FLS is delighted to welcome on board, Sales Management Consultant Rob Thomas, born and bred in Caerphilly, South Wales. Rob joins the commercial team with a wealth of high performing technology sales experience gained from the full spectrum of the SaaS sales process experience from account management, customer success, and sales management.
After completing his degree in Media and Communications and after a start with Randstad Recruitment, Rob went into a six-year senior sales role with Oxford University Press – spearheading the organisations transition from print to digital delivery of educational materials – then 5 years at Wolters Kluwer in SaaS publishing in digital transformation in the healthcare sector – focusing on materials produced by doctors for doctors, developing improved medical decision making.
Rob enjoys watching and coaching football, holidaying with the family, red wine and all types of music.
Rob will be developing business sales, fully engaged in the digitalisation aspects of our service value chain, with specific focus on the promotion of ‘FLS emissions manager’ to customers requiring market leading accredited carbon emissions data. If you’d like to have a chat with him about your freight transport solution – contact him now [email protected]
Freight Logistics Solutions (FLS), a leading provider of road freight transport and UK customs, proudly announces it’s joining the Smart Freight Centre (SFC) community as a member to participate in the Sustainable Freight Buyers Alliance (SFBA). SFC is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to sustainable freight. The membership and participation with SFC is the cornerstone for FLS to introduce an accredited Emissions Calculation tool within its Emissions Manager platform. Endorsed by Smart Freight Centre, this use of an accredited tool underscores FLS’s commitment to supporting its clients with unparalleled levels of data and insight on freight shipments and market-leading accuracy in emissions calculations in conformance with the Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) framework.
FLS’ Emissions Manager platform is one of the first greenhouse gas emissions calculation platforms to receive support from the SFC, which draws data directly from the UK DVLA emissions test results of individual vehicles. This significant milestone highlights the company’s dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
“In today’s world, companies face increasing pressure to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability,” said Ieuan Rosser, CEO at FLS. “With this GLEC-accredited module as part of our emissions manager platform, we are proud to be able to support our clients in their journey towards recording and reducing their carbon footprint and becoming more environmentally and economically sustainable.”
“We are really pleased to be participating in the Smart Freight Week conference, FLS supports companies in defining and fostering sustainable processes for their transportation networks and ambition for reliable scope 3 emissions data. But, it’s not just about the accurate reporting of responsibilities, it’s what we do with that data to improve practices and your environmental footprint that really matters” added Christian Sourbutts, Director of Data & Technology. “Our accuracy in emissions calculations, enables profound impact assessments on a large scale, delivered simply via a dashboard inside our Client Portal.”
Neha Tripathi, Program Manager of Smart Freight Centre’s SFBA commented ‘It’s fantastic to have FLS join our community and we look forward to supporting them on their journey to further develop their class-leading emissions calculations’
Decarbonising the logistics sector is a complex challenge that surpasses the capacity of individuals and organisations to do so alone. Collaboration between organisations across the supply chain is essential for achieving this. By pooling resources, expertise, and innovation, stakeholders can create integrated solutions. Collaboration fosters a collective intelligence that accelerates the transition to a low-carbon future in the logistics sector.
FLS’s cloud-based emissions manager service offers global accessibility via a web browser. The platform easily interfaces with SAP and other ERP systems, ensuring seamless integration and setup for clients. With FLS’s extensive analytic tools, companies can focus on developing reduction measures for their carbon footprint while leveraging operational benefits from comprehensive emissions data.
If you’re looking to see how your company can benefit from our industry-leading client dashboard and emissions data, click here.
As quarter one for 2024 draws to a close, FLS are thrilled to reflect on the milestones and achievements that have marked our journey into the new financial year. In 2024, we’ve been dedicated to making waves and driving innovation in the industry, and we’re excited to share some of our accomplishments with you.
