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CSS GROUP LEADS THE CHARGE TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY WITH GREEN PARKING FACILITY

In an era where global concerns for environmental conservation are taking center stage, innovative solutions are reshaping even the most mundane aspects of urban life. One such transformative initiative gaining traction is the concept of “Green Parking,” where parking lots evolve from mere vehicle accommodation spaces into dynamic hubs for sustainability and environmental responsibility.

CSS Group has embraced this shift with the introduction of a cutting-edge green parking area at its facility. By seamlessly integrating eco-friendly practices and technologies within the parking infrastructure, CSS aims to minimize the environmental impact traditionally associated with parking structures. This forwardthinking approach extends beyond conventional asphalt and concrete foundations, incorporating sustainable features that contribute to the overall health of the urban ecosystem.

Green parking areas utilize permeable pavement materials, such as porous concrete or interlocking pavers, to facilitate natural water drainage and reduce runoff. Additionally, the incorporation of green roofs or walls within parking structures not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes improved air quality and temperature regulation.

Equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting and smart technology, the green parking area at the CSS facility represents a significant departure from traditional, energy-draining, and high-intensity lighting. This move towards sustainability aligns with a commitment to reducing energy consumption and creating an eco-friendly environment.

The CSS green parking space stands as a breath of fresh air in the concrete jungle, providing a pleasant experience for drivers. The adoption of green parking practices aligns seamlessly with principles of community and corporate social responsibility, offering benefits such as improved public perception, reduced environmental impact, and potential cost savings through energy efficient technologies.

The shift towards green parking is not a trend but a vital step toward a more sustainable and resilient urban future. CSS Group’s commitment to reimagining parking facilities as integral components of sustainable urban planning showcases the transformative potential of embracing green parking practices in the drive towards a more eco-conscious future.

STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS!

Even though most of us try not to, we are all guilty of comparing ourselves to others. We can make comparisons like, “I wish I dressed like so-and- so,” or, “I wish I were as rich as them” or,“I was better than him/her”

This is often unconscious, but it is important to try to train ourselves to stop. While it may motivate us to better ourselves, constantly comparing ourselves to others can lead to negative thoughts.

Understand Yourself Better : Human beings are social creatures, and comparison is common throughout our entire history. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook bombard us with posts about what we lack. These apps are comparison traps that encourage us to question aspects of our own lives. It is easy to forget that social media is a highlight reel of other people’s lives. We see their best moments, but do not usually see their struggles. We often compare our lesser qualities with a person’s best qualities, skewing our judgment. Too much comparison leads to unhappiness and low self-esteem. We become frustrated with ourselves for “not being good enough,” or angry with others. Feelings of jealousy, frustration, and hopelessness appear if comparisons continue. If left unaddressed, chronic anxiety and depression can stem from such behaviour. To avoid comparisons, people may look for others’ faults to make themselves feel better. This is just as unhealthy as tearing yourself apart for what you do not have or do not look like. To halt the comparison habit, focus on bettering yourself and boosting your confidence. Try to train your mind to step away from unfavourable comparisons. Look instead to embrace kindness and a cheerful outlook. It is challenging work, but it pays off.

Few things you can do to take the initiative to stop comparing yourself to others:

1. Be aware of your triggers and avoid them – To improve your mental health and emotional well-being, list out the situations and circumstances that make you sad or cynical. Social media is not the only thing harming our self-esteem. Is there someone in your life who often puts you down? Or you feel inadequate when a colleague brags. There is a specific place that makes you feel bad, like wandering through an expensive store at the mall. Once you are aware of situations that make you likely to engage in comparisons, you can avoid them.
2. Limit your time on social media – social media keeps us up to date on our family and friends, current events, an raises awareness. But like most things, it is best in moderation. Over scrolling on social media, especially when consuming lifestyle and beauty content, can have negative effects on our self-worth. Unfollow accounts that cause you to compare yourself to others. Turn off your phone after a certain time of day and do not respond to every message or comment you receive.
3. Avoid comparing other peoples’ “outsides” to your own “insides” – No one truly knows what is happening behind the scenes in someone else’s life. Everyone is facing their own struggles.
4. Remind yourself that “money doesn’t buy happiness” – There is a relationship between mental health and money. But one thing is true: money does not buy happiness. Despite being bombarded with ads that say otherwise, money does not guarantee permanent happiness. Watching celebrities live luxurious lifestyles can lead us to believe that money will solve our problems, but it rarely does. Instead, it only buys temporary joy.
5. Count your blessings – Be grateful for what you have. Someone’s life may seem better, but there might be another person out there wishing they had what you had. There is always something, even just one thing, for which you can be thankful. Implement these strategies to fine-tune your gratitude practice.
6. Use comparison as motivation – Comparisons can be a great catalyst for change, so long as it is healthy. Instead of feeling envious of other people’s accomplishments, think about how they were able to achieve them. Then see how you can replicate them. Being inspired by someone you know to be kinder or more openminded can lead you to be a better person.
7. Focus on your strengths – It is okay to be humble, but you should also be proud of what you have conducted. Too much humility is just as harmful as too much self-confidence. Make a list of what you like about yourself. Writing things down can help us recognize and accept the truth instead of speaking it aloud. You can be as general or as specific as you like, and let this list serve as a reminder of your strengths.
8. Celebrate other people too – We must be our biggest supporters, but self-advocacy can coexist with supporting others. Spread positivity by cheering on your friends and coworkers for their milestones.
9. Remember that insecurities are universal – It is normal for you to compare yourself to others. We all experience self-doubts and fears that get the best of us now and then. Even the most confident people feel insecure sometimes.
10. Use your past self as a benchmark of comparison – The only real competition you have is who you were yesterday, who you were last month, or who you were a year ago. You
    will be able to see real growth through retrospection and be proud of your growth.

Must have heard these line below:

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

“Stop comparing yourself to other people: you are an original. We are all different and it’s okay.”

“I don’t want other people to decide what I am. I want to decide that for myself.”

“Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is you-er than you.”

The only person you should be comparing yourself to is yourself. Your efforts should focus on growing from within, being kinder, more resilient, working hard, and being more open instead of whether your hair is long enough, or you are as strong as someone else or getting paid less that other etc.

TWIN SISTERS SHAPE THE FUTURE OF CSS GROUP

Leadership is crucial in a world where industries continuously evolve and adapt to meet the demands of an ever-changing market. For the CSS Group, the future is looking exceptionally bright as it ventures into new horizons under the dynamic leadership of Chandra Kala and Sasi Kala, twin sisters who are visionaries and driven to achieve excellence. The sisters have a remarkable track record of 28 years.

The CSS Group, a renowned name in shipping and logistics, has always been synonymous with innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. As Chandra Kala and Sasi Kala step into their roles as leaders of the group, they carry with them a shared vision and an unwavering commitment to maintaining and elevating the company’s already sterling reputation.

The journey of Chandra Kala and Sasi Kala within the CSS Group is a testament to their dedication and drive to shape a future that redefines industry standards. Their vision extends beyond the horizon, aiming to exceed customer expectations and establish new benchmarks in the field of logistics and shipping.

These twin sisters are setting out to lead the CSS Group into a thrilling new era of success and growth. Their story is not just about an unbreakable sibling bond, but about a shared vision, unyielding determination, and an unwavering focus on core values.

A Shared Vision

At the heart of Chandra kala and Sasi Kala’s leadership is a  shared vision that extends beyond immediate goals. They aim to take the CSS Group to new heights while preserving its core values and principles. The sisters are aligned in their commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and fostering a culture of excellence within the organization. Their shared vision entails transforming the CSS Group into a trailblazer in its industry. Together, they aspire to lead the company toward a successful future. Their corporate vision and mission act as the foundational principles of their strategic plan, providing clear direction for the organization’s path. Their focus extends beyond mere profitability, as they are dedicated to creating a beneficial influence on both the industry and the communities within which they are active.

Unyielding Determination

One of the defining characteristics of Chandra Kala and Sasi Kala is their unyielding determination. They possess an indomitable spirit and the drive to overcome challenges. This determination is rooted in their shared belief that there is no shortcut to success and that every endeavour requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Their journey to leadership was marked by countless challenges, but they have never wavered. This determination has propelled them to the forefront of the CSS Group, and they continue to inspire the CSS team to reach for greatness.

