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Ellerman City Liners expands fleet with sustainable new container ships

Nov 13, 2024 | , , ,

Group member, Ellerman City Liners, a historic and customer-focused shipping line, is enhancing its container vessel fleet with two newly chartered 1,400 TEU ships, designed to meet current and future environmental regulations.

These new-build additions mark a significant step forward in Ellerman’s commitment to providing sustainable and efficient container shipping services, and will bolster the company’s capabilities on key routes across Europe and the United States.

Enhanced service with sustainability in focus
The new vessels, equipped with impressive 45’ intake, offer increased cargo handling efficiency, supporting Ellerman’s objective to deliver reliable shipping solutions with a reduced carbon footprint. Reflecting Ellerman’s proactive approach to sustainability, these vessels not only meet existing environmental standards but are also designed to comply with future regulations, positioning Ellerman at the forefront of eco-friendly shipping.

As part of a joint service with CMA CGM, the first vessel, will connect ports in Northern Europe, including Tilbury and Rotterdam, with destinations in Iberia, such as Cadiz, Setubal, Leixoes, and Ferrol, through weekly sailings. The second vessel, the Elbbridge, will join Ellerman’s United States Express Service (USX), linking the UK and continental Europe with the US East Coast.

Modernising a historic brand
Originally founded by John Reeves Ellerman in 1892, Ellerman City Liners was one of the most recognised names in British Merchant Navy history. With its relaunch in 2021, the company remains committed to its roots while adapting to the modern needs of global logistics.

The addition of these advanced vessels underscores Ellerman’s dedication to sustainable practices, supporting the evolving requirements of the industry and reinforcing its position as a trusted name in ocean freight.

Shared commitment to the environment
Ellerman’s focus on sustainability mirrors Metro’s long-standing commitment to reducing environmental impact. Certified carbon neutral for three years, Metro actively supports the West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge and the goal to achieve a net zero carbon economy by 2041.

Through proactive carbon reduction initiatives, offsetting projects, and ISO 14001 accreditation, Metro empowers customers to make positive environmental changes. 

Using tools such as the MVT Eco module, Metro enables customers to measure, monitor, and offset emissions for every shipment. This free tool, which aligns with Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) standards, simplifies Scope 3 reporting and helps clients work towards carbon neutrality in their supply chains.

To request a demo or discuss your sustainability goals, please EMAIL Ian Powell. Together, we can take meaningful steps toward a greener future.

To learn more about our Ellerman solutions, please EMAIL Chief Commercial Officer, Andy Smith.

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Leading Innovation in Logistics and Customer Service

Oct 30, 2024 | ,

Last week’s announcement of BIFA’s freight service award finalists underscores Metro’s dedication to innovation, efficiency, and customer-centred solutions. This year, Metro has been recognised with four award short-listings from two prestigious industry bodies: the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and Logistics UK.

At BIFA’s 2024 Freight Service Awards, Metro is a finalist in both the Air Cargo Services and Specialist Services categories. Metro’s accomplishments have also been acknowledged by Logistics UK, where it is shortlisted for both Air Business and International Logistics Business of the Year. This recognition from industry peers not only highlights Metro’s expertise but also reinforces the value these achievements bring to its customers.

Streamlining Air Cargo and Customs Operations for Greater Efficiency
Metro’s shortlisted entry in BIFA’s Air Cargo Services category stems from its work revolutionising the handling of perishable goods at Birmingham Airport. In partnership with a UK-based fresh produce importer, Metro devised a supply chain solution that addressed environmental, timing, and cost challenges.

Metro innovated a handling process that made direct imports of perishable goods into Birmingham viable, in a move that has not only helped the importer meet its sustainability goals but also provided a faster, more efficient solution for bringing fresh produce to market.

For its Specialist Services entry, Metro focused on the development of its AI-driven customs clearance solution, CuDoS (Customs Documentation Solution). In the wake of Brexit, the complexity of customs processes escalated, with a substantial increase in documentation requirements leading to delays and higher operational costs. CuDoS was designed to alleviate these issues by digitising and automating customs workflows, using AI and machine learning to process large volumes of documents with over 99% accuracy. 

Demonstrating Metro’s Customer Focus
Metro’s achievements are further validated by its shortlist nominations in the prestigious Logistics UK Awards. Competing for Air Business and International Logistics Business of the Year, Metro’s work in the perishable and automotive supply chains was recognised for its impact on service standards, sustainability, and supply chain effectiveness. Logistics UK, representing a broad range of industries, awards companies that demonstrate excellence in meeting the unique needs of clients while pushing the boundaries of logistics.

These awards represent a commitment to delivering value, flexibility, and reliability to customers. As Grant Liddell, Metro’s managing director, explains, “This recognition reflects the dedication of our teams to pushing the boundaries of service quality and innovation. For our customers, these achievements translate to more efficient, tailored, and sustainable solutions that directly support their business goals.”

Metro’s dedication to improving logistics solutions, advancing technology, and upholding customer needs lies at the heart of these awards. With its expertise in managing complex supply chains and streamlining operations, Metro remains a trusted partner, providing flexible solutions that adapt to changing market demands. As Metro continues to pioneer in logistics, customers can expect industry-leading service, bolstered by a company recognised for its excellence.

