Winners 2018

Metro expanded and diversified their bespoke “Virtual Airlines” concept demonstrating collaborative working across multiple carriers and introducing sea to air integration into this model. Not only was this successfully implemented within a capacity constrained market it also delivered direct cost reductions.

Bermuda Forwarders have established an innovative and comprehensive cool chain solution that provides an invaluable service to the people of Bermuda. Their attention to detail ensures the speediest deliveries and minimal losses. The recycling of key packaging material means the environmental impact on the island is kept to a minimum.

Uniserve had identified potential opportunities and challenges associated with the approach of Brexit. They had taken a pro-active approach to extend and develop a pallet network across Europe to overcome these challenges, thus future-proofing their business and supply chain.

The panel recognised that customer services and going the extra mile for the customer, regardless of the size of the customer or the challenge, was deep rooted throughout the organisation.

NNR demonstrated a strategic response to the volatility of the container market by taking a long-term strategic approach based on being regarded as a “Trusted Advisor” to their clients.

A well planned project which sought innovative solutions to achieve their client’s requirements. Key to the success of this project was the sourcing of a port facility near to the final delivery location who were willing to undergo infrastructure changes by way of levelling their yards and a new exit gate to facilitate the cargo requirements. Skilled planning saw a large project delivered on time with least impact to local communities and businesses.

Charles Kendall Freight have provided an extensive range of services in the tough market sector of FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) with their Product Logistics service. With Product Logistics they have developed an innovative service ranging from procurement, compliance and customs allowing them to become “brand partners” for their clients.

The judges were impressed with the way in which Hemisphere were interacting with BIFA’s recommended key qualifications and how this was benefiting both staff and customers. In addition the fact that managers and supervisors have been promoted internally underlines Hemisphere’s commitment to staff development as well as recruitment. Hemisphere have also launched an apprenticeship scheme in partnership with BIFA and the charity ‘Inspire Suffolk’ to encourage the next generation of logistics professionals. As well as apprenticeships and internal development and promotion Hemisphere have invested in improving the working environment for their staff and this has had a positive impact on their happiness and wellbeing.

OIA Global demonstrated a complex yet clear workflow process that allowed them to centralise many components in the supply chain process delivering global visibility for all parties involved.

Panalpina Worldwide Transport Thomas was nominated for the Apprentice of the Year award by his manager at Panalpina having impressed with his commitment and ambition. Completing his apprenticeship attached to the Ocean Export Customer Service team in Manchester Thomas also oversaw the introduction of new customs software within the office ensuring that all staff were trained and that testing was undertaken prior to implementation. Thomas impressed the judging panel with his drive and ambition for the future acknowledging that he must further refine his skills and develop a greater understanding of the industry in order to reach his potential.

Daily Groupage Services Ltd Luke entered the world of freight forwarding as a fresh-faced sixteen year old and soon came to realise that there is not such thing as a simple job in freight forwarding. Relishing the daily challenge of managing the varying complexities of the international movement of goods, Luke has progressed from office junior to the position of Branch Manager for his current employer Daily Groupage Services.