Intermodal Europe 2018 steers the way for the global container shipping industry

With the global container shipping market currently estimated to be worth $4 trillion and representing almost two thirds the value of total global trade, there have been a number of significant changes over the last few years. In an industry of constant movement, both literally and figuratively, trends are pointing towards a more balanced market between supply and demand within the container segment. The coming year is forecast to see steady overall market growth, the implementation of technological benefits to increase transparency and profitability, the introduction of new tariffs, and further carrier consolidation.
Intermodal Europe 2018 will provide the largest annual platform in Europe for the container shipping industry, delivering focused and tailored content designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the international market issues and technical challenges that are being faced today.
The keynote session within the conference – which runs alongside the three day exhibition – will include a wide-ranging discussion on key issues impacting the intermodal market, including: the current state of the worldwide economy; projected market conditions going forward; trade wars; tariffs; trade routes along the Belt and Road Initiative; the ongoing supply-demand imbalance; intermodal finance; evolving carrier alliances and the adoption of new technologies to create greater transparency and capability in the supply chain, improving carrier performance and shipper collaboration.
The panelists within this session will include senior representatives from Drewry, The European Shippers Council (ESC), ABN AMRO, Alcoa Nederland Holding B.V and Watson Farley & Williams, who will discuss the key issues and opportunities within the market from a high-level and global perspective.
“Economic growth in certain countries and sanctions will have a big impact on container trade flows in 2019” explains Rahman Al Turky, Senior Manager Transportation & Logistics – EMEA, Alcoa Nederland Holding B.V. “The trade lane profitability has impacted the container availability and space on the vessels throughout the year resulting in significant service changes. I expect the same to be determining 2019’s overall situation. The main focus for our business is to do things smarter by applying more technology in our processes. Beside saving time & resources we want to use the technology to add value”.
Intermodal Europe will provide over 30 hours of free, market focussed content, including panel discussions, presentations, case studies and open debate. With topics including trade wars, smart shipping, One Belt One Road, inland navigation, alternative uses for the shipping container, women in logistics and much more, attendees will have the perfect opportunity to hear from the industry leaders and innovators.
Intermodal Europe 2018 will take place from 6-8 November at the Rotterdam Ahoy. For more information, please visit www.intermodal-events.com  or contact celia.coules@informa.com.