Unwavering Focus on Core Values

Chandra Kala and Sasi Kala understand the significance of staying true to core values. They are committed to upholding the principles that have been the cornerstone of the CSS Group’s success. Integrity, honesty, and a strong work ethic are values that they hold dear. These core values provide a guiding light, ensuring that the CSS Group’s growth is undeterred in the years to come. The sisters are unwavering in their commitment to these values, and they ensure that every decision they make aligns with the principles that have defined the company for years. Moreover, they recognize the significance of teamwork, appreciating the unique contributions of each team member and cultivating a collaborative atmosphere within the organization.”

Leading CSS Group into a New Era

As Chandra Kala and Sasi Kala assume leadership roles within the CSS Group, they are embarking on a mission to bring about a transformative era for the company. This new era is marked by innovation, customer satisfaction, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Under their leadership, the CSS Group is poised to achieve unprecedented success. The sisters are visionaries and change-makers. Their journey together, is a testament to what shared vision, determination, and adherence to core values can achieve. To navigate the evolving business environment with excellence, they are dedicated to adopting cutting-edge technologies and the most effective industry standards. Their goal is to position the CSS Group as a pioneering force in the integrated logistics sector.

The CSS Group, with Chandra Kala and Sasi Kala at the helm, is destined for greatness. Their unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that the company will continue to be a name synonymous with innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. As they steer the CSS Group into the future, there’s no doubt that they will exceed customer expectations and set new industry benchmarks, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and success.

WHY EFFICIENT ECOMMERCE FULFILLMENT IS A NECESSITY FOR YOUR ONLINE BUSINESS?

We now know that the pandemic-driven online retail boom is here to stay. However, the demands of online shoppers keep evolving. Staying ahead of the competition requires more than just a user-friendly website and a fantastic product range. As an ecommerce business owner, you know that seamless and efficient ecommerce fulfillment is the secret of a successful online venture. What’s more, it in crucial to take care of every step in the fulfillment process. It starts from the time a customer places an order on your website till it reaches the customer’s doorstep. Furthermore, a well-organized fulfillment process directly impacts customer satisfaction leading to repeat orders, and finally enhancing your brand’s reputation in the market.

Firstly, we analyze the importance of efficient ecommerce fulfillment. We then will demonstrate how partnering with a top-notch fulfillment providers can help in ramping up the efficiency of your online venture.

The Hassles of Running an E-commerce Business

Yes, running an online business is exciting with great growth potential. But it does come with its own set of challenges. Be it a large company or a bootstrapped set up, ecommerce fulfillment and management can be very difficult to handle.

Imagine this scenario; it’s the dead of night, and your online store has just experienced a sudden surge in orders. You’re excited about the rush of orders, but deep down you fear if things will spiral out of control. However, you are at wits’ end thinking if you will be able to fulfill these orders accurately and on time?

As an online entrepreneur or small business owner, it can be overwhelming to handle order processing, inventory management, packaging, and shipping on your own. As a result of our discussions with e-commerce owners, here are a few difficulties they experience on a day-to-day basis:

1. Lack of Space and Resources: Limited space and resources to store inventory can hinder business growth.
2. Haphazard Order Processing: Without streamlined systems and processes, fulfilling orders can become time-consuming and error-prone.
3. Inventory Management Challenges: Maintaining optimal inventory levels, ensuring stock availability, and minimizing stockouts can be challenging without proper inventory management tools and expertise.
4. Shipping and Logistics Complexities: Coordinating shipments, negotiating shipping rates, and ensuring timely delivery can be overwhelming. This is especially for businesses shipping to different locations
5. Customer Service and Retention: Failing to meet customer expectations can impact customer retention and damage the reputation of your business.
6. Delivery Times: Delayed deliveries can result in negative reviews and a tarnished brand image.

The Role of Efficient E-commerce Fulfillment

Efficient ecommerce fulfillment can help in surmounting these and contributes to the overall success of your online business with the following benefits.

• Streamlined Operations : Partnering with a professional fulfillment center can streamline your entire fulfillment process. From receiving inventory to managing orders and returns, a dedicated fulfillment center ensures accuracy and efficiency at every step.
• Efficient Ecommerce Fulfillment Centers : Strategically located state-of-the-art ecommerce fulfillment across different regions are a necessity. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, these centers offer ample storage space for your inventory. Besides, by partnering with these service providers, your products can be stored securely and efficiently. This ensures easy access and accurate order processing.
• Temperature-Controlled Delivery and Handling : Does your business deals with temperature-sensitive products, such as perishable goods or pharmaceuticals? If yes, you need an Ecommerce fulfillment Center that offers temperature-controlled delivery and handling services. Moreover, your products are maintained at the optimal temperature throughout the fulfillment process, minimizing the chances of spoilage or damage.
• Value-Added Services : Top of the line Ecommerce fulfillment service providers offer other value-added services that can enhance your business. They even help you create custom promotional materials and inserts to boost brand awareness and customer engagement. Additionally, they also offer Knitting Services, allowing businesses to bundle products together to create attractive packages or gift sets, offering an extra selling point to customers.
• International Trade Compliance : Expanding your online business globally comes with its own challenges, particularly when it comes to navigating international trade regulations. Good fulfillment service providers offer Importer of Record (IOR) and Exporter of Record (EOR) services, ensuring compliance with international customs requirements. By partnering with such providers can expand your reach to international markets efficiently and confidently.

CSS eLogix is a leading e-commerce fulfillment center with a proven track record of helping online businesses overcome fulfillment challenges. Therefore, we understand the unique challenges of an e-commerce venture. With our robust service offerings, CSS eLogix ensures that your e-commerce operations go on smoothly without any roadblocks even if there are sudden spikes in your orders. By entrusting your fulfillment process to CSS eLogix, you free up valuable time and resources. This will help you focus on what truly matters – growing your online business and delighting your customers.CSS eLogix is a leading ecommerce fulfillment center with a proven track record of helping online businesses overcome fulfillment challenges. Therefore, we understand the unique challenges of an ecommerce venture. With our robust service offerings, CSS eLogix ensures that your ecommerce operations go on smoothly without any road blocks even if there are sudden spikes in your orders. By entrusting your fulfillment process to CSS eLogix, you free up valuable time and resources. This will help you focus on what truly matters – growing your online business and delighting your customers.

Most importantly, efficient ecommerce fulfillment is not just a logistical requirement. In fact, it’s a key component of providing a superior customer experience and building a successful online brand. Talk to our expert and we can help your online business thrive in today’s competitive ecommerce landscape.

CSS PRESENTS STAFF WITH CLOTHES FOR ONAM FESTIVITIES

Onam is a vibrant and culturally significant festival celebrated in Kerala. It marks the harvest season and is a time of immense joy and togetherness for the people of Kerala. The festival typically lasts ten days and is characterized by colourful floral decorations, traditional music and dance performances like Kathakali, and the famous snake boat races.

One of the highlights of Onam is the grand feast, known as the Onam Sadhya, where a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes are served on a banana leaf. The festival is also associated with the legend of King Mahabali, whose annual visit to Kerala during Onam symbolizes the spirit of unity and equality. It is a time when families come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage and create lasting memories.

During Onam, giving holds a special significance in Kerala’s cultural celebration. It reflects the spirit of generosity and unity that this festival embodies. During Onam, people often engage in acts of charity and giving, known as “Onam Seva.” As people unite in celebration, the importance of generosity and mutual support is highlighted.

This may include donating food, clothing, or money to the less fortunate, visiting orphanages, and participating in various philanthropic activities. It’s a time when the community comes together to share their blessings with those in need, emphasizing the values of compassion and solidarity that are at the core of Onam’s traditions.

In doing so, the tradition of giving during Onam not only enriches the recipients’ lives but also deepens the sense of joy and fulfillment among the contributors, making the festival a truly heartwarming and meaningful celebration. At CSS, we wanted to showcase the spirit of giving this Onam, by presenting the staff of CSS with Onam clothes. These gifts were presented by our chairman T.S Kaladharan, Mr. Fida Asghar and Mr. Don Raveendran.

