West London future of Logistics event success.
Birthday cake and sustainable EV vehicles
Electric prototypes in the car park – Yamaha and Parcel Moby trolley
West London Logistics roundtable for operators.
Chaired by LSA – Parcel to freight forwarding – rail to trucks.
Recruitment and future skills needed in West London
West London Logistics in the spotlight with operations, vision and next generation. Flavour of logistics future greeted operators in the form of an electric vision with Moby parcel trollies and a Yamaha prototype, 100 litre cargo box scooter delivering on zero emission.
A giant birthday cake cut by the shadow skills minister celebrated the first decade of the Logistics Skills Alliance, LSA.
Shadow Skills Minister, Seema Malhotra, ‘What an exciting celebration, my congratulations to all.’
Operators said the next step is to form a dedicated logistics hub for the West London hotspot.
Operators ask for a logistics hub
Need for next generation, under-18 behaviour skills for shift and logistics jobs
Job opportunity signposting for over-18s entering logistics
Keynotes from freight forwarding, parcel and rail cross-docking via London enthralled the future routeway for goods in logistics. Phil Read from Varamis spoke, hot off the press, on rail parcel interchange by roller-cage to the heart of Central London from the national train network.
A roundtable discussion asked for operator input on the future of logistics to 2030. It was an afternoon to remember with rich operator input. Carl Lomas chaired an operator vision discussion; it focused on the need for next generation workforce and the wish for a dedicated West London hub for logistics.
The future vision, the need for next generation workforce, explaining what the job stairway was for new recruits, talking behaviour skills and shift work understanding for the under-eighteens. Adding a review for a dedicated logistics hub for West London geographic for local operators.
The roundtable was a masterclass to create a step change opportunity for near future, 2030. Recruitment, fuels, vehicles, and future talent. Parcel to freight forwarding, car and passenger to van, truck rail and air. Apprenticeships to compliance, in the shed and on the forks. Operators engaging with skills for next generation.
A West London Logistics hub
Operators said, ‘support is needed for a logistics library of vacancies, a West London logistics hub, recruitment built on the recent careers fair,’ 300 candidates were in attendance at Feltham.
What would a dedicated logistics hub look like to support your needs? How should it function? How can you contribute? What commitment does it require? Can we bridge the gap of job roles with the pipeline of talent from apprentices, colleges, other education providers? Can we provide individuals with opportunities to consider a career change, upskill and move into the sector? How do we maximise their step success to logistics, and improve retention?
The Future of Logistics 2030 Agenda and notes
West London employer operators started with lunch at 13:00, and agenda at 13:30, the event was held at West Thames College, London Road, Isleworth, Middlesex, TW7 4HS
Shadow Minister for Skills, Seema Malhotra opened,
A decade of the Logistics Skills Alliance, The Wednesday weekly logistics news foundation of all things delivered by the West London powerhouse of logistics hot spot. Celebrating with a slice of sector cake for a birthday of step change in logistics.
Keynote by Tracy Aust, Principal West Thames College,
West Thames College at the heart of the LSA, a dedicated logistics campus at Feltham, this is the time to celebrate ten years of the LSA and step forward to a formal logistics hub for West London, build knowledge for the under-eighteen workforce, signpost opportunity, and showcase job routes for the over-eighteens across this local sector of opportunity in logistics.
Operators focus on freight forwarding by Ed Clarke, Skynet
Logistics on the threshold of a rapidly evolving economy
As we stand on the threshold of a rapidly evolving global economy, I would like to reflect on the skills that will be essential for the success of international logistics companies in the future. But first of all why is a Global economy a desired environment in the first place?
Well, I firmly believe that a global economy is advantageous to both business and consumers in that wonderful, win-win environment where everyone benefits from international trade especially where there is a free trade environment. Companies can access new markets, new customers, mitigate risks from trading in one locality which post CVID and with turbulent global economic challenges is ever more important for the long-term sustainability of businesses. There are 253 countries in the world with nearly 8 billion people so why limit yourself! Consumers benefit from greater choice and competition that drive quality up and prices down as business compete to become the supplier of choice and to secure a greater share of the overall wallet. This has resulted in the landscape of logistics is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer expectations, and global inter connectedness. In this dynamic environment, it's crucial for companies to equip themselves with the right set of skills to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
I am reminded of a visit I had to the BMW Williams F1 Racing facility where I was blown away by a conversation I had with the Director of Development for their F1 Race car program.
