Combining 800+ AI Experts and Proven Digital Strategy to Accelerate Revenue, Personalisation, and Operational Efficiency for Marketing, Sales, and Service Teams.
Brainpool AI and Bluprintx today announced a global strategic partnership to solve the number one challenge facing CX leaders: scaling AI that delivers measurable ROI. Combining Brainpool’s network of 800+ MIT, Oxford, and Stanford-trained AI experts with Bluprintx’s future-ready transformation frameworks, this alliance empowers marketing, sales, and service teams to deliver unprecedented value from AI initiatives.
The partnership addresses the growing demand for responsible and effective AI implementation, and prioritises model-agnostic AI development, creating custom solutions that adapt to clients’ evolving technology landscapes. This flexibility empowers businesses to select optimal AI frameworks without vendor lock-in, enabling organisations at any stage of AI maturity, to elevate customer loyalty, streamline employee workflows, and unlock rapid, scalable growth that outpaces competitors.
The alliance’s unique structure provides organisations with a distinct market advantage; direct access to specialised AI talent typically confined to academic environments, practical transformation experience, and a commitment to ethical AI that’s built into the development process. This global strategic partnership gives organisations the ability to drastically reduce implementation timelines of AI from several months to just weeks, by using structured deployment frameworks, targeted pilot programmes, and pre-built solution modules. This approach bridges the persistent gap between theoretical AI capabilities and practical business implementation.
Ryan Forrest, Global Director of Solutions at Bluprintx said: “At Bluprintx, we don’t just adapt to change, we anticipate it. This partnership with Brainpool AI allows us to combine our future-focused methodologies with cutting-edge AI capabilities. We believe that AI’s true potential is unlocked when deep technical expertise meets a strategic understanding of business transformation. That’s exactly what this partnership delivers, turning AI from a cost centre into a competitive advantage”
Kasia Borowska, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Brainpool AI said: “This is a truly unique partnership that bridges the gap between academic AI excellence and real-world business transformation. Our network of 800+ experts from institutions like Oxford and MIT will work seamlessly with Bluprintx’s proven frameworks to solve complex challenges and seize new opportunities that organisations were previously unable to address at scale.”
Together, Brainpool AI and Bluprintx will make a transformative impact for the customer experience industry across the whole customer lifecycle. With AI-powered insights to deliver hyper-personalised engagement that boosts customer retention, empower employees by automating tasks, optimise operations by reducing overheads, and accelerate revenue by providing outcome-focused AI tools, such as dynamic pricing engines and lead scoring models, that shorten sales cycles and accelerates growth. Organisations ready to explore the competitive advantages of ethical AI can engage with the partnership through a Strategic Opportunity Workshop, designed to identify high-potential implementation areas specific to their customer experience challenges.
Freight shipping has long been the backbone of global trade, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers across continents. As international commerce continues to grow, the freight industry must constantly evolve to meet changing demands.
Businesses today face a wide range of challenges, from rising fuel prices and customs complexities to shifting global regulations. To remain competitive, many are turning to cost-effective international freight shipping solutions that balance affordability with efficiency. These strategies help companies manage risk, control costs, and maintain smooth supply chain operations. Understanding the evolution of freight shipping, and the innovations shaping its future, is essential for any business that ships across borders.
A Brief Look Back: How Freight Shipping Has Changed
Freight shipping once relied heavily on manual coordination, paperwork, and isolated modes of transport. Goods moved slowly, costs were high, and visibility across the supply chain was limited. Over the past few decades, the rise of containerization revolutionized sea freight, while improvements in road and rail infrastructure made inland transport faster and more efficient.
The integration of digital systems into logistics, such as tracking tools, inventory management software, and real-time communication, transformed the way companies plan and monitor their shipments. These advances have made freight shipping more predictable, secure, and scalable, especially for businesses operating across borders.
The Modern-Day Challenges of Freight Shipping
Despite all the progress, today’s freight shipping industry faces a number of ongoing and emerging challenges:
Supply Chain Disruptions: From global pandemics to political unrest, freight networks are vulnerable to unexpected interruptions that can delay deliveries and increase costs.
