Kerry Logistics Network Limited (‘Kerry Logistics Network’, ‘KLN’; Stock Code 0636.HK) and a syndicate solely led by MUFG Bank Ltd. (‘MUFG’) have signed a five-year HK$1 billion syndicated Sustainability-linked & Social Term Loan Facility (‘Facility’). This Facility is a first-of-its-kind ESG-linked syndicated loan structure in the Asia Pacific, validating KLN’s pioneer position in the logistics sector and commitment to Environment, Social and Governance (‘ESG’).
MUFG acted as the sole Mandated Lead Arranger, Bookrunner and Underwriter and Sustainability & Social Loan Structuring Advisor in the Facility. The oversubscribed transaction showcases MUFG’s unparalleled syndication arrangement and ESG structuring capabilities, while leveraging its deep relationship network to broaden the investor base for clients.
The Facility was tailored with a cutting-edge ESG structure comprising both sustainability-linked loan and social loan tranches. Under the terms of the Facility, KLN is to invest in social initiatives to generate positive impact to the communities it serves across Hong Kong and the Mainland of China. Other social targets include a list of eligible social projects providing access to employment, essential services and affordable basic infrastructure.
Ellis Cheng, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Kerry Logistics Network, said, “The overwhelming subscription result demonstrates the banking industry’s trust in the impact of KLN’s social contributions. KLN appreciates MUFG’s leadership in spearheading the company’s inaugural syndication and the bespoke ESG structure is a testament of KLN’s commitment to create a greener, safer and better-connected world.”
Cerlin Ip, MUFG’s Head of Global Corporate Banking, Hong Kong, said, “We are honoured to continue deepening our partnership with KLN. This landmark sustainability-linked and social syndicated loan facility has further demonstrated KLN’s pioneering position in the logistics sector and deep commitment to sustainability, while reaffirming MUFG’s efforts in partnering clients to pursue their environmental and business agendas. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with KLN in their journey to a sustainable future.”
IBS Software, a leading provider of SaaS solutions to the global travel industry, has launched a Data & AI Center of Excellence (CoE), aimed at driving innovation and responsible AI adoption in the travel and hospitality sectors.
The establishment of the Data & AI CoE reflects IBS Software’s commitment to applying advanced AI and data-driven technologies across its product portfolio to deliver cutting-edge solutions to its global customer base. The initiative will focus on identifying, prioritizing, and enabling top AI use cases in collaboration with product teams and customers. The CoE will define responsible AI practices, focusing on user privacy, data security, and ethical considerations.
George Varghese has been appointed as the new Head of the Data & AI Center of Excellence. Varghese brings over 25 years of expertise in data analytics, machine learning, and financial engineering to the role. He joins IBS Software after a career that spans roles in quantitative finance, algorithm development, and AI/ML deployment. Most recently, George led the AI/ML practice at Upskills Pte Ltd and co-founded Piquant Capital, a systematic hedge fund.
“The travel industry has vast untapped potential for AI-driven innovation,” said George Varghese, Head of the Data & AI CoE at IBS Software. “Creating this new initiative will enable our teams and customers to work together to create meaningful, data-driven solutions that redefine travel and hospitality. Ensuring responsible AI usage while maximizing its benefits will be at the core of what we do.”
Based in Singapore, George will report to Chris Branagan, Chief Technology Officer of IBS Software, and lead the team AI practitioners, with plans for expansion as the CoE evolves.
Chris Branagan comments: “AI holds tremendous potential to reshape the travel experience, but its success relies on trust and responsibility. At IBS Software, we are committed to ensuring that AI not only delivers efficiency and innovation but also adheres to the highest standards of privacy and security. George’s extensive experience and vision for responsible AI align perfectly with our strategy to drive industry-leading solutions.”
Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Rail Network, has unveiled its new brand identity, featuring a revamped logo, mission, vision, and values.
This rebrand aligns with the company’s comprehensive strategy, expansion plans, and future growth aspirations. Embodying the nation’s Spirit of the Union, the revamped identity represents the connectivity and cohesion between the various cities and regions of the UAE created by the railway network.