One of the highlights of this year has been being named as a finalist in prestigious awards, including the Wales Technology Awards (GreenTech) and CIPD Awards (Wellbeing). These acknowledgements underscore our unwavering commitment to excellence in technological innovation and our investment in the well-being and development of our people.
We’ve been hard at work introducing new and improved services to better serve our clients. With service offerings like FLS connect, FLS forward, and FLS customs, we’re continually refining and expanding our comprehensive logistics solutions to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
At FLS, we prioritise transparency, efficiency, and client satisfaction. That’s why we’ve enhanced our client portal to ensure that our services remain UK-leading, providing unparalleled transparency, efficiency and insight into our operations.
We’re proud to have welcomed on board a significant number of new customers and extended existing contracts. This growth is a testament to the trust and satisfaction our clients have in our services and we’re committed to continuing to exceed their expectations.
In a significant milestone, we secured a game-changing 5-year contract with Tri-Wall UK for our sector-leading ‘connect’ offering. This partnership solidifies our position as industry leaders in innovation, sustainability, and partnership and we’re excited about the opportunities it presents for both parties.
Listen to Gavin Peters, CEO of Tri-Wall UK, discuss here.
As we gear up for the rest of the year, we’re more excited than ever about the journey ahead. With our clients and partners, we’ll continue to push boundaries, exceed expectations and redefine what’s possible in supply chain logistics. With our dedication to innovation and service excellence, we’re excited for the rest of the year ahead.
2023-24 has been a year of investment, growth, innovation, and partnership for FLS. As we celebrate our achievements and look forward to the future, we remain committed to driving digitalisation, exceeding expectations, and delivering unparalleled value to our clients and partners.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and here’s to more success in the years to come.
In the ever-evolving landscape of global trade, the role of freight forwarding is undergoing a profound transformation. As businesses seek more efficient, transparent and sustainable solutions, digital freight forwarding has emerged as a beacon of innovation. At the forefront of this revolution in the UK is FLS connect, a cutting-edge service that embodies the principles of seamless logistics management and sustainability.
What is Freight Forwarding?
Freight forwarding entails the complex coordination of shipments across various modes of transportation, ensuring goods reach their destination safely and on time. Traditionally, this task has been carried out by freight forwarders, who navigate a labyrinth of logistics, paperwork and regulations to facilitate international trade.
Introducing FLS Connect
FLS connect stands as a testament to the power of innovation in logistics. Unlike traditional freight forwarding services, FLS connect leverages advanced digital technologies to streamline operations, enhance client visibility via FLS Client Portal and drive improved sustainability through our advanced carbon dashboard. By integrating FLS connect into their supply chain solution, businesses gain access to a comprehensive suite of services designed to optimise every aspect of their logistics operations.
Benefits of FLS Connect
FLS connect offers a multitude of benefits for both shippers and carriers, paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future in logistics.
For shippers, FLS connect provides:
For carriers, FLS offers:
Leveraging FLS connect for Seamless Logistics
Engaging FLS connect as their supply chain solution is a strategic move for businesses looking to stay ahead in today’s competitive market. By harnessing the power of digital, freight forwarding, businesses can unlock new levels of efficiency, visibility, customer care and sustainability in their logistics operations. With FLS connect, the future of logistics is within reach, offering a seamless and sustainable solution for businesses of all sizes.
The transport industry is one of the leading sources of carbon emissions, and it was interesting for our team to attend the Transporeon logistics summit in Barcelona last week, meeting with EU shippers and carriers discussing transforming road logistics and tackling scope 3 emissions whilst reviewing the requirements needed across the sector on their road to net zero.
It is clear from all the sector leaders that the HGV element of the sector is one of the most difficult to decarbonise, there is commitment and fantastic green shoots of progress with alternate fuel development, rail transportation, EV vehicles, and even autonomous trucks, however more investment and infrastructure improvements are needed to make these developments accessible for shippers.
