Interviews
AL FVL Summer 2021 Digital Edition – Gearing up the supply chain for sustainable growth
The summer digital edition of Automotive Logistics and Finished Vehicle Logistics magazine is out now features interviews with Ford and VW, as well as an overview of activity at the North American vehicle handling ports
Dealing in low inventory: why dealers need maximum pipeline visibility
Brion Stapp explains how his Toyota dealership is adapting through Covid and supply chain disruption, and why vehicle logistics visibility will be so important to changing customer expectations and online sales strategies.
Delivering electric vehicles in America: charging ahead with a heavy load
EV sales are on the rise in the US, and with that new logistics considerations for vehicle weight, charging infrastructure and services. Experts from Lucid, Glovis and the American Trucking Association discuss how best to prepare.
Carbon reduction emerges as an important KPI for vehicle logistics
As OEMs like Volkswagen Group pursue ambitious emission reduction targets, vehicle logistics managers and logistics providers must balance lower emissions with other KPIs including lead time and cost.
Now is the time to invest in sustainable port infrastructure
Ports are the gateway to supply chain recovery and growth for the North American automotive industry, and officials from the US Maritime Administration, Kuehne + Nagel and the American Association of Port Authorities see opportunity to strong returns on investment in capacity, transport links and digitalisation.
OEMs accelerate use of existing digital tools to manage vehicle logistics disruption
Nissan vehicle logistics manager Ryan Purman explains how the OEM is changing paradigms for vehicle logistics in the US, and Inform’s Dan Gosson points to opportunities in telematics and artificial intelligence.
US used vehicle demand brings innovation and opportunity to vehicle logistics
Strong demand for used vehicles, low inventory and rising prices are putting more importance on innovative vehicle logistics and distribution, with remarketing and auction retailers looking to carriers for solutions. Experts from Manheim Logistics, Glovis and ACERTUS share insights on succeeding in a hot market.
Can North American vehicle logistics ports get past Industry 3.0?
There are growing capacity demands on ports but many OEMs, processors and logistics carriers depend on manual processes. Volkswagen’s Michael D’Angelo doesn’t think it needs to be that way.
Getting North American rail back on track for vehicle logistics
North American rail is critical to lead time and sustainability objectives for vehicle logistics, but the sector is in need of further investment for flexibility, electrification and network management.
US dealers are holding a winning hand – but must pivot in a fast-changing market
Patrick Manzi, chief economist at the National Automobile Dealers Association, predicts heady growth for vehicle retailers. But they will need support from OEMs and vehicle logistics experts to manage disruption and prepare for changes in the market.
How Renault and Horizon Auto Logistics made lead and cost savings in the Mexican logistics network
Alfredo Riquelme from Renault explains how the OEM worked with Horizon to join up data across vehicle distribution and helped improve performance and increase market share in Mexico.
The path to predictive analytics for vehicle logistics: Nissan’s data-driven transformation
Nissan’s Steve Jernigan, along with IT experts from Proact and ICL, explain best practice for developing truly data-driven vehicle logistics across North America and beyond.
Why just-in-time will remain the way forward for Toyota
Leon van der Merwe is leading inbound, outbound and service parts logistics for Toyota Motor Europe. At this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe Live conference he told Christopher Ludwig about the carmaker’s strategy to modernise just-in-time and make Toyota’s logistics more sustainable
Watch: The (r)evolution at Volkswagen Group’s logistics
Electrification, digital tools and sustainability goals are transforming Volkswagen Group Logistics processes across the carmaker’s global footprint. Matthias Braun outlines how the group is adapting its systems and relationships.
Watch: A permanent change in container shipping for automotive
Capacity, lead time and cost issues in container shipping have disrupted automotive shippers, and long-term structural changes in the sector will lead to new supplier relationships, according to Drewry.
Watch: Digital drivers for Europe’s finished vehicle logistics
OEMs and carriers are turning to more digital tools to optimise vehicle logistics networks, improve visibility and reduce empty miles, but the industry can still work together to fill in gaps.
Watch: How today’s chip shortage could help the automotive supply chain flourish in the long run
The semiconductor crisis has caused millions of units in lost production but is also pointing the way towards a more fruitful relationship between OEMs, tier-1 suppliers, foundries and chip producers globally, especially as more electronics are added to future vehicles.