The new brand identity aligns with the UAE’s leadership’s vision, under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Martyrs Families Affairs and Chairman of Etihad Rail, acknowledging the magnitude of the country’s national achievements over the past years.
Etihad Rail’s new vision focuses on serving the UAE, by providing more opportunities and enhancing connectivity through a safe a sustainable railway network that links communities and industries. The company has achieved many milestones during the past period, including the launch of freight train operations, the integration of the UAE’s National Rail Network with the future passenger station in Sharjah, and the development of passenger train services, all underscoring the company’s competitive edge in the sector.
The Etihad Rail updated logo design is inspired by the eye of the falcon, the train silhouette, and the railway track, which embodies a falcon’s agility and speed, its ability to precisely target its goal, and its determination to reach its destination. The logo also reflects the elegant aesthetic that sets Etihad Rail apart, showcasing how it achieves its goals deliberately as well as its long-term, ambitious vision for the future.
The new brand identity is encapsulated by the revamped slogan “We Move Together.” This slogan affirms the company’s commitment to strengthening connectivity between communities across various cities and regions through the railway network, linking people and industries and fostering a better future. Furthermore, the four main values on which the revamped corporate identity is built are: Committed, Considerate, Creative, Connected.
The new brand of Etihad Rail cascades to its subsidiaries, Etihad Rail Freight, Etihad Rail Infrastructure, and Etihad Rail Mobility, underscoring the company’s unwavering commitment to enhancing logistics services, freight transportation, and passenger travel by rail.
Strategic Partnership: Qatar’s Milaha has signed a ten-year contract worth approximately QAR 792 million ($217.5 million) with the North Oil Company (NOC) for the Milaha Al Shaheen, marking a significant advancement in the country’s offshore infrastructure.
The Milaha Al Shaheen is Qatar’s first self-elevating, self-propelled jackup barge, featuring four legs with a leg length of 104 meters. Equipped with a 300-tonne crane and accommodations for up to 304 personnel, this barge is designed to support various offshore operations while adhering to the highest environmental sustainability standards.
Fahad Saad Al-Qahtani, Group CEO of Milaha, expressed pride in this achievement: “We are honoured to introduce the Milaha Al Shaheen as the first Qatari-flagged jackup barge under a long-term agreement with NOC. This also supports the Qatar National Vision 2030 by enhancing local expertise and resources.”
In addition to the barge contract, Milaha is investing in logistics infrastructure with the first phase of the Milaha Logistics City, a 400,000 sq m project that includes a 35,000 sq m cold chain facility aimed at serving the food industry, pharmaceuticals, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).
Abdulrahman Essa Al-Mannai, President and CEO of Milaha, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “Milaha Logistics City is a significant investment in Qatar’s supply chain infrastructure and, in particular, cold chain capabilities. We expect it to be a key enabler for logistics growth in Qatar, providing our clients with more sophisticated options to access the local market.”
The facility’s strategic location on the orbital road offers excellent access to the airport and seaport, further enhancing its logistical advantages.
ADNOC Logistics and Services plc (ADNOC L&S / the Company) (ADX symbol ADNOCLS / ISIN AEE01268A239), a global energy maritime logistics company, today announced that AW Shipping, its joint venture with Wanhua Chemical Group, has awarded contracts worth $250 million (AED918 million) to China’s Jiangnan Shipyard for two additional Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs).
The shipbuilding contracts were signed in Abu Dhabi on the sideline of an opening ceremony for Jiangnan Shipyard’s first office in the Middle East. Initial contracts for two vessels with the option for a further two were signed by the companies in China in July, 2024.
Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, Chairman of AW Shipping and CEO of ADNOC L&S, said: “These contracts demonstrate AW Shipping and ADNOC L&S’s commitment to meeting future demand for lower-carbon energy sources such as ammonia, which are increasingly vital in powering the energy transition. We are pleased to welcome Jiangnan Shipyard as they establish a new office in Abu Dhabi, strengthening our growing partnership and highlighting the robust industrial ties between the UAE and China.”
The VLACs each have a carrying capacity of 93,000 cubic meters of ammonia, making them among the largest ammonia carriers in the world. Scheduled to be delivered between 2027 and 2028, the vessels will be equipped with energy-efficient dual-fuel engines capable of operating on liquefied petroleum gas or conventional fuels.
