jasmine Flintham – Motor Transport

Motor Transport Events 2020 and COVID-19

jasmine Flintham — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 20:08:24 +0000

We at Motor Transport run a series of industry events which are due to be held between now and the end of 2020. We are monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely with regards to anticipated travel restrictions and isolation requirements that may be put in place. Our priority is to be as clear and straightforward as possible as the situation unfolds over the coming weeks and months and we will assess each event on a case by case basis. The circumstances are changing by the hour and this page will always have the most up to date information on it, if you do have an enquiry please email vic.bunby@roadtransport.com verity.cullum@roadtransport.com

Clean Air Sheffield

17 March 2020, Sheffield

This event has been postponed – new date to be announced.

You can still register your interest for this event and be kept up to date with any developments as they happen including a new date, please visit the link below

https://cleanairroadshows.co.uk/cleanairroadshows2020/en/page/sheffield-clean-air-roadshow

Clean Air Edinburgh

2 April 2020, Edinburgh

This event has been postponed – new date to be announced

You can still register your interest for this event and be kept up to date with any developments as they happen including a new date, please visit the link below

https://cleanairroadshows.co.uk/cleanairroadshows2020/en/page/scotland-clean-air-roadshow

Clean Air North East

18 June 2020, North East

Currently, this event is due to go ahead as planned

Motor Transport Awards

Was 1 July 2020 now 27 August 2020 London

This event has been postponed – now to be held on the 27 August 2020 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London's Park Lane

To stay informed any news and developments about the show please register for updates by visiting the link below

https://www.mtawards.co.uk/2020/en/page/keep-me-informed

Freight in the City

3 November 2020, London

Currently, this event is due to go ahead as planned

During these unprecedented times, we will be focusing on keeping the industry informed and updated, please see below our media pack should you wish to communicate with your audience via our other channels.

Download our Media Pack here

Register to keep up to date via email newsletter

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Try innovating like Silicon Valley

jasmine Flintham — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 09:00:43 +0000

As the world’s leading technology centre, Silicon Valley is brimming with innovation – not just from a hardware or software point of view, but in terms of how it solves problems. One example of this is “design sprints”, a five-day process developed by former Google executive Jake Knapp, which sees team members come together to answer critical business questions through design, prototyping, and testing ideas.
At ArrowXL we use this model to improve our operations, most recently regarding reverse logistics. Late last year, a 15-strong team of colleagues from product development, hub operations, client management, the claims division and IT, identified 50 pain-points across our returns processes. They were prioritised (by way of ‘dot voting’) into seven areas before the team unpicked any problems and created solutions. This included: deploying a resource flex model that allows the operations team to resource more efficiently according to volumes; redesigning the company’s cancellation process so colleagues didn’t have to spend three hours a day sorting labels by client and piece every day; optimising manifest creation; the formation of a new returns dashboard in the company’s reporting tool; and enhanced communication channels to reduce backlog in the warehouse.

I’m proud to report that this design sprint and the subsequent solutions have led to significant benefits. While the
volume of returns in the two-person market has increased 40% over recent years, the sprint avoided additional costs
and improved cost per unit to approximately £333,000. As part of this, efficiency across two of our sites have improved by 30%, with a third site improving by 19%. We have also witnessed a 43% reduction in claims from a major client due to reduced errors when sending returns back. Finally, our key KPI items per warehouse hour has
improved at all three sites (Droitwich, 2.4% to 3.2%; Enfield, 3.6% to 4.2%; Wigan, 4.7% to 6.2%).
It can often be difficult for large organisations to introduce new methods of working, but by being more flexible and receptive to innovative techniques – and most importantly, by giving teams from different departments the opportunity to contribute on an even footing – you can reap the rewards.

Got something to say?
If you would like to contribute to MT’s Viewpoint,
email steve.hobson@roadtransport.com

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Back to school to fill skills shortage

jasmine Flintham — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 10:55:51 +0000

At TWE Haulage we face the same driver recruitment and retention issues as everyone else. I’m a big believer in training and developing young talent and yet I’ve been frustrated for years with the sector’s apprenticeship offerings. So I decided to go back to the way we used to train – not just for a role but for an all-round employee. I decided to find a young, enthusiastic individual who was interested in the logistics sector. After months of searching and becoming disappointed in how it seems the majority of youngsters want a quick route to an HGV licence, I discovered 22-year-old Dale McMillan. Dale reinfused my appetite to train somebody the old-fashioned way in road haulage.

