DHL celebrated the close of the 2021 Formula 1® season yesterday with the annual presentation of its two DHL “Fastest Awards”. This year’s DHL Fastest Lap Award champ is repeat-winner Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), who tied Max Verstappen (Red Bull) with a total of six fastest laps but took the 2021 title based on the number of #2 finishes in the Fastest Lap category.
“It’s a great achievement to receive the Fastest Lap Award again. This year the battle has been so close that the bonus points have been very important,” said Lewis Hamilton. “Thank you to everyone in the team, both back in the factory and here at track, whose hard work has put us in a position to set those times.”
Earning his sixth DHL Fastest Lap trophy since 2014, Hamilton solidified his position atop the all- time Fastest Lap rankings. To present the Fastest Lap Award to Hamilton was Amna Al Qubaisi, the first Emirati female racing driver. Al Qubaisi, who has broken new ground and new records as an Arab female in motorsport, placed 19 th overall in the 2021 F3 Asia Championship standings as a member of Team Abu Dhabi Racing by PREMA.
“As an aspiring driver, it is of course an honor and thrill for me to present this highly coveted DHL Award to one of the world’s top racers,” said Al Qubaisi prior to the award ceremony. “It is also a tremendous honour to be here representing not only female drivers, but also the millions of female race fans and countless women working behind the scenes to make Formula championship racing happen. I want to thank DHL for acknowledging and celebrating this.”
Taking the DHL Fastest Pit Stop Award for 2021 was Red Bull Racing Honda with a winning time of 1.88 seconds – the team’s fourth consecutive Pit Stop title. During the unprecedented 22-race 2021 calendar, the Red Bull Racing Honda pit crew achieved the fastest pit stop 13 times, including three consecutive wins in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi to close out the season.
In 2021, Max Verstappen benefitted from the fastest pit stop eleven times, with teammate Sergio Perez enjoying the fastest stop two times. Team Red Bull was also the only team to post pit-stop times under two seconds, which it accomplished a total of five times this year.
“Another model for speed, precision and clockwork reliability, Team Red Bull has now earned this distinction four years in a row,” said DHL Express CEO John Pearson. “Since introducing the DHL Fastest Pit Stop Award in 2015, we remain tremendously proud of what it celebrates: the unsung heroes behind the scenes and all the hard work, dedication and planning that goes into making those incredibly fast pit stops possible.”
“I’m delighted that the pit stop crew have won the DHL Fastest Pit Stop Award, they have been performing at the top of their game all year,” said Red Bull Racing Honda’s CEO and Team Principal Christian Horner.
For this year’s DHL Fastest Pit Stop Award, Pearson presented Team Red Bull with a unique trophy made from upcycled scrap metal as a symbol of DHL’s commitment to sustainability.
“Deutsche Post DHL Group will be investing 7 billion euros in clean operations and climate-neutral logistics through 2030, which includes major investments in sustainable fuels. In the case of Formula 1, our longtime commitment to providing the fastest, most efficient, and innovative motorsports logistics is now helping the championship to reduce its ecological footprint,” said Pearson. “We see ourselves as the sustainable choice in logistics and want this DHL sprit of sustainability to shine through in everything we do.”
For Arjan Sissing, Head of Global Brand Marketing at Deutsche Post DHL Group, the presentation of the much-celebrated DHL Fastest awards is an opportunity to underscore DHL’s increased focus on sustainability.
“At DHL we have taken the lead in the logistics industry on sustainability – breaking ground with our environmental targets, including zero-emissions logistics by 2050, but also setting new standards in the area of social responsibility, including equal opportunity and diversity across our global workforce,” says Sissing. “Our work supporting Formula 1 is mostly behind the scenes. The Fastest Lap and Fastest Pit Stop awards are that moment when we step into the spotlight, and we wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to highlight our ever-growing commitment to environmental and social responsibility.”
With nearly 40 years of experience managing logistics for Formula 1®, DHL is focused today on helping Formula 1® reduce its carbon footprint and overall environmental impact. To this end, DHL is fitting its entire fleet of F1®-dedicated trucks with a GPS to monitor fuel consumption, select the most sustainable routes, and lower CO2 emissions. Other measures include the use of DHL’s new, fuel-efficient Boeing 777 aircraft, which reduce carbon emissions by 18% compared to traditional aircraft, and leveraging multi-modal transport solutions, including overland and ocean freight. At the Monaco Grand Prix in May of this year, DHL also joined Formula 1® in signing a sustainability pledge to reduce the use of single-use plastics at the track.
