ASTRE Regional Meeting at J.S. Logistics in Kirkel, Saarland

In mid-September, J.S. Logistics and its team invited the participants of the recent regional meeting in Saarbrücken to a technical visit at the company’s headquarters in nearby Kirkel. The occasion was the third regular exchange, which brought together 18 representatives from ASTRE partners in the Germany, Austria, Switzerland (DACH) region as well as from eastern France at the Hotel am Triller in Saarbrücken.

(Saarbrücken/Kirkel) In addition to a tool presentation on fuel consumption by ASTRE DACH member J.S. Logistics, the agenda included discussions on the market situation in Germany and France, economic forecasts, and budget planning, as well as program preparation for the ASTRE Congress, which will take place from October 8 to 11 this year in Prague.

One of the highlights was J.S. Logistics presenting its tool, the so-called Diesel Inspector, which monitors the fuel consumption of each individual vehicle, analyzes the data, and optimizes fleet efficiency. Furthermore, the ASTRE partners learned firsthand about the opportunities that membership in Europe’s largest logistics network offers when it comes to expanding general cargo transport and distribution solutions in the ASTRE national companies. “For us, joining was a worthwhile decision,” reported Regis Gross. The network has proven to be a suitable platform for further developing activities in Germany, France, and Spain – particularly in the area of hazardous goods and temperature-controlled transport.

Ulf Tonne, Managing Director of ASTRE DACH and DACH network member Grieshaber Logistics Group, expressed similar sentiments: “J.S. Logistics exemplifies that medium-sized companies need a strong network if they want to establish transport and logistics solutions across borders on a competitive basis.” The network promotes exchange among members and the development of common strategies, for example in the areas of digitalization or sustainability. Ulf Tonne stated: “This way, members can benefit from the experiences and innovations of other partners.”

Good Consensus Among Partners

This was also reflected in the intense discussions among participants regarding the comparison of transport markets in France and Germany – for instance, on transport volumes, cost developments, availability, and resources. The cross-border meeting was once again received with enthusiasm. There was consensus among the partners that this exchange within the network should continue to take place at least once a year.

Photo: © ASTRE / Caption: Regis Gross, Managing Director of ASTRE DACH member J.S. Logistics (4th from the right), shows ASTRE partners from eastern France as well as representatives of the ASTRE DACH members the headquarters of his company in Kirkel