I’ve long been concerned that too many people enter the industry as a way of making quick money, rather than truly understanding the industry and their role. The difference is that one gives them some limited short-term benefit and the other gives us all long-term benefit. It gives their employer a long-term return on the time and expense of training them.

Dale and I discussed my vision for his training, which would put him through all aspects of handling freight from collection to delivery. Between us, we agreed on a training programme that would see Dale obtain his C+E licence. But we weren’t just training him to drive a lorry. We were training him to be a lorry driver – which I think is a much bigger role than simply moving the vehicle.

Dale’s journey with TWE began in July 2016. He started work as a warehouse operative, scanning freight and ensuring the warehouse was fit for use. After six months of unblemished good work, we escalated Dale to the role of a collection and delivery van driver, as well as forklift driver on a split shift.

Skip forward to March 2019. TWE has funded Dale’s category C licence and provided him with his first 18-tonne rigid collection and delivery vehicle. In March 2021, he’ll start his training for his C+E licence and when he passes this, he’ll get his choice of role within the fleet.

We may have a driver shortage in the industry but that doesn’t mean we should rush, look for quick fixes, or employ those who want quick money. Sometimes the best way is the old-school way.

Got something to say?
If you would like to contribute
to MTs Viewpoint, Email steve.hobson@roadtransport.com

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Transport leaders’ drive for digitisation

jasmine Flintham — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 08:47:56 +0000

As we enter the ‘fourth industrial revolution’, we are beginning to reap the benefits of digital technologies in the supply chain, from cloud-based transport management systems and artificial intelligence through to 3D printing and fleet telematics. Digitisation of the supply chain – whether in part or using a full suite of technologies – is a necessary but challenging process. And it’s one that presents opportunities, if properly embraced.
Wincanton believes the benefits of these new technologies will only be fully realised if they are converged, rather than operating in isolation.
The ideal level of visibility across the supply chain covers everything. It’s a full view of your suppliers’ supply chain, your customers’ and, of course, your own.
With the certainty of this level of understanding, businesses will be able to plan effectively and mitigate risks within
and beyond their control.
The problem is that few businesses boast this reach right now. The introduction of blockchain technology presents an opportunity to go beyond traditional methods to better ensure provenance of raw materials and goods.
Better analysis of data will support faster and more accurate decisionmaking.
A top-down view of the data in a business can help break down silos of information. This, in turn, could allow for better integration and co-operation with customers and partners, and more effective use of human resources to manage customer, supplier and partner relationships. People remain at the heart of logistics.

From drivers and warehouse operatives through to operational experts, logistics won’t deliver if people aren’t at the centre of the process. So getting the most from people is where future success will be defined, with businesses that successfully manage interactions between humans and automation the ones that will benefit.
Fundamentally, leadership has not changed, but the rapid development and deployment of digital technologies means that the expectations for leaders are shifting and evolving.
Technology is moving forward faster than anybody would have thought just a few years ago, and success will hinge on the ability to thrive on uncertainty.

Got something to say?
If you would like to contribute to
MT’s Viewpoint, email
steve.hobson@roadtransport.com

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Performance is cause for optimism

jasmine Flintham — Wed, 21 Aug 2019 08:22:35 +0000

When it comes to merger and acquisition activity in the logistics industry, 2019 was always going to herald tough conditions.
However, while transport and logistics companies are right to remain cautious, it isn’t all doom and gloom. Our latest ‘Logistics and Supply chain management quarterly review’ paints a more positive outlook for the sector, with emerging opportunities equal to the challenges.
There are clearly benefits to be had in consolidation around logistics, plus interest in new technology platforms underpinning automation and efficiencies in supply chains.
Recent M&A figures have certainly remained strong and illustrate the fact that companies continue to target growth, remaining acquisitive despite the challenging climate.

Looking back at the end of 2018 we saw a four-year high for deal volume in the final quarter, demonstrating a continued confidence in the logistics market. Similarly, Q3 2018 saw the highest combined deal value in four years, hitting £371m. Last year also saw an interesting shift in terms of investment. Brexit and associated economic concerns gave rise to an expected fall in interest from global markets, however, M&A activity didn’t decline, but was instead bolstered by domestic activity, with the lion’s share of acquisitive companies based in the UK.
Last year, 50% of buyers were UK-based businesses versus just 23% in 2016. European buyers accounted for just 23% of total deal activity in 2018, compared with 40% in 2016. It’s a largely unavoidable shift given the changing dynamics, but it’s encouraging to see that demand remained robust, with UK-based logistics companies continuing to push ahead with growth strategies.

