Messe München, organizer of the globally popular transport logistic trade fairs, has acquired the renowned Air Cargo Americas Conference & Exhibition from the World Trade Center Miami, marking a significant expansion of its logistics portfolio.
While Messe München is taking over the trade fair, the World Trade Center Miami will remain on board as a strategic partner for a further three editions and will also support the Munich team in operational matters. This will ensure the best possible synergies for the benefit of customers. This strategic acquisition strengthens the collaboration between two major forces in the trade show industry, paving the way for a comprehensive logistics platform that covers all modes of transport.
Since 1991, Air Cargo Americas has been a staple in Miami, firmly rooted in the Americas, and highly valued by the local logistics community. As one of the leading air freight exhibitions globally, it has long provided a platform for industry professionals to engage and innovate. As per Messe München CEOs Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer and Stefan Rummel: “We are delighted that Air Cargo Americas is joining our portfolio of trade fairs. For Messe München, this is an important step towards further expanding our activities in North and Latin America and tapping into one of the most attractive markets in the logistics industry. Air Cargo Americas is the ideal complement to transport logistic Americas, which we organized for the first time in Miami in 2022 and which was a great success thanks to the overwhelming response.”
The first co-located event will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center from November 11-13, 2025. This marks a significant milestone, as the World Trade Center Miami had originally planned to move Air Cargo Americas to this iconic venue, and now, with Messe München on board, the enhanced concept will be realized. This combined trade show promises to deliver unparalleled insights and networking opportunities, solidifying its place as the premier logistics event in the Americas. A free to attend conference will delve into every critical aspect of the logistics industry, curated with the expertise of leading publishers and associations, ensuring a top-tier agenda that meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. Both organizers are expecting over 6,000 participants and 350 exhibitors for the 2025 trade fair.
A Unified Platform for All Transport Modes
The unification of Air Cargo Americas with transport logistic Americas reflects the growing demand for a logistics event that spans all modes of transportation, including air, sea, road, and rail. As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the importance of a multimodal approach cannot be overstated. The combined event will offer exhibitors and attendees a unique opportunity to explore synergies between different transport modes, fostering innovation and efficiency across the supply chain.
“The collaboration between Messe München and World Trade Center Miami brings together the best of both worlds—global reach and regional expertise—creating a platform where the future of supply chain can truly be shaped,” said Joe Mozzali, CEO of Amerijet International Airlines. “As a leading Miami-based cargo airline, Amerijet looks forward to a new and expanded Air Cargo Americas & transport logistics Americas event that will convene the air cargo and logistics industries in our community.”
“DHL has been a dedicated and long-time participant of the air cargo Americas Show since its origins and particularly since 2001” said Xavier Cerruto, Director Business Development & ACS Strategy, and Carmen Goehrig, Business Support & Quality Manager. “DHL commends the move toward the strong logistics component that will form part of future editions of Air Cargo Americas & transport logistic Americas. These new synergies are certain to attract all transport modes deemed essential by industry leaders.”
A Strategic Location
Miami’s strategic location makes it an ideal host for this expanded logistics platform. As a gateway to Latin America and a major hub for international trade, Miami provides unparalleled access to key markets across the Americas. The World Trade Center Miami’s deep-rooted connections within Florida and Latin America ensure that the event will attract a diverse range of participants, while Messe München’s global network guarantees a strong international presence.
“We are thrilled to be part of an event that not only brings together all aspects of logistics but also leverages Miami’s unique position as a hub for global trade,” said Ralph Cutié, Director & CEO of Miami International Airport, the Western Hemisphere’s busiest international freight airport. “This new partnership between Messe München and the World Trade Center Miami will foster greater collaboration and innovation in the air cargo and logistics industries, benefitting businesses and consumers alike.”
According to Lorena Sandoval, Director of Cargo Sales at American Airlines Cargo, “Air Cargo Americas has played an important role in our cargo growth strategies over the years. American Airlines is a top-tier cargo carrier in Miami, and the news of this show’s expansion to include logistics and supply chain components will secure Miami’s future as a nexus for global trade and logistics.”
A Partnership Forged for Success
The partnership between World Trade Center Miami and Messe München is built on a shared vision of creating a world-class logistics event. Messe München’s expertise in organizing international trade fairs, combined with World Trade Center Miami’s deep understanding of the local market, ensures that this event will meet the highest standards of quality and relevance.