Watch: European supply chain needs change in skills and culture to remain global automotive powerhouse
The European automotive industry has faced a year of crises, but if it invests in the right digital tools, adapts sustainable processes and an agile working culture, it can achieve long-term sustainability targets and recovery, according to experts from Volkswagen and CSR Europe.
Watch: Collaborate to decarbonise European automotive logistics
As European manufacturers set tight emission reduction targets in logistics, experts at Volvo Trucks, DFDS and CHEP reveal just how important collaboration will be for their sustainability roadmaps.
Watch: Spinning the wheel of supply chain innovation
Leaders from INEOS Automotive and GEFCO see AI and real-time visibility as game changes for logistics, but point out that innovation is not just about implementing new systems or digitalising processes, but also adapting working culture and working with the right partners.
Watch: Preparing for a 99.99% chance of supply chain disruption
Disruptions in the automotive supply chain are a near certainty but nonetheless near impossible to pinpoint. Supply chain experts from automotive supplier Hella, tracking provider Wakeo and emergency freight provider CNW discuss the best ways to minimise risk.
Watch: Transforming the European supply chain the Toyota way
Toyota Motor Europe’s VP of supply chain, Leon van der Merve, explains how the carmaker plans to reduce logistics emissions and how he wants to modernise just-in-time to be even leaner wherever possible.
Watch: Why sustainability will be a major KPI in logistics
Manufacturers including Scania and ZF are already starting to factor emissions reduction and sustainability goals into logistics decisions and purchasing, leaading to changes in transport and returnable packaging operations.
Watch: Partnerships the only path for real logistics change at Toyota and Volvo Cars
Volvo’s head of supply chain management Martin Corner and Hans Cremers, Toyota Motor Europe’s leader for logistics purchasing, want to achieve sustainability targets and support digital supply chains – and agree that long-term partners will be paramount
Watch: Dealing with continuous disruption in finished vehicle logistics
Christopher Godfrey of Volvo Cars and Ruud Vossebeld of INFORM discuss how the pandemic, remote working and digitalisation are changing vehicle logistics, requiring ever more focus on people.
Watch: Decarbonising airfreight – A case study in sustainable air freight
Marcel Fujike of Kuehne+Nagel and Gabriël Koetsier of Neste Components discuss practical steps to reduce CO2 from logistics networks including the innovative use of sustainable aviation fuel.
Watch: Building a viable and sustainable European battery supply base
The huge demand for lithium-ion batteries is requiring massive investments and new supply sources across Europe, and experts from BMW Group, EV battery startup Britishvolt and packaging supplier ORBIS Europe reveal the supply chain opportunities and changes ahead.
Watch: How automation and data analytics can elevate supply chain performance
Digital supply chain experts from CNH Industrial, IT and software specialist Blue Yonder and freight automation startup Einride discuss how digitalisation can boost reliability, control and end-to-end visibility in logistics.
Think Tank: Pack to the future
Experts from packaging suppliers DS Smith and ORBIS share new ideas, innovations and new opportunities in automotive packaging and container management that will play key roles in supply chain sustainability and eliminating cost in the European supply chain.
Think Tank: Future-proofing aftermarket and service parts logistics
As automotive service parts demand and requirements evolve, logistics experts from Jaguar Land Rover, Bosch, Kuehne+Nagel and the European parts association, CLEPA, look to the capacity, technology and network changes necessary to maintain service levels.
Think Tank: How Covid has accelerated digitalisation for finished vehicle logistics
More OEMs and logistics providers in Europe are adapting and investing in digital tools and services than ever before, according to technology experts at INFORM, Proact and Fracht
Supply chain’s radio star: Positive signals for real-time visibility
Cognosos’ Adrian Jennings talks about enhanced asset tracking, managing production surges and how automotive supply chains compare to rocket science
Shipping lines and OEMs invest to decarbonise shipping
Despite being a relatively efficient way to transport cars and parts, shipping still produces a lot of pollution. Positive steps being made to clean up the process with advances in fuels and technologies, even if a true solution remains elusive.
