Overcoming the Growing Driver Shortage: Ninatrans at the Forefront of Sustainable Transport Solutions
Getting young drivers behind the wheel Overcoming the Growing Driver Shortage: Ninatrans at the Forefront of Sustainable Transport Solutions In a recent forum addressing the critical issue of the driver shortage in Europe, Ninatrans made a significant presence. We extend our gratitude to driver Luc Peeters for delivering an insightful presentation. As the scarcity of professional drivers continues to worsen, businesses must be aware of the implications it poses for mobility and supply chains, ultimately impacting the EU economy. The chronic shortage of professional drivers in Europe has been a persistent problem for over a decade, and the situation is only worsening. This scarcity is now posing a significant threat to mobility and supply chains, creating a ripple effect throughout the entire EU economy. In this pressing scenario, finding reliable transport partners has become crucial for businesses seeking to maintain seamless operations. Ninatrans, a leader in the transportation industry, recognizes the severity of this challenge and is actively working towards sustainable solutions. Their presence at the recent forum underscores their commitment to addressing the driver shortage issue head-on. The shortage of drivers not only impacts the timely delivery of goods but also disrupts supply chains, affecting businesses of all sizes. Recognizing this, Ninatrans has implemented innovative strategies to attract and retain skilled drivers, ensuring a consistent flow of transportation services for their partners. Businesses searching for reliable transport partners must consider the significance of mitigating the driver shortage. Collaborating with companies like Ninatrans, who proactively tackle this issue, can provide a competitive edge in maintaining efficient supply chains and meeting customer demands. Ninatrans’ dedication to addressing the driver shortage extends beyond presentations at forums. They invest in driver training programs, prioritize work-life balance, and provide competitive compensation packages to attract and retain skilled drivers. By doing so, they ensure their clients receive reliable and high-quality transportation services while mitigating the impact of the driver shortage on their operations. The growing scarcity of professional drivers poses a critical challenge for businesses across Europe. With Ninatrans at the forefront of sustainable transport solutions, partnering with them offers a strategic advantage in navigating the driver shortage and maintaining robust supply chains.
Brewer ABInBev deploys the first LZV with Ninatrans!
Brewer Ab Inbev deploys the first LZV with Ninatrans! In Heverlee, near Leuven, the first ecocombi, or “supertruck”, has been proposed that is allowed to drive on the Flemish roads. The first was for brewer AB InBev and transport company Ninatrans. The super-long transport will be deployed between Heverlee and the port of Antwerp. https://ninatrans.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Ninatrans-de-eerste-LZV-in-Vlaanderen.mp4
2014: European transporter of the year
2014: European transporter of the year Brussels, 10/10/2014 – IRU Bestows the Title of Best EU Road Transport Operator 2014 to Belgian Haulier, Ninatrans, for Its Exceptional Commitment to Safety and the Environment at the 4th IRU/EU Road Transport Conference. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has officially declared Belgian haulier Ninatrans as the recipient of the inaugural IRU award for Best EU Road Transport Operator 2014. This prestigious accolade, bestowed upon the company following an evaluation by an international jury*, recognizes Ninatrans for its outstanding dedication to safety and unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility. Ninatrans, represented by Benny Smets, Nina Smets, and Bruno Vannerum – who had previously received the national Belgian Road Transport Award in 2013 – was honored at the 4th IRU/EU Road Transport Conference. With a fleet boasting over 110 tractor units and 250 trailers, including innovative tear-shaped trailers that substantially reduce fuel consumption and, consequently, CO2 emissions, Ninatrans stands out for its consistent history of innovating for success and growth while fostering a positive work environment for its employees. Florence Berthelot, President of the IRU Goods Transport Liaison Committee and chair of the judging panel, remarked, “We recognized Ninatrans due to their strong commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of transport operations, their transparent approach, and their continuous efforts to enhance safety. Additionally, they display a keen awareness of the importance of optimizing efficiency within the multimodal transport system, which is commendable. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to them on securing this prestigious pan-European award.” The jury also acknowledged the runner-up, Kuljetas Kovalainen, for its customer-centric focus, innovative social practices, and effective human resource management. The Finnish company earned second place in a closely contested competition. Mrs. Berthelot concluded, “Companies are harnessing innovative technologies and best practices to meet the challenges of today and provide superior service to their customers. This award aims to shine a spotlight on the remarkable work taking place within the road freight transport sector across the European Union.” *The international jury comprised: Florence Berthelot, Chair and President of the IRU EU Goods Transport Committee; Dr. Eric Sampson, Newcastle University; Mary Crass, International Transport Forum; Claude Yvens, MMM Media.
