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Showing how it’s done (1st April 2012)
We’re very excited to bring you this issue of Handling & Storage Solutions, which features a new section and a new special supplement. In this main issue, we’ve launched a new feature - portcentric logistics. This is because there are a host of new port developments on the cards for the UK, including the massive London Gateway, which is expected to open late next year.
From News
RIDDOR injury reporting change (1st April 2012)
Since 6 April, employers no longer have to report injuries which keep workers off normal duties for seven or fewer days.
London plans Olympic stress test for May (1st April 2012)
Businesses across London will undertake a stress test of the capital’s transport, IT and telecommunications infrastructure on 8-9 May, to check preparedness for the Olympic Games.
Legal warning (1st April 2012)
A transport lawyer has warned the European haulage industry that carriers can lose their vehicles through ignorance of smuggling.
For whom the bill tolls! (1st April 2012)
The Government is looking at new ways to fund road building. Geoff Dossetter says that all road users will want a fair deal based on the taxes they pay. But will they get it?
From Features
Thieves target delivery depot (28th March 2012)
Two men scaled the perimeter fence of the DHL depot, before one of them broke into the warehouse.
From Newsletter Stories
Further fuel duty relief unlikely in the 2012 Budget (1st March 2012)
As diesel prices rocket to record levels there is understandably a call from industry for relief on fuel duty.
UK forklift sales continue to recover (1st March 2012)
BITA announced that sales orders for forklift trucks increased by 20% in 2011, continuing the recovery from the market low point two years ago.
60,000 laptops destroyed in warehouse fire (1st March 2012)
A fire at a warehouse in Peru destroyed around 500,000 school textbooks and 60,000 laptop computers.
‘LAST MILE’ HEALTH RISKS EXAMINED (1st March 2012)
Home delivery industry experts gathered on 22 February to tackle the health and safety implications of the last decade’s boom in online shopping.
Games to impact deliveries (1st March 2012)
This summer the greatest show on Earth comes to London. For the logistics industry, the Olympics amount to a summer version of a three month Christmas rush. Geoff Dossetter says that if you haven’t already, then you had better start planning now.
Lifting safety to top of agenda (1st March 2012)
With the recent fine of £100,000 in Scotland for a forklift truck fatality highlighting the potential dangers associated with forklift trucks - Peter Forshaw, partner at national law firm Weightmans asks if safety practices around these vehicles should have the highest priority.
From Health & Safety
Demonstrable integrity required (1st February 2012)
This issue we hear from Chris Sturman, chief executive of the Food Storage and Distribution Federation on the tight margins and tough challenges for cold store and cold chain businesses.You can read his fantastic introduction to our Cold Store & Cold Chain special supplement on page 36.
Forklift factory wins quality award (1st February 2012)
A Northern Ireland factory that produces Hyster and Yale forklift trucks has achieved the prestigious Northern Ireland Quality Award 2011 (EFQM).
Sovex marks tenth anniversary (1st February 2012)
Conveyor manufacturer Sovex is marking its 10th anniversary by going for growth as it continues to buck the tough economic climate.
It’s time to cut the cord (1st February 2012)
The FairFuelUK campaign has won significant victories but Geoff Dossetter suggests that it is high time some radical action was taken on fuel duty
Essex oil refinery bankrupt (24th January 2012)
The owner of the Coryton oil refinery in Essex, Petroplus has said it will file for insolvency.
Toyota Material Handling Europe and Manitou relationship evolves (19th January 2012)
Toyota and Manitou have ended their exclusive French distribution agreement for Toyota branded products. Essentially this will allow Toyota to apply a pan-European model for branding and distribution and allow Manitou to expand its own brand products.
Product Plus strategy in vogue (1st January 2012)
Poor loading bay safety leads to forklift fall (1st January 2012)
Andrew Baxter, 50, from Eckington was unloading a 20ft container at Vesuvius UK's Sheepbridge Works in Chesterfield on 15 February 2010.
Picking winners in 2012 (1st January 2012)
Logistics and warehouse managers face a challenging year,which means managing costs carefully and picking winners.Selecting the correct forklift can help the savvy manager get ahead. We asked suppliers to highlight innovations you should look out for. Here are their insights.
From Lift trucks
Take the blinkers off! (1st January 2012)
The Department for Transport has started a ten year trial of longer trailers. But some less than partial critics suggest the plan is flawed. Geoff Dossetter defends the cause of efficient logistics.
Warehouse blaze (12th December 2011)
The West Bromwich warehouse of the 2 Sisters Food Group has been destroyed by fire, according to a report by the Express & Star newspaper.
FLTA and BITA emphasise apprentice opportunities (9th December 2011)
“There’s never been a better time to consider a career in fork lift truck engineering,” is the message from the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) and the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA).
Pick of the Year list announced (1st December 2011)
Handling & Storage Solutions is delighted to be the media partner for the Fork Lift Truck Association Awards. The winners will be announced at the Awards extravaganza in February and I’m sure it will be a night to remember. For now, we are pleased to announce the nominations for the product awards - The Pick of the Year. The winners in each of the four categories - Ergonomics, Environment, Safety & Innovation - will collect much coveted ‘Archies’.
Infrastructure investment on cards (28th November 2011)
Reports suggest transport infrastructure may be a major beneficiary of Chancellor George Osborne’s ‘A+’ strategy, which he is due to unveil tomorrow in his Autumn Statement.
Sub-standard wheels to be debated in Commons (28th November 2011)
Labour MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East, Paul Goggins will continue the debate on commercial vehicle wheel safety with Mike Penning MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport, in Westminster Hall this Tuesday (November 29).
Boost airport capacity says CBI (20th October 2011)
A lack of hub airport capacity could cost the economy up to £1.2bn a year in lost trade and must be tackled if the UK is to maintain its global competitiveness, the CBI said.
