TRANSPORT Management 101

I invite you to share with me some reflections on the recent news in the 'transport and logistics' sector (don't hesitate to send your reactions!), a particularly busy news in recent months. What should we think of what the traditional media are now calling the Jost affair? It is clear that someone within the federal prosecutor's office has decided to set an example and it is the Belgian-Luxembourg company that is now suffering the consequences. It is almost certain that the Jost Group has used all the fine loopholes of European legislation (which is often very opaque, let us not forget) to ensure its survival. Did they cross a red line in doing so? That is up to the courts to decide. In the meantime, it is nevertheless shocking to see that the principle of presumed innocence is being trampled on by the seizure of dozens of vehicles (and thus causing the unemployment of dozens of drivers, even though they are Romanians). Van Egdom now continuing under French wings is in a sense regrettable. Too bad because such a company has not succeeded in ensuring continuity within the family. Another beautiful Belgian company that is under foreign control. However, the strategic vision of the Capelle group and its past as a buyer should give us the assurance that the new acquisition in Belgium still has a bright future ahead of it. Macharis becoming Transporter of the Year is the crowning achievement of the model of family businesses in transport, as we like to read about in TRANSPORT Management. A 100% Belgian company, that has made very clear strategic choices and that succeeds in innovating without having the financial resources of the giants in this sector. This crowning is part of yet another particularly successful Transport & Logistics Awards (don't miss the articles about this in this issue) that will have an XXL edition next year. Just a little more patience before we lift the veil! Our next rendezvous with the community of transporters will be on 28 May next year at Namur Expo. TRANSPORTMEDIA has combined its dynamism and expertise with Easyfairs' know-how to launch a networking event of a completely new type with a trade fair, the Job Day 'made by TL Hub', a high-level conference (don't miss the 'live' interview with Jean-Jacques Cloquet, the former boss of Charleroi Airport) and a meeting point with Chinese logistics companies. With the support of Febetra and UPTR, Logistics in Wallonia, Awex, the FPS Mobility and Infrastructure, Forem and the Social Fund for Transport and Logistics (for the Job Day), we are going to completely renew the concept of networking!