As Official Logistics Partner of Formula 1®, DHL transports up to 1,400 tons of highly sensitive freight – including cars, engines, fuel, broadcasting equipment, as well as marketing and hospitality materials – to over 20 races on five continents over the course of a nine-month season. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concludes an unprecedented 22-race 2021 calendar, which included four double-headers (races on two consecutive weekends) and two triple-headers. Adding to the challenge were the ongoing restrictions and safety requirements related to the COVID-19 pandemic. To help ensure the safety of DHL staff, F1® racing teams and fans during the ongoing pandemic, DHL developed stringent protocols for COVID testing and disinfecting the freight zone during each delivery. Brexit also brought significant logistics complications since most of the teams are UK-based. Here, the experts at DHL Motorsports stepped in to handle the new ATA Carnet requirements, which allowed teams to move equipment in and out of the EU without paying taxes and duties.
DHL and Formula 1® look forward to another exciting race calendar in 2022, featuring a record- breaking 23 races and the first-ever Grand Prix in Miami.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
ESR India, the largest APAC focused industrial and logistics real estate platform, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Tamil Nadu for a potential investment of INR 550 crores. The MOU is signed for the launch of two industrial parks in Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri districts of the state over the next five years. Once fully operational, the two projects have the potential to create over 4,400 jobs in the facility, that shall boost the overall socio-economic growth in the region. The MoU was signed at the Investment Conclave 2021 conference held today. It will facilitate ESR India’s proposed investment at Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri industrial parks by helping in streamlining land acquisition, approvals, clearances, and administrative processes as per existing policies, rules, and regulations of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The policy and regulatory reforms unveiled in recent times has accentuated the entry of international institutional players and has set new benchmarks for industrial developments in the country. Commenting on the development, Abhijit Malkani, CEO and Country Head, ESR India said, “We are delighted to announce our affiliation with the state government. The Government of Tamil Nadu has been very supportive in encouraging industrial developments in the state by creating a favourable business climate for industrial players. The MoU will see ESR invest INR 550 crores to develop industrial parks in Tamil Nadu, offering 1,800 direct and 2,600 indirect job opportunities in the facility.” “Our goals are aligned with the vision of the Tamil Nadu government, to create avenues to increase business and trade inclusion opportunities and employment towards garnering better economic growth in the region,” he further stated. ESR India is currently present across 9 cities and 15 locations with a total GFA of 18 mn sq ft. These state-of-the-art facilities will be developed upholding the best practices for ESG and sustainability.
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a multi-modal logistics hub (MMLH) in Greater Noida’s Dadri, investing Rs 7,064 crore to support its $1 trillion economy goal. This hub will cover 823 acres, with a core development area spanning 455 acres. Key developments include commercial and administrative facilities over 17.5 acres, a rail yard, and other projects across 350 acres. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, a detailed action plan has been designed to expedite these initiatives. The Dadri MMLH aims to become a world-class freight handling facility, functioning as a dry port to ensure the swift transit of goods and raw materials. This project is poised to be India's largest logistics hub. Located on the eastern and western dedicated freight corridors, it will serve as a central hub for container handling, warehousing, cold storage, processing, de-stuffing, stuffing, and value-added packing. Providing seamless rail connectivity, the hub will feature rail platforms, customs clearance facilities, cargo segregation areas, truck parking zones, and extensive green spaces. The project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, supervised by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and adhering to the guidelines of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has prepared the Master Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing the approach track and Rail Over Rail (ROR) bridge from New Dadri station to the MMLH boundary. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has approved the DPR for railway tracks and terminal stations within the MMLH. Additionally, the tender documentation for land acquisition and signaling processes for the approach track has been finalized. Concurrently, the development of trunk infrastructure, including boundary work, roads, canals, bridges, utility relocation, and water and power supply, is progressing through various phases.
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a multi-modal logistics hub (MMLH) in Greater Noida’s Dadri, investing Rs 7,064 crore to support its $1 trillion economy goal. This hub will cover 823 acres, with a core development area spanning 455 acres. Key developments include commercial and administrative facilities over 17.5 acres, a rail yard, and other projects across 350 acres. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, a detailed action plan has been designed to expedite these initiatives. The Dadri MMLH aims to become a world-class freight handling facility, functioning as a dry port to ensure the swift transit of goods and raw materials. This project is poised to be India's largest logistics hub. Located on the eastern and western dedicated freight corridors, it will serve as a central hub for container handling, warehousing, cold storage, processing, de-stuffing, stuffing, and value-added packing. Providing seamless rail connectivity, the hub will feature rail platforms, customs clearance facilities, cargo segregation areas, truck parking zones, and extensive green spaces. The project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, supervised by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and adhering to the guidelines of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has prepared the Master Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing the approach track and Rail Over Rail (ROR) bridge from New Dadri station to the MMLH boundary. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has approved the DPR for railway tracks and terminal stations within the MMLH. Additionally, the tender documentation for land acquisition and signaling processes for the approach track has been finalized. Concurrently, the development of trunk infrastructure, including boundary work, roads, canals, bridges, utility relocation, and water and power supply, is progressing through various phases.