“The cooperation between the World Trade Center Miami and Messe München marks a milestone for the logistics industry,” said Ivan Barrios, President & CEO of the World Trade Center Miami, and Dr. Robert Schönberger, Global Industry Lead at Messe München. “We are both excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring for the future. The multimodal approach is exactly what the industry needs to address the challenges of today and tomorrow, and this event will be the ideal platform to showcase the latest innovations and solutions.”
Looking Ahead
As the logistics industry faces increasing challenges and opportunities, the combined air cargo Americas & transport logistic Americas event is set to become the must-attend event for industry professionals. By bringing together key players from across all modes of transport, this event will foster collaboration, drive innovation, and shape the future of supply chain.
For more information visit www.tl-americas.org
transport logistic exhibitions
The international network of transport logistic exhibitions spans events across four continents. Alternating with the world’s leading trade fair transport logistic in Munich, transport logistic China takes place every two years in Shanghai. In Turkey, Messe München and EKO Fair Limited organize the logitrans International Transport Logistics Exhibition annually in Istanbul. In the USA, Messe München organizes transport logistic Americas, which runs alongside air cargo Americas in collaboration with the World Trade Center Miami. Since November 2023, transport logistic Southeast Asia has also been held biennially in Singapore.
The air cargo sector plays a crucial role at all trade fairs. At transport logistic in Munich, air cargo Europe is the world’s largest gathering of air cargo professionals. Meanwhile, air cargo China and air cargo Southeast are integral parts of the corresponding transport logistic events in Asia. Additionally, air cargo India and air cargo Africa are independent trade fairs. Starting in 2025, both will be expanded to incorporate a multimodal approach and evolve into the transport logistic India and transport logistic Africa exhibitions.
Messe München
As one of the world’s leading trade fair organizers, Messe München presents the world of tomorrow at its around 90 international trade fairs. These include twelve of the world’s leading trade fairs such as bauma, BAU, IFAT, and electronica. Its portfolio comprises trade fairs for capital and consumer goods, as well as for new technologies. Together with its subsidiaries, it organizes trade fairs in China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the U.S. With a network of over 15 associated companies and almost 70 offices worldwide, Messe München is active in more than 130 countries. The more than 150 events held annually attract around 50,000 exhibitors and around three million visitors in Germany and abroad.
World Trade Center Miami
The World Trade Center Miami, founded in 1971, is a non-profit organization and member of the preeminent global trade organization, the World Trade Centers Association, with over 300 World Trade Centers located in more than 90 countries around the world. The WTCM promotes and enhances trade and commerce by creating and expanding business opportunities through a diverse portfolio of global trade shows, other events and forums which generates international sales, boosts exports, and fosters the ideal environment for international investment.
SEKO Logistics announced it has entered into a definitive agreement with its financial partners to recapitalize and reinforce its financial foundation.
The move is expected to enhance SEKO’s ability to invest in its team, network, client solutions, and technology, positioning the company to maintain its leadership in logistics.
The agreement, supported by SEKO’s lenders and equity sponsors, will result in a strengthened financial position, allowing the company to continue expanding its global footprint and service offerings.
The transaction is expected to close in the coming weeks, with the existing leadership team remaining in place.
Proactive Response to Freight Recession
James Gagne, SEKO’s CEO, highlighted the impact of the ongoing freight recession, stating, “By proactively addressing our balance sheet, we will be better equipped to navigate these challenges and provide exceptional value to our clients.”
With new investment, SEKO plans to build on its momentum, capitalize on emerging opportunities, and expand its global reach as the industry recovers. The company’s lenders, including Barings, Blackstone Credit, Churchill Asset Management, and Manulife Investment Management, continue to support SEKO’s strategy.
2021 Recapitalization
In 2021, Ridgemont Equity Partners became SEKO’s majority shareholder through a recapitalization, with Greenbriar Equity Group retaining a significant equity stake. Financing for the deal was provided by the same key lenders involved in the current recapitalization.
Despite the challenges posed by the freight market downturn, SEKO emphasizes that it has not defaulted on debt repayments and remains confident in its long-term strategic direction.
British cargo airline, One Air, has entered its second year of flight operations by adding a third Boeing 747 freighter to its fleet to meet strong demand for cargo capacity in Asia and Europe.
The Boeing 747-400ERF has joined One Air on a five-year lease from AeroTransCargo FZE and completed its first flight for the airline today from Hong Kong to East Midlands Airport.
An original Boeing-built freighter, it is the first aircraft in One Air’s fleet to offer a nose door as well as a side door for loading and unloading. The -400ERF version also offers a higher payload capacity of up to 124,000kgs.