From a UK perspective it was concerning to see the government back pedalling on key green policies last week, particularly with the five-year push back of for the phase out of petrol and diesel cars, while the HGV phase out dates have not been featured, expectations are the phase out dates are also likely to be at risk.
For now, and when increased further carbon efficient options are readily available the commitment must be on optimising and digitalising the overall process, through implementing stronger more intuitive technology and data insight into supply chains.
With both the UK and EU confirming that 30% of commercial vehicles on the road are being driven empty, there is an immediate impact in reducing carbon emissions through reducing this empty mileage.
FLS can provide a reduced carbon freight solution through empty mileage mitigation, combined with carbon tracking and reporting and a full commitment to continue the increased available options for alternate fuels, rail, and EV vehicles.
To find out how FLS can support your business in reducing carbon emissions then please get in touch.
Ieuan Rosser CEO
Award-Winning Freight Logistics Solutions Expands Team to Drive Business Growth
Freight Logistics Solutions (FLS) a renowned leader in digital freight forwarding and logistics industry, is proud to announce its continued commitment to business growth through the strategic expansion of its staff. FLS has recently made substantial investments in talent acquisition, welcoming five new professionals to its team over the past six weeks.
FLS is pleased to welcome Paula Sekei as its new customs manager. With an impressive 20 years of experience, Paula will provide expert guidance and support to FLS’s new customs clients, ensuring compliance and efficiency in their operations. The customs team is growing steadily providing customers with excellent advice, support, export and import declarations and transit documents.
Megan Dwyer has joined FLS’s Head Office as a Customer Agent, bringing her expertise to the Client Services team. In this role, Megan will handle daily bookings from FLS contracted clients, supporting the allocation from a resource of over 50,000 vehicles across the UK and Europe and ensuring exceptional capacity, service, and satisfaction.
Gabi Williams, another valuable addition to the FLS team, has also taken on the role of Client Solutions Manager. Gabi will be responsible for managing the Midlands region, leveraging her extensive experience to deliver tailored solutions and exceptional service to FLS clients.
Janine Catley has been appointed as FLS’s new Client Solutions Manager, based in the FLS Derby office on St Christophers Way. With a focus on new business in the East region, Janine will play a pivotal role in forging strong client relationships and driving growth in this area.
Additionally, Victoria Thomas has re-joined FLS as a Customs Administrator, Victoria’s expertise will contribute to the seamless management of customs processes, further enhancing FLS’s service offerings.
Ieuan Rosser, CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for the new team members, stating, “I’m delighted to welcome these talented individuals to the FLS team. Their diverse backgrounds and wealth of experience significantly enhance our resources, enabling us to better serve our growing number of clients. FLS is as focussed as ever on its digitalisation process and maximising our value both through the cost of our transport provision and added services such as our Carbon saver dashboard and reporting portal. As they seamlessly integrate into our team, I am confident in their ability to make a substantial impact on our growth in new business and expanding customs work. I look forward to their continued contributions and supporting our ongoing success.”
FLS’s commitment to investing in top-tier talent reflects its dedication to providing exceptional logistics solutions and exceeding client expectations. With the addition of these skilled professionals, FLS is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory and solidify its position as a leader in the industry.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Cleverley – Marketing & Communications Director
Freight Logistics Solutions
01633 288 400
In the modern landscape of manufacturing, where precision, efficiency and of course cost are paramount, the integration of digitalisation into business management has emerged as essential requirements certainly when we consider sustainability. Globally governments are tightening their grip on emissions, pushing manufacturers to only track but to reduce their direct and indirect emissions.
In the make UK recent insights report they comment that the need to reduce carbon is now embedded in most companies’ business plans with a quarter of Britain’s manufactures stating digitalisation has led to decarbonisation and strengthening their ability to achieve net zero targets.
It is really positive to hear that manufacturers have a focus on sustainability and are embracing digitalisation and emission reduction activities aligned to Scope 1 and 2. This focus is now quickly moving to the Scope 3 based indirect emissions, which is presenting challenge.