AL FVL Spring 2021 Digital Edition – Coping strategies for a global crisis
The spring digital edition of Automotive Logistics and Finished Vehicle Logistics is out now, featuring comprehensive overviews of the main vehicle ports in continental Europe and the UK, as well as the maritime transport sector. Plus, we look at the latest packaging initiative supporting VW’s lithium-ion battery deliveries to VW Zwickau, Vijay Ratnaparkhe’s IT revolution at Bosch and talk to carmakers about supply chain lessons ten years on from the Fukushima earthquake disaster
How Bosch is connecting its business for the AIoT era
Robert Bosch CIO Vijay Ratnaparkhe is continuing a revolution in the company’s corporate IT division as it takes a starring role in connecting Bosch operating units and products – expanding the possibility for data-driven services and AI across the business and supply chain.
Watch: Maintaining Mexico’s competitive edge in supply chain
OEMs in Mexico are facing logistics bottlenecks and expect more to come, which is why Nissan and providers like Jack Cooper are strengthening processes and digital tools in logistics to improve resiliency and flexibility.
Watch: North America automotive suppliers must keep up with USMCA and changing trade policy
Policy experts from Toyota and Canada’s automotive supplier association unpick complex sourcing and compliance rules under USMCA, and look ahead to what the Biden administration could mean for automotive trade.
Watch Think Tank: A 360 view of finished vehicle logistics in North America
Key operators from all corners of the vehicle logistics space discuss the major trends in the sector for 2021 as part of an interactive think tank, including representatives from road, rail, ports, IT and integrated services.
Watch: Managing global supply chains in times of disruption
As the automotive industry faces logistics capacity and semiconductor shortages in the supply chain, experts from Volkswagen Group, emergency freight provider CNW and packaging specialist CHEP discuss systems and strategies to improve resilience.
Watch Think Tank: Top tips on transforming aftersales logistics in North America
In a special think tank workshop, leaders from key players in service parts and aftersales logistics discuss how the industry should respond to the current disruptions and get ready for major changes ahead.
Watch: Can OEMs design more flexible and predictive supply chains networks?
Logistics executives from Toyota North America and agricultural equipment manufacturer AGCO discuss their strategies, processes and technologies for advanced logistics and supply chain planning.
Watch: How Volkswagen and Kuehne + Nagel are making supply chains greener
In this virtual event, leaders from Volkswagen and Kuehne+Nagel discussed how production and supply chains can be made greener by using renewable energy in plants, switching deep-sea shipping vessels to LNG, reducing air freight and more.
Watch: Canada’s Silicon Valley of the North
Leaders from Magna, Toyota and LeddarTech discuss how Canada’s supply chain can realise its potential for innovation as the Silicon Valley of the North, thanks to the local expertise and electric vehicle initiatives like Project Arrow.
Watch Think Tank: Starting up electric vehicle supply chains
With new OEMs like Lucid about to launch electric vehicle production, supply chain experts from OEMs, suppliers, tech players and logistics companies discuss the investment, data and technology opportunities – and difficulties – that come with starting up new EV and battery supply chains.
Watch: Ensuring finished vehicle logistics keeps pace with demand
Senior managers from Porsche, Glovis and ICL Systems talk about how they have been keeping dealer lots stocked as consumer demand has returned since the end of stay-at-home orders across America.
Watch: Exceptional finished vehicle logistics
If vehicle logistics providers are to keep ahead of disruption and better serve customers, they will need to improve exception management and inventory visibility across plants, yards and transport according to executives from Hyundai Glovis, Jack Cooper and Cognosos.
Watch: Rise of the robots
What can automotive logistics learn from other industries when it comes to automation and robotics? Experts from Locus Robotics, GE Appliances and i9 Sports compare notes on how robotics can help efficiency as well as those working in logistics.
Watch: Covid could accelerate outsourcing and new partnerships in the supply chain
Experts from Mahindra, Hyundai Glovis and the tier supply chain say that the crisis highlights opportunities for new logistics services and a re-evaluation of partnerships across automotive logistics in North America and beyond.
AL FVL Winter 2020 Digital Edition
The winter digital edition of Automotive Logistics is out now, featuring an overview of how automotive supply chains have adapted during the crisis, and how digitalisation will reshape logistics. Plus insight on battery supply chains, used car logistics, vehicle logistics quality systems at Daimler and much more!
Watch: Why Volvo’s Martin Corner thinks there has never been a more exciting time for automotive logistics
Volvo Cars’ head of global logistics thinks the supply chain has a long way to go to match the digital, visibility and flexibility requirements of the automotive sector, but he also tells the audience of Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live that electrification and new distribution models provide an opportunity for positive transformation.
