalance truck product range and significantly increase performance. To this end, Clark has combined the advantages of electric forklift trucks with the versatility and robustness of traditional IC engine-powered forklift trucks, setting new standards in material handling.

The Crossover series has proven itself especially in demanding environments and intensive applications. This proves that electric forklift trucks can also cope with intensive use and can therefore replace combustion engines. With their advanced lithium-ion battery technology, the Crossover electric forklift trucks achieve long operating times with short charging times. This significantly increases efficiency in warehouses and production facilities. Another special feature: Clark is launching the new Crossover series with a product name for the first time in a long time. For example, the L25-35XE is being marketed under the name ‘Raider’ and the S25-35XE under the name ‘Renegade’.

The Raider series (L25-35XE) opens the door to the crossover segment. It offers operators an environmentally friendly, solid and reliable alternative to forklift trucks with combustion engines. With excellent all-round visibility, predictable handling and proven Clark masts, the Raider range is cost effective and built to last.

The Renegade range (S25-35XE) is designed for operators who want the benefits of the Clark S-Series – Smart. Strong. Safe. – not want to do without. Built on the proven chassis of the S-Series IC engine-powered forklifts, the models, like the S-Series Electric, have extensive features and set new standards in terms of efficiency, safety and comfort. These powerful and very quiet electric forklift trucks combine modern technology with an emission-free, environmentally friendly and extremely effective drive. Like all S-Series Electric trucks, they are equipped with an impressive range of safety functions and customisable options, offering maximum flexibility for a wide variety of applications.

‘We are delighted to launch the Raider and Renegade crossover electric forklift truck ranges, which not only significantly increase efficiency, but also ensure environmentally friendly and sustainable material flow,’ explains Thomas Bach, R&D Director at Clark Europe. ‘The Raider and Renegade crossover electric forklift trucks are the perfect solution for companies that want to remain competitive in an ever-changing logistics world.’

STE/SE three- and four-wheel electric forklifts for the highest demands

Another highlight at the Clark stand will be the 48-volt electric three- and four-wheel forklifts from the STE16-20 and SE16-20 series with a load capacity of 1.6 to 2.0 tonnes. These are available with lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries and, like their 80-volt counterparts, are part of the S-Series Electric. Here, too, the operator has the option of changing the vehicle’s energy source without any major additional effort (plug & play) if the application requirements change. Only the software needs to be adapted accordingly. The vehicles can therefore be operated with both the classic lead-acid battery and the Clark lithium-ion battery. With this smart battery solution, the electric forklift trucks can be adapted to almost any application scenario.

With the new environmentally friendly Clark electric forklift truck series, which are designed for a wide range of applications, Clark fulfils the desire of many operators to make their intralogistics more sustainable and climate-neutral. With numerous ergonomic improvements and modern safety functions, they ensure maximum efficiency with a low total cost of ownership.

New order picker for the second shelf level

Clark is also presenting sustainable product innovations in the warehouse technology sector: For example, Clark is presenting a new order picker with Li-Ion technology. With a maximum lifting height of 6.30 metres, the COP2 is designed for order picking tasks on the second shelf level. The compact vertical order picker is equipped with a driver’s platform that can be raised to 4.80 m and self-supporting forks, so that the operator can pick directly onto the pallet with the platform raised. The COP2 has been designed to be extremely stable so that it remains stable even at maximum lifting height.

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At the international specialist trade fair for intralogistics solutions and process management LogiMAT, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS will present its product portfolio from 11 to 13 March 2025. In Hall 3, Stand 3C41, visitors can find out more about the efficient, reliable and flexible drive solutions from the system supplier’s modular products as well as about further services – while benefitting from the expertise of the drive expert.

Reliable drives with sufficient power are required in intralogistics. The LogiDrive solution space from NORD offers user-friendly and easy-to-integrate drive systems for the post & parcel, airport and warehouse sectors, which are characterised by their low weight and compact installation space. They have all international certifications and can therefore be used worldwide.