Ports bid to take centre stage (20th October 2011)
Portcentric logistics has come into focus this month. DP World has announced that it will open the huge London Gateway port and logistics park in two years time.
London Gateway leads ports rush (20th October 2011)
London Gateway, the new global shipping port and logistics centre project, is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2013 with an initial capacity of 1.6 million TEU (twenty foot equivalent container units).
Ten year trial period for longer trailers (13th October 2011)
Some hauliers will be allowed to use longer trailers under plans announced by Roads Minister Mike Penning.
London Gateway port to open in 2013 (4th October 2011)
London Gateway, the new global shipping port and logistics centre project, will open in the fourth quarter of 2013 with an initial capacity of 1.6 million TEU (twenty foot equivalent container units).
Logistics training boost for Derbyshire (26th September 2011)
Logistics and forklift training will be offered in the new facility
Warehouse in Croydon devastated by fire (26th September 2011)
The warehouse was used to store tyres for the recycling firm Neolay.
Clegg promises investment in infrastructure (15th September 2011)
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said "Whitehall will put its foot on the accelerator" to ensure the economy feels the benefits from specially selected capital infrastructure spending plans.
A special feature on lift trucks is among the month’s highlights (1st September 2011)
We have a lift trucks, attachments & ancillaries special this month with a huge amount of information on new products, technologies, approaches and case studies.
Huge new warehouse planned for Reading (25th August 2011)
A huge new warehouse will be built in Reading for food supplier Brakes Group, reports the Reading Post.
Sony DADC announces interim supply chain solution after Enfield distribution centre fire (25th August 2011)
Initial estimates of the affected parties’ property destroyed by the fire are far in excess of £30m.
Taxpayer paying for PFI “addiction” says MPs (19th August 2011)
PFI ‘extremely inefficient’ concludes MPs, but they also say poor investment decisions may continue in the public sector because PFI allows Government departments to carry out large capital investments without high upfront costs.
Slow steaming affects deliveries, confirms survey (10th August 2011)
A global survey of the world’s leading importers and exporters has revealed ‘slow steaming’ by container ships is lengthening supply chain lead times.
Concern at lack of exporter investment as manufacturing falls and trade deficit widens (9th August 2011)
DHL Express has outlined its concern that British exporters are reluctant to invest in their businesses.
The trick is to 'fall in the canal and come up with a salmon' (1st August 2011)
Much of the investment in warehouse and logistics operations is spent on people and materials handling equipment, with less on the warehouse facilities themselves, at least after rent or acquisition.
Agency worker regs warning (1st August 2011)
Logistics businesses have been urged to get ready for the Agency Workers Regulations.
UKWA excellence (1st August 2011)
Companies and individuals across the warehousing and 3PL sectors were rewarded for excellence at UKWA’s Annual Awards for Warehousing 2011 ceremony, which was held recently at London’s Dorchester Hotel.
Late payments hurt distribution sector (1st August 2011)
Distribution SMEs wait longest for late payments and spend the most time chasing outstanding bills, according to new survey.
Keep your head! (1st August 2011)
Although we are now two years into the era of the Driver CPC, the process is well behind schedule.Geoff Dossetter urges employers to keep their heads and realise the benefits.
Driver dies as forklift overturns in Newbury (22nd July 2011)
Thames Valley Police officers are investigating a death in Newbury which occurred on Wednesday, July 20.
Late payments hurt distribution sector (20th July 2011)
Distribution SMEs wait longest for late payments and spend the most time chasing outstanding bills, according to a new survey.
£1m of wine stolen from London warehouse (13th June 2011)
Police in London have made two arrests following the theft of rare and valuable wine valued at up to £1 million.
ISIS buys Bury warehouse (13th June 2011)
ISIS Property Trust has completed the purchase of a retail warehouse at Hope Mill Retail Park, Foundry Street, Bury, for £7,050,000.
Hybrid transmission promises fuel saving (6th June 2011)
Finnish boffins claim hybrid technology can halve fuel consumption of heavy duty material handling kit.
Tech,triumph,trailers & Twitter (1st June 2011)
I was at the Warehouse Technology Group open day in Manchester last month and it was very impressive. There was a good range of products and solutions on show, plus it’s always interesting to chat to warehouse professionals.
Rare wine stolen from warehouse (1st June 2011)
Jambuster initiative launched (1st June 2011)
The disruption caused to the supply chain by protracted motorway closures after incidents could be reduced following the launch of the government’s Review of Investigation and Closure Procedures for Motorway Incidents.
ISIS buys Bury warehouse (1st June 2011)
Horror smash in glass factory (1st June 2011)
Two workers were badly injured after a trolley load of glass panes fell on them at one of the UK's most wellknown manufacturers, a Bristol court has heard.
Big truck or small truck? (1st June 2011)
The Government is approaching the conclusion of a consultation exercise on the possibility of allowing longer lorries. It’s all a question of scale says Geoff Dossetter.
From Distribution
Products a plenty at the CeMATsupermärkte (1st May 2011)
Visiting CeMAT is well worthwhile but it’s a bit like visiting a shopping centre or a supermarket - you go there with one thing in mind and see a whole bunch of other stuff that catches your eye as well.
‘Homemade’ forklift extension causes injury (1st May 2011)
A metal engineering company based in Chard Junction, Metaltech Precision, has been fined after one of its workers suffered serious injuries when a forklift truck tipped over trapping his leg under the load.
Logistics apprenticeship created and Government cash released (1st May 2011)
Leading trade bodies and the professional institute in the logistics sector have joined with the sector skills council to welcome the launch of government-funded apprenticeships in logistics from 6 April 2011 and to urge employers to make best use of them as part of a continuous professional development programme.
CBI predicts patchy and slow growth (1st May 2011)
The UK economy will continue to make headway in 2011, but growth will be patchy and slow, according to the CBI’s latest economic forecast.