Lin Ou, Chairman of Jiangnan Shipyard, said: “The signing of these two additional VLAC contracts further deepens the cooperation and friendship among ADNOC L&S, Wanhua Chemical and Jiangnan Shipyard, which is a concrete embodiment of the joint practice of decarbonizing industrial process by all parties, and injects new impetus into the future energy transition. CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard will take the Middle East Representative Office as a new starting point to strengthen cooperation with oil and gas companies, shipping companies and other related enterprises in Middle East countries, while paying attention to the market demands for energy transportation and marine equipment, and continuously innovating and improving across multiple fields. ”
Kou Guangwu, President & CEO of Wanhua Chemical Group, said: “We are pleased to sign the two additional VLAC contracts through AW Shipping during the opening ceremony of Jiangnan Shipyard’s Abu Dhabi office, which shows the solid commitment from Wanhua Chemical to support the energy transition for future sustainable growth. We value highly the strategic partnership with ADNOC L&S and Jiangnan Shipyard, and these new shipbuilding orders demonstrate our intention to take our relationship to another level.”
Avianca Cargo has announced plans to increase its cargo capacity to Miami by 20% by year-end, in anticipation of peak flower export seasons in 2025.
The Bogotá-based carrier, which currently operates 10 weekly cargo flights from Quito to Miami and Los Angeles, shared this update during Expoflor Ecuador 2024, where it reiterated its commitment to Ecuadorian floriculture.
“Ecuador is a key market for us,” said Diogo Elías, Senior Vice President of Avianca Cargo. “The increase in cargo capacity reflects our dedication to meeting the needs of the sector.”
The carrier highlighted its role as a crucial logistics partner for flower exporters, noting that 90% of Ecuador’s cargo exports are flowers bound for the US and Europe. This capacity expansion is timely as Ecuador has seen a 20% growth in cargo transport over the past four years. Avianca Cargo’s Miami infrastructure improvements have increased its handling capacity by 83%, allowing up to six simultaneous flights during peak seasons.
“We are committed to ensuring that flower producers and exporters have the logistics solutions they need to succeed, particularly during high-demand periods,” Elías added.
With a robust network that spans over 70 destinations globally and over 220 weekly cargo flights, Avianca Cargo has cemented its leadership in transporting fresh flowers and other perishables. The carrier operates five Airbus A330-200 freighters and utilizes over 1,400 passenger flights with belly capacity to meet demand.
In 2023, Avianca Cargo transported over 19,000 tons of flowers for Mother’s Day alone. This aligns with the carrier’s strategy to leverage its fleet, modernized infrastructure, and increased capacity to support the floriculture industry.
At Expoflor Ecuador 2024, Avianca Cargo emphasized its long-term commitment to providing quality services that allow Ecuadorian exporters to thrive. By enhancing infrastructure and streamlining operations, the airline continues to strengthen its position as a leader in Latin American logistics for perishable goods.
“Our participation in this event underscores our ongoing commitment to high-quality, efficient service for Ecuadorian exporters,” Avianca Cargo said in a statement.
Menzies Aviation, the leading service partner to the world’s airports and airlines, has announced a series of senior appointments in the Americas region, bolstering its leadership team.
Among the newly announced appointments, Oliver Ashton has been promoted to the position of Senior Vice President, Cargo Americas, while Chris Dohne steps into the Senior Vice President, Sales, Commercial & Business Development role. Arvin Nagules takes a step into a newly created role as Senior Vice President, Organizational Change, Americas, while Nigel Shuttleworth takes up the position of Senior Vice President, Ground Handling, North America and the Caribbean.
Newly appointed Senior Vice President, Cargo Americas, Oliver Ashton brings over two decades of experience in the aviation industry, including 15 years with Avianca, where he played a key role in the airline’s integration process following its mergers in Colombia and Ecuador. He joined Menzies as a consultant in 2021, serving as Commercial Director and Cargo Operations Director in the LATAM region.