This thoughtful act not only acknowledged the significance of the Onam festival but also demonstrated a strong sense of respect for our workforce. By providing Onam clothes, our Chairman T.S Kaladharan, not only promoted a sense of unity among employees but also contributed to fostering a positive work environment, where traditions and celebrations are valued and celebrated together. This kind gesture showcased our leadership’s commitment to employee well-being, making it a meaningful and memorable moment for all. The clothes presented to our staff will be worn by them during the Onam celebrations at CSS.

SAUDI ARABIA UNVEILS AMBITIOUS PLAN FOR 59 LOGISTICS CENTERS BY 2030

Saudi Arabia has unveiled an extensive master plan aimed at developing 59 logistics centers across the nation as part of its broader National Transport and Logistics Strategy.
This initiative is a crucial step towards positioning the kingdom as a leading global logistics hub. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced that all centers are expected to be completed by the end of this decade, emphasizing the kingdom’s commitment to this ambitious project.

Diversifying the Economy and Attracting Foreign Investment

The primary objective of this logistics infrastructure development is to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and attract foreign direct investment. While specific financial details of the master plan were not disclosed, it forms an integral part of a comprehensive set of initiatives outlined by the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. Prince Mohammed, who also serves as the chairman of the Supreme Committee for Transport and Logistics, highlighted the strategic importance of this strategy. He stressed that it aims to bolster partnerships with the private sector, create job opportunities, and establish Saudi Arabia as a global logistical powerhouse, benefiting from its strategic location connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Key Details of the Master Plan

Under the master plan, the 59 logistics centers will collectively cover an area exceeding 100 million square meters. These centers are strategically distributed, with 12 planned for Riyadh and Makkah regions, 17 in the Eastern region, and 18 spread across the country. Currently, 21 centers are in progress, with all centers slated for completion by 2030.

The successful implementation of these logistics centers will significantly enhance the efficiency of Saudi industries in exporting their products. It will also play a vital role in supporting the ecommerce sector by facilitating seamless connections between logistics centers and distribution hubs across various regions, cities, and governorates.

“The plan is part of a package of continuing initiatives set as targets by the [NTLS] … with the aim of developing the logistical sector to support the economy, increase the local, regional and international connections of the international trade networks and global supply chains,” Prince Mohammed, who is also chairman of the country’s Supreme Committee for Transport and Logistics, said.

The strategy will help the kingdom boost “the partnership with the private sector, and thus increase the opportunity to generate jobs, and make of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia a global logistical hub, given its geographical location among three important continents: Asia, Europe and Africa”, he added.

The National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS), launched by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman aims to solidify Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub connecting three continents, in addition to upgrading all means of transportation, enhancing integration in the logistics system and supporting the comprehensive development process in Saudi Arabia, the paper said. NTLS is one of key goals of Saudi Vision 2030, a government program launched by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that aims to achieve the goal of increased diversification economically, socially and culturally, in line with the vision of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

A Pillar of Saudi Arabia’s Economic Diversification Strategy

This endeavor is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader push to invest over 500 billion riyals ($133 billion) by 2030 to expand its transport sector. The kingdom is planning more than 300 projects in transport and logistics through partnerships with local and international private sectors. The comprehensive plan includes the launch of new airlines, expansion of airports, expansion of the railway network, increasing port capacity, and development logistics hubs throughout the kingdom.

A key goal of this strategy is to increase the contribution of the transport and logistics sectors to the national gross domestic product (GDP) to 10% by the end of this decade, up from 6% in 2021. Furthermore, it aims to boost the sectors’ annual contribution to non-oil revenue to 45 billion riyals by 2030, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil.

Strong Economic Growth and Diversification Efforts

Efforts Saudi Arabia’s economy recorded impressive growth in 2022, expanding by 8.7%, making it the fastest-growing among the world’s 20 largest economies. This growth was primarily driven by a surge in oil prices and the robust performance of the non-oil private sector. However, growth is expected to moderate to 1.9% in the current year, primarily due to lower oil production, according to estimates from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The logistics services sector is emerging as a promising pillar of economic diversification and development in Saudi Arabia. It is currently witnessing significant initiatives and major developments aimed at expanding its economic and developmental contributions. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics is actively working to develop the logistics industry, enhance export strategies, expand investment opportunities, and foster partnerships with the private sector, all in alignment with the broader goals of Vision 2030.

CHATBOTS CAN NOW TELL YOU WHERE YOUR SHIPMENTS HAVE REACHED

Understanding how Generative AI can be used in logistics, its applications and limitations.

Logistics companies are slowly but surely integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology into their operations. However, they are cautious about adopting chatbots that are common in the retail space today.

Company executives acknowledge the potential cost savings and efficiency benefits associated with tools like ChatGPT, a form of generative AI. Nevertheless, they are prioritizing ensuring that this digital approach doesn’t lead to customer frustration, particularly for clients handling substantial shipping volumes involving goods worth millions of dollars, across the globe.

Harnessing The Power of Generative AI into Customer Service

Prominent companies such as Freight brokerage RXO,  trucking firm XPO, logistics technology provider Phlo Systems, and shipping company DFDS are actively exploring how generative AI can transform their customer service divisions. Their focus includes automating tasks like shipment tracking, load booking, and import declarations.

The quest to incorporate generative AI into operations began after OpenAI introduced its ChatGPT bot in November this year. This technology, along with similar offerings, has the ability to process vast datasets, recognize patterns, make predictions, and respond to queries in a conversational manner, significantly reducing the time required to complete tasks.

Other Areas Where AI can help

Generative AI has already found applications beyond logistics. Law firms utilize it for legal research and document drafting, retailers deploy it to analyze customer search queries and offer relevant product recommendations, and travel companies like Expedia use chatbots for trip planning. Grocery retailers like Instacart also employ AI chatbots to provide answers to customer inquiries regarding recipes.

Logistics companies envision the future use of generative AI in enhancing forecasting, procurement, inventory management, and shipping decisions. Currently, their primary focus is on experimenting with these tools in customer support, leveraging their capacity to understand plain conversational language and provide rapid, comprehensive responses. Experts foresee generative AI enhancing the customer experience by delivering tailored responses within minutes, in contrast to traditional chatbots with preset answers or human workers who require more time to find suitable responses.

Limitations and Apprehensions in Using AI

However, generative AI has limitations. The technology is in its nascent stages and is still evolving. The chatbot is only good as the information that it has been fed on. In fact, there have been instances when the chatbot has given wrong answers to queries. Additionally, security concerns arise when using proprietary data or customer information to train AI systems, leading some companies to restrict their employees from using such technology.

The stakes are particularly high when applying generative AI to supply-chain decisions, given the complexity and proprietary nature of the data involved. In logistics customer support, the challenge lies in facilitating the movement of large shipment volumes via various modes of transportation (aircraft, trucks, trains, and containerships) while dealing with fast-changing and intricate data.

AI Adoption in Logistics Companies

Jared Weisfeld, Chief Strategy Officer at RXO based in Charlotte, North Carolina, highlights the delicate balancing act involved in using generative AI with retail and industrial clients. He points out, ““When you think about what could go wrong over the life of the load, you as a carrier, you as a shipper, sometimes you don’t necessarily want to be talking to a chatbot.”

Weisfeld said that RXO is actively exploring methods to automate various tasks, including customer support and load booking, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. Such automation can lead to quicker responses to customer queries and free up the company’s sales staff to concentrate on acquiring new clients.

However, RXO plans to maintain the option for clients to interact with a human representative. “You can’t have a shipper go ahead and log on to the system where the order’s late and you’re pinging a chatbot. You need a hybrid approach,” Weisfeld said.

The central concern for RXO revolves around enhancing the efficiency of their personnel while ensuring that their efforts contribute to making customers’ lives more convenient rather than complicating matters further.

At the core of RXO’s strategy lies the fundamental question: “How do we enhance the efficiency of our workforce while simultaneously simplifying our customers’ experiences?” expressed by Jared Weisfeld, the Chief Strategy Officer at RXO.

Jonathan Wright, Global Managing Partner of Finance and Supply Chain Transformation at IBM Consulting, emphasizes that for AI technology to gain widespread acceptance, supply-chain managers must place complete trust in it when making decisions regarding goods orders, inventory management, and supplier negotiations. Jonathan Wright highlighted, ““We have to have understanding and knowledge of what AI I’m using, what data I’m using and really tight governance around that,” Wright said. “In our personal life, we might be comfortable with 80, 90% correctness. In our business world, it’s got to be tight—110%.”