With the current state of encouragement rather than requirement to report scope 3 emissions within the UK, this is projected to follow the European union’s decisive steps, and start with mandating reporting through legislation, with the expected requirement for businesses to act to show measurements and reductions in their indirect emissions.
For most manufactures the majority of indirect emission will be related to the logistics involved in distributing goods, but unfortunately many supply chain networks do not have the capabilities to provide data and sustainability activities against their carbon emissions.
At FLS we can support this.
By working with FLS, you can stay one step ahead of regulations and the competition. FLS provide manufactures a one point of contact to enable scalability from accessing the UK largest network of road-based carriers including a growing number of HVO100 and electric vehicles, all with emission tracking and reporting.
Data is provided on a load-by-load basis, and available in live reporting against vehicle date range, vehicle type, routes, clients and delivery sites.
The most recent UK empty mileage statistics have highlighting inefficient vehicle utilisation by detailing that 29.8% of all UK road mileage was driven empty: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/rfs01-goods-lifted-and-distance-hauled
FLS technology and data approach targets these inefficiencies through engaging this scaled supply chain by proximity and not point of origin, demonstrating instant improvements in empty mileage mitigation and subsequent carbon emission savings.
FLS understand the urgency of climate responsibility and the requirements of a logistics service provider to the manufacturing sector to provide an immediate solution to embrace digitalisation for decarbonization considering the scope 3 requirements.
With a team of technology, data and logistics specialists readily available, we encourage any manufacture to get in contact to see how FLS could support your business with recording and reducing carbon emissions across your supply chain.
Ieuan Rosser CEO
FLS are super pleased to welcome our newest addition to the FLS Team, Newport (Bassaleg) girl Megan Dwyer who has joined the FLS customer service team.
Previously working as a Merchandiser for H&M for 4 years whilst putting herself through University studying Engineering then recruited into GP Logistics as Logistics and Customs Coordinator, Megan spent 2 years specialising in UK Global Steel Imports, vehicles into the Netherlands and of course customs.
Before joining FLS Megan had spent 6 months travelling South America – working for Dogs Charity in Uruguay and Argentina and topping up her Spanish.
Now living in Cwmbran, after travel Megan loves spending time walking the dogs, two very lovely Border Collies, reading, poetry and song writing, making music, and when she can fit it in the Gym, Painting, and sculpture oh and not to mention she is now studying a further degree Environmental Science with Open University.
Ieuan Rosser CEO commented ‘We are very pleased to welcome Megan, she sits perfectly between the customer service and ever-expanding customs team, looking after our clients daily needs, she is fun and versatile bringing some unique knowledge to the company skill base,
FLS is delighted to introduce a new senior member of our Customs team Paula Sekei
Born and grew up in Transylvania, at 17 Paula won a Maths Scholarship to The London School of Economics, on completion, she was recruited by Dachser initially as a customs coordinator, then moving through the customs ranks across 14 years, managing accounts such is Aldi and specialising in controlled excise goods and setting up bonded warehouses completing her experience as Excise Customs Manager.
Paula then decided to go back into Education and took a second degree in Forensic Psychology in Northampton before in 2020 during Brexit after being headhunted by Ziegler to provide customs mainly for London Gateway – Paula set up an office in Newport where over just 3 years expanded her team to 11 export and 12 import agents across all international trade process.
Based in Cardiff, in her spare time Paula likes to hang out with family, walking her Cavapoo, cycling, cooking and she likes to read, do puzzles dance classes (Latin Salsa, Zuma), travel and of course flip and upcycle furniture.
Ieuan Rosser CEO commented ‘fantastic to get Paula onboard, she is a significant addition to our expanding customs team, her knowledge of excise, bonded process and complex customs is unprecedented, she speaks 4 languages on top of Romanian and is a delight to work with, welcome to the FLS family’.