Suppliers make apprenticeship progress (1st May 2011)
A new, nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification for fork lift truck engineers has been created.
Just-a-waste-of-oil? (1st May 2011)
Initiatives such as just-in-time have become industry dogma but while they streamline manufacturing and warehouse processes,how well do they sit with rapidly rising oil prices, asks Geoff Dossetter.
Industry welcomes logistics apprenticeships (20th April 2011)
Leading trade bodies and the professional institute in the logistics sector have joined with the sector skills council to welcome the launch of government-funded apprenticeships in logistics.
It’s a good time to catch up on capital investment (1st April 2011)
With augmented reality and automated order picking receiving honourable mentions, this issue of Handling & Storage Solutions is particularly brimming with new technology.
Forklift death in Scotland (1st April 2011)
A lorry driver was killed when he was hit by steel gates falling off his vehicle as it was unloaded by a forklift truck.
ByBox adds repair service (1st April 2011)
In-night logistics and field service specialist expands its service offering with the launch of QuickFix.
Gov’t to consult on longer lorries (1st April 2011)
Hauliers have praised a Government plan to introduce longer trailers in a bid to cut the number of lorry journeys needed. The proposal for a two metre increase in the total length of articulated lorries operating within the existing weight limit of 44 tonnes is out for consultation until June. This would take the maximum permitted length of an articulated lorry to 18.75m.
Budget saves £1.5k per truck per year (1st April 2011)
The logistics industry received a Budget day boost with fuel duty reduced and the introduction of a fair fuel stabiliser. It is estimated this will save hauliers £1,500 per truck per year.
Cabotage caveat in EU transport strategy (1st April 2011)
Lifting cabotage restrictions in the EU would be disastrous for the UK, says the Freight Transport Association.
Lessons to be learned (1st April 2011)
Guy Bastable, partner at BCL Burton Copeland says the first conviction under the new corporate manslaughter act indicates big fines ahead for large companies found in breach
Got to pinch a penny or two (1st April 2011)
The transport and logistics sector claimed a victory last month when the Chancellor scrapped the planned fuel duty increase. But Geoff Dossetter suggests that the industry should look to the long term.
Industry reaction to budget (24th March 2011)
In a major result for the industry, the fuel duty cut has been calculated to save hauliers £1,500 per truck every year. Read on for the full industry reaction.
Osborne cuts fuel duty by penny (23rd March 2011)
The logistics industry received a boost today with fuel duty reduced and the fuel duty escalator scrapped in favour of a fair fuel stabiliser.
CPS to prosecute fire death managers (1st March 2011)
CPS decision on Atherstone warehouse fire deaths: Three fire service managers face charges of manslaughter
The best picking solution should feel tailor made (1st March 2011)
There is a lot of snazzy technology to choose from when it comes to picking in the warehouse. Pick by Voice and Pick by Light are just two examples and the labour and cost savings they can offer when implemented well rarely fail to impress.
Three Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service managers will face charges of manslaughter by gross negligence
Caution over knee jerk fuel price fixing (1st March 2011)
Energy consultancy M&C Energy Group has warned businesses looking to mitigate against increased fuel charges to think carefully before committing to fixed price deals.
Logistics director takes initiative after theft as police disappoint (1st March 2011)
A logistics director at a leading car parts supplier has expressed disappointment in police reaction to a major crime at his workplace.
Sickness absence on the rise - ONS (1st March 2011)
Instances of sickness absence have increased, according to the Office of National Statistics, after falling as the recession bit last year.
FairFuelUK keeps up the pressure (1st March 2011)
On Tuesday 15th March, a week before the Budget, FairFuelUK will take a symbolic big cheque to the Treasury emphasising the huge amount taken in fuel duty from all road users every year.
Rising oil prices to hit air freight profitability (1st March 2011)
Transport Association downgraded its airline industry outlook for 2011 to $8.6 billion from the $9.1 billion it estimated in December 2010.
CILT calls for company apprenticeships (1st March 2011)
Following recent official unemployment figures, which show a rise of 44,000 to more than 2.5 million people unemployed in the last quarter of 2010,
Grocontinental expands capacity (1st March 2011)
Construction of a £2.25 million 40,000 sq ft warehouse has commenced at Grocontinental’s headquarters in Whitchurch, Shropshire.
Creating a safety culture (1st March 2011)
The recent Health & Safety South 2011 exhibition provided a wealth of knowledge for materials handling managers to aid their quest to build an effective safety culture in the warehouse. Simon Duddy reports.
From Facilities Management
Squaring the circle (1st March 2011)
Geoff Dossetter asks how - with unemployment rising - vacancies in transport are
Worker fell from cage balanced on fork lift truck (1st March 2011)
A Yeovil vehicle repair and sales company has been prosecuted after one of its workers fell from a cage balanced on a fork lift truck.
Fair fuel delegation will lobby Parliament (3rd February 2011)
Quentin Willson is taking the fight for a fairer deal on fuel back to the heart of Government.
Freight volumes fell 15% in 2009 (3rd February 2011)
Figures from the Office of National Statistics has confirmed that freight volumes fell in 2009.
Nonsensical regs must not undo double deck benefits (1st February 2011)
There has been much debate about the benefits or otherwise of European legislation but when it comes to the proposal to limit double deck trailers to a height of 4m, the issue seems clear cut.
Stoner attacks beer pallets (1st February 2011)
A man has been accused of attacking a truck delivering beer to a grocery store in Milwaukee, USA. Police say the man spent half an hour swinging at pallets of beer with a metal pipe. He shouted to the delivery driver that the beer was poisoning the neighborhood.
Budget box could contain fuel duty relief (1st February 2011)
All eyes are looking to the Chancellor’s budget on March 23 for confirmation that the proposed 1p rise, above inflation, in fuel duty due to come into force in April will be delayed.