AI in Software Development, Trucking and Customs

XPO, a trucking company, intends to train an in-house version of a ChatGPT-like bot to enable customers to track freight, receive rate quotes, and initiate shipment pick-up requests. Jay Silberkleit, XPO’s Chief Information Officer, emphasizes their commitment to keeping data private and ensuring the relevance and accuracy of responses through stringent control over data usage

The Britain-based Phlo Systems has recently introduced an AI-powered chatbot for customs declarations, replacing a previous system reliant on a list of frequently asked questions, said Chief Executive Saurabh Goyal. The chatbot offers straightforward responses to inquiries, such as the type of declaration needed for importing fish from a European country. Currently, the chatbot handles approximately 70% to 80% of queries, with the remainder escalated to human staff for resolution.

DFDS, a regional shipping company in Denmark, has initially employed generative AI for software development, with an eye toward potential future applications in customer support. Rune Keldsen, the company’s Chief Technology Officer, underscores the need for sensitivity regarding the quality of responses generated by generative AI, “What we need to be very sensitive about is, what is the quality of the answers you can get out of generative AI? Generative AI is very strong at large data sets and crunching large amounts of data, but it’s less strong at ensuring the predictability of the answers that come out.”

From tracking shipments and booking loads to simplifying customs declarations, generative AI is already finding applications that streamline operations.

As logistics companies venture into the realm of generative AI, they do so with cautious optimism. The promise of cost savings, operational efficiency, and enhanced customer experiences is compelling, but the stakes are high in an industry where precision is paramount.

OMAN PIONEERS SEA-TO-AIR CARGO LINK VIA SALALAH AIRPORT

In a groundbreaking move, Oman Airports, a state-owned entity under the Oman Investment Authority, has successfully launched a test flight for a sea-to-air cargo operation through Salalah Airport. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Oman’s transportation and logistics sectors, bridging the divide between maritime and aviation logistics.

Seamless Integration via Sea and Air Transport

The journey commenced with three shipping containers departing from Colombo, Sri Lanka, destined for Salalah Port. After a smooth voyage, the containers arrived at Salalah Port, marking the successful completion of the maritime leg of this innovative transportation endeavor.

The next phase involved the efficient and secure transfer of the cargo by land from the port to Salalah Airport, ensuring the shipment’s integrity. From Salalah Airport, the cargo departed via air for Egypt’s Cairo International Airport (CAI), demonstrating the practicality and viability of this new sea-to-air cargo connection.

Significance of the Sea-to-Air Link

This pioneering sea-to-air cargo link represents Oman’s first of its kind, showcasing the nation’s commitment to advancing its transportation and logistics sectors. By seamlessly connecting sea and air transportation modes, Oman Airports aims to optimize logistics operations, reduce transit times, and offer a practical logistics solution, especially beneficial for industries requiring time-sensitive handling, such as perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value products.

This pioneering sea-to-air cargo link represents Oman’s first of its kind, showcasing the nation’s commitment to advancing its transportation and logistics sectors. By seamlessly connecting sea and air transportation modes, Oman Airports aims to optimize logistics operations, reduce transit times, and offer a practical logistics solution, especially beneficial for industries requiring time-sensitive handling, such as perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value products. This innovative integration of sea and air cargo operations signifies a transformative step forward for Oman’s transportation and logistics industries, promoting efficiency, reliability, and competitiveness in the global market. It is poised to create new opportunities for businesses operating in time-critical sectors and strengthen Oman’s position as a logistics hub in the region.

CSS EXPANDS GLOBAL FOOTPRINT WITH NEW OFFICE BRANCH IN NAIROBI, KENYA

The Autumn of 2023 has brought a major milestone for Consolidated Console Shipping Services (CSS) as they proudly announced the inauguration of their new branch office in Nairobi, Kenya. This strategic move underscores CSS’s commitment to expanding their global reach and tapping into the vast potential of the African market. It also represents CSS’s commitment to fostering stronger connections with clients and partners in Africa, while underscoring their dedication to providing tailored solutions and services to meet the unique needs of this dynamic market.

CSS looks forward to building lasting relationships and contributing to the growth and development of the African business landscape. By establishing their presence in Africa, CSS can now tap into the immense opportunities that the region offers and expand their global footprint. In an official communication addressed to stakeholders, clients, and employees, CSS expressed their enthusiasm about this significant development. The company’s new office in Nairobi will not only serve as a symbol of their commitment to growth but also open doors to a vibrant and diverse business landscape in Africa.

The foremost goal of CSS is to provide outstanding services and products from this establishment. The Kenyan offices of CSS will serve as an entry point into the African market, allowing them to capitalize on the rich tapestry of the region’s culture and business environment. This expansion reflects the commitment of CSS to delivering tailored solutions and forging meaningful connections in Africa.

CSS believes that their presence in Nairobi, can help them to better understand and respond to the evolving needs of their African clientele. This move also signifies their dedication to fostering local partnerships and contributing to the economic growth and development of Kenya and the broader African continent. CSS is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as they embark on this new chapter of their global journey.

This strategic step of setting up a brand in Kenya aligns perfectly with Groups extended-term vision and expansion strategy. The inauguration of new branch in Kenya serves as a tangible testament to the collective dedication and determination of the entire CSS team. Such a milestone could not have been reached without the collaborative spirit, innovative mindset, and unwavering loyalty that each member of CSS family brings to the organization.

This expansion aligns perfectly with CSS’s long-term vision and growth strategy, demonstrating the dedication to staying at the forefront of the shipping and logistics industry. The launch of the Kenya branch stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire CSS family, reflecting the company’s core values and commitment to excellence.

As CSS ventures into this exciting chapter, you can be sure of their resolute in providing exceptional services, engaging with new markets, and contributing positively to the
communities that they serve. Look forward to an exciting future filled with growth and success, with a strong presence in Africa, is poised to leverage new opportunities, foster innovation, and continue their legacy of excellence in the shipping and logistics industry

LCL IMPORT SERVICE FROM KOCHI TO JEBEL ALI

A YEAR ON…

1. What have been the challenges of the first year of operations?

CSS eLogix is ecstatic to announce that we have completed one year in E-commerce fulfilment operation. The big E-commerce push post-pandemic has been enormous due to the comfort and ease at which an individual can shop anything online with just a click of a button. This has only fuelled the demand for online shopping world-wide and here in UAE, online shopping is the new norm or vogue. We are new players in this sector but one primary objective for us as a business unit was to elevate the customer experiences and better than other fulfilment companies. That has been our tag line for our operations and as a novice player, we have gone above and beyond to reinvent the wheel when it comes to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Our operational efficiency in pick and pack accuracy has been close to 99.7% but, if the customer service is below par, then as an e-commerce fulfilment company we have failed. So, it is imperative that both operations and customer satisfaction go hand in hand without failing on either aspect. When I look back, we had several obstacles, but we faced it with an optimism to be one step further than our last benchmark. Although we were thorough in our market research and understood what was required for us to get a foothold, we were always competing against ourselves to meet the daily challenges and achieve the targeted milestone.

The high standards we placed on ourselves have helped our clients to generate trust on us with their commodity and as we mark one year, I am proud to say that CSS eLogix that started in a little fulfilment room has now its own state-of-the-art fulfilment centre, product experts, multi-lingual customer service team, advanced omni-channel ERP software and professionally trained Last Mile Partners (LMD).

Customer service satisfaction is directly proportional to which LMD partner we use in the market. Within a year in operations, we recognized the perfect LMD that suited most demands of our customers. Therefore, our research based on their delivery success and locations data gave us an understanding of a successful LMD we can rely on. CSS eLogix’s data collected over time ensured that we are partnered only with the best Last Mile delivery partners who we can trust with our vision and objectives towards our clients.

2. How many clients do we service now?

Our first step into the market as an e-commerce fulfillment business started off with a strong and successful Top Tier Client. Working with them and their team has impelled us to the limits from the very word ‘Get-Go’ and this aided us in setting high standards and benchmarks on a regular basis. It has been a steep learning curve and we were always humbled and proud to work with our very first client. However, this did not put the brakes on instead propelled us to be hungrier for greatness.