LogiDrive variants– Advanced and Basic

LogiDrive Advanced consists of the high-efficiency IE5+ synchronous motor, the NORDAC ON+ and a gear unit from NORD, and was optimised in terms of energy efficiency. The high efficiency over a large speed and load range enables variant reduction for more streamlined processes and reduced administration and warehousing costs, which is particularly of advantage for large systems with numerous drives and which furthermore reduces downtimes.

LogiDrive Basic consists of an IE3 asynchronous motor, the NORDAC ON and a gear unit from NORD. The components are optimally matched and impress with a large adjustment range. This solution mainly focuses on the acquisition costs.

NORDAC ON/ON+ decentralised drive electronics

The decentralised NORDAC ON/ON+ frequency inverters are characterised by their compact design, full plug-in capability and high reliability. They also offer PLC functionality for drive-related functions (PLC onboard) and an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface. PROFINET, EtherCAT and EtherNet/IP can be set via parameters. The inverters are designed for power ranges from 0.37 kW to 3.7 kW. With their plug-and-play function, they provide a maintenance-friendly and economical solution for modern production environments. The NORDAC ON is also intended for integration into PROFIsafe and FSoE environments.

High-efficiency drive solutions

The IE5+ synchronous motors with efficiencies of up to 95 % over a wide torque range also provide optimum efficiency in partial load and partial speed ranges. They surpass the highest defined efficiency class and are characterised by their compact, hygienic design in a very small installation space. Available versions are TENV smooth motor, TEFC motor with cooling fins and integrated DuoDrive geared motor with a power range from 0.35 kW to 4 kW. In the second quarter of 2025, NORD will expand its product portfolio with an additional size.

NORD not only supports its customer with energy-efficient and tailor-made drive systems to reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) but also with services such as the NORD ECO service to analyse existing systems and reveal potential for saving energy.

Keeping an eye on the drive

In addition, NORD released the third version of its Windows parameterisation software. The software tool is the ideal supplementation to the NORDCON MOBILE-APP for smartphones or tablets.
It offers additional functions for setting up and monitoring drives. A customisable dashboard, a context-sensitive help function and a revised oscilloscope support application-specific control of the drive technology.

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2nd Level Global Solutions is proud to announce the launch of Solaris, an innovative 100% paper, recyclable and water-resistant thermal pallet cover designed to provide robust temperature protection for palletised goods during transit.

Solaris offers a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic thermal covers, addressing the growing concern over the environmental impact of plastic waste in the global logistics industry.

Mark Hammond, Commercial Director of 2nd Level Global Solutions, explains: “Plastic thermal covers, commonly used in global shipping, generate significant waste, with a large proportion ending up in landfills. These covers often fail to be recycled due to the complexity of their composite silver foil and plastic material composition. Solaris, on the other hand, is constructed entirely from paper and is 100% recyclable, providing a greener solution without compromising the integrity of temperature-sensitive cargo.

“With Solaris, we offer companies a sustainable way to protect their products while reducing their carbon footprint. Solaris pallet covers come with an independently calculated Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) figure based on ‘cradle-to-customer plus end of life’. The logistics industry desperately needs solutions that help reduce plastic waste, so Solaris is a game-changer.”

Solaris is engineered from an advanced fusion of paper, featuring a white reflective coating for superior thermal performance and an innovative micro-convective air pocket for additional insulation. Rigorous testing has proven Solaris to match the performance of conventional plastic thermal covers, ensuring the cargo remains safe from temperature fluctuations.

As well as safeguarding against temperature excursions, Solaris is tear and water-resistant and protects against damage and other hazards.

