The Transport & Logistics conference and exhibition has long been established as a meeting place for the Benelux industry. It brings together 11,000 experts to network and discover how to foster seamless pan-European hinterland connections, covering all cargo types, storage, and value-added logistics.

AntwerpXL is a specialized event that gathers 3,800 project cargo, RoRo, and heavy lift professionals to forge partnerships, streamline processes, and solve challenges within the breakbulk supply chain.

The two complementary events will now run side by side at the Antwerp Expo on 14-16 October 2025, supported by the Host Sponsor, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

Additionally, Logistic & Industrial Build will run alongside AntwerpXL and Transport & Logistics at the Antwerp Expo. This event focuses on the logistics real estate market, providing visitors with even more reasons to attend.

“This move is incredibly exciting for AntwerpXL,” explains Margaret Dunn, the event’s Portfolio Director. “The event will remain a focused breakbulk conference and exhibition, bringing together all the key players in one hall in the heart of the breakbulk industry in Antwerp. However, it will also provide an additional opportunity for the industry to meet and network with the wider transport and logistics communities, creating new potential growth and partnership opportunities across the supply chain.”

Both events will benefit from increased attendance from ports and terminals, freight forwarders, logistics managers, shippers, and transportation managers.

“This combination will create a must-attend event for the transport and logistics, breakbulk, container, and maritime industries,” says Nadine Francus, Group Event Director for Transport & Logistics.

Annick Dekeyser, Marketing Advisor for the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, adds, “Co-locating AntwerpXL with Transport & Logistics creates new opportunities for participants to explore collaborations beyond their own industry. Companies will benefit from the synergies between the two events. The main asset of AntwerpXL for the breakbulk community is networking, and this is also a real driver for Transport & Logistics.”

Both events will take place at the Antwerp Expo on 14-16 October 2025.

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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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Bouyer joins a team of three other heads of trade each focussed on different regions served by Davies Turner’s comprehensive portfolio of international oceanfreight operations including LCL and FCL import and export services.

The other three heads of trade cover Africa and the Americas; Asia LCL Imports & China Rail; and East Asia, respectively, all reporting to oceanfreight director, Tony Cole. The five have collective experience in the oceanfreight environment approaching 100 years, the majority of which has been in the employment of Davies Turner.

Bouyer joined Davies Turner in 2010 on its graduate recruitment programme and has a proven track record of operational and commercial successes during his 14 years at the company.

He is a graduate of the Institut Universitaire de Technology (IUT), with a degree in International Trade, Logistics and Procurement.

Davies Turner ocean director Tony Cole, said: “As one of the UK’s leading independent freight forwarding companies, we work in partnership with an extensive range of carriers and overseas partners around the world to deliver efficient, top quality international ocean freight services.

“In the same family ownership for over 150 years, Guillaume’s appointment is part of an ongoing process at every level of the Davies Turner organisation to build our winning teams and safeguard the future.

“His appointment strengthens the long-serving senior management team within our oceanfreight department, which has a strong sales and operational record in ocean freight forwarding and international logistics.

“We have every confidence in his ability to work with the other heads of trade within our oceanfreight division to help inject new ideas and energy to take Davies Turner’s oceanfreight services to the next stage in their development and expansion.”

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The globally recognised accreditation, (part of the British Retail Consortium, the go-to trade association for all UK retailers), marks the latest step in Europa’s warehouse investment programme, ensuring compliance for its retail, e-commerce, and wholesale customers.

This gold standard AA accreditation is a mark of assurance, demonstrating to customers that the highest standards are adhered to in the storage and distribution across the supply chain, providing peace of mind for customers who entrust their goods with Europa Warehouse. It is one of the most prestigious accolades in logistics, providing a framework for managing product safety, integrity, quality, and operational controls.

Dionne Redpath, Chief Operating Officer and Warehouse Divisional Director at Europa Worldwide Group, comments: “The latest accreditation reflects our determination to provide our customers with a complete supply chain management solution that delivers business objectives.

“Having undergone the rigorous audit process required we are delighted to join an elite group of certified global suppliers. This accreditation covers the storage of food and non-food packaging, packaging materials and consumer products – demonstrating our commitment to creating and manufacturing a process of well-designed risk-based product safety management systems.”

The BRCGS is one of the most important industry accreditations, providing the most effective way of showcasing the high standards enforced by the Europa Warehouse team in Corby, and the dedication the senior team has to improve and train their workforce.

Dionne continued: “This shows we meet the highest standards required and that we work to support customers, continually investing in the development of our services to deliver the highest quality.”

Jon Margetts, Head of Facilities & Health & Safety at Europa Warehouse added. “We are pleased to have received the highest British Retail Consortium certification for our Corby warehouse which reflects our continued commitment to customers.”

Europa Warehouse’s £60m Corby facility is capable of storing up to 100,000 pallets and processing up to 50,000 units of goods per day through its £11m automation system. Europa’s total combined portfolio in Dartford, Birmingham, and Corby, offers over 1 million sq. ft of dedicated warehouse and logistics space and are now fully authorised customs warehouses for both wet and dry goods.