3. What are the plans for the future?

Our plans for the future are in conjunction with the same speed and commitment to which this great country, UAE moves. In UAE, everything happens in lighting speed and in the blink of an eye, there are new developments in every corner. Such is the commitment shown by the UAE government towards its residents and as such there is no slowing down to the efforts put onto make an individual’s life at ease. We want to be in touching distance with technological advancements and contribute more to Dubai’s economy through a fully efficient and functional e-commerce fulfilment centre. In order to achieve this, my vision for the future is categorially simple by focusing on quality over quantity, technology, and our last mile delivery partners.

Strategy 1 : Improve Quality and provide Quality

Success is an art that can only be achieved through perfection, but most business do not heed the quality that is required for being successful here in Dubai. I am here for the long haul and for CSS eLogix to be regarded a success the right quality control mechanisms should be in place. Otherwise, the competition and compliance are so stiff that your business might be challenging to grow. I want to emphasize more on quality service by hiring experts, identify crucial KPI’s for improvement and recognising critical areas to meet strategic objectives.

Strategy 2 : Technological Advancement

One of the key agendas of fulfilment service development for any online shopping business in Dubai should be ensuring faster last-mile delivery. Logistics is a big problem, not only in Dubai but also in the Gulf region in general. Our in-house developed software ensures, there is real time delivery tracking information provided for the client’s ease but even then, deliveries across UAE can get tad bit difficult. This is specially the case when a client do not wish to disclose their private address. However, in the last 1 year of operation, CSS eLogix has been looking for ways to improve delivery services through ultra modern expertise. As a result, we have partnered with What3Words (W3W) – an app that transforms a physical address of an individual’s home into 3 words. These 3 words can be any word generated by the W3W app and the novelty here is that the whole earth is divided into tiny square meters. Each Square represents 3 words and effectively this square differentiates a building’s front door to that of back door giving accurate shipment drop-off points. This is relatively at its primary stage but partnering with W3W, we are aspiring to raise awareness of such technological advances with all our clients. Using such geo-tagging apps will increase the speed &accuracy and reduce the returns in delivery system.

Strategy 3 : Contribute to e-commerce ecosystem

Over the years and especially post-pandemic Dubai has built a fantastic eco-system to cater for online business activities. We want to be major players going forward in this eco-system and as a result we are always striving to bring innovative ideas, learn from the best and improve in terms of services and provide extraordinary customer satisfaction. Here at CSS eLogix Fulfilment centre our services must provide the benefits of the best and upcoming tech trends to support e-commerce. We have a commitment towards our clients and hence I am hoping CSS eLogix will bring in the latest technological additions to keep up with the bubbling trends within the e-commerce industry.

HELPING HANDS FOR TURKEY – DONATION CAMPAIGN IN THE UAE

CSS extended our helping hands to the Turkish Consulate and Turkish Business Council by providing our warehouse and staff in Al Quoz as part of the disaster relief program. CSS Group joined hands with Esskay Logistics under the patronage of the Turkish Consulate and Turkish Business Council. This unprecedented humanitarian effort was launched to collect, sort, and dispatch tons of relief material to Turkey. UAE residents had come together in large numbers to send relief items for those impacted by the deadly earthquake in Turkey and Syria. The collection drive was a combined campaign by the Turkish Consulate in Dubai, the Turkish Business Council, and Turkish Airlines.

The Aid Efforts

CSS Homeward-Bound warehouse opened its doors to residents and volunteers who worked round the clock accepting donations, listing, packaging, and arranging the logistics to move the items from Dubai to Turkey. Donations like blankets, food items, clothing, items for children, medicines, and many more relief materials were packed at the warehouse in Al Quoz. The three-day campaign saw thousands of residents of various nationalities making their way with donations to the warehouse. Turkish authorities had made a list of relief materials that can be donated. “The material to be donated must have never been used before and must be suitable for winter conditions”, a campaign message to residents had earlier read.

The items collected included all types of winter clothing required for adults and children, coats, raincoats, boots, jumpers, trousers, gloves, scarves, berets, socks, and underwear. As for food, durable canned food and baby food were also collected. The Consulate had also asked for baby diapers, hygiene and cleaning materials, and sanitary napkins. Also, items like tents, bedding, mattresses, blankets, sleeping bags, tube stoves, heaters, thermos, flashlights (excluding battery), and generators were collected and packed at the warehouse.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake and its Aftermath

The earthquake struck southern and central Turkey and western Syria on February 6. The 7.8 magnitude earthquake unleashed devastation in southern Turkey and Syria. A total of three powerful earthquakes struck the region in less than 24 hours, claiming more than 40,000 people. It not only caused huge loss of life in both Turkey and Syria, but also led to thousands of injuries, displacement of people from their homes, and substantial damages. Many rescue teams from around the world have been assisting Turkey and Syria with aid and relief work.

Yunis Sezar, head of Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management said, “We are in front of perhaps the biggest disaster we have faced in history. The death toll due to the earthquakes rose to 40,642, and the work of searching and rescue for people stuck under the debris is in the process.” World Health Organization said 26 million people in Turkey and Syria need aid. Seventy countries and 14 international organizations have offered Turkey relief following the quake, Tayyip Erdoğan (President of Turkey) said, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the UAE, Israel, and Russia.

The CSS CSR Efforts

At CSS, our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is part of our core belief. Our CSR efforts enables us to be socially accountable to ourselves, our stakeholders, and the public. The corporate social responsibility initiatives of CSS have always positively impacted all aspects of society be it economic, social, and environmental.
We have always been at the forefront of providing support at times of natural calamities in and around the region and beyond. The team at the warehouse at Al Quoz tirelessly helped with sorting, packing, and dispatching relief material along with other volunteers. After receiving an overwhelming response from scores of members of the community and Turkish expats the organizers had to extend the campaign by a day.

Roshmon Manoli, Vice President, of Freight Forwarding, Consolidated Shipping Group (CSS Group), said, “As part of the larger CSR mission initiated by our Chairman – T.S. Kaladharan, CSS has always been providing support at times of natural calamities in and around the region. Keeping the same humanitarian spirit intact, CSS has extended its aid to the Turkish Consulate and Turkish Business Council by providing our warehouse and staff in Al Quoz as part of the disaster relief program. Supplies will be collected and we welcome the contribution of the larger community during these difficult times for the people of Turkey.”

UAE to Turkey with Love

Under the directives of the leadership of UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAEswung into action from Day 1 of the earthquake. UAE has been continually sending relief aid to those affected by the earthquake in Syria and Turkey, as part of “Gallant Knight/2”. 37 cargo planes carrying food and medical supplies and shelters for the affected people have been operating from Dubai to Istanbul. Planes have been dispatched to Turkey and Syria with emergency aid, food, medical supplies and rescue teams. In the UAE, volunteers ,humanitarian organizations, and government entities are coming together to mobilize relief. The Emirates Red Crescent is leading a ‘Bridges of Good’ campaign, through which residents have been offering help.

“We are very pleased that the Emirati leadership offered us a helping hand in this moment of distress, and sent teams to deal with it. We are touched by their contributions said Mustafa İlker Kılıç, Consul General of the Turkey Consulate.

In keeping the spirit of the leadership of this nation, CSS has always stepped in with resources and efforts for the hurting world. T.S. Kaladharan, the Chairman of CSS has always been encouraging the teams at CSS to stretch our helping hand to anyone who needs it. He emphasized, “Humanism is when we look out for each other. We might not be able to change the whole world by ourselves, but we surely need to do our bit”.

CSS SHIPS FERRARI 812 SUPERFAST FOR THE GUMBALL 3000 MIDDLE EAST AUTO RACE

CSS Automobile Logistics division proves it again by delivering the Ferrari 812 Superfast for the 2022 Gumball
3000 Dubai to Abu Dhabi Middle East Rally.

With CSS’s expertise in handling luxury and sports cars, CSS was entrusted by our network partner Rhenus Logistics Canada to undertake this critical automobile movement. We were tasked to airfreight the “Ferrari 812 Superfast” from Germany to Dubai. Furthermore, it had to be door delivered to the customer in Dubai.

Upon arrival at Dubai Airport, CSS Projects coordinated with the CSS Airport team. With the assistance of our
in-house documentation and clearance facilities, it had fast-track clearance with ATA Carnet. This super luxury car
was loaded onto a special low truck to ensure safe movements. It was safely and securely transported and
delivered to the customer’s doorstep. This super fine Italian car had arrived from Germany for one purpose, the 2022 Gumball 3000 Dubai to Abu Dhabi Middle East Rally.