Rising Costs: Fluctuating fuel prices, port fees, customs charges, and labor shortages all contribute to higher freight costs.
Environmental Concerns: The pressure to reduce emissions is mounting, particularly for sea freight, which accounts for a significant share of global CO₂ emissions.
Regulatory Complexity: Navigating customs laws, trade agreements, and shipping regulations across multiple countries requires up-to-date knowledge and compliance.
Capacity Issues: Port congestion and limited container availability continue to be major bottlenecks, especially during peak seasons or following global events.
These challenges underscore the need for agile, tech-enabled shipping strategies that allow businesses to remain flexible while minimizing risks.
Smart Solutions Driving Freight Forward
In response to these challenges, the industry is seeing a wave of innovations and strategic shifts. Technology plays a central role. Real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and AI-powered route optimization are helping logistics providers increase efficiency and transparency.
Intermodal and multimodal shipping are also gaining popularity, allowing businesses to combine road, rail, and sea freight to optimize cost, speed, and sustainability. This flexibility helps businesses overcome limitations in capacity or infrastructure in one mode by switching to another.
Freight forwarding services have become essential for many companies, especially small and mid-sized businesses without dedicated logistics teams. These service providers manage complex shipments end to end, ensuring that goods are delivered on time and in compliance with global regulations.
Furthermore, there’s a growing push toward sustainable shipping practices. Investments in alternative fuels, electric vehicles, and carbon offset programs are helping freight companies meet regulatory and ethical expectations for greener operations.
The Future of Freight Shipping
Looking ahead, the freight shipping industry is likely to continue evolving along three major lines: digitalization, sustainability, and resilience.
Digital transformation will deepen as more businesses adopt integrated logistics platforms and automation. Technologies like blockchain may improve security and trust in documentation, while autonomous vehicles and drones could eventually become mainstream in last-mile delivery.
Sustainability will remain at the forefront. Governments and industry leaders are setting ambitious carbon reduction targets, pushing the development of cleaner ships, smarter warehouses, and circular logistics models.
Last and not least, freight systems must become more resilient. Businesses are rethinking global supply chains to diversify suppliers, shorten transit times, and build flexibility into their logistics strategies.
Bottom Line – Adapt and Move Forward
Freight shipping has come a long way, from slow, manual processes to dynamic, technology-driven solutions. As new challenges emerge, businesses that stay informed and adaptable will be best positioned to thrive. Whether you’re moving goods across the country or around the world, understanding how freight is evolving helps you make smarter logistics decisions, and stay competitive in a global market.
Ian Nicholls, CEO of Explic8, tackles the issue of tariffs and how businesses can best respond to the current crisis
The whole world is talking about tariffs. Stock markets are crashing, suffering the biggest losses for years, investments and pensions are being devalued. Prices are rising. Products are being boycotted. Sales are falling. Profits are plummeting and forecasters are saying this is not a blip because recovery may take years.
Globally, countries and companies alike are looking for solutions.
One course of action is to accept the tariffs. Or retaliate and impose your own tariffs. Another course of action is to negotiate better more affordable exchange agreements. Another is to move.
What if there was a way to allow your organisation to continue business as usual and focus on efficiency and growth?
This article outlines a better way to be a tariff buster.
The introduction of tariffs by the US is having significant effects on the global market:
Market Volatility: Tariffs led to increased volatility in stock markets, similar to the reactions seen during major crashes. Traders often reacted sharply to news about tariffs, leading to rapid price changes.
Investor Sentiment: Just as during historical crashes, investor sentiment played a crucial role. Uncertainty from tariff announcements caused fluctuations in consumer and business confidence, impacting stock prices.
Increased Prices: Tariffs raise the cost of imported goods, leading to higher prices for consumers and businesses that rely on these products.
Trade Tensions: Tariffs can prompt retaliatory measures from affected countries, resulting in trade wars that disrupt global supply chains.