First and foremost, adaptability will be key. The logistics industry is subject to constant change, whether it's new regulations, emerging technologies, or shifts in consumer behaviour. Companies must be agile and adaptable, ready to pivot in response to changing circumstances and embrace innovation as a means of staying ahead of the curve.
Secondly, a strong foundation in technology will be indispensable. The future of logistics is digital, with technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things revolutionizing the way goods are transported, tracked, and managed. Companies that invest in digital capabilities and harness the power of data analytics will gain a competitive edge, enhancing efficiency, visibility, and customer satisfaction.
Moreover, a global mindset will be essential. In an increasingly interconnected world, logistics companies must have a deep understanding of international markets, regulations, and cultural nuances. The ability to navigate diverse environments and forge strategic partnerships across borders will be crucial for success on the global stage.
Furthermore, collaboration will be paramount. The logistics industry is inherently collaborative, involving multiple stakeholders across the supply chain. Companies that foster strong partnerships and collaboration, both internally and externally, will be better equipped to overcome challenges, drive innovation, and deliver value to customers.
Additionally, a focus on sustainability will be non-negotiable. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, there is growing pressure on businesses to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint. Logistics companies must prioritize sustainability throughout their operations, from optimizing transportation routes to minimizing waste and emissions.
I personally see this as such a critical skill for the future that failing to meet the needs of the customer, will cause those who are not prepared to adopt and embrace the zero carbon or green agenda to fall by the wayside as consumers vote with their wallet and this becomes a basic ticket to play in this environment,
Lastly, a commitment to continuous learning and development will be vital. The pace of change in the logistics industry shows no signs of slowing down, and companies must invest in upskilling their workforce to keep pace with evolving trends and technologies. By fostering a culture of learning and innovation, companies can ensure that they remain resilient and adaptable in the face of uncertainty.
While logistics in the past has been an industry few people have aspired to work within, according to Logistics UK in their Logistics Report 2023 with 227,000 logistics enterprises in the UK directly employing 1.8 million people and having a total of 2.7 million logistics related jobs in the UK economy which is over 8% of the total UK employment.
This sector has provided me and many others with an evolving, fast paced, environment, which has captivated and retained its workforce in a rewarding and ever professionalising industry. People naturally think of van drivers and warehouse workers, but we are also home to Engineers, Accountants, Lawyers, Packaging technicians, HR professionals, Marketing Specialists, Account Executives, IT teams, Program coders, Data Analysis workers, and lets not forget those all-important Sustainability Officers I just mentioned... In fact, there are scores of other roles that all play a special part in this…. the greatest hidden industry which goes unseen by most but impacts each and every one of us every day.
In conclusion, the future of international logistics will be shaped by a combination of adaptability, technology, global mindset, collaboration, sustainability, and a commitment to learning. By embracing these skills and qualities, companies can position themselves for success in the dynamic and increasingly interconnected world of logistics.
Parcel final mile keynote by TVS Rico, Paul Grice
Parcel and post in West London Logistics, workforce, and skills.
Final mile is about re-imagining the connection of goods and people.
The final mile is not the last step, it is the future of defining retail.
Paul explained the brand, ‘TVS, a World brand, formed in 1911 in Southern India, we operate across fifty countries in multiple sector supply chain. TVS acquired Rico logistics from the origins of Ricochet couriers in West London, a humble beginning for a pan-European logistics company. Rico, today’s brand began 34 years ago here in West London.’
Today I am focused on final mile, local depot, or hub to customers doorstep. In the UK this final step to door determines the success of the whole delivery. As we navigate density the final mile is our greatest challenge and our greatest opportunity. The future of e-commerce is being shaped in the final mile.
The final mile is not the last step, it is the future of defining retail.