Gumball 3000
Gumball 3000 was founded in 1999 by British entrepreneur Maximillion Cooper. Gumball 3000 is a car rally that has taken thousands of supercars and entrants on an epic journey across the globe, touching down on every continent to create one of the greatest bucket lists experiences possible behind the wheel.

This year’s rally started in the futuristic city of Dubai. After the flag-off in Downtown Dubai, the epic adventure blazed a trail through the arid desert country. The rally took a circular route through the amazing country of Oman before the finale in Abu Dhabi. Along the way, they passed through the best roads the region has to offer alongside some once-in-a-lifetime cultural experiences unique to the region.

The major stops were at Jebel Akhdar, Salalah, Muscat, and Ras Al Khaimah, along with several exciting
checkpoints. The Gumballers spent their weekend of VIP hospitality at the Yas Marina Circuit for the finale of the 2022 Formula 1 season – one of the most sought-after and glamorous events on the world’s sporting calendar. The event took place between 12-20th November 2022.

Securing the ATA Carnet

Securing the ATA Carnet for this “Ferrari 812 Superfast” was critical for this operation. The ATA Carnet is often referred to as the “Passport for Goods”. The acronym ATA stands for “Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission”. This international customs document permits the tax-free and duty-free temporary export and import of nonperishable goods for up to one year. It consists of unified customs declaration forms, which are prepared and ready to use at every border crossing point.

It is a globally accepted guarantee for customs duties and taxes, which can replace the security deposit required by each customs authority. The ATA carnet is now the document most widely used for international operations involving temporary admission of goods.

CSS – Experts at Handling Luxury and Sports Cars

Our in-house documentation and clearance teams handled these tasks smoothly and promptly secured the necessary documentation. The tireless efforts of the CSS Auto Logistics team in this operation are highly commendable. The Automobile Logistics division has shown remarkable performance in handling luxury & sports cars. From auto racks that allow for effective and environmentally friendly loading of vehicles in shipping containers to specialized handling of high-end vehicles door-to-door, the division has become a trusted name in such deliveries in the region and beyond.

The CSS Project operations and CSS Airport team were instrumental in successfully completing this project. With its expertise in import and export requirements, customs regulations, licenses & consular documentation, the Airport Team enabled seamless workflow during the entire operation. The Project team, under the leadership of Arun P, took care of every logistical aspect of the project, considering the complexity of the cargo. The team’s collaborative effort helped us complete the task in the most effective and efficient way.

To airfreight, a luxury car requires both strategic planning and tactical expertise. Over the last few years, CSS has handled various such operations successfully. Today it is one of the most sought-after logistical partners in the region for transporting and delivering luxury and sports cars across borders

CLAIM FOR MISDELIVERY OF CARGO – LIABILITY OF THE CARRIER AND DEFENCE OF TIME BAR.

The Commercial Court, in September 2022, handed down the judgment in FIM Bank vs. KCH Shipping ([2022] EWHC 2400(Comm)), an Appeal under Section 69 of the Arbitration Act, 1996, holding that the time bar in Article III Rule 6 of the Hague Visby Rules can apply to claims in relation to misdelivery after discharge. This case marks a significant milestone since the English Court had never decided on this important question earlier.

In this case, 13 sets of Bills of Lading dated 04 and 14 March 2018 on the Congenbill Form were issued “TO ORDER” for and on behalf of the Master of the Vessel, M/V Giant Ace, for about 85,510 MT in aggregate of coal in bulk. KCH had bareboat chartered the Vessel from Mirae Wise SA (a Panama Company and registered owner of the Vessel). The consignment of coal was loaded in Indonesia and arrived at the Indian ports of Jaigarh and Dighi around two weeks later. The Original Bills of Lading were unavailable at the discharge port, so the cargo was discharged into stockpiles at Indian Ports between 01 and 18 April 2018 against the letter of Indemnity issued to the carriers, KCH Shipping, by the Vessel Charterers. Unbeknown to KCH Shipping, FIMBANK had financed its customer’s purchase of the coal cargo and had been left unpaid under its financing arrangement.

Joy Thattil
Maritime Lawyer & Partner @ Callidus
Dubai, Singapore & India
joy@calliduscmc.com

Art. III Rule 6 of Hague – Visby Rule reads as “the Carrier and the Ship shall, in any event, be discharged from all liability whatsoever in respect of the goods unless a suit is brought within one year of their delivery or of the date when they should have been delivered.” While deciding the matter, the Arbitration Tribunal stated that the claim was time-barred. FIM Bank brought an appeal to the High Court under Section 69 of the Arbitration Act, 1996, and dismissed the Appeal, making it clear that the Time bar provision applies to this case.

Not only in shipping but in any transport industry, the liability under misdelivery of the cargo can have a
significant impact on a carrier. A Bill of Lading is referred to as a document of title, which gives the holder of the Bill of Lading the right to possession of cargo carried under it, and the endorsement and delivery of the Bill of Lading transfer the right of possession of the cargo to the endorsee. Thereby it is settled law that a carrier who misdelivers the cargo (for any reason whatsoever) is liable for any consequential loss suffered by the holder of the Original Bill of Lading.

FIM Bank wanted to exercise what it considered to be its security for the financing by demanding the delivery of the cargo under the Bills of Lading, of which it claimed to be the lawful holder. Unfortunately for FIM Bank, by the time it tried to exercise its security, the cargo had already been discharged from the Vessel and had been collected by the local receivers. FIM Bank brought a claim in Arbitration under the Bills of Lading. However, FIM Bank commenced the Arbitration against KCH Shipping on 24 April 2020, following an apparent misunderstanding over the identity of the carrier. The preliminary issue in the Arbitration was the claim by FIM Bank was time-barred because the Arbitration commenced after more than 12 months from the date of delivery of the cargo.

However, this case by FIM Bank has marked a blessing to the Ship owners and the carriers under the Bills of Lading. It is also worth noting that one of the main purposes of the Visby Amendment to Article III Rule 6, which substituted the words “discharged from the liability whatsoever in respect of the goods” for the former expression “discharged from all liability in respect of loss or damage” in the Hague Rules was supposedly to ensure that the One-year time bar applied to cases of misdelivery (Deep Sea Maritime Ltd vs. Monjasa A/S, 2018).

JAFZA AND THE JEBEL ALI PORT – A SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP

Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai’s largest free zone, is one of the world’s most modern free zones. Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is the flagship free zone of DP World and is an integral part of DP World, UAE’s integrated business hub. Companies looking for a base in the Middle East region will find Jebel Ali Free Zone as the ideal location. The Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is a community and ecosystem where industries such as logistics, electronics & electrical, automotive, food and agriculture, e-commerce, petrochemicals, and many more thrive. It offers customizable manufac- turing plots, light industrial units (LIUs), warehouses, offices, and ready-to-move-in showrooms. Apart from this, it provides a dedicated area of over 3.4 million square meters to SMEs, multinationals, and businesses.

Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) ‘s proximity to Jebel Ali Port, Al Maktoum International Airport has helped it become an ideal hub for global trade and a well integrated business setup solution provider.

Jebel Ali Port and JAFZA are a winning combination

One of the biggest advantages of Jafza is its proximity to the Jebel Ali Port. It is the largest port between Rotterdam and Singapore, and can handle all types of cargo, including breakbulk, through its 1.4 million square meters general cargo terminal.

• It has a quay length of 5 km with 27 berths, and a 1.2 million sqm GC Yard makes it ideal for efficient export and import of building materials.
• The region’s busiest port offers the construction sector a seamless and transparent supply chain to transport raw materials or the end product.
• It provides construction companies access to over 3.5 billion existing and potential consumers in the MEASA region.
• The port also provides value-added services like assembling, warehousing, transport management, manufacturing, and fabrication facilities.

Jafza is continually attracting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and multinationals owing to facilities that will help set up their base in the free zone and expand the reach of their products in the Middle East and Africa, its senior official says.

The multimodal transportation model at JAFZA

Ebtesam Al Kaabi, head of sales at the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), says that DP World has invested heavily to ensure that sea, land, and air connectivity is offered to customers.

