Your monthly insight into the people, places, and patterns moving global trade.
Welcome to Dispatch 1 of #OnTheMove (5-min read). We are Metafora Search, specialists in Logistics & Supply Chain exec-search recruitment, and we’re excited to share the very first dispatch of our industry newsletter #OnTheMove. Each month, we’ll highlight the latest industry news and trends, and share our take on what these developments mean for both clients and candidates. Whether it’s strategic advice on hiring, or guidance on making your next move, we’ll link industry insight with practical perspective.
In this issue:
- APAC on the Fast Track: Regional growth is driving demand and senior hiring.
- New Frontiers: Emerging markets are stepping into the spotlight.
- Wired for the Future: Tech and automation are transforming operations.
- Sustainability Surge: Green strategies are gaining serious traction.
- Mergers in Motion: Consolidation is reshaping the logistics landscape.
APAC on the Fast Track
Asia-Pacific is setting the pace for global logistics growth. Intra-APAC trade, surging eCommerce, and a rebounding economy are driving demand across the region. Infrastructure investment is booming – from upgraded ports to expanded rail links – creating a faster, more connected supply chain.
Challenges remain, particularly around capacity and infrastructure gaps in developing markets. But regional partnerships and government-led initiatives are helping to ease bottlenecks. With momentum building, APAC continues to push global logistics forward.
Who’s active:
- Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has opened a new logistics centre in Melbourne, further anchoring its APAC footprint.
- CMA CGM continues to grow its Indian footprint, now operating the SCI Mumbai under its local flag to support intra-Asia and coastal trade.
- Vietnam Airlines has announced plans to launch a dedicated freight subsidiary in 2026 in response to air cargo demand.
Over the last 12 months, we’ve seen a surge in senior-level hiring across APAC, as companies expand into new markets and establish entire teams from the ground up. For many, this isn’t just about adding headcount – it’s about building a presence in unfamiliar territory.
When working across regions as diverse as Europe and APAC, the differences in market maturity, culture, and expectations can be significant. That’s where recruiters like us come in – offering clients insight into the hiring landscape, talent availability, and what’s needed to build high-performing teams from scratch. Having that on-the-ground understanding makes all the difference.
New Frontiers
Emerging markets are fast becoming vital links in the global supply chain. South Asia, Africa, and Latin America are gaining traction as both manufacturing bases and high-growth consumer regions.
Infrastructure upgrades – from new highways to port expansions – are opening access, while digital commerce and a rising middle class are driving demand for logistics, warehousing, and last-mile delivery.
These markets aren’t without complexity, but the rewards are clear. Companies investing early, hiring locally, and building smart partnerships are securing long-term growth in these rising regions.
What’s happening:
- JBS, the world’s largest food shipper, has begun vertically integrating its supply chain by stepping into port operations in Brazil.
- Saudi Arabia is building a dedicated logistics corridor between Jeddah Islamic Port and Al-Khumrah Logistics Park, strengthening its role in regional trade.
- DHL Group has pledged to invest over £420m in its Middle East operations by 2030.
- LX Pantos has broken ground on a massive logistics centre at Busan New Port, a key move aligning with the Arctic shipping route and Northeast Asia connectivity.
We’re seeing that hiring across these regions is increasingly laser-focused on localisation. While there are still roles where expat packages and relocations are on the table, demand is strongest for talent with local experience, networks, and market understanding (not forgetting language capabilities).
Businesses want individuals who can hit the ground running – those already embedded in the region, who know how to navigate both the operational and cultural landscape.
Wired for the Future
Technology is rapidly reshaping logistics – from smart warehouses to connected fleets. Automation is now embedded across the chain, with robots, AI route planning, and machine learning driving speed and precision.
A key focus is the “edge” of the network – the last-mile. Think smart lockers, drones, and local fulfilment systems, all aimed at cutting delays and boosting accuracy. Real-time tracking and predictive analytics are also enhancing visibility and disruption response.
Innovation is no longer optional – it’s the baseline for staying competitive in a fast-moving global market.