The Key to Streamlining International Trade Compliance Processes
Customs and trade compliance is a complex and ever-changing component of international trade, that demands specialised knowledge and constant attention. Companies engaged in global trade face numerous challenges, including evolving regulations, tariffs, border security, documentation requirements, and reporting obligations. Managing these tasks in-house can be costly, time-consuming, and risky. However, there is a solution that can help businesses save costs, increase efficiency, improve quality, security and reduce risks: outsourcing customs and trade compliance processes.
Outsourcing customs and trade compliance offers several advantages. First and foremost, it allows companies to focus on their core competencies and strategic goals by freeing up internal resources. Instead of dedicating time and effort to navigating the complexities of customs and trade compliance, businesses can rely on the expertise, resources, and technology of a trusted outsourcing partner. This partner can handle the operational tasks involved in complying with customs and trade regulations, allowing the company to redirect its attention to more critical aspects of its operations.
The typical challenges faced by businesses in the field of customs include a lack of internal capacity or expertise, a lack of transparency or consistency in compliance processes, high costs and risks, and the complexity and volatility of the field. Outsourcing helps address these challenges in several ways. Firstly, it provides access to specialised knowledge and skills that may not be available within the organisation. Instead of hiring and training staff for these tasks, companies can rely on the expertise of their outsourcing partner. This not only saves costs but also ensures that compliance processes are performed according to industry best practices and evolving standards.
Additionally, outsourcing streamlines and automates customs and trade compliance processes, reducing manual work and human errors. By leveraging advanced software solutions and technology, outsourced partners can improve the speed and accuracy of data entry, documentation, reporting, communication and archiving. This efficiency gain not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors that can lead to penalties, fines, and delays. Moreover, outsourcing helps companies stay updated and adapt quickly to changes in regulations, geopolitical events, trade disputes, and technological developments. Outsourcing partners monitor these changes and ensure that their clients remain compliant and well-prepared.
When considering outsourcing customs, businesses need to carefully select a partner that meets their specific needs. Several factors should be considered, including the partner’s expertise and experience in the field, their technological capabilities and adaptability to existing systems, their flexibility and responsiveness (if sometimes you need your declaration produced in 15 minutes – can they do it?), their compliance with industry standards and regulations, and their communication and collaboration practices. By choosing the right partner, businesses can unlock the full potential of international trade while minimising costs, risks, and complexities.
It’s important to note that not all customs tasks are suitable for outsourcing. Customs and trade compliance processes can be divided into operational tasks and strategic tasks. Operational tasks, which are more standardised, repetitive, labour-intensive, or technology-dependent, are more suitable for outsourcing. These tasks include product classification, documentation preparation or verification, filing, duty calculation, and audit support. On the other hand, strategic tasks, which involve planning or decision making related to the organisation’s business objectives or goals, may be outsourced to a limited extent or in collaboration with the in-house team. Examples of strategic tasks include trade advisory, compliance management, risk assessment, and duty optimisation.
In conclusion, outsourcing customs and trade compliance processes can offer significant benefits to businesses engaged in global trade. By leveraging the expertise, resources, and technology of an outsourcing partner, companies can save costs, increase efficiency, improve quality, and reduce risks. It is crucial to carefully choose a partner that aligns with the company’s needs and requirements. By outsourcing the right tasks and working with a reliable partner, businesses can navigate the complexities of customs and trade compliance effectively, unlocking the full potential of global trade.
If you are considering outsourcing your customs brokerage services, FLS is a renowned name in the industry. FLS offers bespoke, reliable back-office services for customs. get in touch with FLS and discuss your project requisites with experienced professionals.
Ieuan Rosser, CEO
FLS are a fantastic team of people, from the top management down. Every member of the team I have had the pleasure to work with has been extremely helpful and has provided a fast effective solution to the requirement I have given them
Fill out our form for a quote or contact our client solutions team
+44(0)1633 288 400
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