• A logistics corridor connects the Port with Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport.
• A dedicated sea-air customs bonded corridor connects a sea-air box within 45 minutes of discharge. This benefits clients in any industry, including the building materials and construction sector, and helps to reach their customers efficiently.
• Soon-to-be-completed Etihad Rail will have a depot within the Jebel Ali facility and will help connect UAE to the GCC region.

This multimodal transportation model has ensured that the free zone supports 12,300 port customers.

Jebel Ali Port holds the key

Jebel Ali Port’s expansive reach to over 150 ports and 80 weekly services to large high-growth markets help free zone companies meet the growing regional and global demand for construction materials. The port’s growth figures over the last ten years demonstrate its competen- cies. From 2011 to 2021, the port handled combined volumes in containers and breakbulk of up to one billion metric tonnes of iron & steel and construction material.

Competitive ocean freight rates, operational flexibility, landside conversion, land for storage, and logistics facili- ties are some of the key features that have led to the growth of the Jebel Ali Free Zone. The free zone has evolved into a trade catalyst and an intelligent business communi- ty that offers unprecedented growth opportunities and market access.

WHAT LIES AHEAD FOR THE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY IN 2023

It has been a tumultuous two years for the global logistics industry. Global supply chain disruptions, port congestion, capacity shortages, increasing ocean freight rates, material and staff shortages, and geo-political crisis have challenged shippers, ports, carriers, and logistics providers. It has adversely affected business competitiveness. According to DP World, the ongoing inflation and geo- political crisis will constrain the global supply chain for the next five years. The logistics and supply chain are continually evolving to get materials and products from origin to destination more quickly and efficiently.

Top five tools which will help the industry to navigate 2023

Flexible logistics strategies these last few years have been marked by a tremendous economic impact due to the pandemic in which the flow of goods and demand forecasts are often challenging to predict due to multiple factors affecting consumer habits. Therefore, in a landscape of increased uncertainty, the supply chain must gain agility with flexible logistics strategies with improved resilience. This is possible with an emphasis on the role of data analytics to attain end-to-end visibility in supply chain operations to quickly identify disruptions and take the necessary counter measurements. The key to building flexible logistical strategies would be:

• Big data analytics for prediction.
• Internet for Things: IoT devices help in real-time object identification & tracking, ensuring items’ safety, delivery time frame, and other supply chain assistance.
• Artificial Intelligence and machine learning for intelligent workflow automation and new customer experiences.

In 2023, the industry will increasingly leverage these capabilities to boost its overall productivity further.

The blockchain

Blockchain technology can increase the security,efficiency, and reliability of all tracking and data management forms. The logistics industry benefits from decentralized ledgers, more innovative inventory management, and alleviating many global trade bottlenecks, including procurement, transportation management, track and trace, customs collaboration, and trade finance.

The logistics sector, which remains fairly paper-heavy, especially in the documentation of custom clearance and other processes, is likely to change in the future. Blockchain solutions will enable paperless cross-border transactions. With this technology, product history can be captured as it moves to the end customer, making transactions foolproof and significantly reducing trade barriers.

Green logistics

Sustainability is the order of the day in the logistics sector. Customers have been willing to pay extra for more sustainable options in the last five years. In UAE, strategic plans have been made to achieve Net-Zero emissions by 2050.

There is a growing trend towards the circular supply chain, which aims to encourage companies to reuse certain waste and products returned by customers to recondition them and bring them back to the market. Only 8.5% of society’s total material consumption is recycled or reused now. Nonetheless, this will gradually change as logistics enterprises continue capitalizing on opportunities across all supply chain segments to step up their sustainability efforts. This will drive companies to explore more ways to make their products greener, starting with their supply chains. Moreover, the region’s long-term goals are to transition to climate neutrality in the next three decades.

In 2023, these collaborative robots will be critical to improving worker safety, productivity, and customer satisfaction. Plenty of companies have upscaled their supply chain with such a holistic integration.

The shift to autonomous vehicles & equipment

An autonomous vehicle that can drive itself with fewer human interventions is being set as another new trend in the logistics industry. Autonomous cars do take advantage of using AI-based technology to optimize travel routes too. Autonomous technology is expected to benefit drivers and bring additional safety. Beyond 2022, it’s almost certain that autonomous vehicles and equipment will maintain their position as a leading trend in the logistics and supply chain sector. In anticipation of a booming lithium-ion battery market to enable the shift to autonomous vehicles, DHL launched the region’s first compliant facility for EV batteries and other dangerous goods.

By 2050, electric vehicles are predicted to make up more than half of all cars on the road, including those used in the logistics industry, which will significantly improve energy use, reduce emissions and benefit the environment. The 23,478-square-metre EV and battery logistics hub in Dubai features a 652-square-meter EV battery storage area, which can be expanded to 2,000 square-meter to support future growth. The hub paves the way for a circular EV economy, where batteries can be stored, recycled, repaired, and processed at the end of life to ensure long-term sustainability. Moreover, it facilitates the antici- pated shift to electrified transport, especially for last-mile delivery.

Enhanced human-machine collaboration

Integrating robotics in logistics helps decrease human error and increase productivity reasonably. Rather than robots replacing humans, they will complement them, especially in manual work and repetitive tasks, thereby bringing in the required efficiency. This digitalization is expected to make jobs more attractive, creating a win-win situation for both employers and employees.

This collaborative shift, where humans and machines work together, will help

• Deliver speed and efficiency.
• Provide safer work environments and employees’ well-being.
• Help employers to re-assign employees to manage higher-value tasks.

Automated storage, delivery & retrieval are the steps to this trend. Delivery drones are the dream “last mile automation” being pursued by a few companies.

Looking forward to 2023

In the Middle East, global retail e-commerce sales are expected to hit $50 billion by 2025. This is an opportunity for logistics players to expand their regional operations further over the year ahead. Regional infrastructure, air, and road capabilities have been invested in meeting the growing global trade demand. These are already driving growth in fulfillment operations across the region.

Logistics operators are already planning by utilizing early intelligence, tools, and technologies to stay ahead of anticipated disruptions, such as fluctuations in oil prices and geo-political tensions. With the digitization of the logistics industry, there will be more changes in the coming years. Logistic companies will leverage technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud, automation, robotics, block- chain, big data, and IOT to provide their customers with intelligent and innovative logistics solutions.

Furthermore, logistics companies will also have to rethink their business strategies to survive in the rapidly evolving logistics market. While uncertainty continues to be a significant concern, integrating innovative technologies and adapting to the changing environment will be the key for today’s leaders to navigate the challenges.

Chairman’s Message

“An organization’s ability to learn, and translate that learning into action rapidly, is the ultimate competitive advantage,” remarked Jack Welch, the former CEO of General Electric. This adage gains more significance today than at any other time in history.

The pandemic has ruthlessly exposed the systemic vulnerability of the global supply chain over the past few years. Global indicators tell us that the supply chain scenario may worsen in the coming months. The war in Ukraine and the re-emergence of new Covid variants have further constrained cargo movement. The invasion of Ukraine has complicated the logistics world map. We see major shipping lines avoiding the Baltic and Black Seas, insurers hiking premiums, and major European ports flagging Russian vessels.

Further, Singapore’s world’s largest refueling port has seen a 66% increase in marine fuel price from last year. Port level inefficacy continues. We expect air and sea freight rates to remain high until the middle of the year. All these have a domino-like negative compounding effect across various markets.

Be Future-Ready!

While we wrap up the second quarter, let us look at what lies ahead for us in the next season. The disruption caused by Covid has been experienced in full force by the emerging markets. We can be optimistic that some of the factors contributing to this will unwind by the end of the year. Experts predict some uneven recovery for emerging logistics markets shortly.

At CSS, we must prepare for the very first sign of recovery. Taking a cue from Jack Welch’s statement, the ability to learn and unlearn quickly builds stronger organizations. The key to healing and growth in the next ten years would be technology adoption. And this will be particularly relevant for emerging markets like the UAE.

Transport Intelligence and Agility research reveal that the UAE tops the Digital Readiness ranking for adaptability and preparedness for the digitally-driven and sustainable post-pandemic global economy. Emerging markets rely heavily on technology, innovation, skills, and sustainability to unlock a country’s potential and integrate into global value chains.