The Solaris range includes four products tailored to different needs:
• Solaris 5: Offers reliable thermal protection with six layers of tear-resistant, water-resistant speciality paper, providing up to 7.5 hours of protection at 40°C.
• Solaris 10: A more robust version with 12 insulation layers, extending temperature protection to 9 hours.
• Solaris 25: Our thickest free-standing cover with 20 insulation layers, extending temperature protection to 10 hours.
• Solaris S20: Made from structural corrugated cardboard and designed to enable loads of up to 500kg stacked on top – doubling freight capacity while reducing transportation costs and carbon emissions.
Solaris S20 is therefore also highly efficient, allowing more goods to be transported in one trip, saving fuel and reducing carbon emissions. This product builds on 2nd Level’s innovative Pallet Porter range, which also maximises cube while lowering environmental impact.

Solaris presents an eco-friendly, high-performance solution for pharmaceuticals and any industry requiring temperature-sensitive goods to be transported. With this cutting-edge product, 2nd Level Global Solutions continues to drive sustainability within global logistics.

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In any software selection process, costs are a key consideration. In the case of a shipper Transport Management System (TMS), there are two sets of costs: recurring costs, which typically relate to the number of shipments flowing through the system; and one-off implementation costs. While recurring costs are more likely to correlate to volume, value and return-on-investment (ROI), it’s important for any shipper to understand, evaluate and minimise their one-time costs, while optimising their software for long-term value.

Elmer Spruijt (pictured), VP, Global Sales, Descartes, explains what shippers need to know about TMS implementation costs.

Investigate your needs

Any shipper looking to acquire a transport management system (TMS) will be looking at how the various solutions on the market can optimise their operations. However, with the cost of a TMS anything from 30,000 EUR to 900,000 EUR (£25,000 and £750,000), it is key to have a clear understanding of the value and benefits you need your new TMS to deliver – and look at the costs in relation to the value created. Based on capabilities, related costs, and expected value you can make the right choice for your business, streamlining implementation and set up, and ensuring longevity of the system.

The main influencers of TMS implementation costs to consider, include:

1. Connectivity with carriers/forwarders

Automation is the key driver of operational benefits. Particularly for high-volume shippers an efficient and effective operation is essential. However, automation not only requires the setup of connections with internal systems like your ERP, but also with external carriers/forwarders for the booking/tendering of shipments; exchanging instructions; status messages and alerts; and invoicing. All of these factors should be included in any TMS you select. Yet, setting up these connections requires effort and cost, and if you work with several carriers/forwarders this can be significant.

Some TMS solutions have a published API which allows any external carrier/forwarder to connect their systems to the TMS. However, many carriers/forwarders are not willing or able to create the connection, and even if they are, they will most likely want to charge the integration cost to you. This makes having a TMS provider with a large, connected network and the ability to easily add new carriers/forwarders crucial to keeping connectivity costs under control.

2. Complexity of business rules

The more advanced shipper TMS solutions can handle many different scenarios (transport modes, different freight types, regional differences, etc.) which typically require configuration, while the more basic solutions often only allow for one process flow and set of rules with minimum deviations. If your current process for working with suppliers and carriers/forwarders is not supported by the TMS, you may struggle to use it effectively and fail to achieve the desired results.

The word here is caution, as many shippers can be inclined to choose a sleek, modern, and inexpensive solution, only to discover it doesn’t align with their workflow. The consequences are likely to include manual workarounds and even termination of the contract with the TMS vendor after a few months.

Almost all shippers need the ability to define advanced business rules in their TMS to automatically consolidate shipments, select the optimal transport mode, build multi-stop loads, follow routing guide logic, and automatically select the best carrier. Securing expert support during the initial implementation is essential for maximising the benefits of your TMS, although it does involve effort and expense. While companies want to keep costs to a minimum, implementation costs that configure and connect the TMS correctly will allow you to reap the benefits from the TMS for the next 10+ years.

3. Third-party solutions and involvement

A modern and complete TMS should handle all modes of transport; connect with all involved carriers/forwarders; automate the information exchange; and provide real-time visibility. However, some TMS providers still rely on third-party solutions to provide some capabilities, for example real-time visibility and parcel rate shopping/shipping. The need to involve third-party solutions and often third-party resources during the implementation adds complexity and requires building/configuring interfaces to facilitate data model alignment and data exchange. These will obviously not only impact the initial setup effort and costs, but also impact the future maintenance effort.