Chris Dohne, who joined Menzies in 2012 as an intern, has held several positions at the company including Project Manager, Revenue Management Director, and VP Commercial. As Senior Vice President, Sales, Commercial & Business Development, Chris will play an instrumental role in overseeing Menzies’ exciting expansion plans across the Americas region.
Stepping into the newly created position of Senior Vice President, Organizational Change, Americas, Arvin Nagules will take responsibility for driving organisation transformation, advancing IT strategies, and enhancing employee engagement. Prior to joining Menzies Aviation in 2020, Arvin held a series of leadership positions at WestJet Airlines.
Finally, Nigel Shuttleworth becomes Senior Vice President, Ground Handling, North America & the Caribbean after almost three decades at Menzies Aviation. Having served in a variety of roles at Menzies, including Cargo Operations Manager and General Manager, Nigel will now focus on providing safe and consistent ground handling services to customers across the region.
John Redmond, EVP Americas, Menzies Aviation, said: “We are thrilled to announce Oliver, Chris, Arvin and Nigel in their new roles and congratulate them on these much-deserved promotions. This series of senior appointments underscores our ongoing commitment to providing world-class aviation services across the Americas and growing our presence in the region. With today’s announcement, we’re not just strengthening our leadership team but fortifying our foundation for ambitious growth ahead. Their expertise and vision will be pivotal as we embark on this exciting journey together.”
Fraport has announced Denis de Farias Duarte as the new head of cargo development at Frankfurt Airport, succeeding Max Conrady.
He will assume the role on January 1, overseeing the further expansion of cargo operations at one of Europe’s largest airfreight hubs.
“Denis is a proven cargo professional with a track record of more than 25 years of international experience in the airfreight and logistics industry,” said Simone Schwab, Fraport’s Senior Vice President of Aviation and Cargo Development.
Mr. de Farias Duarte, who currently heads global airfreight business process management at Hellmann Worldwide, brings a wealth of experience from previous roles with Lufthansa Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, and Frankfurt Cargo Services (FCS). His expertise will be vital as Fraport seeks to enhance efficiency and expand its cargo infrastructure.
The appointment aligns with Fraport’s cargo masterplan, which includes investments in digitalisation, the redesign of CargoCity South, and the development of a new LogisticsHub West. With cargo volumes projected to reach 3 million tonnes annually by 2040, these initiatives aim to bolster Frankfurt Airport’s capacity and streamline operations.
“I am excited to join the Fraport team and contribute to the airport’s ambitious cargo development plans,” said de Farias Duarte.
Max Conrady, who has led Fraport’s cargo development for six years, will now manage a regional urban rail link in the Rhine-Main area for Regionaltangente West Planning. His tenure at Fraport included nearly two decades of service, during which he played a significant role in the airport’s cargo operations.
The transition marks a strategic step forward for Fraport as it adapts to evolving market demands and positions itself for sustained growth in air cargo.
Logimotion’s conference programme will include SCALEX, the Global Trade and Infrastructure Summit (GTIS) and the TransMobility Forum (TMF)
The conferences will showcase global industry experts and delve into shifts in global trade, groundbreaking technologies and major trends in logistics and mobility
Logimotion will coincide with Automechanika and will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 10-11 December
Dubai, UAE: Logimotion, a new exhibition for the international logistics and mobility sectors, will host three pivotal conferences featuring industry leaders worldwide. The event will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 10-11 December and will coincide with Automechanika Dubai.
Logimotion will showcase technologies and solutions within mobility and logistics while fostering industry insights through engaging conference sessions at SCALEX, the Global Trade and Infrastructure Summit and the TransMobility Forum.
The inaugural SCALEX conference is themed “Charting the Course of Global Excellence” and will explore supply chain innovations, including robotics, blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), next-generation automation, and cybersecurity.
The global symposium offers a deep dive into enhancing efficiency, security, and talent management within the supply chain ecosystem, providing strategic insights and actionable solutions.
The extensive lineup of speakers at SCALEX includes Ahmed Halal, Senior Procurement Office, Prime Minister’s Office; Guillaume Crozier, Senior Vice President Cargo UAE & Head, Global Cargo Strategy, Dnata; and Michael Stockdale Group Head of Supply Chain and Logistics, Red Sea Global among several other international thought leaders.