Shifts in Trade Patterns: Countries may seek alternative markets or suppliers, altering traditional trade relationships and promoting regional trade agreements.
Impact on Domestic Producers: While some domestic industries may benefit from reduced competition, others that rely on imported materials may face higher production costs.
Economic Uncertainty: Tariffs can create uncertainty in the global market, leading to reduced investment and slower economic growth.
Global Supply Chain Disruption: Increased costs and trade barriers can disrupt established supply chains, affecting production efficiency and delivery times.
Inflationary Pressures: Higher costs for imported goods can contribute to inflation, impacting overall economic stability.
Customer Dissatisfaction: Can arise from unmet expectations, poor product quality, unsatisfactory customer service and higher prices.
The mantra to “Make America Great Again” is a drive to return manufacturing to the US instead of outsourcing to cheaper overseas locations and with it to bring jobs and prosperity to the country.
However, moving manufacturing from one country to another is a costly and time-consuming business involving several critical factors:
Strategic Planning
Market Analysis: Evaluate market potential in the new location.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Assess costs related to manufacturing, labour, logistics, and tariffs.
R&D
Technology Transfer: Plan for transferring technology and knowledge to the new site.
Local Adaptation: Adapt products for local market preferences and regulations.
Collaboration with Local Institutions: Engage with local universities or research institutions for innovation and support.
HR
Workforce Analysis: Assess the availability of skilled labour in the new location.
Recruitment Strategy: Develop a plan for hiring local talent, including training programs.
Cultural Integration: Prepare for cultural differences and integrate teams effectively.
Employee Transition Plans: Consider relocation for key personnel and manage communication with existing employees.
Regulatory Affairs
Compliance Research: Understand local regulations, industry standards, and compliance requirements.
Permits and Licences: Obtain necessary permits and licences for manufacturing operations.
Environmental Regulations: Comply with local environmental laws and sustainability practices.
Supply Chain Management
Supplier Assessment: Identify and evaluate local suppliers for materials and components.
Logistics Planning: Develop efficient logistics and distribution strategies in the new location.
Stock Build
Capacity Management: Increased output before planned plant closure to build sufficient stock to satisfy the market until the new facility begins production.
Facility Setup
Site Selection: Choose an appropriate location based on infrastructure, proximity to suppliers, and costs.
Facility Design: Plan the layout of the manufacturing facility to optimise workflow and efficiency.
Implementation
Pilot Production: Start with a pilot run to test processes and systems.
Quality Control Systems: Establish quality assurance protocols to maintain product standards.
Monitoring and Adjustment
Performance Metrics: Track performance against goals and benchmarks.
Continuous Improvement: Be prepared to make adjustments based on feedback and operational data.
Stakeholder Communication
Internal Communication: Keep all stakeholders informed throughout the transition.
External Communication: Manage public relations and community engagement in the new location.
Critical decisions lie around:
Do we move manufacturing facilities or create duplicates?
Do we transfer our trained experienced staff or hire in the new location?
How much stock do we need to cover the transition and how long will it take to build the stock?
By carefully addressing these considerations, companies can effectively transition their manufacturing operations to a new country while minimising disruption and maximising efficiency.
But there is another way.
The pie chart below represents a typical cost breakdown for manufactured goods.
Figure 1: Cost Breakdown
If your product costs $100 and gets hit with a 25% tariff, it goes to market, costing the customer $125.
If an organisation could reduce its material costs by 20% and its direct labour costs by 10% it should also reduce the manufacturing overhead and would have the effect of reducing the product cost to $87.50 (a 12.5% reduction in overall manufacturing costs) and with the imposition of a 25% tariff, the product would reach the market at $109.38. Not too bad an increase given inflation rates these days.
Why stop there? if your organisation could reduce overall manufacturing cost by 20% and bring the product cost to $80, the 25% tariff would leave the product on the market at $100!
This approach eliminates the need for moving from one country to another and eliminates the involvement in trade negotiations and deal brokering.
