More and more logistics startups are making the difference in the Mediterranean region. All of them are using a variety of technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, to improve efficiency, reduce costs, increase transparency in the supply chain, and adopt sustainable practices. A good example of this is Tennders, a digital logistics startup based in Barcelona which in just three years has become a reference digital services aggregator for the road freight market in Europe. Through its SaaS model, the company connects carriers, shippers and operators on European scale by offering them custom solutions with the aim of reducing inefficiencies and empty trips, saving costs and time and reducing the carbon footprint.
Tennders is one of the startups that will share its experience in the logistics industry in the upcoming MedaLogistics Week Barcelona 2004, the Mediterranean Logistics & Transport Summit which will take place 5th and 6th of June in the framework of SIL Barcelona. Its CEO Mr. Mike Cuingnet will tell about the digital solutions they offer and how this company has revolutionized the logistics industry: “Our clients’ main needs revolve around efficiency, transparency and sustainability in road freight transport operations. Clients have always sought to minimize costs, but they are increasingly understanding that this requires optimizing their supply chains, reducing management times, and improving visibility throughout the logistics process. Additionally, there is a growing interest in practices that support sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint. In response to these demands, at Tennders we can offer custom solutions based on digitalization and technological innovation, adapting to the technological and digital levels of each company”.
For example, Tennders’ Freight Management System (FMS) is an accessible solution for any company size and allows them to offer a digital channel to their customers and suppliers in 1 hour. This is key regarding the automation of data capture, route optimization, and real-time collaboration between carriers, shippers and operators. Mr. Cuingnet reflects on the problem that Tennders solves: “A high number of trucks are currently circulating in Europe do so with empty or half-loaded trailers. In a sector as fragmented as this, companies have no way of knowing where their next load will be or where the available trucks for their shipments are. Reducing the number of kilometres that trucks have to travel empty, will not only allow cost savings or improve the profitability of companies. In addition, the optimization of routes directly impacts on reducing the emissions of pulling gases that vehicles generate. We consider that we can bring great value to SMEs companies that cannot afford to invest in large operation management and measurement systems”.
Reducing the number of kilometres that trucks have to travel empty, will not only allow cost savings or improve the profitability of companies. In addition, the optimization of routes directly impacts on reducing the emissions of pulling gases that vehicles generate
Within MedaLogistics, the CEO of Tennders will also talk about new business opportunities that have arisen from connecting carriers, shippers and operators. One of the most notable opportunities in this regard lies in laying the groundwork for the promotion of intermodal transport. In his opinion, “intermodal transport can positively transform the logistics landscape thanks to a cohesive network among transport providers, intermediaries and shippers”. To him, “this possibility for collaboration can not only improve operational efficiency and cost structure but also promote sustainability throughout the freight transport sector”.
Uniting three continents through Mediterranean logistics
On the celebration of its 20th anniversary, MedaLogistics Week Barcelona 2024 will focus on positioning the Mediterranean as a heavyweight hub for global trade and logistics by uniting three continents: Europe, Africa and Asia. In this context, Mr. Cuingnet points out that “due to its strategic position, the most urgent logistical priorities in the region are linked to the diversity of markets, political and economic volatility in certain countries, and the growing demand for efficiency and sustainability in supply chains”. To him, “it is a priority to promote cooperation in the Mediterranean region to facilitate the flow of goods, including the harmonization of regulations and custom procedures considering the exchanges from the Mediterranean countries.
The CEO of Tennders also believes that it is essential to strengthen the supply chain’s ability to anticipate, prepare for and adapt to unexpected interruptions: “This is critical in the specific case of the Mediterranean, which may be susceptible to geopolitical, natural or health challenges. The diversification of routes and suppliers, along with solid contingency planning, is key to maintaining the continuity of the logistics market in this area”.
Mr. Mike Cuingnet is optimistic about the future of the logistics sector in the Mediterranean: “Despite starting from a significant level of uncertainty, in the short term I believe that supply chain resilience will continue to be a critical issue, especially considering recent challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions. Thus, I believe that the set of energy transition, the digitalization of processes, and the ability to adapt to disruptive events will emerge as a new paradigm guiding transport planning in the coming years”. In addition, Mr. Cuingnet highlights that “cross-collaboration in the Mediterranean could be strengthened as the countries of the region look for ways to improve logistics infrastructure and transport connections”. In his opinion, “cooperation on projects such as transport corridors and logistics ports, as well as the harmonization of policies and custom regulations, will facilitate the flow of goods across borders and ultimately boost trade”.