Watch: Spotlight on the Indian supply chain
Watch this panel discussion from Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live on key challenges from the crisis, digitalisation developments and opportunities for the automotive supply chain in India featuring logistics experts from FCA, JCB and Smart Links Technology.
Watch: How Volkswagen is charging an electric revolution in its supply chain
As Volkswagen Group gears up to manufacture 1.5m EVs per year by 2025, it is transforming its supply chain. Danny Auerswald, who leads the carmaker’s all-electric factory in Dresden, explains how Volkswagen is transforming plants and logistics to meet its electric and sustainability targets during Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live.
Watch: Commercial vehicle supply chains with Scania and MAN
The supply chain and logistics requirements for commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses, can vary significantly. During a panel at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, supply chain leaders from MAN and Scania explain how they are optimising networks and responding to the crisis.
Watch: How to drive supply chain innovation
Innovation is key to driving automotive supply chains and logistics forward, whether it be adapting existing processes, developing new ideas or implementing new technology. In this unique exchange at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, supply chain strategist Wolfang Lehmacher and INEOS Automotive’s Marko Weisshaar share their vision for innovation and creativity in automotive logistics.
Watch: Optimising supply chain demand and capacity planning
Manufacturers are facing recovering but uncertain automotive demand, while limits in ocean and air freight capacity risk disruption and cost increeses. In this session at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, experts from Toyota North America, Adient and CNW discuss strategies for improving demand forecasting and network planning across transport modes.
Watch: Accelerating digital transformation
The coronavirus crisis has in many cases forced companies to speed up the use of digital tools and processes across their operations, while also exposing digital gaps. In this session, supply chain leaders from agricultural equipment manufacturer AGCO, and start-up EV OEM Nio, share insight into how their companies are already using enhanced connectivity, big data and even artificial intelligence to improve the supply chain.
Watch: Keeping the metal moving in Europe
As the European vehicle logistics sector faces huge challenges and changes, senior logistics leaders from Daimler, Volvo Cars and Hyundai Glovis discuss capacity requirements, digitalisation and requirements from their logistics partners during a panel at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live.
Watch: How to improve agility and flexibility in finished vehicle logistics
While vehicle logistics faces ongoing challenges in managing capacity utilisation and visibility, this panel from Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live points to key strategies from FCA North America, Hyundai Glovis and CFR Rinkens for improving load factors and responding to customer needs.
Watch: Supply chain leadership in a time of adversity
Hear how senior executives from Volkswagen Group, FCA, Visteon and Gefco have adapted strategies, processes and communication to support manufacturing and logistics operations and teams during the crisis.
Watch: Localisation and technology transform supply chains across industries
Advanced technology, changing consumer patterns, trade regulations and the coronavirus crisis have led firms like GE Appliances to revaluate their supply chains and logistics. Watch GE Appliance’s Harry Chase and Tata Consultancy’s Deepak Mavatoor share their expert views.
Watch: Rethinking vehicle logistics network design and optimisation in North America
OEMs like Nissan and Volkswagen are working with logistics specialists like Jack Cooper and Inform to deliver the recovery amidst low vehicle inventory, uncertainty from Covid-19 and driver shortages, while looking at how to use technology to optimise networks over the long term. Check out this lively discussion from Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live.
Watch: Delivering innovation at Volkswagen and Toyota’s service parts logistics
As service parts demand in the US recovers, OEMs like Volkswagen Group and Toyota are carefully monitoring shortages in parts supply and inventory, while accelerating new delivery channels, including ecommerce sales and direct customer deliveries. VW’s Anu Goel and Toyota’s Mike Schober share their views during Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live.
Watch: Carmakers preparing for supply chain and logistics reinvention
The pandemic isn’t over, but senior logistics leaders at General Motors, Nissan, Volvo Cars and Glovis America are looking beyond the crisis to new technology, electrification, capacity planning and the skills needed to succeed in supply chain management in the 2020s. Watch this in-depth panel discussion from Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live.
Watch: Spotlight on a changing North American automotive supply chain
In a panel discussion held during Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, leading experts and decision makers unpick the immense operational, market and trade changes happening across North America and how companies like Honda and Carter Logistics are adapting their processes and networks.