It allows your organisation to continue business as usual and focus on efficiency and growth.
So, how do we reduce the overall manufacturing cost by 20%?
In the example below, the costs of R&D, Shipping and Distribution and Sales and Marketing remain the same. Material costs are down 25%, labour costs down 20% packaging cost down 20%, manufacturing overhead down by 60% and administrative costs down by 25%. The percentages sound big but we’re only shaving a dollar here and a dollar there off the cost per unit.
The combined effect of these changes achieves a 21.5% reduction in the overall manufacturing cost bringing the product cost down to $78.5 which with a 25% tariff will hit the market at $98.13 – even less than before the tariff.
Item
Before
After
% Reduction
Research and Development (R&D)
$5.00
$5.00
0.00%
Direct Materials
$42.00
$31.50
25.00%
Direct Labour
$21.00
$16.80
20.00%
Packaging Costs
$5.00
$4.00
20.00%
Shipping and Distribution
$7.00
$7.00
0.00%
Manufacturing Overhead
$8.00
$3.20
60.00%
Administrative Expenses
$4.00
$3.00
25.00%
Sales and Marketing Expenses
$8.00
$8.00
0.00%
Totals
$100.00
$78.50
21.50%
Figure 2: Cost Reduction Table
Figure 3: Cost Reduction Chart
All of these reductions are achievable and there are tools and techniques available to implement even greater cost reductions.
So, how do we do it?
An excellent method for achieving significant savings in direct materials consumed during the manufacture of a product is by going “back to basics” and conducting a Cost of Quality (CoQ) analysis using the CoQ process to identify where the opportunities are. While the specific amount saved can vary widely depending on the industry, product type, and existing quality issues, studies suggest that companies can often save between 5% to 30% of their direct material costs through improved quality practices.
These savings can result from:
Reduction in Scrap and Rework: Identifying and addressing quality issues can minimise waste.
Improved Process Efficiency: Streamlining production processes can reduce material usage.
Improved manufacturing scheduling: Improved sequencing and scheduling can reduce material usage.
Enhanced Supplier Quality: Working with suppliers to improve material quality can lower defects and waste.
Better Design Practices: Designing products for manufacturability can reduce material consumption.
Overall, a CoQ analysis helps identify areas for improvement, which can lead to more efficient use of materials and lower costs.
Reducing Costs
Reducing labour costs in manufacturing can be achieved through several best practice approaches:
Lean Manufacturing: Implement lean principles to eliminate waste, optimise workflows, and improve productivity. Focussing on continuous improvement and value stream mapping.
Process Optimisation: Regularly review and optimise manufacturing processes to identify bottlenecks and improve throughput without additional labour.
Employee Engagement: Foster a positive work culture that encourages employee engagement and productivity, which can lead to lower turnover rates and associated training costs.
Employee Training and Development: Provide training to enhance employee skills, which can lead to increased efficiency and reduced errors. Cross-training employees can also enhance flexibility in workforce deployment.
Invest in Ergonomics: Improve workplace ergonomics to reduce strain and injury, leading to decreased absenteeism and lower healthcare costs.
Flexible Workforce: Use a flexible workforce model that allows for scaling labour up or down based on demand, reducing costs during slower periods.
Shift Scheduling: Optimise shift schedules to align with production demands, minimising overtime and ensuring efficient use of labour resources.
Contract Labour: Consider outsourcing non-core functions or using contract labour for peak times to manage labour costs effectively.
Automation and Technology: Invest in automation technologies such as robotics and AI to streamline processes, reduce manual labour, and increase efficiency.
Performance Metrics: Establish clear performance metrics to track productivity and identify areas where labour costs can be reduced without compromising quality.
By implementing these strategies, manufacturers can effectively reduce labour costs while maintaining or improving product quality and operational efficiency.
Global trade plays a key role in driving economic growth, fostering international relationships, and enabling the exchange of goods and services across borders. As the complexity of global supply chains grows, businesses are increasingly seeking tailored solutions to navigate the challenges posed by logistics, regulations, and varying customer demands.
