Redditch, UK: Oakland International has asked market analysis research firm Analytiqa to look into the distress load market in the UK and Ireland in order to “better understand the key issues”.
Analytiqa is carrying out interviews with senior executives in the retail and manufacturing sectors in the UK in order to establish the frequency and impact of distressed loads – where a load in transit is compromised due to migrant activity.
Oakland International chief operating officer Lee Whiting said: “Distressed loads are a challenging area for many transport and supply chain operators that can be exacerbated by illegal migrant activity along with external and environmental factors beyond their control. By undertaking this market analysis factors including the impact, frequency, governance, control, resolution and risk management of distressed loads will be considered.
“Over recent years we have seen demand for our distress load management (DLM) service grow exponentially but there is quite a variation in terms of operational criteria and services offered within the market, hence we’re keen to better understand customer’s challenges in relation to this issue and assist to establish industry best practice that will hopefully be supported by government policy and legislation in the long term.”
Oakland expects the completed report to provide important insight for customers, operators, government and other related national organisations. It is also hoped that the report’s findings will raise awareness of the challenges and consequences of distress loads.
Analytiqa director Mark O’Bornick said: “At present there seems to be little available quality insight and analysis within the market around the frequency and impact of distressed loads and the security implications for the food supply chain in particular. By partnering with Oakland International, we look forward to gaining a better understanding of the size, challenges and dynamics within the market that will hopefully contribute to operational improvements across the sector in the future.
“By engaging Analytiqa, Oakland International is looking to support the sector through the provision of actionable, robust research and analysis whilst also looking to better understand existing and prospective clients’ needs and challenges in relation to Distress Load Management, both commercially and operationally.”
