Brussels, 10/10/2014. IRU awards title of Best EU Road Transport Operator 2014 to Belgian haulier, Ninatrans, for its excellent safety and environmental approaches, at 4th IRU/EU Road Transport Conference. 
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has announced Belgian haulier, Ninatrans, as the winner of the new IRU award for Best EU Road Transport Operator 2014, after commendation by an international jury* for its excellent approach to safety and commitment to the environment.
The company, represented by Benny Smets, Nina Smets and Bruno Vannerum – also winner of the 2013 national Belgian Road Transport Award – was rewarded at the 4th IRU/EU Road Transport Conference.
With a fleet of over 110 tractor units and 250 trailers, including innovative new tear-shaped trailers that significantly reduce fuel consumption and therefore CO2 emissions, Ninatrans was recognised for its proven track record of innovating for success and growth while ensuring a positive working environment for their staff.
Florence Berthelot, President of the IRU Goods Transport Liaison Committee and chair of the jury, said, “We awarded Ninatrans because of their strong commitment to reduce the environmental impact of transport operations and open approach and efforts to constantly improve safety. They are also very aware of the need to maximise their efficiency within the multimodal transport system, which is commendable and I congratulate them on their success in winning this Europe-wide award.”
The jury also commended the runner-up to the award, Kuljetas Kovalainen, for its customer focus, social innovation and human resource management. The Finnish company came in second in a closely judged contest. Mrs Berthelot concluded, “Companies are using new innovative technologies and best working practices to meet today’s challenges and better serve customers. This award aims to recognise the excellent work taking place within the road freight transport sector across the European Union.”
*The international jury consisted of: Chair, Florence Berthelot, President, IRU EU Goods Transport Committee, Dr Eric Sampson, Newcastle University, Mary Crass, International Transport Forum, Claude Yvens, MMM media