Read on to discover how custom solutions have emerged as an essential tool for businesses that are looking to improve efficiency, optimize their operations, and sustain a competitive edge in the fast-paced environment of international trade.
The Importance of Custom Solutions in Global Trade
Custom solutions refer to the tailored approaches that businesses use to address specific needs, challenges, and goals in their operations. These solutions are necessary for global trade because each market, product, and shipment can present unique obstacles. Whether it’s a shipping route through congested ports, compliance with local laws, or meeting customer expectations for fast delivery, a one-size-fits-all strategy simply doesn’t work in today’s complex supply chain landscape.
The role of custom solutions becomes particularly significant when considering the diverse nature of global trade. For example, different regions of the world have varying infrastructure, customs regulations, and local requirements, which can drastically affect the efficiency of trade operations.
Companies that operate in multiple countries must adapt to these regional nuances to ensure seamless movement of goods. Without personalized strategies and custom solutions, businesses may face unnecessary delays, increased costs, and even the risk of compliance violations.
Custom Solutions for Logistics and Freight
One of the most critical aspects of global trade is freight management, which involves the transportation of goods across borders. Whether by sea, air, or land, logistics plays a fundamental role in ensuring that products arrive at their destinations on time and in good condition. Companies often work with logistics partners who provide custom solutions to meet their unique shipping needs.
For instance, a company that frequently ships bulky goods internationally may require specialized packaging and handling procedures to ensure the safety of its products during transit. Similarly, some businesses may need expedited services, requiring faster transport routes or airfreight options. Custom solutions allow these businesses to select the most efficient and cost-effective shipping methods.
For example, seafreight is a popular method of transportation for large shipments across oceans, particularly when cost-efficiency is a priority. Companies that ship goods in bulk can leverage seafreight services to take advantage of lower costs and fewer logistical constraints compared to air or land transport. Customizing seafreight services can include optimizing container size, planning efficient routes, and ensuring compliance with international shipping standards.
The Role of Technology in Custom Solutions
Another key aspect of custom solutions in global trade is the integration of technology. Digital tools, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning are revolutionizing how businesses approach supply chain management. For example, AI-powered predictive analytics can forecast demand trends, helping companies to make informed decisions about inventory and shipping methods. Similarly, blockchain technology offers improved security and transparency, ensuring that the transfer of goods and payment is smooth and reliable.
Furthermore, automated customs clearance processes are helping businesses navigate the complex regulations, reducing the risk of delays and fines. With real-time tracking and visibility, companies can keep a close eye on their shipments, anticipate potential disruptions, and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
The dynamic and ever-evolving nature of global trade demands innovative solutions. Custom solutions are vital for businesses that need to keep competitive in an increasingly complex marketplace. By tailoring logistics strategies, using technology, and working with trusted partners, companies can optimize their supply chain operations and overcome the challenges posed by global trade.
Bridgnorth Aluminium operates the only fully integrated aluminium coil rolling plant in the UK and employs 330 people in Shropshire.
The company sells 20% of its volumes into the US and the introduction of aluminium and steel tariffs will create uncertainty and, potentially, makes the business less competitive than the current system of quota and exemptions.
Adrian Musgrave, Head of Sales at Bridgnorth Aluminium, commented: “These tariffs add another dimension to the global uncertainty we are all currently dealing with.
“If there is no movement on the 25% rate it will make trading with the US more difficult for us as a business, but it could also cause supply and cost issues for firms in America too.
“For example, for a significant portion of our US sales, there is currently no US producer. This means there is no threat to domestic aluminium production, yet companies using our aluminium may soon be hit by rising costs.
“What would we like to see? A deal between the UK and the US that removes tariffs all together or significantly reduces it from the 25% rate. This is something we are championing with the Department for Business and Trade and key manufacturing bodies, such as the Aluminium Federation (ALFED). Confederation of British Metalforming and Make UK.
