Logistics Bulletin

Monday 17 January 2022

This week’s Logistics Bulletin reports on the dynamics of global air and ocean freight markets. Growth in global air freight markets slowed in November 2021, as supply chain disruptions and capacity constraints impacted demand, despite economic conditions remaining favourable for the sector. Global demand was up 3.7% compared to November 2019, but significantly lower than the 8.2% growth seen in October 2021. Capacity was 7.6% below November 2019 and remains constrained with bottlenecks at key hubs.

Elsewhere, in a trading update, Maersk has reported that its average freight rates were 80.0% higher in Q4, 2021 compared to previous year. The Company achieved strong results in the last quarter of the year, reflecting the continuation of the exceptional market situation within Ocean caused by the global disruptions to the supply chains, which have led to further increase in container freight rates. Consequently, given the strong performance, and despite a 4.0% drop in the Company’s Ocean volumes in Q4, preliminary full-year figures for 2021 will exceed previous guidance.

Corporate and market news...

• Growth on global air freight markets halves in November
• Maersk says average ocean freight rates improved by 80.0% in Q4 2021
• Throughput back to pre-COVID-19 levels in 2019 at Port of Antwerp
• uShip delivers record growth in 2021
• Maersk India records 43% growth in the exports rail movement of containerised cargo
• NACEX increases deliveries made via NACEX.shop by 118.65% in one year
• Three acquisitions strengthen Lineage Logistics’ capabilities in Benelux
• F.A.Z. and Fiege restructure delivery services
• Management team acquires DHL's route planning tool Greenplan
• DPD UK finalises acquisition of CitySprint
• PLS Logistics Services moves headquarters to accommodate growth
• Bolloré Logistics Mexico inaugurates new HQ offices

Service developments... 

• Maersk launches new reefer train service between Algeciras and Marin
• Lineage Logistics transitions operations at its Hvidovre Site in Denmark
• DACHSER extends charter activities long-term
• Gebrüder Weiss extends Zero Emissions Service to North America
• Port of Felixstowe achieves record container handling
• Brittany Ferries transports its first CMA-CGM container from France to UK

Outsourcing news...

• GUESS identifies supply chain opportunity in Poland
• zooplus outsources automated eCommerce hub in Czech Republic
• Bolloré Logistics delivers critical materials for DRC housing project
• American Eagle Outfitters outsources logistics in Japan
• Bolloré Transport & Logistics Gabon moves equipment for Belgian Army
• Worldwide Flight Services grows partnership with Polar Air Cargo
• DHL and Formula E extend partnership

Warehouse and distribution centre developments...

• GEODIS opens additional logistics centres in the Netherlands
• Castorama invests in logistics operations in Poland
• Ninja Van Malaysia kickstarts 2022 with launch of its largest warehouse
• DP World to add new speculative facility at London Gateway
• DB Schenker opens logistics centre in Denmark
• FedEx Ground set for new distribution centre in Texas
• Third multi-storey car park for Kia Deutschland goes into operation

IT, fleet and environmental developments...

• J.B. Hunt and Waymo Via announce plans to complete fully autonomous transport
• Geek+ and Körber digitalise Ariat’s supply chain with smart robotics
• Global Logistics & Fulfillment invests in autonomous vehicle capabilities
• Maersk accelerates Net Zero emission targets to 2040 and sets milestone 2030 targets
• Arla doubles CO2e target for operations
• DB Schenker and Lufthansa Cargo welcome Lenovo on their CO2-neutral flights
• Volta Trucks, The Crown Estate and Clipper decarbonise Central London retail logistics
• GEODIS places order for 120 natural gas vehicles

Personnel and  HR developments...

• XPO Logistics appoints General Counsel for Europe
• Aramex appoints Chief Financial Officer

The Logistics Bulletin has provided global supply chain professionals with the latest insight, news and analysis for 19 years. To receive this highly valued service direct to your in-box, register here. Press releases and articles for inclusion can be sent by email to logisticsbulletin@analytiqa.com