Digitization – The Game Changer

Digitization and innovation will be the game-changer. Smaller and medium-scale companies lacking scale can attain competitive advantage with a digitally skilled workforce, a globally compatible and future-oriented mindset, and entrepreneurial risk culture.

This is an opportunity beckoning us. Today, CSS is a quarter of a century strong. Steady with our experience, resolute with our determination, and distinct in our value offering. We have consistently adapted to changing economic scenarios. While we brace ourselves to weather this rough season, let us make it a season of opportunity. An opportunity to look for new avenues, unlearn old ways, learn new skills, innovate, and think differently. Our agility is the reason why we stand tall today. It is best summed up in the quote by the futurist Alvin Toffler, “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.”

Once again, let’s come together, learn, and unlearn. And together, we will emerge all the stronger.

CSS TEAM PARTICIPATES IN BREAKBULK, EUROPE 2022 AT ROTTERDAM

After a break due to the pandemic, Team CSS participated as an exhibitor in the prestigious and the biggest project cargo Breakbulk event at Rotterdam. The team was helmed by Chairman T.S Kaladharan, Krishna, Chandrakala, Ramesh, Sunny, Robin and Renjith.

At this landmark event, a few freight forwarders represented the Middle East region, and CSS was one of them. “The customer interaction, meetings ( both scheduled and Adhoc), and connecting with the networks were encouraging and having our team of experts made it extra special.” Sunny commented.

Strategic Networking and Deep Learnings

The Breakbulk exhibition offered an opportunity for forging strategic alliances and networking with companies worldwide. The event also provided a platform for deep discussions on the latest developments and new trends in handling breakbulk and project cargo. At CSS, the project team has well-versed and experienced personnel with in-depth knowledge of the domain. Adeptly skilled at handling breakbulk and project cargo, we have been able to tap into several opportunities from across the Middle East region. The exhibition has further cemented the team’s prowess with several prospects in the pipeline. The team will also leverage the learnings and key takeaways from the Breakbulk event to forge new ideas and innovations in handling future projects.

Breakbulk Europe – 2022

The International Exhibition of Transport, Logistics, and Transport Innovations, Breakbulk Europe – 2022, was held at Rotterdam in the Netherlands. Held from May 17th to May 19th, thousands of companies from 118 countries took part in the exhibition. The top representation was from countries in Europe and also from the United States of America. Nearly 9000 attendees were present at this event in Rotterdam.

Exhibitors and sponsors included cargo owners, ocean carriers, freight forwarders, ports/terminals, heavy haulers, equipment companies, specialized freight forwarders, and other associated service providers. More than 500 exhibitors and 4000 companies took part in Breakbulk Europe-2022. The event fosters an atmosphere for building new business opportunities for all its participants and a marketplace for port companies, shipping companies, and logisticians who focus on transporting, handling, and storing breakbulk and project cargo.

The program was driven by the Breakbulk Europe Advisory Board, an exceptional group of leaders from across the supply chain spectrum. An event was birthed by several notable organizations like the Rotterdam Ahoy, Rotterdam Partners, the Municipality of Rotterdam, Rotterdam Port Promotion Council, and the Port of Rotterdam Authority. Hosted in six large inter-connected halls, the international visitors were welcomed at the breathtakingly impressive entrance of the building. The focus feature was the touchscreen which could be used to navigate the respective ports using a remarkable 360° tour.

Key Areas of Discussions

The three-day event, held in Rotterdam, was the first of its kind, providing a platform for numerous visitors to exchange ideas. An important topic discussed at the event was “optimal marine fuel to power the current and future generation of cargo vessels.” Ship owners should consider next-generation, scaled-down nuclear-powered engines and wind asset technology as the future fuels.There were 66 keynote speakers across 26 sessions. Popular sessions included Managing Rates & Capacities, Breakbulk and Project Market Outlook, Global Economic Conditions and Breakbulk, Women in Breakbulk, and Digitising End to End.

Breakbulk Europe was the largest event for the project cargo and breakbulk industry, bringing the industry leaders to congregate in the port city of Rotterdam. It was an expo for the industry, offshore wind, oil and gas companies, carriers, ports, logistics companies, specialized freight forwarders, and other associated service providers. In keeping with this scale of the show, the event slogan was “Bigger Better Breakbulk.”

Now for Breakbulk 2023

According to Port Authority Breakbulk Director Danny Levenswaard, the Breakbulk Europe will be held in Rotterdam Ahoy next year between June 6th to 8th. In 2023, Breakbulk Middle East is slated to be held between 13th-14th February. The team at CSS has expressed our earnest interest in being part of this landmark event by offering our service and being the industry leaders in the logistics landscape of the region we operate in.

The 2022 Breakbulk event was an unparalleled opportunity to connect with colleagues, new business partners, and project cargo decision-makers. The event helped forge new ties and a much-needed impetus to expand our business horizons.

CSS CELEBRATES THE SPIRIT OF RAMADAN WITH IFTAR MEAL DISTRIBUTION

As part of our Ramadan initiatives of giving, this year, CSS took a step forward by distributing iftar meals to the needy, reflecting the true essence of the holy month. We conducted the iftar food distribution drive on 29 April 2022 distributing 101 iftar meals to blue collar workers who toil hard under the hot sun during Ramadan

The team that went on the streets to fulfill the initiative included Alan Ramesh (Marketing Assistant), Rajeesh Rajendraprasad (Operation Co-ordinator), Chuchu Viswanathan (Operation Executive – Forwarding), Amal George (Operation Co-ordinator), Aneesh Leela (Messenger) and Babu Krishna Pillai (Messenger). The iftar meals were distributed in the Karama and Burjuman areas of Dubai.

The iftar initiative reflects CSS’s continued commitment to the community we operate in. Speaking about the Ramadan initiative, T S Kaladharan, Chairman of CSS, explained, “It is essential to foster a culture of caring and giving to inspire the next generation to be community builders.”

The Ramadan initiative extends CSS’s strategic corporate social responsibility goals and fosters a spirit of volunteerism within the organization. Kaladharan emphasized, “We are inspired by the spirit of giving exemplified by the great leadership of his wonderful nation. We want to drive  home the message of charity and social responsibility that is embedded in its tenets of our country.”

Ramadan is the holy season where goodness abounds, and CSS would like to show that we are not just about business, we also mean business regarding community building.

Click here to watch the video of the CSS Ramadan initiative:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyfgSNyBz3U

CSS CHAIRMAN T S KALADHARAN FELICITATES QADRI TRANSPORT FOR THEIR 20 YEARS OF SERVICE

In recognition of their entrepreneurial success, Chairman Mr. T. S. Kaladharan felicitated Mr. Qamar Sultan Qadri, Managing Director, Qadri Transport, commemorating the company’s long and reputable service in the industry.

20 Years of Operations

Recently, Qadri Transport completed 20 years of commendable operations in the UAE. Beginning with the forklift rental and repair business, Qadri Transport expanded into various business verticals in 2002. The business specializes in heavy transport, forklift rental and repairs, packing and packaging, and trade. The company has been associated with CSS for a long time, being a valued stakeholder in CSS operations. Apart from CSS, the company provides its services for several multinational companies, including Aramex, DHL, UPS, Caterpillar, Continental Alloys, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, and Expo 2020.

Qadri’s Journey So Far

The young Qamar Sulthan Qadri has reached this enviable position after considerable hardship. Having lost his father at 16, Qadri had to step in to work to bring in income for his family. He started as a forklift operator and worked his way up to being an owner of forklifts. His success can be attributed to his rock-solid values of honesty, integrity, and hard work. He also has an impeccable track record and, therefore, enjoys amicable relationships with his clients and also his team. Today, Qadri has a strong footing in the UAE, especially in the Jebel Ali Freezone. He has also added a brand-new mobile crane to his fleet.

Kaladharan Congratulates Qadri for the UAE Golden Visa

This timely recognition from the Chairman comes when the UAE government has awarded Mr. Qadri the Golden Visa. In an interview with Emirati TV Channel and Khaleej Times, Mr. Qadri has been distinguished as the first Pakistani recipient of the Golden Visa. He is also the youngest business person in his field.

The Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that enables foreign talents to live and work or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes are eligible for the Golden Visa.

On this heartening occasion, CSS team joins the Chairman in wishing Mr. Qadri and his company more tremendous success.