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BCG’s analysis highlights the strengthening of North America as a resilient trade bloc. The US, Mexico, and Canada are deepening economic ties through reshoring, nearshoring, and “friendshoring,” reducing dependence on China. Trade between the US and Mexico is projected to surge by $315 billion, with US-Canada trade increasing by $147 billion within the next decade. In contrast, China is pivoting towards the Global South as trade with the US and EU slows. China’s trade with developing nations is expected to grow by $1.25 trillion, though its overall trade growth will slow to 2.7% annually, down from the 4% recorded between 2017 and 2022.

The Global South itself is poised to expand its influence. With 62% of the world’s population, these 133 nations are expected to see trade growth of $673 billion within the bloc. Meanwhile, trade between the Global South and North will grow at 3.7% annually, reaching $1.67 trillion by 2033. The report also highlights India’s burgeoning role as a production base, projecting its trade to grow by 6.4% annually, reaching $1.8 trillion by 2033.

Europe faces its own challenges as it seeks to maintain competitiveness amid geopolitical tensions and energy uncertainties. EU trade with China is set to stagnate, while trade with the US is expected to grow by $303 billion, bolstered by American LNG exports. The EU is also shifting supply chains closer to home, benefiting regions like North Africa and Turkey. However, post-Brexit frictions mean the UK lags behind, with projected trade growth of just 0.7%, far below GDP growth.

Southeast Asia is emerging as a winner from the reorganisation of global trade routes, with ASEAN trade forecasted to grow at 3.7% annually. While the region strengthens ties with China, trade with the US and EU is expected to moderate. Meanwhile, US tariffs on imports could add $640 billion in costs for its top trading partners, impacting sectors such as automotive and electronics.

BCG’s report draws on its advanced Global Trade Model, leveraging over 500 million data points to forecast trade trends. Enhanced AI capabilities and adjustments for current geopolitical realities provide a detailed and nuanced outlook. The findings underscore the profound ways in which trade policy, global alliances, and economic strategies are reshaping the world’s trade landscape.

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“With new trade agreements, advancements in automation, and a heightened focus on sustainability, BIFA members of all shapes and sizes are forecasting growth opportunities alongside significant challenges,” says Steve Parker.

Global trade on the rise

Notwithstanding potential future trade wars, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects global trade volumes to increase by 3.2% in 2025, driven by easing geopolitical tensions, expanding e-commerce, and growing consumer demand in emerging markets. These developments provide fertile ground for freight forwarders and logistics providers to enhance their services and seize new opportunities in cross-border shipping.

Technological innovation driving efficiency

The logistics industry is increasingly leveraging cutting-edge technologies to optimise supply chain operations. Artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled devices are transforming shipment tracking, customs clearance, and warehouse management. Automation is expected to significantly reduce costs while improving transparency and customer satisfaction.

“2025 is the year where digitalisation and data-driven decision-making will become a necessity rather than an advantage,” Parker adds,. ”The integration of real-time analytics and autonomous systems is revolutionising how BIFA members are managing global supply chains.”

Sustainability takes centre stage

With global regulators and consumers demanding environmentally conscious practices, sustainability will be a top priority in 2025. Many companies are committing to carbon-neutral shipping solutions, investing in green technologies such as electric vehicles and alternative fuels. Ports and shipping hubs worldwide are also adopting cleaner energy practices to reduce emissions and align with international environmental goals.

Parker says: ”Shippers are now looking beyond cost and speed — they want greener logistics solutions. This shift is creating both challenges and opportunities for logistics providers.”

E-Commerce boom fuels demand

The global e-commerce market, expected to surpass USD7.4 trillion by 2025, is further driving the need for efficient logistics and last-mile delivery solutions. Freight forwarders are rapidly adapting to the demands of faster shipping and expanded network coverage, particularly in underserved regions.

Challenges Ahead

While prospects are promising, the industry must also address critical challenges. Ever-changing demand and supply dynamics across all modes of transport. Geopolitical uncertainties. Fluctuating fuel costs, and regulatory complexities continue to pose risks. Additionally, labour shortages in key markets highlight the need for investments in workforce development and automation.

As we enter the second week of 2025, the international freight forwarding and logistics sector stands at a pivotal moment. By embracing innovation, prioritising sustainability, and navigating global trade dynamics, the industry is well-positioned for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

“The trade association that represents UK freight forwarding and logistics companies that manage international supply chains will be ready to support our members in those multiple endeavours,” Parker concludes.

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Marc Vollet has 30 years’ experience in managing operations and leading international teams at GEODIS. His career began with a series of operational positions in Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. In 2000, he was appointed manager of the Grenoble and Chanas sites in the east of France, dedicated to the Chemicals and Gas sectors. Five years later, he became CEO of BM Chimie, an entity specializing in transporting chemical and gas products in Europe. In 2009, Marc was named Director of Operations for the Group’s European Road Network activity. Between 2017 and 2019, he broadened his duties by taking responsibility for the purchasing and technical departments as well as the operational excellence department and the engineering unit of the European Road Network Line of Business. In 2021, he was also put in charge of developing the Group’s multimodal offer in Europe to accelerate the decarbonization of transport activities.

