Girteka accelerates intermodal transport
In 2024, Lithuanian company Girteka recorded a 35% increase in the use of intermodal solutions compared to 2023, completing over 24,000 full loads by combining rail and road transport. The company connects key regions such as Spain, Italy, France, and Germany. By integrating transport to and from rail terminals with HVO fuel, it was possible to save up to 90% of CO2 emissions, while maintaining punctual deliveries in ideal conditions.
European transport sector calls for stronger EU budget
On 5 February 2025, 45 European transport organisations urged national governments and the European Commission to maintain and strengthen a dedicated transport funding instrument in the future EU budget. With upcoming discussions on the next Multiannual Financial Framework, they emphasise the importance of coordinating and implementing infrastructure to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market and to enhance Europe's competitiveness and resilience. The organisations express concern over the Commission's plans to redirect a significant portion of funds towards individual national plans and, ahead of the informal General Affairs Council in Warsaw in two weeks, call on ministers to support a robust European transport funding instrument in the next MFF.
Drewry's Intra-Asia Container Index falls by 12%
Drewry's Intra-Asia Container Index decreased by 12% in the second half of January 2025, settling at $726 per 40-foot container. Despite the decline, the index remains 37% higher than the same period in 2024, indicating the strength of intra-Asian trade. Forecasts suggest a further decrease in shipping rates during February.
TO Group strengthens collaboration with Polaris Autoliners
Transport Overseas Group (TO Group) has announced the enhancement of its collaboration with Polaris Autoliners. From 1 January 2025, TO Group officially assumes the role of commercial agent for Polaris, a British company specialising in ro-ro transport. The agreement includes the expansion of trade routes, incorporating connections between the Mediterranean and Turkey, Europe and Oceania (Australia/New Zealand), as well as Europe and Norway.
Geodis temporarily suspends Łódź-Barcelona rail service
Geodis, a company controlled by SNCF, has announced the temporary suspension of its rail freight service between Łódź (Poland) and Barcelona, due to operational and economic issues. The connection, inaugurated in June 2024, had transported 44 containers and swap bodies, each with a load capacity of 26 tonnes, on its first journey.
XPO inaugurates logistics platform in Nijmegen
XPO has opened a new 4,000-square-metre transport and logistics centre in the Netherlands. The facility, located in Nijmegen near the A73 motorway and the city's port, will serve as a crucial hub for XPO's Connect Europe service. The centre, employing 50 staff, will offer palletised goods storage, cross-docking, and relabelling services. Its strategic location ensures quick connections to northern and southern Europe, as well as Germany. The facility is equipped with solar panels to support XPO's commitment to sustainability and carbon emission reduction.
DB Schenker France enhances fleet with 66 electric lorries
DB Schenker France has ordered 60 Renault Trucks E-Tech D 16-tonne electric lorries and six Renault Trucks E-Tech T electric tractors, the first for the French subsidiary. Eight of the 60 E-Tech Ds are already operational in the cities of Blois, Angers, Châteaulin, Rouen, and Rennes. The remainder will be distributed by the first quarter of 2025 across 28 metropolitan agencies. These vehicles will be used for urban, suburban, or regional routes. With this acquisition, DB Schenker France's electric lorry fleet doubles, reaching 135 units.
Bidfood Netherlands to receive 25 electric lorries
Since 2021, Bidfood Netherlands has progressively integrated Renault Trucks E-Tech electric vehicles into its fleet, currently operating 25 units. These vehicles have already avoided the emission of 230 tonnes of CO2. By the first quarter of 2025, the company will receive an additional 25 electric lorries, bringing the total to 50. The collaboration with Renault Trucks, which recently produced its 2,000th electric vehicle at the Blainville-sur-Orne plant, underscores the shared commitment to decarbonised mobility solutions.