Watch: How Yazaki’s Bo Andersson wants to shape up and shake up the supply chain
In an exclusive fireside chat at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, Bo Andersson details Yazaki’s objectives in reducing lineside disruptions at its plants, improving supply visibility and moving away from ‘build-to-print’ models as the tier 1 aims to capture more value-added production and services.
Watch: What Europe’s Green Deal means for automotive supply chains
The EU is regulating and investing in decarbonisation with significant cost and technology implications for the automotive sector. Stefan Crets from CSR Europe and PwC’s Christoph Stürmer unpick the implications for the supply chain and what companies.
Watch: Rethinking supply chain resilience
The crisis has underlined how vulnerable the supply chain is to shocks and is leading some manufacturers to reconsider inventory and planning strategies to mitigate disruption and instability. In this session at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, experts debate whether this means a rethink in lean and just-in-time.
Watch: A brand new Element at commercial EV startup Arrival
Tracey Yi, who is leading Arrival’s new component and procurement division, Elements, talks to Christopher Ludwig about the electric bus manufacturer’s unique supply chain and manufacturing localisation strategy.
Watch: Q&A with Arrival-Elements Tracy Yi
Tracey Yi, who is leading Arrival’s new component and procurement division, Elements, takes audience questions on Arrival’s supply chain strategy, including its localisation targets, sustainability and the future public transport.
Watch: Building Lucid’s electric vehicle logistics network
Electric vehicle startup Lucid is launching its first production model with support from Glovis America in finished vehicle logistics. Head of logistics Greg Henninger shares details together with partners from Glovis on the unique challenge for EV outbound logistics.
Watch: Launching start-up automotive supply chains
As new entrants, tech firms and EV start-up companies jump into the supply chain, this panel at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live explored the logistics requirements with insight from startups Rivian and Ineos Automotive, and supply chain specialist Kuehne + Nagel.
Watch: Livestream Hour Season Finale | Part 2: Update from North America with Honda and Benteler
Don’t miss the last Livestream Hour episode this season as our guests provide insight on how the coronavirus crisis is currently affecting the supply chain in North America, featuring Hector Martinez from Honda de Mexico and Maxim Serov from global tier 1 Benteler.
Watch: Livestream Hour Season Finale Part 1: Global logistics lessons with the Volkswagen Group
As part of our finale for this season’s Livestream Hour, watch this exclusive interview with our special guest Matthias Braun, who leads digitalisation and concept development for group logistics at the Volkswagen Group, on how the carmaker has managed its supply chain through all phases of the coronavirus crisis so far, and lessons for the future
Watch: ‘Covid is accelerating digital supply chain and production’ | Your questions answered with EY’s Bart Huthwaite
Following our popular Livestream Hour edition focused on digitalisation in supply chain and logistics, Bart Huthwaite, principal for automotive and transportation at EY, rejoins Christopher Ludwig to address audience questions on topics including digital twins, industrial IOT, trade wars and changing production models.
Watch: Livestream Hour Episode 7 - Finished Vehicle Logistics: Restarting the network
This special livestream episode focuses on the finished vehicle logistics network and how it is preparing to restart for the new normal, with insights from Hyundai Glovis, ProAct and more. Hosted by Christopher Ludwig and featuring updates and insights from the crisis and beyond for automotive supply chain and manufacturing.
CNW’s Ron Glowinsky on how coronavirus has affected expedited freight
Coronavirus has had a dramatic impact on automotive production, supply chain and logistics across the world. Here, Ron Glowinsky, CNW’s vice-president of global sales, shares his insights on the disruptive effects seen in the expedited freight market – including changes to pricing and on-board courier services.
Watch: Kia maintains investment, launches and stability in Europe
Kia Motors Europe chief operating officer, Emilio Herrera, and director of marketing, Carlos Lahoz, outline how the Korean brand is learning from supply chain and production disruptions, digitalising sales channels and maintaining investment in electrification to chart a route towards recovery in Europe.
Watch: A royal entry to Mexico’s competitive supply base
Kevin Reed, vice-president of supply chain at tier two electronics and battery component supplier Royal Power, talks to Daniel Harrison about why the company recently built a new plant in Mexico, and the challenges facing its supply chain and logistics. In the context of declining margins among tier suppliers, Reed discusses the key advantages of moving to Mexico to better serve customers and compete, and why maximising efficiency in the supply chain is a crucial differentiator.