Brexit will undoubtedly bring unprecedented challenges during the next 12 months, and the UK logistics and supply chain industry is at the head of the charge. As well as in developing trade links in Europe and beyond, growth is achieved by supporting retailers as e-commerce continues to outpace the high street, and in harnessing new technology to deliver greater operational efficiencies.

Got something to say?
If you would like to contribute to MT’s Viewpoint,
email steve.hobson@roadtransport.com

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Commercial Motor’s annual Truck Open golf day makes a welcome return on 11 July

jasmine Flintham — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 08:11:18 +0000

Taking place at Lambourne Golf Club in Dropmore, Buckinghamshire, this golf challenge is open to a maximum of 25 teams of four (100 players). The format will be a four-ball full handicap Stableford competition. The best three individual Stableford scores per hole per team will count.

Enter a minimum of a four-ball at a cost of £675 (plus VAT) per team, which includes green fees, golf-related gift, lunch and dinner with inclusive drinks and prizes. The Commercial Motor golf day is the perfect place to network with existing and potential customers.

To book your place at the event, contact either Emma Tyrer 07900 691137 emma.tyrer@roadtransport.com or Vic Bunby 07771 812990 vic.bunby@roadtransport.com

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Microlise Transport Conference 2019

jasmine Flintham — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 12:16:48 +0000

Europe's largest road transport conference is back on May 15th, ready to welcome over 1,200 delegates to the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

This free-to-attend, one-day event is for those involved at an operational or management level in the operation of road transport fleets.

Marian Kitson, director of enforcement at the DVSA and Senior Traffic Commissioner Richard Turfitt are already confirmed to present, with many more exciting speakers to be announced imminently.

Motor Transport will be there. Join us to increase your knowledge; learn from subject matter experts and acquire new insights into the future of the road transport industry.

With a ton of free content, a packed main agenda and four specially curated workshop zones; why not register today?

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Transport Manager Northern Ireland 2018

jasmine Flintham — Wed, 09 May 2018 07:10:12 +0000

Taking place on 24 May 2018 at Culloden Estate & Spa, Belfast, FTA's Transport Manager Northern Ireland conference is packed with industry leading speakers and the very latest information, guidance and best practice advice surrounding legislation and enforcement changes.

FTA's Transport Manager Northern Ireland conference is packed with industry leading speakers and the very latest information, guidance and best practice advice surrounding legislation and enforcement changes.

Speakers include:

Our Keynote Address comes from John McGrath, Deputy Secretary Transport and Resources from the Department for Infrastructure. He joined the then Department for Regional Development in January 2014. Where he had responsibility for the development of transportation and water policy; the delivery of strategic transport planning, policy and legislation, as well as oversight of the Regional Development Strategy.
With the establishment of the Department for Infrastructure in May 2016 John leads the Transport and Resources Group. This covers transport policy and planning, public transport (including oversight of Translink), safe and sustainable travel, including active travel; ports and airports; and also Waterways Ireland. John is the Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) for Indicators 23 and 25 within the Programme for Government.

Kathleen Callanan, Head of Enforcement with the Road Safety Authority, speaking about enforcement Priorities, has worked in the public service 14 years.
Spending the majority of that time with the RSA and prior to that with the Courts Service. She has worked with the Vehicle Testing and Enforcement Unit for the past 11 years. Prior to commencing her current role, she worked as a Transport Officer for 4 years conducting inspections both at the roadside and at operator premises, before spending a little over 2 years as Senior Transport Officer. As part of Kathleen’s current role her responsibilities include the management of roadside & premises enforcement from a maintenance; roadworthiness; drivers’ hours and tachograph perspective.

Other confirmed speakers:

Manufacturer's Perspective on Truck Restrictions - Martin Flach
Alternative Fuels Director, IVECO
Truck Restrictions - Natalie Chapman -Urban Policy, FTA
Apprenticeships - Sally Gilson - Head of Skills Campaign, FTA
Van Excellence - Mark Cartwright - Head of Vans, FTA

Why should you attend?

- Hear from Keynote Address, John McGrath, Deputy Secretary for Transport and Resources, Department of Infrastructure.
- The latest on the future implications on drivers, driver recruitment and retention.
- An essential legislative round and technical update highlighting the main topics on the horizon that you need to be aware of to ensure the safety, compliance and efficiency of your organisation.
- Discover how Brexit could affect your business
- Network with industry peers
- Attain expert knowledge to improve your operation’s compliance and efficiency
- Gain peace-of-mind over topical matters affecting your operation

Join your colleagues for the 'must attend' industry event of the year!

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