“The increase in fees hits the general cargo transport sector particularly hard”

IN A relatively large number of logistics platforms or hubs have emerged in recent years. Additionally, retail trade is restructuring logistics chains that have existed for several decades. “In practice, this means that there is a reshuffling of suppliers in the retail food industry. Those who previously supplied northern Germany now supply eastern Germany and vice versa. And often with very small orders,” says Jens Krause, managing director of the forwarding company bearing his name, based in Celle in Lower Saxony.

“We have the advantage of being located in an optimal geographical location, which is why in recent years we have managed to acquire customers from Germany, the Netherlands, Italy and Spain, mainly partners in the food retail trade,” continues Krause. As a result of restructuring, there is an increased demand for additional logistics services, such as temporary storage, inventory management and contracted deliveries. “Basically, this applies to all fruit and vegetables, both domestic and imported. In the fruit sector, the challenge of working 7 days a week is also increasing. So it doesn’t necessarily get easier, not just for us, but for everyone.”

Regular north-south services
Founded in 2007, Krause distributes fruit and vegetables in the northern and eastern regions of Germany. Another pillar from the beginning of the company’s existence has been the North-South groupage traffic. “This means that we consolidate goods at our location and deliver them overnight to the central warehouses of the retail food industry in the Bavarian region. A constant element is the approach to the wholesale markets in Nuremberg and Munich, despite a downward trend. According to Krause, fruit and vegetable logistics are also highly seasonal. “As soon as all domestic fruit and vegetables reach the market, this is reflected in the workload.

Jens Krause Spedition GmbH & Co. KG boasts a modern fleet.

Road toll increase and CO2 tax
Other issues freight forwarders are currently dealing with include road toll increases and CO2 taxes, continues Krause. “We were able to take some preventive measures because we have been working with Diesel Floater since 2016. As for the fee increase, we have had it for almost half a year now. In conclusion, we must admit that we have not been completely successful in transferring costs 100%. With full loads there are no major problems, but in the groupage transport sector the toll – especially with empty trips and lack of volume – has a negative impact on the calculation. We are trying significantly to find a fair and lasting solution, but I see that there is still a great need for discussion.

Aerial view of the extension building.

Moreover, logistics is increasingly trying to move away from fossil fuels. “For recurring system traffic, electrified refrigerated trailers are already a reasonable alternative. We also actively follow developments around hydrogen. Although we do not play a leading role here, in the medium term we will face a choice when to invest in new ones. Therefore, we are already considering which direction would be right for us.” Recently, the company has invested in the expansion of the cold store of the warehouse hall with combined CO2 refrigeration technology and photovoltaics, currently providing a total area of ​​approximately 3,600 m2. “The aim of this investment is to increase our clout and better meet the mentioned demand for additional services.”

Krause’s headquarters is located in Celle in Lower Saxony, close to the Tricity area of ​​Hannover-Braunschweig-Wolfsburg.

Digitization as an additional challenge
Finally, Krause sees digitalization as an additional challenge. He has already managed to digitize a significant part of his work processes, but this does not apply to all the industries he serves as a forwarder. “Fruits and vegetables are a good example of an industry that has been a bit behind and now wants full-force digitalization. The industry has high demands on its suppliers, and our task is to provide these services, show our clients practical solutions, and thus actively contribute to the digitalization of the industry.”

Photos: Jens Krause Spedition GmbH & Co. KG

For more information:
Jens Krause
Jens Krause Spedition GmbH & Co. KG
Karl-Schiller-Str. 8
29225 Celle / Germany
+49 (0) 5141 – 977267-0
(email protected)
www.krause-spedition.de