4. Project team expertise with the selected TMS

Some large ERP vendors, who also provide a transport management component, may rely on external partners to implement their TM solutions. With the complexity and different types and levels of functionality involved in a TM implementation, it may be the case that the project is staffed with individuals inexperienced in your specific requirements. Not only is this likely to take more time (and cost) to complete the implementation, there is also risk of a sub-optimal TMS configuration.

A project team experienced with your selected TM solution, and with demonstrable understanding of your business needs, will – in contrast – bring best practices and standards that can greatly reduce the effort and cost of setting up the TMS, while ensuring system configuration that will maximise your savings potential. How to save money on a TMS implementation before you start?

There are three fundamental ways to save costs:

1. Take the opportunity to consolidate the number of carriers/forwarders you are working with, or let smaller providers connect via a carrier portal rather than a direct API or EDI connection. This means they will need to manually accept shipments/loads while you receive automated updates in your TMS. Automated real-time visibility may still be available with those carriers through a separate connection to an integrated visibility platform like Descartes MacroPoint™.

2. Limit the number of solution vendors involved in your overall TMS. This will have the most impact in terms of implementation time, cost, and the required implementation team expertise. Having one team of true experts overseeing your complete solution will result in optimised process handling and a reduced risk of unexpected implementation complications and costs.

3. Beyond these external factors, the active involvement of your own team is essential. Having the right stakeholders (including key users) participate and reach consensus on the optimal processes, along with reliable IT support and a project manager from your side, will significantly influence project costs, timeline, and overall success.

Conclusion

Shippers that have implemented a TMS have indicated that the analysis and design phase is crucial to the overall project. Make sure that the right people allocate sufficient time to deliver a robust solution design document, as well as participate in acceptance testing which will minimise change requests, and timing delays due to bugs throughout the project. Optimising your TMS implementation by understanding and scoping your needs up front, examining ways to consolidate the complexity of the project, and ensuring the right stakeholders are involved in each step of the process will help ensure that both your one-time costs are limited, and you are setting yourself up for long-term value.

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Greenlight Urban has obtained full planning permission from Milton Keynes City Council, Buckinghamshire, UK, to develop 176,392 sq ft of state-of-the-art urban logistics space whilst also securing a first pre-let with a green-tech manufacturing business.

Development has also now commenced on site with GMI being appointed as contractor. The scheme which consists of three units ranging from 51,062 sq ft to 124,007 sq ft, is a 15-minute walk from Milton Keynes Central station and the city centre, allowing occupiers to benefit from its excellent amenities and connectivity.

Planning approval for Greenlight Milton Keynes coincides with the news that a manufacturer specialising in green technology has agreed to take 52,385 sq ft of space. It marks the first pre-let at Greenlight Milton Keynes with the international business set to occupy its new unit in Q3 2025.

Designed to optimise operational efficiency and reduce occupiers’ energy costs, the units will be targeting the highest BREEAM rating of Outstanding and an EPC rating of A+, offering up to £48,000 of energy cost saving per annum. The warehouses will also include EV charging points, PV solar panels, 10% roof lights, up to 700 kVa of power, and up to 15m to the underside of eaves.

Alongside benefitting from strong sustainability credentials, the scheme will also prioritise employee wellbeing. Occupiers will have access to breakout areas from their modern office space with a balcony, cycling facilities, and a wellness garden.

Mark Enderby, Director of Development at Delancey, commented: “As we begin construction of Greenlight Milton Keynes, we are delighted to have already secured our first pre-let. This letting demonstrates strong demand for best-in-class warehouse space from international occupiers, and with good interest in the remaining two units, we hope to announce more occupiers soon.”