“We are grateful for the engagement of the UK government and the manufacturing associations, who are all lobbying hard on our behalf.”
Derry Bros, the leading customs clearance specialist, has further enhanced its service offering in mainland Europe by taking advantage of EU customs procedure, Regime 42. The company will now be able to assist customers, initially in Belgium and France, with streamlining customs clearance and VAT management for imported goods from the UK.
“Regime 42 provides significant advantages for EU importers by simplifying the clearance of goods at key entry points from the UK, thereby enhancing import and transport operations,” explains Colin Robb, Head of Operations & Sales at Derry Bros. “By helping our customers to implement and coordinate this customs procedure into their businesses, they can significantly improve efficiency, reduce transit times and better manage cashflow.”
Regime 42 allows businesses to import goods into one EU member state and then transport them to another member state without paying import VAT at the point of entry. The scheme makes it possible to defer the payment of import VAT, which is then assigned to the purchaser in the destination member state at a 0% VAT rate. This alleviates financial pressures, facilitating a more seamless and economically viable import process.
“Since the goods are cleared at the EU frontier, there are no delays waiting for import VAT payments, ensuring that goods reach their destination faster, which improves customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Additionally, Regime 42 eliminates the need for older customs procedures like the T1, providing more control over freight and reducing costs associated with trailer usage,” adds Robb.
Derry Bros has more than 60 years of experience in the freight and logistics industry, serving the UK, EU and beyond. With a comprehensive range of managed booking, customs and consultancy services, it is helping businesses to navigate some of the most complex challenges facing cross-border trade and transport. The company’s success and proven track record is underpinned by award-winning technology systems, developed in-house, including the all-in-one digital customs solution, Digicom.
Derry Bros experienced record demand for its customs clearance services in the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe during 2024 as hauliers sought to navigate increasingly complex cross-border regulations and red tape. The company completed over 250,000 customs declarations during the year – following significant investment in its IT infrastructure, office network and talent development – helping to more than double turnover.
“Customs clearance for the movement of goods is rapidly evolving, which has left hauliers struggling to keep pace with the change,” explains Colin Robb, Head of Operations & Sales at Derry Bros. “By continually improving and adapting our cross-border solutions, we have become partner of choice for a growing number of freight operators that require their shipments to clear customs with minimal fuss and without costly delays.”
As part of Derry Bros’ growth strategy, the company increased the size of its office network, with two new locations in London and Poznan, while headcount increased by over 10% to ensure it had the expertise in place to meet customer requirements. At the same time, Derry Bros achieved Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, the internationally recognised standard for supply chain security, to take advantage of simpler and faster customs procedures.
During 2024, Derry Bros enhanced its digital platform, Digicom, to automate and further streamline the processing of customs declarations required for importing and exporting goods. The introduction of a single-entry, one-click solution made it possible to generate and submit multiple customs declarations at the same time. Most recently, the company leveraged its advanced IT capabilities to launch a cost-effective service for handling declaration requirements for the incoming GB Safety & Security (S&S) import controls.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate a record-breaking year. This has only been made possible by the hard work and commitment of our entire team, who are the driving force behind our success. As the customs landscape continues to develop in the UK and EU during 2025, we see further growth opportunities for the business moving forward,” adds Robb.
Derry Bros has more than 60 years of experience in the freight and logistics industry, serving the UK, EU and beyond. With a comprehensive range of managed booking, customs and consultancy services, it is helping businesses to navigate some of the most complex challenges facing cross-border trade and transport. The company’s success and proven track record is underpinned by award-winning technology systems, developed in-house, including the all-in-one digital customs solution, Digicom.
Derry Bros, the leading customs clearance specialist, is supporting the transition to the GB Safety & Security (S&S) import controls by cutting the cost of processing declaration requirements. The company is leveraging its advanced digitalisation and automation capabilities to help haulage customers reduce third-party charges by as much as 50% as well as avoid any delays and penalties associated with the incoming rule.