One Air commenced B747F flights in July 2023 after receiving its AOC certification from the UK Civil Aviation Authority and added a second 747-400 aircraft to its fleet in December to support its growing flying programme between China/Hong Kong and Europe.
The airline’s first 12 months of charter operations included flights from airports across the UK, including London Heathrow, London Stansted, East Midlands Airport, Birmingham, Doncaster/Sheffield, Glasgow Prestwick, and Cardiff. Supporting its growing client base of freight forwarders, logistics providers, and charter brokers, One Air’s 747s have also served points in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, notably Almaty, Amsterdam, Astana, Châteauroux, Hahn, Hong Kong, Jinan, Larnaca, Maastricht-Aachen, Muscat, Shannon, and Singapore.
Most recently, as well as ad hoc charter flights, One Air has been operating a contract for seven 747F flights a week ex Hong Kong into Europe carrying general cargo.
This strong demand also reflects the successful commercial activities of Air One Aviation, the airline’s launch global sales agency.
Paul Bennett, One Air’s Chairman & CEO, said: “Our business case was always based on the high demand we saw for a British cargo airline, and this is being borne out by the volume of flights we are operating. The arrival of our third 747-400 and its increased capacity and capability will enable us to provide more availability to our growing client base. We are also pressing ahead with our future fleet plans and expect to add at least one more freighter in the first half of 2025 based on our current growth plan.”
In support of its third aircraft, One Air has recruited a further 27 flight crew and support staff, taking the total workforce at its UK headquarters to over 125 aviation and cargo professionals.
Earlier this year, One Air announced it was starting regular flights using East Midlands Airport (EMA) for UK flight operations. With its favourable slot availability and fewer restrictions for all-cargo aircraft, the central UK airport is now the destination point for One Air’s weekly flights from Hong Kong.
Kale Logistics Solutions (Kale) has announced the appointment of Tribhuwan Negi as Chief Technology Officer (CTO). With nearly 25 years of experience in building large-scale SaaS platforms and leading global R&D organizations, Negi brings a wealth of expertise to Kale at a time of significant growth and innovation.
Tribhuwan’s arrival comes as Kale unveil further advancements to their UN recognised Airport Cargo Community System and Port Community System. One of his first key initiatives will be overseeing the development of intelligent AI-driven applications that further enhance Kale’s solutions in the logistics and supply chain sectors.
“Logistics and supply chain technology is seeing rapid technological advancement and Kale stands at the forefront of this transformation opportunity by leveraging cutting-edge solutions to enable global trade and commerce,” said Negi, CTO, Kale Logistics Solutions.
“The journey so far has been exhilarating, with new challenges, experiences, and incredible achievements; I have found the company culture, leadership, vision and direction motivational, and I look forward to our future successes.”
Tribhuwan’s appointment is part of a broader leadership expansion at Kale, which has seen the addition of a new global Chief Financial Officer, Chief Innovation Officer, and Chief of Human Resources over the summer.
This strengthening of the leadership team positions Kale for continued success in the second half of the year.
“We believe that at Kale, we are driving the digital transformation of the logistics industry,” said Rajesh Panicker, Co-Founder and COO of Kale Logistics Solutions.
“With Tribhuwan’s deep expertise, we are confident that he will accelerate our growth and further enhance our ability to deliver innovative technological solutions that revolutionize the global supply chain.”
Kerry Logistics UK has appointed Colin Eeles as its new Business Development Director, to further expand its UK customer base across verticals.
Eeles brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role having successfully managed sales and business development activities in the freight and logistics environment for more than 25 years, driving growth and delivering solutions to companies spanning multiple industries and verticals.
“I have long admired Kerry Logistics, both its customer-first policy and its collaborative team that have developed a reputation for providing exceptional solutions to the challenging UK market,” said Colin Eeles, Business Development Director, Kerry Logistics UK.
“I am looking forward to bringing my expertise to this role and continue to develop diversified and customised solutions to boost our offering for UK businesses.”
“We are delighted that Colin has joined the business. Colin’s experience and expertise will allow us to continue to expand our customer base and he will also spearhead our plans to significantly extend our coverage and diversify our range of solutions throughout the UK,” said Dave Gaughan, Managing Director, Kerry Logistics UK.
time:matters, the expert in time-critical transportation and supply chain solutions, has announced a global partnership with cargo.one to leverage the market-leading air freight procurement platform.
time:matters will now use cargo.one to digitally discover, quote and book capacity from over 60 airlines on a 24/7 basis. This enhances its ability to deliver fast, accurate and customer-focused logistics solutions.