If you would like to learn more about the solutions highlighted here, please EMAIL Andrew Smith, Metro’s Chief Commercial Officer. 

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Strengthening Global Network to Address Supply Chain Challenges

Oct 30, 2024 | , , , , , , , ,

Metro’s strategic partner network is central to delivering market-leading logistics services, especially as global supply chains face ongoing challenges. With the appointment of Peter Orange as head of global network development, Metro is deepening its commitment to building robust partnerships worldwide, enhancing collaboration, and strengthening its network’s resilience to meet customer needs.

Highlighting the significance of Metro’s partner network, managing director Grant Liddell and chief commercial officer Andy Smith recently completed a ten-day trip across Asia. During the visit, they met with key partners, carriers, and customers to strengthen relationships and gain valuable insights into regional market dynamics.

This focus on building connections comes at a time when supply chains are under persistent pressure, making agile, strategic partnerships essential to delivering reliable service.

Peter Orange’s new role: Deepening global partnerships
With over three decades of experience spanning airlines and logistics firms across diverse regions—including Australia, Singapore, UAE, and the UK—Peter Orange brings a global perspective to his role as head of global network development. His mandate is clear: to enhance Metro’s engagement with existing partners and explore potential new alliances, particularly those that bring specialised expertise in verticals like automotive and high-tech.

Peter’s appointment reflects Metro’s commitment to fostering like-minded partnerships that prioritise value, service reliability, compliance, and transparent communication. As part of this role, Peter is reviewing existing partner relationships, assessing shared business strategies, and aligning efforts across transport modes—whether air, ocean, or combinations—to ensure Metro’s global partnerships are primed to adapt to dynamic market demands. He is also leading a continuous evaluation process with core partners, holding regular reviews to assess market opportunities and align on growth objectives.

Building on this foundation, Metro plans to expand Peter’s team with route development managers who will focus on key regions, including Asia Pacific and EMEA, alongside the current emphasis on North America. This team will work closely with Metro’s partners to drive sales, share market intelligence, and set clear growth targets, reinforcing Metro’s strategy of data-informed and relationship-driven expansion.

Insights from Metro’s Asia trip
In September, Grant Liddell and Andy Smith travelled to Singapore, Shanghai, and Hong Kong to meet with Metro’s Asian partners, customers, and major carriers. The trip provided valuable insights into the region’s logistics landscape, particularly with regard to the effects of eCommerce growth on airfreight demand and the impact of ocean capacity adjustments driven by regional geopolitical issues.

A notable takeaway from their discussions was the continued strength of eCommerce in driving airfreight demand, particularly on routes from Asia to Europe and North America. This trend is keeping rates elevated and creating heightened capacity needs. In ocean freight, major trade routes are seeing increased rates due to strong demand and capacity constraints, with factors like the Red Sea diversions further tightening supply. The expectation is that these pressures will persist into Q4, reinforcing the need for strong partnerships and agile strategies.

Metro’s commitment to building a resilient partner network ensures that customers benefit from agile, robust global supply chains, capable of adapting to shifts in demand and overcoming potential disruptions.

With Peter Orange leading this effort, alongside Metro’s strengthened ties in Asia, we’re dedicated to adding value and positioning our customers for success in today’s dynamic logistics landscape.

To explore how Metro’s partnerships can support your business needs, please EMAIL Peter Orange for more information.

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Enhanced groupage services to France and Germany

Oct 2, 2024 | , , , , , , , ,

In our continued efforts to provide exceptional trans-European logistics solutions, we have recently upgraded our groupage services to France and Germany, offering greater speed and efficiency, alongside competitive rates and our top-tier customer care.

Our French groupage services continue to excel, offering regular, efficient departures and seamless distribution throughout the country. In addition, we have expanded our reach in Germany, a vital hub for European trade. With frequent departures, including into the Ruhr area, one of Germany’s most important industrial regions, we ensure that goods are swiftly distributed across the country thanks to our trusted network of partners.

In today’s fast-paced and ultra-competitive markets, it’s not just about speed and cost—it’s about communication, reliability, and trust. By carefully selecting carrier and network partners in France and Germany, who share our customer-first mindset, we ensure that our clients benefit from smooth communication, timely updates, and a full door-to-door (DDP) solution. Our goal is to make European shipping as hassle-free as possible, providing a service that values our customers’ time and business.

However, businesses shipping to and from Germany should be aware of some potential changes that may impact the logistics landscape. Recently, Germany has enforced stricter border controls aimed at curbing migrant activity. While the long-term effects on freight traffic remain unclear, it is a development that could impact trucks entering and leaving the country.

Additionally, as of November 2024, UK passport holders will be required to register their biometric details, such as fingerprints or a photo, when entering the Schengen area, which could cause some delays for trucks crossing from the UK into the EU.

Despite these challenges, our French and German groupage services remain reliable and dependable, ensuring that goods are delivered efficiently while providing the highest level of customer care.

Metro’s road transport solutions incorporate dedicated vehicles moving on set routes for security, with defined delivery deadlines and GPS tracked trucks, to provide full transparency on transit schedules throughout the UK and continental Europe.

Our road freight teams are located close by major manufacturing and transport hubs across the UK. To explore the potential of our German and other European services EMAIL Richard Gibbs to begin a conversation.

Category: Metro

Intermodal | Metro | Road | Short sea

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