“We have invested heavily in our digital infrastructure over the past 12 months, so we are best placed to support our customers as they navigate these latest customs changes for cargo coming from the EU,” explains Colin Robb, Head of Operations & Sales at Derry Bros. “We can ensure they mitigate potential risk, gain competitive advantage and continue to operate smoothly by achieving the highest levels of compliance in the most affordable manner.”
From 31 January 2025, S&S measures will become mandatory for all goods entering Great Britain as part of the UK government’s plan to strengthen border controls and ensure that imported goods meet the country’s safety and security standards. Failure to comply with the declaration requirement will likely result in significant delays as well as potential penalties and rejection of goods at the border.
Derry Bros has more than 60 years of experience in the freight and logistics industry, serving the UK, EU and beyond. With a comprehensive range of managed booking, customs and consultancy services, it is helping businesses to navigate some of the most complex challenges facing cross-border trade and transport. The company’s success and proven track record is underpinned by award-winning technology systems, developed in-house, including the all-in-one digital customs solution, Digicom.
Derry Bros’ customs clearance operation has achieved Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, the internationally recognised standard that is designed to enhance cross-border supply chain security and support legitimate trade. As a certified AEO, the company can take advantage of simpler and faster customs procedures, eliminating delays and increasing the certainty of shipments.
“Gaining AEO certification is significant milestone for the business, demonstrating our compliance with customs control procedures and supply chain security standards,” explains Colin Robb, Head of Operations & Sales at Derry Bros. “This will enable us to clear goods faster, with fewer inspections, ensuring smoother, safer and more efficient customs and international logistics processes.”
An AEO is an organisation that has been officially approved by customs authorities to be a reliable and low-risk operator in the international supply chain. As a result, they are granted a range of benefits such as expedited clearance, reduced customs controls and greater access to simplified procedures. For Derry Bros, this development is part of its commitment to excellence in customs compliance, security, and efficient freight management.
“This achievement is testament to the hard work of our team, underscoring their dedication to delivering the highest standards to our customers. Becoming an AEO will reinforce our reputation as a secure, reliable and trustworthy business partner and help maintain our competitive advantage within the global customs marketplace,” adds Robb.
Derry Bros has more than 60 years of experience in the freight and logistics industry, serving the UK, EU and beyond. With a comprehensive range of managed booking, customs and consultancy services, it is helping businesses to navigate some of the most complex challenges facing cross-border trade and transport. The company’s success and proven track record is underpinned by award-winning technology systems, developed in-house, including the all-in-one digital customs solution, Digicom.
A Leeds-based automotive technology firm is growing its exports with new customers in Australia, the Middle East and South Africa.
Mad Devs supports car manufacturers and dealers with lead and document management software to improve operations and the customer experience. It has rapidly grown and now assists 1,800 sites worldwide.
Over the last 12 months, the company has created 10 new jobs in the region across sales and digital teams and has championed remote working.
David Boyce, CEO at Mad Devs
Commenting on the expansion, David Boyce, CEO at Mad Devs, said: “We have grown rapidly thanks to a relentless focus on solving problems for our customers with innovation. It’s attracted some of the biggest brands in the world as customers, and we are now well-positioned to accelerate our global expansion.
“Leeds is a great place to grow a digital business with access to a world-class talent pool and a supportive eco-system.”
Mad Devs operates two main platforms: iTrackLEADS, which helps the sales team manage customer enquiries more effectively, and iStoreDOCS, a document management system that facilitates the seamless flow of digital documents. This allows dealers to benefit from compliance, document storage, and customer retention tools.
Following the pandemic, buying a car has become more digitised, and Mad Devs is growing quickly by helping dealers transition from in-person to online. It will launch new products in 2025 to further assist retailers in the industry’s rapid changes.
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Pictured: David Boyce.
iStoreDOCS was developed by Mad Devs, an automotive software solutions company launched by industry veteran David Boyce and partners Adrian Favill and Mark Craven. The company’s open platform technology helps facilitate the digital transformation of automotive retail.