Interview with Alfonso Gutierrez, Nissan Mexico
At the Automotive Logistics Mexico 2020 conference, Nissan Mexico’s recently appointed deputy director of purchasing speaks to editor Joanne Perry about his ambitions in the role, the challenges of logistics purchasing in Mexico and why it’s crucial to empower personnel to “go and conquer”
Interview with Hector Martinez, Honda Mexico
At the Automotive Logistics Mexico 2020 conference, Hector Martinez, division manager export sales and CBU logistics at Honda Mexico, tells Joanne Perry about the OEM’s outbound logistics operation in the country, including key challenges such as security issues, congestion at ports and extreme weather events.
At the centre of change for Volkswagen Group
Martin Hofmann, chief information office of the Volkswagen Group (pictured, right), explains how the carmaker is transforming its IT system backbone and legacy infrastructure across manufacturing, purchasing, supply chain and engineering – and how Volkswagen is now able to attract top software talent.
Q&A with Olga Stepanova, sales director of RZD Logistics
As vehicle shipments increase on overland routes between Europe and China, Russian companies such as the state-owned RZD are aiming to capitalise on the new business. Automotive Logistics discusses the development of a new Silk Road with Olga Stepanova, sales director of RZD Logistics
Nissan North America: On track to cut container pool shrinkage
Container pool shrinkage is an issue that has a costly impact on OEMs and tier suppliers across the automotive industry. At various points in the extended supply chains which support today’s vehicle manufacturing operations, containers go missing, are misused or are even stolen to be resold and used elsewhere
Toyota North America: Breaking down supply chain barriers
Toyota is realigning its production and service parts organisation by integrating its inbound and aftermarket supply chain departments into a new division called PDAD. Group vice-president of the new division, Alok Vaish, explains the thinking behind it
Ford Europe packaging: Heading to the pool
Ford’s Kuly Malka has overseen a transformation in the carmaker’s European packaging and container management
Toyota merges production and service parts logistics in North America
Toyota is comprehensively realigning its production and service parts organisation in North America with an integrated supply chain division as part of its overall One Toyota initiative, designed to improve customer service and cost efficiency.
John Begg moves to Johnson Controls
John Begg has moved to tier supplier Johnson Controls as director of global supply chain and transportation for its Power Solutions division, which makes and distributes vehicle batteries.
Stocker takes on strategic role at DHL Supply Chain
John Stocker (pictured) has moved to DHL Supply Chain as director of strategic development. He was previously commercial director at Gefco’s UK division and had been with the company for more than six years. DHL Supply Chain provides contract logistics services for a range of sectors, including automotive.
Bysouth becomes logistics chief at IAC
Kelly Bysouth (pictured) has joined International Automotive Components (IAC) as chief supply chain officer, with global responsibility and operational control of procurement and logistics.She brings 25 years of related experience to the company, which is based in Luxembourg.[mpu_ad]Bysouth moves from Adient, where she held a variety of leadership positions in ...
Mark Stanyer appointed MD at ProAct International
Mark Stanyer has joined supply chain and logistics software expert, ProAct International, as MD. He moves from his role as IT director at the Office for Nuclear Regulation and brings 30 years’ experience in IT management, as well as expertise in logistics, distribution and supply chain.
Storrs replaces Clarke at Ford of Europe
Chris Storrs (pictured) has replaced Helen Clarke at Ford of Europe as finished vehicle logistics manager.
Gianclaudio Neri new MD of Ceva in Italy
Gianclaudio Neri has been appointed managing director of Ceva Logistics business in Italy, succeeding Christophe Poitrineau, who is leaving the logistics provider to pursue other career opportunities.
Gary Cardenas takes over as CEO of ProTrans
Gary Cardenas (left) has taken over as CEO of North American third-party logistics (3PL) provider ProTrans International. He replaces owner and founder Craig Roeder in the role. Roeder remains on the board of directors at the company and will serve as strategic project manager.
Seguin takes over global freight forwarding at UPS
Romaine Seguin (pictured) has become president of Global Freight Forwarding at packaging delivery and supply chain management company, UPS. She moves from her role as president of the UPS Americas Region, where she was responsible for all UPS package and cargo operations in Canada and more than 50 countries and ...