2013: transporter of the year
2013: Transporter of the year On February 22, 2013, Ninatrans was honored with the title of Transporter of the Year 2013 at the Transport & Logistics Awards. The Transporter of the Year award, organized by the trade magazine Truck & Business, recognizes third-party transport companies that stand out for their excellent management, market approach, social initiatives, and commitment to innovation in safety and the environment. Ninatrans has achieved remarkable success by combining a period of substantial growth with a thorough professionalization of its structures and work methods, all while navigating through challenging economic times. Ninatrans has not only enhanced its image with its new facility but has also substantiated its reputation in various aspects of its operations. The unanimous decision of the judging panel underscores this accomplishment in a particularly compelling manner. The company’s achievement is a testament to its dedication to excellence in transportation. It reflects its unwavering commitment to efficient management, innovative market strategies, responsible social practices, and a strong focus on safety and environmental concerns. Through its exceptional performance and commitment to continuous improvement, Ninatrans has earned its place as the Transporter of the Year for 2013. This recognition serves as a mark of distinction within the industry and demonstrates the company’s ability to excel and innovate even in challenging economic conditions. Ninatrans’ achievement serves as an inspiration to the transportation community, showcasing the rewards of dedication to quality and sustainability.
2013: Lean & Green Award
2013: Lean & Green Award On January 31, 2013, Flemish Minister-President Kris Peeters presented the first Lean and Green awards in Flanders during the VIL New Year’s reception. Twelve companies received this award in recognition of their efforts to significantly reduce the CO2 emissions and energy consumption associated with their logistical activities. The inaugural recipients of the Lean and Green awards are AB InBev Belgium, Alders Transport & Logistics, Bayer Antwerp, Chep Benelux, Ewals Intermodal, HJ Heinz Belgium, Hospital Logistics, Ninatrans, Snel Logistic Solutions, Vervoer Van Dievel, Vervoer Verbessem, and Wim Bosman. The Lean and Green award symbolizes these companies’ commitment to making their logistical operations more efficient and sustainable. To qualify for the award, companies must meticulously assess the CO2 emissions from their logistical activities and develop a comprehensive action plan to reduce energy usage and CO2 emissions by a minimum of 20%. Each action plan undergoes evaluation by the Mobi research group at the Free University of Brussels. These awards reflect a collective effort by these companies to embrace eco-friendly practices and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. By recognizing their dedication to reducing their environmental footprint, the Lean and Green awards highlight the positive impact that responsible business practices can have on our planet and the logistics industry as a whole.
2012: An ideal location
2012: An ideal location Located in the Haasrode industrial zone, Ninatrans has found its ideal location for building its future. The facility is perfectly tailored to accommodate the growth Ninatrans has experienced in recent years while also providing ample room for future expansion. In tandem with the plans for the new facility, we have been working diligently to enhance our corporate identity. Over the past months, a significant number of our trailers have been updated with new branding. Additionally, we have condensed our company motto into a concise and powerful phrase: ‘Your Timing, Our Drive.’ This reflects our continued focus on time-critical transportation as our specialty, and our commitment to collaborating with you and our partners to continuously improve quality and service. Effective communication among all stakeholders is pivotal in this endeavor. Our dispatch team is available 24/7 at the new location, ready to respond to unforeseen incidents on the road. We emphasize the importance of reporting any delays, big or small, promptly. Furthermore, robust communication fosters mutual engagement, positively influencing the overall work atmosphere. As we embark on this new chapter, Ninatrans remains dedicated to providing top-notch transportation solutions while embracing growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality and customer service. We look forward to continuing our journey with you and our partners toward a successful and sustainable future.