Marc Vollet holds an international master’s degree in management and business development.

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According to National Highways, 50 million vehicles currently use the Dartford Crossing annually of which 40 per cent of which are goods vehicles. Meanwhile, Logistics UK estimates that up to £200 million is lost every year in productivity due to congestion at the Dartford Crossing, with businesses across the country feeling the impact of delays to deliveries.

With a large proportion of the UK’s port freight relying on it for transportation of goods, Europa experiences regular frustration with congestion in and around Dartford, where its headquarters and 1Hub is located. This was recently discussed in a video, created alongside National Highways,

Europa Worldwide Group’s 27k sq. ft ‘1Hub’ – the largest European groupage hub in the UK – is strategically located next to the crossing, a key trading route for British businesses, and the reason the site was selected. The company sees more than 200 truck movements every 24 hours in and out of its facility and it’s Dartford HQ is home to more than 360 employees from the local area.

As a key operator in the UK supply chain, Europa has been chosen as a leading organisation to back the campaign for the proposed 23km Lower Thames Crossing, which is being supported by Dartford MP, Jim Dickson.

Kirsty Dean, Marketing & Communications Director at Europa Worldwide Group, said: “It isn’t uncommon for Europa to witness severe traffic delays on the Dartford Crossing, particularly if there are problems on the M25 (the UK’s busiest motorway).

“On December 12th, 2024, at the height of Europa’s pre-Christmas peak, half of the company’s drivers were still trying to return to Dartford’s ‘1Hub’ at 20:30 following an M25 closure. During peak periods, when our freight services are in high demand, this really puts pressure on our local infrastructure.

“Congestion can cause thousands of pounds worth of delays and contingency plans for us, our customers and British business. Delays in transit pose a risk to reputations, not to mention the financial consequences of having to make alternative arrangements to meet consumer demand.

“There is also a huge personal cost to local people, who are having to spend extra hours on the road. It’s not uncommon for our colleagues in Dartford to have difficulty with things like school pickups and drop offs, having to rely on family members if they’re not going to make it on time. Quite often, the traffic they face can be soul-destroying before their working day has even started.” Kirsty added.

“We believe that the Lower Thames Crossing promises a significant lifeline, streamlining connections across the UK, into Europe and improving transit times.”

A decision on whether the proposed 23km Lower Thames Crossing will go ahead was delayed for the third time in October, as the Government considers the application further. While certainly a sizable infrastructural development, there are many trading benefits which could alleviate some of the strain on the local infrastructure, particularly during busier periods.

National Highways estimates that the Lower Thames Crossing will be vital for reducing transit times, providing a new route for freight, connecting the North, Midlands and Short Straights (where over half of all goods traded between UK and EU are transported). In the video, Europa discusses how an alternative route over the Thames is critical for its local hub and work across the whole country.

Taking a proactive stance on its campaign for the Lower Thames Crossing, Europa Group recently joined the Lower Thames Crossing Consortium.

Jim Dickson, Dartford MP and Consortium leader, said: “The coming together of over 75 major businesses shows unwavering support for the Lower Thames Crossing and adds weight to the urgent call for a go ahead from Government.

“This project is more than a road – it is a gateway to new markets, a catalyst for job creation, and a solution to the congestion that constrains constituents and our economy. We need to get on with the job and get the crossing delivered, doubling capacity over the Thames east of London and kick-starting economic growth in the South East.”

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Councillor Byrne, who is already a member of the Fine Gael Executive Council, is committed to the promotion of the freight distribution and logistics sector as essential to the Irish economy. In addition, he is standing on a mandate which stresses the need for the government to provide financial support and incentives for the transport and logistics sector, to support the transition to decarbonisation, and supports the need for a senior minister to represent the industry in government discussions. He is also focused on improving the image of the industry, to address the current skills shortage and aid recruitment of a skilled future workforce.

“The freight distribution and logistics sector is key to the success of the Irish economy,” explains FTA Ireland’s Chief Executive Aidan Flynn, “and it is vital that our industry has a voice in government to influence decisions that affect the movement of the goods that our economy needs. More than 110,000 people work in our sector nationwide, and their voices need to be heard by administrators. As a nominating body, FTA Ireland is delighted to support Danny’s nomination, and looks forward to working closely with him once elected.”

Commenting about his nomination by FTA Ireland, Councillor Byrne commented: “I am a focused, dedicated and highly motivated professional, elected to Dublin City Council and Commissioner of Irish Lights in 2019. I am also a member of the Fine Gael Executive Council. I am delighted that the Freight Transport Association Ireland is supporting my nomination to the Industrial and Commercial Panel of Seanad Eireann. The freight distribution and logistics sector needs a strong voice to prioritise the interests of the industry during the course of the new government and I am committed to supporting this essential service sector if elected.”

The election of the 27th Seanad will take place from 15-30 January 2025, while results will be announced on Oireachtas.ie the following weekend.

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