Ford appoints Chen to tackle sales slump in China
Ford is turning its business in China into a stand-alone business unit, Ford China, headed by Anning Chen (pictured). The move is part of a general reorganisation of the OEM's Asia-Pacific operations designed to return the company to profitable growth.
Vegard Synnes moves to Kar-Tainer
Vegard Synnes has moved from his role as global key account manager at Changjiu International Logistics to take up a new position as director of marketing in Asia for Kar-Tainer International, a global provider of containerised vehicle transport systems.
Apollo's Rivallant named European president
Apollo Tyres has promoted Benoit Rivallant to be president of its European operations.Rivallant has been with the tyre manufacturer since 2014, during which time, successfully introduced commercial vehicle tyres into Europe as group head, global product management for commercial vehicle tyres, the Indian company says.“It is our corporate philosophy to ...
Gielen to become CEO at Schoeller Allibert
Copyright: Debby Termonia Former entrepreneur Ludo Gielen is to become the new CEO of Schoeller Allibert on 1 November, 14 years after selling them his company. Gielen joined the Dutch returnable transit packaging company when it bought BiPP Plastic Pallets from him in 2004. “Over the years ...
Sauzedde takes over as MD of Ceva’s CEE cluster
Guillaume Sauzedde (pictured) has taken over from Piotr Zborowski as MD of Ceva Logistics’ business in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). He moves from his role as MD for Kuehne + Nagel’s division in Poland, and will take up the new position on November 5.
Wendt takes on key supplier role at BMW
Andreas Wendt (pictured) has become BMW’s new management board member for purchasing and supplier network. He was previously director of the group’s largest car assembly plant in Germany at Dingolfing.Wendt was appointed to his new role on 1 October by the supervisory board, whose chairman Norbert Reithofer said: “The purchasing ...
Legacy of a moderniser: Sergio Marchionne
Already known for turning around the Fiat Group in under two years, Sergio Marchionne was instrumental in Fiat forming an alliance with US carmaker Chrysler when it emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2009. The Italian carmaker took a 20% controlling stake in Chrysler in June that year and Marchionne ...
Anderson replaces McCann as CEO at United Road
Marc Anderson (pictured) is taking over as CEO of US finished vehicle haulier, United Road Services. He replaces Kathleen McCann, who will move to the role of executive chairman in January.
Russians drop US dollar for components purchases
Russian Trade and Industry minister Denis Manturov (pictured) has revealed that many Russian automotive manufacturers are increasingly using national currencies, rather than the US dollar, to pay for imported components. The move has been prompted by recent US sanctions on Russia.
Harring becomes Bridgestone’s logistics chief in EMEA
Ulf Harring (pictured) has joined global tyre maker Bridgestone as chief operating officer (COO) for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
Michael Druml takes on purchasing role at Magna
Michael Druml (pictured) has taken over as vice-president of purchasing for Magna International Europe replacing Klaus Iffland, who has retired from the company.
Dana McBrien takes lead role at AutoSphere
Dana McBrien (pictured) has moved from his role as associate chief advisor at Honda North America to become ‘guiding architect’ for AutoSphere, a digital supply chain system (previously referred to as the Automotive Supply Chain Data Ecosystem) developed by US information technology and packaging specialist, Surgere.
Victor Arabe leaves VW for Nationwide
Victor Arabe (pictured), previously port manager for Volkswagen's business at the port of San Diego, in the US, has moved to Nationwide Auto Services (NAS) as director of business development. NAS provides paint and hail damage repair services but is widening the scope of its operations by working directly with ...
After Marchionne, what next for Fiat Chrysler?
Sergio Marchionne (pictured), former CEO at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), was a remarkable man. He frequently dominated the automotive industry’s headlines and news agenda over the last decade or so and his recent passing away robs the industry of one of its few stars. In an age when corporate suits ...
Getting better with age
It has been an incredible journey over these last 20 years working on Automotive Logistics, expanding both our publications and our conferences around the world.
Production & logistics part 1: Where are we now?