£100k reward offered for information on alleged truck manufacturer cartel (1st February 2011)
The Office for Fair Trading (OFT) is offering up to £100,000 as a reward for information which assists its investigation into suspected cartel activity involving manufacturers of commercial vehicles.
Driving efficiencies (1st February 2011)
More so than in any European country, the pallet networks are a key driver of UK distribution. HSS editor Simon Duddy talks to some of the stand out personalities in the market to understand how their challenges are evolving.
Quentin Willson to challenge MPs (24th January 2011)
Columnist and TV presenter Quentin Willson will present MPs with letters from the Fair Fuel UK Campaign tomorrow (Jan 25) outside the House of Commons.
FTA and RHA support fair fuel campaign (14th January 2011)
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) have thrown their weight behind the FairFuelUK Campaign.
New depot will complete Co-op overhaul (14th January 2011)
The Co-operative Group has announced plans for a new regional distribution centre in the North Midlands, which will complete the overhaul of its food logistics network following its acquisition of Somerfield in 2009.
PM points way on fair fuel stabiliser (7th January 2011)
Prime Minister David Cameron has indicated he is working with the Treasury on a fair fuel stabiliser, acknowledging rising prices had been painful for the transport industry.
Research can lead to best buys (1st January 2011)
Many of you have gotten out of the habit of procuring trucks in the last few years but as your hard pushed assets eke towards the end of their lives, the chances are fleets will increasingly need to be replenished this year.
Duty rises ‘add £1,200 in costs’ (1st January 2011)
The Freight Transport Association has condemned the latest increase in fuel duty as a New Year’s present from the Chancellor that will leave the freight industry with a £95 million hangover.
Internet sales are rocket fuel for space race (1st January 2011)
Demand for warehouse space was largely driven by retailers in 2010, with e-tail playing an increasingly prominent role. This is likely to continue into 2011 according to King Sturge’s Property Predictions 2011 published yesterday.
Samuk in IMHX dealer drive (1st January 2011)
Samuk, which sources lift trucks manufactured by Hangcha in China, led a major dealer recruitment drive at the recent IMHX show in Birmingham.
PM positive on fair fuel stabiliser (1st January 2011)
Crown marks return to IMHX with first counterbalance release (1st January 2011)
Crown Lift Trucks exhibited at its first IMHX for ten years in November and considered the event to be a landmark in its development, particularly as it involved the release of new products.
Trucks backed by 5 year warranty (1st January 2011)
Aisle-Master range of articulated forklifts has introduced a 5 year / 5,000 hours parts warranty on its new range of models.
Make sure you get the best deal (1st January 2011)
In the words of a popular advertisement - go compare! That’s the advice,among many other nuggets, offered by manufacturers & suppliers to help you get the most out of your lift truck purchases
Vive la Revolution (1st January 2011)
The combination of the rise in world oil prices and increases in fuel duty and VAT reminds Geoff Dossetter of the fuel protests of 2000 but it is a different kind of revolution he is advocating
RHA welcomes driver rules relaxation (6th December 2010)
The Road Haulage Association tonight welcomed the Department for Transport’s decision to relax temporarily the enforcement of EU drivers’ hours rules due to the adverse weather.
We’re not out of the woods but transport gets off lightly (1st December 2010)
The transport sector has dodged a bullet. Put simply most of big Government departments are looking at deeper cuts over the next five years.
Ambassador takes on Komatsu (1st December 2010)
Komatsu Forklift has appointed Ambassador Lift Trucks as a UK importer.
Industry to boost air freight security (1st December 2010)
Department for Transport officials are talking to the transport industry as part of an air freight security review announced by Home Secretary Theresa May in the House of Commons. May told the Commons that all aspects of air freight security will be reviewed in the light of the recent airline bomb plots.
Cuts plan reflects transport’s importance to UK prosperity (1st December 2010)
Transport Secretary Philip Hammond gave a major boost to the UK economy by giving the go-ahead to 16 road and public transport schemes.
Spared the worst... (1st December 2010)
Like every other sector of Government spending it was anticipated that the Comprehensive Spending Review axe would fall from a great height on the transport budget. So what happened? Geoff Dossetter reflects
Food suppliers target packaging waste (22nd November 2010)
Industry responds to survey highlighting that nearly a third of shoppers want food and grocery retailers and manufacturers to focus on reducing waste.
Government sells rights on High Speed Railway (9th November 2010)
The successful bidder in a sale of the concession to run Britain’s first high speed railway, 'High Speed 1', was announced today by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond as a consortium comprising Borealis Infrastructure and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan.
Foam firm fined after worker injured (9th November 2010)
A Derbyshire foam manufacturer has been sentenced after a lorry driver’s back was broken when a pile of insulating board fell on him.
ASOS defies recession with spectacular growth (8th November 2010)
The online retailer will open a new warehouse in Barnsley next year to cope with expected increase in international demand.
Transport industry 'in discussions' over air freight security (2nd November 2010)
Department for Transport officials are talking to the transport industry as part of an air freight security review announced by Home Secretary Theresa May in the House of Commons yesterday.
Air cargo security measures defended (1st November 2010)
The Freight Transport Association has defended air cargo security measures in the wake of Friday’s discovery of a plastic explosives-based bomb on a cargo plane bound for the USA at East Midlands airport.
Boost to transport sector (27th October 2010)
Transport Secretary Philip Hammond gave a major boost to the UK economy by announcing the go-ahead for a further 16 road and public transport schemes.
£30 billion earmarked for transport despite spending review (20th October 2010)
The Government has assured the Transport sector that it will invest £30 billion in projects over the next four years, which is more than was spent in the last four years, according to Chancellor George Osborne.
Lord Young recommends DIY risk analysis for SMEs (18th October 2010)
In a bid to reduce the burden of health and safety regulations on small and medium sized businesses, firms will be able to complete 15 minute questionnaires, which will be valid as risk analysis for non-hazardous workplaces.