Mark Snow, Senior Development Director at Coltham, added: “We are passionate about developing this scheme to create fantastic space for occupiers to thrive. Being a short walk from the units into the centre of Milton Keynes is an attractive benefit of the location.”

Dan Dawe, Director of Investment at Delancey, said: “We have recently secured a series of lettings to blue chip businesses across our portfolio who have been attracted by the leading specification, ESG credentials and strategic location of the schemes. Our customers are increasingly demanding high quality, well specified sustainable space, but have limited options in our chosen markets. We are looking to commence development works on all our current projects over the next 6 months”

Greenlight Milton Keynes is advised by Colliers, Logix Property and Louch Shacklock.

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Packaging is a critical element in the delivery process, serving not only as a protective layer for products but also as a key touchpoint for branding and customer satisfaction. However, the requirements for e-commerce and retail packaging differ significantly due to the distinct challenges each channel presents. From safeguarding products to creating memorable customer experiences, businesses must navigate these differences to stay competitive. Here’s how. 

Balancing Protection and Practicality 

One of the most significant distinctions between e-commerce and retail packaging lies in product protection. E-commerce packages must endure extensive handling, long-distance transportation and exposure to various environmental conditions. To address these challenges, businesses often rely on sturdy corrugated boxes, impact-resistant inserts and void fillers like air cushions or paper stuffing to shield items from damage during transit. The focus is on durability and functionality so that products arrive intact regardless of the journey. 

In contrast, retail packaging prioritizes visual appeal and ease of handling within a store environment. While it still provides basic protection, it’s designed to stand out on shelves and capture consumer attention. Lightweight materials and sleek designs are common, allowing packaging to emphasize branding while maintaining practicality for in-store displays. For example, an elegant cardboard box with bold visuals works well for retail shelves but would not withstand the physical demands of e-commerce shipping. 

The Role of Branding and Presentation 

Branding plays a crucial role in both channels but manifests differently based on customer interactions. In e-commerce, packaging is often the first physical connection a customer has with the brand, making the unboxing experience an essential marketing tool. Custom mailer boxes, personalized thank-you notes and branded tissue paper can be used to elevate this interaction, turning it into a memorable moment that can lead to social media shares and increased brand loyalty. 

For retail, packaging must catch the eye amidst a sea of competitors. Bold colors, unique structural designs and clear product information are prioritized to help customers make quick purchasing decisions. Retail packaging often conveys the product’s benefits at a glance, standing out on crowded shelves. 

Efficiency in Fulfillment and Delivery 

Efficiency is vital in both e-commerce and retail packaging as well, but the focus varies depending on the channel. E-commerce packaging must prioritize space optimization to reduce shipping costs and maximize the number of packages transported per shipment. Lightweight, right-sized boxes or padded mailers are commonly used to streamline logistics while maintaining protection. Automating processes with tools like automatic conveyors can further enhance efficiency, allowing fulfillment centers to handle high volumes of orders quickly and accurately. 

Retail packaging, on the other hand, focuses on storage and display optimization. Products need to be shelf-ready and easy to handle for store staff. Packaging must balance durability for bulk shipping with the ability to be displayed attractively upon arrival. Tamper-evident features and stackable designs often play a key role in retail packaging strategies. 

Addressing Customer Expectations 

Consumer expectations are a driving force in packaging decisions. E-commerce customers demand their products arrive in perfect condition with minimal waste. Sustainable packaging options, such as recyclable materials and biodegradable mailers, have become increasingly important.  

Conversely, retail customers are drawn to packaging that reflects quality and innovation. Reusable or multifunctional packaging designs can add value, enhancing the perceived worth of the product. 

Why Understanding Packaging Differences Matters 

For logistics and supply chain professionals, understanding the distinct demands of e-commerce and retail packaging is essential for reducing costs, safeguarding products and enhancing customer satisfaction. By tailoring strategies to the unique needs of each channel, businesses can streamline fulfillment processes and maintain operational efficiency. 