2010: Move for Climate
2010: Move for climate The VOKA Chambers of Commerce Halle-Vilvoorde and Leuven announced on Wednesday evening in Leuven the ten companies awarded the Move for Climate Award for their efforts in reducing the harmful effects of car and truck transport on our climate. These companies developed action plans and implemented measures such as reducing commuting distances, adopting eco-friendly driving practices, purchasing hybrid and alternative transport vehicles, optimizing cargo capacity, shifting to rail and waterway transport. Transport company Ninatrans, based in Bierbeek, deployed lighter vehicles for lightweight transport, minimized empty vehicle miles, invested in eco-friendly trucks, provided eco-driving courses for drivers, and reduced fuel consumption through improved engine management and wind deflectors. These efforts resulted in an annual saving of 134.74 tons of CO2. These initiatives exemplify how businesses are taking proactive steps to mitigate the environmental impact of transportation, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
2008: Truck ICT Award
2008: Truck ICT Award On February 22, 2008, the ‘Truck ICT Award’ was presented for the second time, an initiative by MMM Business Media. The ‘Truck ICT Award’ recognizes a Belgium-based company that manages its own truck fleet and implements an extremely effective ICT policy. The laureate of the 2008 edition was Ninatrans, a leading Belgian transporter specializing in air freight transport and goods transportation between airports across nearly all of Europe. Ninatrans was honored for its intelligent combination of ‘best of breed’ technology and in-house development. The result of this approach is an ICT infrastructure that is highly tailored to the needs of the company and its customers. Ninatrans has established itself as a trailblazer in the transportation industry, particularly in the realm of information and communication technology (ICT). With a strong focus on managing its own fleet of trucks, the company has embraced cutting-edge technology to optimize its operations. One of the standout features that earned Ninatrans the prestigious ‘Truck ICT Award’ was its commitment to leveraging the best available technologies while also developing its own solutions to address specific challenges. This innovative approach has culminated in an ICT infrastructure that seamlessly integrates with the company’s core objectives and customer requirements. Ninatrans’ dedication to technological excellence has not only streamlined its internal processes but has also significantly enhanced the quality of service provided to its clients. This recognition is a testament to the company’s forward-thinking approach, which prioritizes efficiency, adaptability, and customer satisfaction. As Ninatrans continues to lead the way in the transport sector, it serves as a prime example of how the intelligent application of ICT can drive success and excellence in the modern business landscape.
2007: Safety award
2007: Safety award The Safety Award, as the name suggests, honors the transporter who has invested most efficiently in safety in recent years. And the winner is… Ninatrans! For Ninatrans, road safety is the hallmark of the company. Safety concerns begin with the recruitment of drivers. “During the job interview, candidates are extensively questioned about their accident history and where they gained their experience,” says Quality Manager Johan Vandenplas. Drivers frequently visit schools with their trucks to educate children about the dangers of blind spots and to make it clear that a truck driver cannot see everything they can. “Safety is primarily about avoiding human casualties,” says Vandenplas. “That’s why we make these efforts in schools to raise awareness among children.” Ninatrans holds multiple safety certifications, but that’s not the most important aspect. “We view obtaining the certificate in a broader perspective,” says Smets. “We continue to adjust and refine. Road safety is very important to us. For example, we had blind spot mirrors on our trucks before they were legally required. Ultimately, such a mirror is a small investment. Moreover, preventing accidents is a cost savings, even if it only involves property damage. Because an accident leads to time loss and higher insurance premiums. Even purely economically, road safety is worthwhile. Furthermore, safe driving is beneficial for improving the transport sector’s negative image.
