The number of mergers and acquisitions deals undertaken by the largest European logistics companies leapt by 23% in 2003, suggesting that an appetite for acquisitive growth has returned to the industry.

The state-of-the-art logistics park in Zaragoza, Spain, has announced full occupation of first stage build, which coincides with the official European launch of the MIT-Zaragoza International Logistics Program in Madrid.

Logistics Link 2004 has proven to be yet another success with exhibitors all emphasising the quality calibre of visitors attending. High profile companies and organisations were among the visitors to this year’s exhibition, organised by Logistics Manag

Associated British Ports (ABP) has welcomed the Government’s response to the House of Commons’ Transport Select Committee’s wide-ranging report on ports.

The first train using Freightliner Heavy Haul’s Fully Enclosed Covered Autoflats has operated consisting of six Covered Autoflats and four TAL wagons, carrying products manufactured by Toyota, Lexus, Mitsubishi and Fiat.

The RTITB has introduced a new system of licensing for forklift truck operators and other mechanical handling equipment drivers. Called the National Operator Registration Scheme (NORS), the new scheme is designed to cover a multitude of areas including:

Teleroute, the online freight and vehicle exchange for the UK and Europe, and ABX (ABX), a leading provider of logistics services, have signed a European partnership whereby ABX will implement Teleroute products and services in all its European locations.

Wiltshire-based Rygor Group Services (RGS) is achieving monthly fuel efficiency improvements of up to 8% on some vehicles having implemented BP’s Fleet Performance Management (FPM) solution.

Kalon Decorative Products is midway through replacing its entire fleet of 3.5 tonne van with Iveco Daily City Trucks. More than 80 Dailys went into operation at Kalon during 2003, and similar numbers are expected to be ordered during 2004 and 2005.

Morris Transport, which specialises in transporting fresh meat, has specified Thermo King’s satellite-based Trac-King fleet management system on ten new Gray & Adams trailers. The units, which are equipped with Thermo King’s SL-400e refrigeration units, a