Consultant warns of fuel triple whammy (13th October 2010)
The logistics industry faces a triple whammy on fuel as taxes rise, oil prices are forecast to increase and tighter European regulations are due to hit home in a few years time.
A first look at innovation (13th October 2010)
IMHX offers a comprehensive insight into the products available in the materials handling world and provides a platform for manufacturers to give models a debut. Here, Handling & Storage Solutions picks out, in no particular order, ten products making their first appearance in the UK at the show.
Legal insight into logistics (11th October 2010)
Law firm Harrison Clark hosted a free business seminar at Worcester Warriors Rugby Club last week, shedding light on the often complex legal aspects of logistics activities.
Equality Act means employers can’t ask applicants about their health (1st October 2010)
The Equality Act 2010 has come into force with a raft of new measures warehouse and logistics firms, among other employers, will have to get to grips with.
CBI: protect transport during spending review or stifle growth (20th September 2010)
The CBI has called on the Government to make transport spending a priority and protect spending which promotes economic growth in its forthcoming Spending Review.
Deals for large units dominate logistics property in 1H 2010 (20th September 2010)
The first half of 2010 has been surprisingly strong for the logistics property market according to the Gerald Eve Prime Logistics Report Q2 2010. Gerald Eve, a company of chartered surveyors and property consultants carries out regular research of the market.
Toyota maintains leading position as forklift supplier (17th September 2010)
Toyota has maintained top spot among global fork lift truck manufacturers, according to a report from US magazine Modern Materials Handling.
Good half year for Next but retailer demands more from supply chain (17th September 2010)
UK retailer Next has announced its results for the half year ending July 2010, with sales up 5% and profit up 15%.
Driving the green truck agenda (1st September 2010)
Eco-driving training – just more red tape or help in cutting costs? Geoff Dossetter considers
From Logistics distribution
It’s hard to knock the logic of transport investment (1st September 2010)
While there are many in the Government still firmly committed to deep and early spending cuts, the consensus seems to be wavering.
Fork lift safety: bosses “often weak link (1st September 2010)
Many managers are less aware of fork lift truck safety risks than the employees they supervise, the Fork Lift Truck Association has claimed. In response, National Safety Week will target managers with an awareness campaign.
Show set for spring launch (1st September 2010)
EasyFairs has launched Materials Handling 2011, an exhibition focused on the materials handling supply chain.
Vodka stolen in w’house raid (1st September 2010)
Cheshire Police are appealing to anyone who has been approached to distribute large amounts of vodka following an armed raid in Warrington last month.
High prices blunt M6 toll road impac (1st September 2010)
The M6 toll road has failed because rates are too high, according to Geoff Dossetter, chairman of OG Transport Media.
Materials handling exhibition launches (19th August 2010)
EasyFairs is launching Materials Handling 2011, a show focused on the materials handling supply chain.
Bibby acquires contracts as MRS enters receivership for an undisclosed sum (18th August 2010)
Bibby Distribution has bought a significant part of the English operations of haulage company MRS Distribution from the receivers.
B&Q to revamp warehouse operations (16th August 2010)
Plans for a £77.4m warehouse which will create 550 new jobs in Swindon have been given the go-ahead, reports the BBC.
Blaze at Rotherham warehouse (10th August 2010)
Firefighters tackled a large warehouse fire on Monday evening in the Westgate area of Rotherham.
Road sell-off pondered but is it best for the long haul? (1st August 2010)
The Department for Transport is looking at a proposal for privatising parts of the road network, according to the the Daily Telegraph. The plan has been put together by NM Rothschild, the investment bank and an expert in state sell-offs.
Man dies in forklift accident (1st August 2010)
A man, Andrew William Davies, 42 of Albury, has died in the West Midlands after becoming trapped between a forklift truck and a reversing lorry.
Swisslog wins Schreiber order (1st August 2010)
Swisslog has been awarded a major order by Schreiber Foods. The food giant has annual sales of over $3billion
Health and Safety ’10 - Scotland (1st August 2010)
Health and Safety ‘10 will take place at the Royal Highland Centre on the 15th and 16th September is – Scotland.With event partners 3M, Ansell, Arco and DuPont, the event offers free seminar programme, exhibition and parking.
Dealing safely with spills (1st August 2010)
H&SS presents an Environment Agency led roundtable debate designed to help logistics companies create an effective spill prevention culture
M&S launches new distribution centre in Bradford (22nd July 2010)
Marks & Spencer has opened a 1.1 million sq ft distribution centre on ProLogis Park Bradford, just off the M606.
Man found murdered in Wembley warehouse (22nd July 2010)
A warehouse owner discovered a murdered man when he opened his Wembley warehouse on Tuesday.
Man dies in tragic forklift accident (13th July 2010)
A man has died in the West Midlands after becoming trapped between a forklift truck and a reversing lorry.
Chemical leak at distribution centre injures 28 (28th June 2010)
Ammonia leaked from a pipe during routine maintenance of a freezer at the Brakes depot in Tamworth, Staffordshire.
Environment Agency invites feedback on spill prevention in logistics operations (28th June 2010)
Over half of transport, logistics and distribution operators have suffered a major spill, says report.
Budget reaction - Industry vows to continue fight on fuel duty (23rd June 2010)
Industry associations are pressing Chancellor George Osborne to roll back planned fuel duty increases but welcomed some measures in the emergency budget.
Emergency budget preserves fuel duty rises this year and next (22nd June 2010)
The Government has declined to drop plans by the previous administration to increase fuel duty this year and next year. Instead it has promised no “new” increases in fuel duty.
Emergency budget first look - Osborne backs business (22nd June 2010)
There was good news for industry in today’s pro-business emergency budget by George Osborne.