Recent moves:
- Autonomous shipping is gaining traction, with several major players leading innovation. Yara has launched the Yara Birkeland, a fully electric and autonomous container ship, setting a new benchmark for maritime automation. Maersk, while not solely focused on autonomy, is actively integrating autonomous technologies across its fleet. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is also investing heavily in autonomous shipping, signalling a strong commitment to next-generation vessel operations.
- Nippon Express (NX Group) has introduced four fully electric trucks in Shanghai – another sign of Chinese logistics modernising sustainably.
- NEOM Port (Saudi Arabia) has received its first shipment of fully automated cranes, pushing the frontier of port automation.
This shift is driving demand for a new kind of leader – those who understand both physical operations and digital transformation. It’s no longer enough to be strong in one or the other. The ability to translate technology into operational results is now a critical differentiator, and companies are actively seeking individuals who can bridge that gap.
The candidates who are getting ahead – and staying ahead – are the ones who are proactively growing their skillsets. They’re leaning into automation, data fluency, and systems integration to complement their logistics and supply chain expertise. Whether it’s mastering new platforms, leading digitisation projects, or working cross-functionally with tech teams, these individuals are positioning themselves as future-fit leaders.
Sustainability Surge
Sustainability has shifted from buzzword to business priority. Under pressure from regulators and customers, logistics companies are making tangible moves to reduce emissions and improve efficiency. Fleet electrification is accelerating, with more EVs in urban fleets and biofuels like HVO gaining ground for long-haul routes. In warehousing, solar installations and energy-efficient systems are quickly becoming standard.
Beyond tech upgrades, companies are redesigning networks to minimise waste – cutting empty miles, consolidating loads, and investing in offsetting programmes. The bonus? Lower carbon often goes hand in hand with lower cost. The result is a sector that’s not just talking green, but building it into the backbone of operations.
Key highlights:
- PepsiCo & FERCAM are using HVO (renewable biofuel) to transport 700+ tonnes of raw materials from Italy to Serbia, cutting over 46 tonnes of CO2 annually.
- ECS has deployed electric trucks in London as part of a 16-month intermodal trial, which has already covered 9,200 miles.
- UK electric commercial vehicle numbers jumped 31% YoY. Companies like DPD, Evri, and Royal Mail are driving fleet transitions at scale.
The push for sustainability is influencing hiring, too. There’s growing demand for candidates with experience in sustainable transport, ESG compliance, and supply chain transformation – especially those who can translate environmental goals into practical, scalable solutions.
Sustainability is no longer siloed. Leaders across operations, logistics, and procurement are expected to factor in carbon impact alongside cost and performance. The candidates getting noticed are those who understand the regulatory landscape, know the tech, and can build greener strategies into everyday decision-making.
M&A and Market Moves
Mergers and acquisitions are reshaping the logistics landscape as companies pursue scale, service integration, and smarter networks. From major 3PLs acquiring niche tech firms to regional freight forwarder alliances, strategic deals are unlocking new capabilities and reach.
Larger, combined entities are better positioned to offer end-to-end solutions – but post-merger integration remains the real challenge. Aligning systems, people, and culture is critical to delivering the efficiency and visibility clients expect.
Key updates:
- DP World has received the green light to proceed with its AU$115m acquisition of Silk Logistics, solidifying its inland haulage capabilities in Australia.
- GXO’s takeover of Wincanton has been cleared by the UK’s CMA, subject to divesting its grocery warehousing division.
- Freightos has expanded its partnership with SEKO Logistics, a sign of growing demand for digital freight platforms and end-to-end visibility.
These moves signal a sharpening focus on scale, tech capability, and end-to-end control, with leadership roles evolving to suit increasingly complex organisational needs.
#OnTheMoveJobs
We’re currently supporting several top-tier logistics and supply chain businesses with key leadership hires. Open roles include:
We’re proud to support clients globally as they scale, hire, and localise. If you’re looking to build leadership capability in-market or are exploring your next move in logistics and supply chain, let’s connect 📞
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