This article kicks off a series of pieces celebrating Automotive Logistics’ 20th anniversary issue that together take an extended look at the way top executives feel automotive production and logistics have changed in the last two decades – and where they see them heading in the future
Audi warns of spot-checks on suppliers as it introduces new sustainability ratings system
Audi has warned that it will only place orders in future with suppliers who achieve a positive score under its newly introduced sustainability ratings system – and that it intends to carry out spot-checks to audit them.
A new look (but it’s what’s inside that counts)
Whether you’re a regular or new visitor to Automotive Logistics, I wanted to take a moment to introduce you to some changes and new features on our website that we hope you’ll enjoy. We think that they both improve our layout and will help you better access and choose from ...
Ten years in India part 2: MM Singh from Maruti Suzuki
Continuing our celebrations ahead of the 10th Automotive Logistics India conference on November 8th-10th, we look back at our past decade of exclusive interviews and coverage of the Indian automotive supply chain.
Tesla’s supply chain set for a surge
Tesla has captured the car industry’s collective imagination in many ways since its start-up in 2008, including how it builds and sells its electric vehicles.
China conference: preparing for the new and the old, for growth and decline
The 11th annual Automotive Logistics China conference was held for the first time in the south-western city of Chengdu, a symbol of the automotive industry’s westward development and the centre of the revival of the old ‘Silk Road’ trade routes emphasised by the government’s ‘One Belt, One Road’ policy. Christopher ...
China conference: preparing for the new and the old, for growth and decline
The 11th annual Automotive Logistics China conference was held for the first time in the south-western city of Chengdu, a symbol of the automotive industry’s westward development and the centre of the revival of the old ‘Silk Road’ trade routes emphasised by the government’s ‘One Belt, One Road’ policy. Christopher ...
Ford part 1: Always looking ahead
In the first of a four-part feature, Christopher Ludwig talks to Ford Customer Service Division president Frederiek Toney (pictured) about changing times for logistics and providing global customer service
Mexico Conference report: On the borderline of change
The second Automotive Logistics Mexico conference, held in Mexico City, saw hundreds of executives and officials discuss how best to ensure that the country’s fast-growing automotive production and supply chain will be fit for purpose by 2020 and beyond. Christopher Ludwig reports on plenty of progress, as well as reasons ...
South America conference: Taking control in a crisis
The 7th Automotive Logistics South America conference, held in São Paulo, Brazil, may have brought together delegates experiencing recession, and suffering from declining volumes, but the Brazilians showed their resilience and creativity. Companies emphasised how to reshape supply chains in a crisis, and how they could move forward together stronger, ...
Coming to an automotive supply chain near you
The 16th Automotive Logistics Global conference, at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, brought together an industry growing and with positive outlooks. However, the potential changes heralded by the digital economy could upend business as usual. The question is when?
Coming to an automotive supply chain near you
The 16th Automotive Logistics Global conference, at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, brought together an industry growing and with positive outlooks. However, the potential changes heralded by the digital economy could upend business as usual. The question is when?
Transport equipment: On the road to improvement
In this story...
With solid financials, Gefco looks to acquisition and growth
The Gefco Group has announced positive results for 2013, including higher revenue and net profits, although difficult automotive markets in Europe and costs weighed on its operating profit and margin. While Gefco is facing risks over the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the company has charted an aggressive growth plan, which is likely ...
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Editor's Note: VW North America and Fiat Latin America
This issue features our first ‘double bill’ cover, with interviews across Volkswagen in North America (p16), and Fiat in Latin America (p26). Each of these stories, carved into their smaller halves, warrants its own cover.
Gateway to a new era for GAZ
Bo Andersson has been leading a remarkable turnaround and a tough restructuring at Russia’s GAZ Group, with a significant focus on improving supply chain management and logistics. Christopher Ludwig presents a pertinent example of how logistics can provide a competitive advantage in Russia.
VIDEO INTERVIEWS: Why is India's infrastructure lagging?
Why is India's infrastructure lagging behind growth?
Searching for the silver lining
Last year was a devastating one for European ports that depend on car handling. But while recovery is uncertain, Piotr Switalski uncovers the collaborative strategies towards which both ports and policymakers must work (Christopher Ludwig contributed reporting).
Logistics is holding back South Africa’s industry
With sales and exports hit hard, South Africa’s seven OEMs are scrambling to revamp their production to become more efficient, and pushing for the country’s rail and port operator to smarten up. If that doesn’t happen, carmakers may go elsewhere