The Global Trade and Infrastructure Summit (GTIS) will explore “Fostering Connectivity, Propelling Growth”, where attendees will gain insights into trade agreements, sustainable trade practices and the transformative role of technology in shaping global infrastructure. The conference will provide invaluable perspectives on overcoming the challenges faced by emerging markets and navigating geopolitical shifts.
The opening keynote address for GTIS will focus on “The UAE’s vision for sustainable and smart infrastructure”, with other sessions including “Leveraging artificial intelligent and machine learning for enhanced trade efficiency” and “Building resilient supply chains through sustainable practices”.
At GTIS, Stefan Schröder, Managing Director, LNC Logistics Network Consultants GmbH in Germany, a respected thought leader in logistics, will moderate a panel discussion on “Innovative urban trade and logistics solutions: overcoming challenges in congestion, delivery, and sustainability.”
Commenting ahead of the show, Schröder said: “The logistics industry faces significant challenges, including global and regional crises, rapid market changes, labour shortages and climate protection requirements. The industry is addressing these challenges by adopting 4-D Solutions: Digitalisation, Decentralisation, Disruption and Decarbonisation, with a strong emphasis on resilient supply chains and success factors such as being green, lean and smart.”
Rounding out the event’s conference offering, the Transmobility Forum (TMF) will explore the theme “Navigating the Intersection of Innovation and Mobility” and will address critical topics such as autonomous vehicles, smart city integration, electric vehicle ecosystems and charting the path for sustainable, efficient and future-ready mobility solutions.
Distinguished speakers for TMF include Ammar Alanazi, Director of Big Data Analytics, General Authority For Statistics (Saudi Arabia); Jonathan Spear, Transport Policy and Strategy Advisor, Act One; and Sheeba Hasnain, Chairwoman & CIO SENTIENTE.
“In the dynamic hub of Dubai, Logimotion stands as a pioneering event, uniting global leaders in the mobility and logistics sectors,” said Dishan Isaac, Exhibition Director, Logimotion. He added: “Logimotion offers an unparalleled opportunity for professionals to acquire valuable knowledge and connect with prominent figures in the field.”
Logimotion, will encompass three main product areas: Warehousing Solutions & Equipment, Freight, Cargo & Material Handling and Transportation & Mobility. The exhibition and conferences will be held at Za’abeel Hall 6 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Manufacturers now expect logistics suppliers to further integrate with their operating systems DANX Carousel Chief Information Officer, Mohan Palaniandy, has told delegates at a recent supply chain transparency conference.
Palaniandy went on to list the benefits of AI and data, as improved efficiencies throughout the supply chain, brought through complete inventory oversight and final mile route optimisation, are now overcoming traditional barriers to data sharing.
“DANX Carousel will continue to enhance its time critical capabilities while reducing waste in the supply chain at every possible step in its operations – full digital transparency between stakeholders delivers both,” said Palaniandy.
“DANX Carousel is committed to improving transparency in the supply chain and recommend businesses conduct internal training, review service level agreements and key performance indicators, and invest in technological advancements in the final mile, aiming for full integration with logistics suppliers.”
Palaniandy’s comments follow the publication of a research paper by DANX Carousel which formed the basis of a conference in Birmingham recently, bringing together industry experts to address transparency challenges in the supply chain.
During the conference, speakers, including Andrew Lowery, UK Managing Director, Carousel Logistics, noted how supply chain managers are increasingly arguing the case for seamless integration as the uninterrupted flow of data prompts manufacturers’ replenishment workflow.
“The logistics industry is undergoing a digital revolution,” said Klaus Rud Sejling, Chief Executive Officer, DANX Carousel.
“AI, machine learning, and data are transforming supply chains, improving their transparency, efficiency, and profitability in turn.
“For time-critical logistics, increased data transparency across the supply chain must be the goal and we should now work across industries to break down data silos and embrace new technologies.”
The conference, held in Birmingham, was part of a series of events taking place across Sweden, Germany, and the UK exploring the benefits of a more transparent supply chain and best practice for companies.
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