The Indian Railways has unveiled an innovative new look for the Vande Bharat goods carrier, designed to enhance efficiency in freight transport across the nation. This state-of-the-art freight train features advanced technology and modern design, aimed at reducing transit times and improving the overall supply chain network. Equipped with upgraded features, the Vande Bharat goods carrier can transport a wide variety of goods, ensuring a more reliable and faster delivery system. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernise India's logistics infrastructure and promote the use of railways for cargo movement, which is essential for sustainable economic growth. This new freight carrier will not only help in decongesting road transport but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions, aligning with the government's commitment to environmental sustainability. With its introduction, Indian Railways aims to enhance cargo capacity and operational efficiency, providing a significant boost to the logistics sector. As the demand for efficient logistics solutions continues to rise, the Vande Bharat goods carrier is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of freight transportation in India.
The Zero Emission Port Alliance (ZEPA) has recently announced the onboarding of 11 key organisations from the container port industry. Notable members include APM Terminals (APMT), CATL, DP World, Kempower, Patrick Terminals, Port of Aarhus, Port of Rotterdam, Rocsys, Sany, SSA Marine, and ZPMC. These members are united in their commitment to accelerate the adoption of Battery-Electric Container Handling Equipment (BE-CHE). ZEPA aims to significantly advance port decarbonisation efforts, making BE-CHE both affordable and accessible within the next decade. In recent months, ZEPA has conducted working sessions, initial analyses, and held its first formal Steering Committee during the TOC Europe conference on June 11. The Steering Committee, which met at TOC Europe in Rotterdam, emphasized the importance of their collective membership in reducing emissions and achieving Total Cost of Ownership parity for battery-electric equipment compared to diesel. Industry leaders underscored that rapid change is achievable through cross-value chain collaboration. ZEPA's initiatives are meticulously designed and implemented in compliance with anti-trust and competition laws, with oversight from external legal counsel to ensure transparency and legality. Sahar Rashidbeigi, Global Head of Decarbonisation at APMT, reflected on ZEPA’s progress: “Reflecting on our journey, it is incredible to see how far we have come since defining the problem at last year’s TOC Europe conference. From the ‘tipping point’ White Paper nine months ago to launching ZEPA with DP World in December during COP28, and now onboarding 11 key members across the value chain, our progress highlights that we are addressing a valuable problem that resonates across the industry, and it affirms our conviction that collaboration is essential to tackle it effectively.” ZEPA's collective effort marks a pivotal step in the pursuit of sustainable and zero-emission port operations, showcasing the power of industry-wide cooperation in combating climate change.
Ekart introduced a new ‘Refinish Service’ to tackle the challenges of returns management in the fashion and lifestyle sector. This innovative service enables retailers to refurbish over 90 percent of returned inventory, helping brands mitigate losses and maximise revenue potential. The Refinish Service is designed for direct-to-consumer (D2C), e-commerce, and retail players in the fashion and lifestyle segments. It also caters to other industries, including footwear, handbags, accessories, and home and decor products such as curtains, bed sheets, and blankets. With a combined processing capacity of 55,000 units daily, Ekart employs best-in-class machinery and energy-conserving technologies. The refinishing process at Ekart's facilities involves rigorous quality checks, stain removal, box replacement, ironing, stitching (if needed), and final quality control to ensure the finesse of refurbished products. Mani Bhushan, Chief Business Officer of Ekart, commented, “By harnessing cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, the refinishing service empowers brands to optimise their supply chains and drive positive change on a broader scale. The service sets a new standard for returns management, demonstrating our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.” Ekart operates Refinish centers across major demand clusters in India, including Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. These strategically located centers facilitate swift return processing and reduce transport costs for brands. The facilities are equipped with advanced machinery, including up-steam tables, steam vacuum tables, and industry-leading foam finishers, ensuring thorough and efficient processing of returned inventory. Ekart's Refinish Service marks a significant step forward in returns management, offering a sustainable and efficient solution that benefits both retailers and the environment.