With more than 20 years of experience in sectors such as automotive, aviation and aerospace, high-tech and semiconductors, life sciences, medical technology and industrial machinery, time:matters guarantees fast, reliable and efficient global transportation services by air, rail and road. Specializing in high-performance, customized and time-critical logistics solutions, time:matters operates around the clock with a network of more than 500 partners worldwide.
cargo.one’s unique digital platform is a significant addition to time:matters’ innovative customer-centric approach. time:matters’ teams now have instant digital access to the widest range of global supply options, enriching their services. cargo.one’s unmatched supply quality further enhances the certainty and bookability of time:matters’ offers. time:matters’ customers also benefit from cargo.one’s innovative rate setting and rate management tools, ensuring that all shipment offers are accurately aligned with prevailing market rates.
Lars Krosch, Chief Operating Officer at time:matters, comments: “By further digitalizing our buying rate process and leveraging more agile quotation and booking capabilities with cargo.one, we are taking another significant step towards enhancing our customer experience. This partnership is in line with our long-term strategy to strengthen our competitiveness, improve the efficiency of our teams and deliver continuously more value to our customers.”
Simson Demmer, VP Partnerships at cargo.one, adds: “Our collaboration with time:matters highlights the importance of digital air freight procurement for time-critical logistics. With cargo.one’s cutting-edge technology, time:matters will achieve new benchmarks in operational efficiency, customer value and overall competitive performance.”
By using cargo.one’s digital quotation tools time:matters can reduce time to quote considerably.
In addition, cargo.one unlocks greater operational efficiencies for time:matters. The significant savings in team time allows the company to redeploy its logistics experts to focus on more complex, customer-facing tasks.
The platform will be implemented across time:matters’ offices in the US, Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Singapore and China.
Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a member of the SATS Group, has renewed contracts with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo across major airport gateways in North America.
The multi-year contract extensions will take WFS’ cargo partnership with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo in the U.S. market to over 20 years.
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo has renewed contracts to WFS at Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York JFK, and Washington Dulles airports, which includes freighter services in Miami.
These contracts solidify WFS’ strong partnership with Air France KLM in North America, which includes full passenger, ramp and cargo handling services in Austin, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Newark.
Jean-Noel Rault, Director Cargo North America at Air France KLM Martinair Cargo, commented: “We are thrilled to further enhance our partnership with Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), our Ground Handler Agent across various stations in the United States. With an additional collaboration on SAF (an alternative aviation fuel), we continue our mutual efforts to reduce our carbon footprint. We commend the WFS Group for their leadership in environmental responsibility, and we are excited to elevate our historic partnership. Together, we are proudly working towards a more eco-friendly future for the logistics and airfreight industry”.
“It is only possible to build an enduring and growing partnership with a leading global customer like Air France-KLM Cargo when you deliver consistent performance, strong collaboration, and a commitment to excellence in operational efficiency and innovation,” said Frank Clemente, Senior Vice President, Cargo for WFS in North America. “We understand their specific operational requirements and our strategic network spanning major gateways around the world provides Air-France-KLM Cargo with a reliable and efficient network and consistent, high-quality service delivery. Together, we have fostered a strong, cohesive relationship which brings mutual success and a forward-thinking approach for future growth.”
Silk Way West Airlines, the leading cargo airline in the Caspian and Central Asian region, proudly announces its role as the Global Air Cargo Partner for COP29, which will take place in Baku in November 2024.
This partnership emphasizes the airline’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change, while also being in keeping with Azerbaijan’s declaration of 2024 as the Year of Solidarity for a Green World.
The Year of Solidarity for a Green World has featured a number of endeavors in support of environmental protection and reflects the Azerbaijani nation’s commitment to sustainable development. Silk Way West Airlines stands in full support of these initiatives, reinforcing its alignment with the country’s vision for a greener future.
As the Global Air Cargo Partner, Silk Way West Airlines will ensure the efficient transportation of essential materials and supplies for COP29. This role highlights the airline’s contribution to achieving global environmental objectives.
COP29 is a unique platform for Silk Way West Airlines to collaborate with global leaders, innovators, and policymakers. As a company operating at the crossroads of global trade, Silk Way West Airlines recognizes the importance of reducing its environmental impact and advancing green logistics solutions. By joining COP29, the airline continues to further its vision of fostering a sustainable future for the aviation and logistics sectors, in line with its mission to connect East and West through its strategic hub in Baku.
Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group, commented, “We are honored to serve as the Global Air Cargo Partner for COP29. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Silk Way West Airlines, and this partnership affirms our dedication to reducing the environmental impact of air cargo. By participating in this landmark event, we aim to contribute to a greener future for the global logistics industry and support Azerbaijan’s environmental goals.”