Sustainability has risen to the forefront of final mile, optimised delivery routes, sustainable packaging and electric vehicles has scored a fundamental shift from logistics as a necessary to sustainable resource.
Let’s remind oursleves of the past to re-imagine what is possible in final mile and customer support. Looking forward, the signpost is visible, the right people in final mile, the role of technology cannot be overstated. AI optimisation, even predicting delays before they occur, greater use of drones and autonomous vehicle delivery. Electric vehicles are becoming a competitive edge, not just reducing carbon but aligning with our customer demands.
The final mile must be adaptable.It must be customer-centric and be led by skills, redefining what is possible in logistics, delivering excellence, one mile at a time.
Parcel shift to rail in Central London, Varamis Rail by Phil Read
Parcel by Rail into Central London
Varamis Rail cross-dock roller-cages out of Central London
Zero emission e-retail client chain to the heart of the City.
West London logistics - Meet the Class 321 Swift Express electric train. Sustainable High-Speed Rail Logistics Services into the heart of Central London, cross dock by parcel from pre-sorted roller cage onto a final mile vehicle in the station and then direct delivery to door, the zero emission dream is closer than ever before for the heart of London. Logistics sector was in force on Platform Eleven at the 150 year old Liverpool Street Station, cross-dock space on Platform Ten completing the picture. It was celebrations all round with a top brass set of keynotes from Network Rail and TfL. A vision for zero emission client chain, e-retail final mile to the very heart of London was unfolding in front of the express sector.
The dream of a direct-to-door, multimodal cross dock from rail, using zero emission final mile in the heart of London was clearly a step closer. Institute of Couriers fellow, Phil Read, MD of Varamis Rail parked up his roller-cage-access passenger train on Platform Ten in Liverpool Street to showcase the clear carriages converted from passenger, giving maximum access to the network, three cages wide, loading for roller-cages set to be packed full of parcels. This was a fast, big parcel number solution and it's on the rails and ready to go.
Phil explained, ‘The train is an eight-car set, each carriage takes more than a Euro trailer and takes only 15 mins to cross-dock using roller-cages to courier final mile vehicles waiting on the platform space next door. From here the East Coast Mainline is available, we can use the North London Link and achieve Birmingham in around two hours. A next step is to sit down with the parcel carriers, agree a focus of routes and set a timetable for nightly runs.’
Future Logistics to 2030
Operator discussions chaired by Carl Lomas, Logistics Skills Alliance
The operator discussion keynotes focused on need for workforce as retail continues to shift from High Street to delivery to the door.
Envisage the logistics sector in 2030
A logistics sector rich in Apprenticeships – freight forwarding to Express and HGV
SWAP sector work academy course success at West Thames College. DPD Tufnells.
16-18 focus for next generation – behaviour for shift pattern and jobs
Steps for adult entry into logistics – signposting opportunities.
A hub for logistics, exchanging skills and knowledge
On-demand commerce a reality
challenges in peak public transport demand
Heathrow 3rd runway
Rail North operational
Mobile robotic solutions - UAV/drone deliveries
Explosion of AI - human-level performance in many sectors
Driverless trucks - platoon convoys commonplace
Gigabit mobile internet - 6G & beyond
Average human lifespan around 90 years
2030 - petrol and diesel engine milestone
Carbon-free distribution - low-emission electric vehicles
Extensive zero-emission city-centre tariffs
Trailblazer established - apprenticeships a respected career route
Operators ask in West London
A logistics hub for West London
Behaviours course for under-18 next generation, dealing with shifts and work in express
Over-18s opportunity signposting for roles in logistics, freight forwarding to HGV and express.
The Top photos
Logistics West London employers with birthday cake and electric delivery prototypes
Andy Pumfrey showcases Yamaha two-wheel electric delivery solutions
Harry Macey from Moby speaks cargo trolley electric bike
LSA chair Carl Lomas with DWP & West Thames Principal Tracy Aust with keynote speaker Paul Grice from TVS Rico
University West London Dr Tracey Worth with national logistics operators including Flannery and Onit Logistics talks level 6 degrees in logistics
Full house for Ed Clarke Skynet keynote on parcel logistics