Conference backs water transport (21st June 2010)
The case for moving more cargo on the River Thames is growing, according to Joseph Dack of Transport for London
Rules on working time must apply to self-employed lorry drivers, confirm MEPs (18th June 2010)
Self-employed lorry drivers must be brought under the same rules on working hours as drivers who work for companies, decided the European Parliament.
Road transport hit by latest Treasury cuts (17th June 2010)
A £1.1 billion scheme to improve the A14 has been suspended in the latest round of spending cuts announced today by Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander.
Red tape: of benefit to all or strangling businesses? (1st June 2010)
While the coalition government in the UK is determined to cut red tape governing businesses, there is no sign that European regulations will become any less pertinent.
CIPS worry for services (1st June 2010)
Purchasing managers reporting into the Markit/CIPS Purchasing Managers’ Index for services show slight gains in May but although activity rose for the 13th consecutive month, it was at its weakest for nine months.
New SHEDA president (1st June 2010)
Newly elected president of the Storage & Equipment Distributors’ Association (SHEDA).
RHA welcomes coalition move (1st June 2010)
The Road Haulage Association has welcomed a coalition pledge to create a fairer deal for UK hauliers. The association noted the comments regarding ‘a new system of HGV road user charging to ensure a fairer arrangement for UK hauliers’.
Rail freight route to Italy (1st June 2010)
DB Schenker has launched direct rail freight services between Birmingham and Padova in northern Italy.
Better than the last lot? (1st June 2010)
Roger Williams reflects on ways the new government might impact transport, covering a fair fuel stabiliser,empty rates and foreign hauliers paying their way
A lost generation? (1st June 2010)
Transport is a huge employer with an ageing workforce but replenishing personnel in an environment of spending cuts is a huge challenge says Geoff Dossetter
FSDF calls for vision with spending cuts (1st June 2010)
The Food Storage and Distribution Federation has called for the Government to show far-sighted vision when making spending cuts affecting the transport industry, warning that rash cuts now could have adverse long term consequences.
Hammond ponders steep transport cuts (28th May 2010)
New Transport Secretary Philip Hammond MP has revealed on the BBC2 programme Daily Politics that government spending cuts would “quite likely” make the government unpopular.
Asda to buy Netto for £778m (28th May 2010)
Asda has reached agreement with Dansk Supermarked A/S to purchase its fully owned subsidiary, Netto Foodstores for £778m.
Denby argues for super lorries (27th May 2010)
Britain’s most controversial haulage firm boss, argued in favour of a new generation of 82-foot long super lorries at a special University of Huddersfield conference on International Sustainable Logistics.
Haulier: ‘Help us cut £1m fuel bill’ (27th May 2010)
The head of haulage firm AK Worthington has called on the coalition Government to tackle spiralling petrol prices.
Atherstone fire update (27th May 2010)
Detectives are continuing to question a 47 year old man who was arrested yesterday in connection with a fatal fire at Atherstone on Stour.
CILT: 'Transport should be priority' (17th May 2010)
CILT has welcomed the appointment of Philip Hammond as the new Secretary of State for Transport.
Per plane tax will make UK 'less competitive' (14th May 2010)
FTA to press new Transport Secretary to reconsider ‘per plane’ aviation tax.
‘You’re getting it too good’ fleet managers warned (14th May 2010)
The Fork Lift Truck Association has warned fleet managers that cut-price lift truck hire deals are “unrealistically and unsustainably low”.
Hammond takes the helm (13th May 2010)
Philip Hammond has taken over as Secretary of State for Transport in the new Conservative Liberal Democrat coalition government.
Business gets its chance as the State is set to shrink (1st May 2010)
After lots of hand-wringing over a hung parliament, it turns out not to have been so bad after all.
Hammond takes the helm (1st May 2010)
Economist sees uncertainty ahead (1st May 2010)
Independent analysts Oxford Economics have predicted modest growth for the UK economy and the logistics industry as the most likely scenario in the coming years.
Spare us the baskets... (1st May 2010)
How will the differing views of the Conservatives and the Lib-Dems be moulded into practical policies for transport? Will we win or lose? Geoff Dossetter explores
Pessimism clouds industry says Bibby survey (30th April 2010)
Almost half (49 per cent) of owners and managers in the transport and storage sector feel that trading conditions are extremely tough, according to a new survey.
Resilient logistics industry shrugs off veil of ash (27th April 2010)
The UK logistics industry has demonstrated resilience and is swiftly recovering from the volcano ash crisis, which grounded aircraft in much of northern Europe for six days between April 15 and April 20.
Shift in warehousing emphasis plays part in Tesco growth (23rd April 2010)
Retail giant Tesco has continued to grow despite the downturn, with a trend to store stock on the shop floor rather than in the warehouse playing a role.
Warehouse facilities boosted (22nd April 2010)
RH Amar & Co is boosting the capacity of its High Wycombe warehouse facilities by 65% to 81,400 sq ft.
Shop around for the best fleet management deal (8th April 2010)
In the boom years the answer to keeping the warehouse ticking over at a high rate of knots often lay in buying more trucks. Buy now, pay later, get the shipment out.
‘Hug a haulier’ initiative to boost sympathy for logistics (1st April 2010)
Love Logistics is the latest initiative from the Freight Transport Association aimed at building awareness and appreciation for the industry in the public domain.
Huge forklift death payout (1st April 2010)
A US court has awarded a mammoth $8.9 million dollars (£5.9m) to the family of a man who died in a lift truck accident.
Further arrests over fire (1st April 2010)
Two more men were arrested earlier this month in connection with the fatal fire at Atherstone on Stour, Warwickshire in November 2007.
Call for joined-up logistics post-election (1st April 2010)
The commitment to the logistics sector of the main political parties is unclear despite the release of election manifestos, according to the Freight Transport Association.
