LOGISTICS

an Myers is MD UK & I , for XPO Logistics , which provides innovative transportation solutions for some of the most demanding supply chains in the world .

Myers has been with the company for over 20 years and in that time has seen many changes , not least since the pandemic struck .

“ Immediately after the pandemic , closedbook fixed-lane rates were the sought-after solution as businesses sought to control costs ,” he says . “ The pandemic drove brands to analyse expenses across the board due to shifts in supply and demand volume and the associated costs of each .”

But he says that since the start of 2023 “ brands are thinking more strategically ”, by “ creating strategic alliances with partners to avoid any repeat of supply chain difficulties ”.

DAN MYERS , MD , UK & I , XPO LOGISTICS

“ They are supplementing this approach with short-term bridging solutions and contracts ,” he adds , going on to explain that in today ’ s market , logistics suppliers must give options in :

• Commitment

• Costs

• Sustainable solutions

• Multi-modal logistics

• Phased investment planning

• Flexible fleet types

• A ' dynamically balanced core ' with a 4PL provision

In terms of what XPO Logistics has to offer as a 3PL provider , Myers says “ we have enormous flexibility in the framework options we offer ”, and adds that it also “ matches the cost element management to the client ’ s objectives ”.

He continues : “ So we could manage capital expenditure investment to suit the client ’ s needs , for example but we also have a rounded capability to offer hybrid , core , and flexible solutions within the networks , allowing us to move with the client ' s journey , whatever that may be .”

Outsourced logistics on the rise There is no doubt more firms today are outsourcing logistics than in pre-pandemic times , and Myers expects this trend to accelerate . “ There are seismic changes taking place ,” he says . “ Some companies in specific

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