A key pillar of Silk Way West Airlines’ sustainability strategy is its fleet renewal plan, which will see the introduction of eight state-of-the-art aircraft by 2030. This includes four Boeing 777F, two Boeing 777-8F, and two Airbus A350F, designed to significantly reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency.
About Silk Way West Airlines:
Founded in 2012 in Baku, at the heart of the Silk Road, Silk Way West Airlines operates hundreds of flights every month across the globe via its fleet of 12 dedicated Boeing 777F, 747-8F, and 747-400F aircraft based at Heydar Aliyev International Airport.
In line with its commitment to sustainability and efficiency, Silk Way West Airlines plans to renew its fleet with eight new state-of-the-art aircraft by 2030, including four Boeing 777F, two Boeing 777-8F, and two Airbus A350F, to better meet global logistics demands.
The airline offers comprehensive cargo services to over 40 global destinations across Europe, the CIS, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, managing an annual cargo turnover exceeding 500,000 tons.
About COP29:
Azerbaijan has been selected as the Presidency of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29), to be hosted in Baku this November.
The meeting comprises the twenty-nineth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 29), the nineteenth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 19), and the sixth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA 6).
To deliver a process that is transparent, impartial and inclusive, the COP29 Presidency has developed a plan based on two mutually reinforcing pillars to enhance ambition and enable action.
Conference dates
Monday, 11 November to Friday, 22 November 2024
Location
Baku Stadium, Baku, Azerbaijan
Air cargo spot rates from Bangladesh and Japan, along with a sharp rise in tonnages from Dubai, contributed to strong market performance in early September, according to the latest figures from WorldACD Market Data.
For the week of 9-15 September (Week 37), worldwide air cargo tonnages rose by 4% week on week (WoW), fueled by increases from Asia Pacific (+5%), Central & South America (+6%), and North America (+10%), following Labor Day.
Rates Continue to Climb, Led by Asia Pacific and MESA
Average worldwide air cargo rates edged up to $2.58 per kilo, with a 1% increase from Asia Pacific partially offset by a 2% drop from Middle East & South Asia (MESA). Despite the dip in MESA, year-on-year (YoY) rates from both regions have surged, with Asia Pacific up 24% and MESA 53% higher. Global rates are now 14% higher YoY and more than 50% above pre-pandemic levels in September 2019.
Bangladesh to USA Spot Rates Soar
Notably, spot rates from Bangladesh to the USA have skyrocketed, reaching $7.49 per kilo in Week 37—up 219% YoY. Rates from Bangladesh to Europe have also remained high, exceeding $5 per kilo in recent weeks, driven by ongoing political unrest and logistics disruptions in the region.
Dubai Tonnages to USA Surge by 50%
Dubai has seen a massive surge in air cargo tonnages to the USA, increasing by 50% in the last month and up 275% compared to last year. This is one of the most significant recent developments in the MESA region.
Spot Rates from Japan Reach Record Levels
Japan has also experienced a significant rise in air cargo spot rates to the USA, hitting $8.33 per kilo in Week 37, the highest level this year. This marks a 50% increase from mid-June, as recent typhoons have disrupted air services in the region.
Outlook for Q4
The increases in tonnages and rates are an early indicator of a strong fourth-quarter peak season, with ongoing high demand from MESA and Asia Pacific likely to sustain market momentum.
International Cargo Logistics Ltd (ICL), has opened a new office in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as a continuation of its global growth plan.
The Heathrow-headquartered forwarder, which this year celebrates its 20th anniversary, aims to develop its multimodal offering in the region, capitalising on Vietnam’s proximity to major shipping routes.
This announcement follows the opening of an office in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, in February of this year, with a total of 10 ICL offices now established across the globe.
“Our new office will be integral in driving operations in Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on supporting our clients in the e-commerce sector,” said Yoav Izhari, Chief Executive Officer, ICL.
“Vietnam’s position facilitates easy access to the South China Sea Route, a shipping route that is integral to our operations between Asia and Europe.”
The Vietnam office will allow ICL comprehensive oversight of its operations in the region, strategically situated near the Saigon Port network.
“This new office presents an exciting opportunity to strengthen our working relationships with existing clients, and to build new connections with players in the region,” added Izhari.
ICL operates in over 180 countries and has over 50,000 metres of logistics and storage facilities after doubling the size of cold storage facility at Heathrow in July of this year.
ICL will be participating in this year’s Fruit Attraction conference in Madrid, Spain, from the 8-10th October 2024.
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