Major hazard guidance offers detailed support (1st April 2010)
The Chemical Business Association and the UKWA have launched guidance designed to assist in achieving higher levels of major hazard management.
UPN plans hub re-location (1st April 2010)
Pallet network UPN has announced plans to relocate its hub and network services operations to help support growth and further its green credentials.
A vote for transport (1st April 2010)
Transport is rarely a big issue for voters when it comes to electing a new Government but it should be says Geoff Dossetter as he spells out his transport manifesto
Exemplar green project (1st April 2010)
G.Park Blue Planet shows just how far developers can go to grab green credentials, with outstanding results achieved in energy efficiency and considerate design
Ailing fruit juice company to be saved, but just for fun... (29th March 2010)
Challengers in the UK’s first supply chain management competition, The Fresh Connection, could find themselves taking on the rest of the world as the competition looks set to go global.
Parcels entrepreneur stars as secret millionaire (29th March 2010)
Parcel2Go founder Fil Adams-Mercer has starred on Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire.
US utility looks to warehouse power (1st March 2010)
Utility Southern California Edison is leasing space on the roofs of about 50 warehouses in Los Angeles to generate 250 megawatts of electricity from solar power.
Corrugated packaging industry call (1st March 2010)
The UK corrugated packaging industry has called on MPs to support UK manufacturing in a pre and post election drive.
W’house fire arrests made (1st March 2010)
Three fire service staff have been arrested and bailed over the deaths of four firefighters in a Warwickshire warehouse in 2007.
Tesco shakes up northern distribution (1st March 2010)
More than 400 warehouse staff are fearing for their jobs after Tesco announced it will close its distribution centre in Middlewich,Cheshire.
Retailer fined after raised man-riding cage accident (1st March 2010)
A food retailer has been fined after one of its warehouse staff was injured while preparing pallets for delivery in a raised man-riding cage.
New CHEP head for EMEA (1st March 2010)
Dolph Westerbos has been appointed group president of CHEP Europe,Middle East & Africa (EMEA). He will take up his new post in mid-April and will report to parent company Brambles CEO Tom Gorman.
Warehouse fire control (1st March 2010)
The British Fire Sprinkler Association’s Stewart Kidd calls for compulsory automatic fire suppression for a wider range of warehouses
Reduced energy consumption (1st March 2010)
Automated logistics systems expert, Crisplant, has been awarded a contract to design and install a highspeed automated sorting system based on the 'green' Crisplant LS- 4000CB sorter.
From Conveying
Online shopping slows in January (25th February 2010)
Index shows online shopping feeling January blues.
Three arrested after warehouse fire (25th February 2010)
Three fire service staff have been arrested over the deaths of four firefighters in a Warwickshire warehouse in 2007.
Retailers reduce lorries on road (25th February 2010)
The food and grocery industry has saved 124 million HGV miles from UK roads through sustainable initiatives according to the retail industry information and training body IGD.
RTPI berates Government on 'half-baked' ports policy (22nd February 2010)
The Royal Town Planning Institute has slammed the Government’s recently published draft planning policy on ports provision as ‘unfit for purpose’ in a formal response to the consultation on a National Policy Statement for Ports.
Tesco turns food waste into power (22nd February 2010)
Pioneering distribution centre to be powered by waste products.
Getting past its peak or will it be ‘oil right on the night’? (1st February 2010)
A group of British businessmen, known as the UK Peak Oil Task Force, is warning that oil supplies could dwindle much more rapidly than many realise
Walmart to pioneer fuel cells in Canada (1st February 2010)
Walmart Canada has announced it will open its first sustainable refrigerated distribution centre in Balzac, Alberta, later this year.
400 logistics jobs axed (1st February 2010)
The logistics industry in the north-west suffered a blow as more than 400 warehouse and distribution staff were laid off as a result of retailer Ethel Austin going into administration
Early peak oil forecast threatens industry (1st February 2010)
A group of leading business people have called for urgent action to prepare the UK for Peak Oil.
Fleet managers turn to used trucks in recession (1st February 2010)
The British Industrial Truck Association has suggested used truck sales have risen significantly in the UK, as many fleet and warehouse managers turn away from buying new equipment.
RFID standard issued by ISO (1st February 2010)
A new ISO RFID standard has been issued to help trace products in the supply chain. The ISO 17367:2009 standard is designed to help manufacturers and distributors track products and to help manage their traceability.
Trailer prices may rise (1st February 2010)
Despite signs of an improvement in market conditions, trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull is warning that trailer prices are likely to rise across Europe in the coming months.
AA: Use fuel duty windfall to fill potholes (1st February 2010)
The AA has claimed diverting nearly 2p per litre from the fuel tax windfall generated by soaring pump prices would fund filling the UK's potholes in 100 days.
EPAL eyes opportunities for EURO pallet portfolio (1st February 2010)
The European Pallet Association (EPAL), which is best known for maintaining a quality assurance and inspection standard for the EURO pallet, has claimed huge potential for expansion in the UK
£42m saving to be made (1st February 2010)
English Farming and Food Partnerships’ and partners Openfield, DHL Supply Chain and Rank Hovis say measures could deliver a potential annual saving of £42 million in reduced haulage charges to the grain supply chain.
Heavy load row erupts (1st February 2010)
Geoff Dossetter says there is a convincing case for the introduction of longer and heavier lorries. But don’t hold your breath...
Taking a toll on business (1st February 2010)
Reader David M Woods, chief executive of Acclaim Handling, shares a letter he sent to MP Andrew Mackinlay outlining his concerns that the congestion caused by the Dartford Crossing is costing businesses dearly
From Industry update
Jobs Jim, but not as we known them... (27th January 2010)
A Government commissioned report on career evolution over the next 20 years has predicted odd jobs such as ‘vertical farmer’ (vertical farm pictured), ‘space pilot’ and ‘body part maker’.
