BIFA hosted its fifth Business Leaders Forum in Central London on October 1st, drawing attendees from across the freight forwarding and logistics sector. The event is a vital platform for industry leaders to explore current challenges and anticipate long-term changes impacting their businesses.
With participation steadily increasing, the Forum demonstrated its rising importance as a venue for strategic dialogue. BIFA director general Steve Parker opened the event by outlining the ongoing work of the BIFA secretariat and its various policy groups. He renewed his call for members to actively participate in these groups, either personally or by nominating colleagues, in order to shape future developments and strengthen sector representation.
Market trends and industry benchmarks
One of the highlights was a sneak preview of the outcome of the 9th edition of the Descartes Forwarder & Broker Industry Benchmark Survey, offering key insights into market conditions, delivered by James Stafford. The survey’s results capture sentiment and data around pressing issues such as tariff volatility, operational disruptions, and the growing influence of AI in reducing administrative burden. Preliminary results flagged global political uncertainty, slow UK economic growth, regulatory changes, and supply chain disruptions as top concerns for the industry.
Policy and border operations: A Government perspective
Allie Renison of SEC Newgate provided a compelling overview of current trade policy shifts and their implications for BIFA members. She stressed the urgency of ensuring that customs and border efficiency receive greater government attention, encouraging the sector to adopt strategic communication to elevate its concerns.
From a governmental perspective, Ian Wilkins of HMRC provided a timely update on the Border Target Operating Model, focusing particularly on the implementation of CDS and its progress. Richard Steeples from Border Force followed with a detailed account of the ongoing challenges related to the Safety & Security GB (S&S GB) initiative, particularly around compliance, data quality, and product descriptions.
Operational realities and risk mitigation
Ed Hussey from Menzies LLP addressed a key post-pandemic issue: HR challenges surrounding the return to office-based work. The presentation included data-driven insights and explored potential solutions and broader strategies to manage workforce expectations and maintain productivity.
The topic of cybersecurity was covered by James Bishop from Macbeths, who emphasised the growing threat of cyber attacks on freight and logistics businesses. He outlined the types of cyber risks, the importance of insurance cover, and best practices such as risk assessments and proactive security measures.
To round off the presentations, James McElroy from AXE explored the increasing role of AI in logistics and supply chain management, highlighting how automation is driving efficiency and transforming operational models within the sector.
Attendees also heard from Natalia Goodkova of the Association of International Freight Forwarders of Ukraine who outlined the opportunities for collaboration between the members of the two trade associations, and the opportunities for members to support the delivery of supplies to the people of Ukraine.
Looking ahead
The forum concluded with an update on BIFA’s work across key areas including training, industry representation, member engagement, and the promotion of the freight forwarding sector. The association reiterated its commitment to supporting its members in navigating a complex and rapidly evolving business environment.
As the Business Leaders Forum continues to grow in relevance and impact, it offers an essential space for collaboration, learning, and shaping the future of UK freight forwarding.
The Highlights:
Details of the next event will be published soon.
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