When done right, thoughtful packaging design can transform a functional necessity into a powerful tool for success, enabling businesses to thrive in today’s fast-paced and competitive marketplace. 

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Sustainabile e-commerce Packaging at LogiMAT 2025

Bobcat will be presenting two major new developments at LogiMAT 2025 as part of a comprehensive display of the company’s material handling product lines, including diesel and electric forklifts, reach trucks and warehouse equipment such as pallet trucks and stackers.

Bobcat will be showing two new developments in the range including:

• New Class 3 warehouse equipment range
• New series of Li-ION 3-wheel counterbalance forklifts

New Class 3 Warehouse Equipment

At LogiMAT 2025, Bobcat is adding to its warehouse equipment portfolio with three new product series. In addition, the company’s current LSM12N-7 and BSL12/16N-7 stackers are now available in initial lift versions. The new warehouse products will also be available with Li-ION batteries from production.

New warehouse product series:

• BPM16/20N-7: pedestrian powered pallet trucks: 1.6 & 2 t capacity
• BPR20/25N-7: powered pallet trucks with platform: 2 & 2.5 t capacity
• BSR12/16N-7: powered platform stacker trucks: 1.2 & 1.6 t capacity
• BSR16N-7i: powered platform stacker truck with initial lift: 1.6 t capacity

The new BPM16/20N-7 pallet trucks are the perfect match for all kinds of applications in and around SMEs, manufacturing and warehousing. The long tiller arm provides optimal, highly ergonomic operation. It requires less effort, and the operator maintains an optimal distance from the truck. Top-quality components, robust construction, a travel speed up to 6 km/h, and simplified maintenance make the pallet trucks in this series reliable partners for every task.

Bobcat BPR20.25N-7 powered pallet trucks with platform

The BPR20/25N-7 platform pallet trucks features a travel speed of up to 8 km/h, ensuring the trucks are built for optimal horizontal transportation over extended distances. Equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS), these trucks offer ergonomic and safe operation. The suspension flip-down platform minimizes body vibrations, and the sideways protective arms provide additional stability and protect the operator during turns. In walking operation mode, the platform and arms are folded compactly within the truck’s outline, conserving space.

The 1.2 and 1.6 t capacity BSR12/16N-7 platform stacker trucks are designed for high efficiency, excelling in storage and picking operations involving heavy weights. The ergonomic, suspension flip-down platform – paired with protective arms – greatly enhances operational efficiency. These trucks are capable of reaching lift heights up to 5.5 m and they are also perfect for tasks over extended distances.

Thanks to the robust 8 mm metal skirt, strong chassis, durable mast and metal battery cover – along with premium components from leading suppliers – these models lower service costs and ensure constant readiness for professional use. The EPS system, coupled with the proportional lifting function, enables smooth and effortless stacking operations.

Bobcat’s first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts

The company is introducing the BNT series, Bobcat’s first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts, designed for light to medium-duty applications. These models — the B16NT, B18NT and B20NT — offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution tailored to the growing CL1 market. The new range extends Bobcat’s electric counterbalanced line-up.

Manoeuvrability is the key aspect in the design of these forklifts, making them ideal for use in tight environments. Despite their compact size, these forklifts boast an ergonomic design that ensures large leg room and exceptional operating comfort for the operator. Setting a new standard in confined space material handling, these forklifts provide a smooth ride and high stability in every job.

3 different load capacity models are available:

• B16NT – 1.6 t load capacity at 500 mm
• B18NT – 1.8 t load capacity at 500 mm
• B20NT – 2.0 t load capacity at 500 mm

Key Highlights

• Dual Drive: equipped with 4.5 kW dual-drive motors to boost productivity
• Maintenance-free 51.2V 300 Ah Li-ION (LFP) battery and 150A charger (380V)
• Electric parking brake: ease of use and increased safety levels
• Comfortable dimensions: designed for compact environments, while still offering comfortable spacious dimensions for the operator

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