Tripack Solutions acquires Rosewood Scotland (18th January 2010)
Packaging solutions company Tripack Solutions has bought Cumbernauld-based firm Rosewood Scotland for an undisclosed sum.
Workers win right to request time-off for training (18th January 2010)
USDAW welcomes workers being given right to request time-off to undertake training.
Forklift computer simulation hits shelves (18th January 2010)
Gain an insight into the work life of your lift truck driving colleagues
Jobs Jim, but not as we know them... (18th January 2010)
A Government commissioned report on career evolution over the next 20 years has predicted weird jobs such as ‘vertical farmer’ (vertical farm pictured) and ‘body part maker’.
Tough challenges ahead for new year but opportunities do exist (1st January 2010)
2010 is a hard year to call.We are arguably at the tail end of the worst recession in living memory but it is very difficult to tell how long that tail will stretch out.
A little local difficulty... (1st January 2010)
Freight transport can be dangerous, intrusive and unwelcome but local regulation is over the top.To correct this, Geoff Dossetter urges industry to get involved in local planning
Warehouse worker 'made millionaire' (16th December 2009)
A warehouseman wrongly paid a fortune was rewarded with a £10 crate of beer when he handed the cash back.
PFI bombshell opens can of worms (2nd December 2009)
We’ve got a packed issue for November and December, with not only news of key product launches such as the new Flexi VNA from Narrow Aisle – our cover story, but best practice guidance and breaking news for the handling and storage industry.
Bigger not always better (2nd December 2009)
Smaller providers are giving top LSPs a run for their money according to consultant Gideon Hillman
FTA calls for Wales rail investment (2nd December 2009)
Wider rail tracks, greater load capacity and more freight terminals – allowing goods to be exchanged between road and track
BITO hopeful despite 20% decline in orders (2nd December 2009)
Storage and order picking specialist BITO has reported orders 20% down this year compared to 2008, a rate the firm considers to be moderate compared with competitors
Tories pledge to drop PFI funding model (2nd December 2009)
The Conservatives will drop Labour’s private finance initiative (PFI) and replace it with another funding model for major projects such as road building and widening.
UK warehouse occupiers cautioned to plan ahead (2nd December 2009)
Warehouse occupiers have been warned the collapse of the new-build warehouse market will push prices up in the medium term, especially for good quality, modern units. The finding comes as occupiers are enjoying a strong negotiating hand with landlords as demand has slumped due to the recession.
W’house blaze man caught (2nd December 2009)
A man who owned a wine storage business in California pleaded guilty this month to burning down the warehouse he rented, destryoing fine wines worth up to $400m.
Roads to the good life (2nd December 2009)
The UK roads network lags way behind the needs of its users says Geoff Dossetter, with congestion a senseless waste of time and money. UKplc should spend more on roads, he argues, not less
CEVA sees revenue fall (27th November 2009)
Global supply chain management company CEVA Logistics has announced revenue down by 15.7% for the nine months ended 30 September 2009.
Corporate manslaughter warning (27th November 2009)
CTFS has urged industry to ensure compliance with corporate manslaughter legislation by obtaining Thorough Examinations
Action needed as online sales of stolen goods mount (27th November 2009)
Hire Association Europe (HAE) is seeking talks with auction sites to counter the sale of stolen hire plant on websites.
Change or face the consequences (1st October 2009)
Mike Brannigan, the chief executive of TDG, said at a CILT conference earlier this year: “We have yet to find anything green that does not have a payback.”More recently,Marks & Spencer said it hopes to save £150m per annum by honing its supply chain. And in December, world leaders meet in Copenhagen to work out whether anything can be done to halt irreversible climate change.
Re: Letter by Mr Jim Hardisty, Goplasticpallets, HSS September Mr Hardisty clearly does not understand the rules of ISPM 15. (1st October 2009)
Re: Letter by Mr Jim Hardisty, Goplasticpallets, HSS September Mr Hardisty clearly does not understand the rules of ISPM 15.
Re: Letter by Mr Stuart Hex, TIMCON secretariat (1st October 2009)
Re: Letter by Mr Stuart Hex, TIMCON secretariat
Accidental heroes (1st October 2009)
Every single day an average of eight people lose their lives on UK roads.Geoff Dossetter says we must all do everything we can to reduce this figure
Show them the money (1st September 2009)
I visited a lift truck manufacturing plant in Northern Ireland recently. The firm, like all forklift manufacturers, has seen production drop off dramatically during the last year
720 DRIVERS SOUGHT FOR FREE CPC (1st September 2009)
Free CPC development training is being offered to participants of a new DfT study into the benefits of driver training, which commenced last month.
Drivers for growth (1st September 2009)
Geoff Dossetter says that drivers are a key factor in the performance of any transport operation – the good guys can improve efficiency, save money and be an important representative for the company.Others, however, could do just the opposite
Keeping the world turning (1st August 2009)
Our increasingly complex industry sometimes masks the simplicity of its fundamentals: moving stuff from A-B within a given time frame without screwing it up.
IMHX postponed until November 2010 (1st August 2009)
IMHX 2010 is to move from its traditional March slot to November. Organisers, Quartz, say the decision was put to all exhibitors and that the “overwhelming majority” voted for the November option, according to MD, Paul Michael.
News in brief (1st August 2009)
FLTA urges Archie entries The Fork Lift Truck Association is calling for 2010 award entries.
Burning cash and rubber? (1st August 2009)
The Industrial Tyre Association is calling for more action to reduce the risks of making false economies when it comes to selecting and fitting industrial tyres
Road to Damascus returns prodigal profits (1st August 2009)
The recession brings the need to cut corners, reduce costs and to save on actions too costly for comfort. Or does it? Geoff Dossetter says that some economies can be false
Jam tomorrow? (1st February 2009)
Geoff Dossetter says that 2009 will require transport operators to keep their nerve and trust that things will eventually turn around
