In this edition of The Brief, we look at several developments currently shaping the operating environment for supply chain teams.

Middle East conflict disrupting major shipping routes

Ongoing conflict in parts of the Middle East continues to affect people and communities seriously across the region. Situations like this inevitably ripple beyond the immediate area, influencing many aspects of daily life, including the systems that connect economies and supply chains around the world.

Early signs of that have been disruptions to some shipping routes around the Strait of Hormuz. Logistics providers across air, sea, and road freight are closely monitoring the situation, as the region plays a critical role in global energy flows and international trade.

UK manufacturing activity expands again

UK manufacturing activity expanded for a fourth consecutive month in February, according to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data. The increase in output was supported by stronger demand across export markets, including Europe, the United States, and parts of Asia.

Manufacturers reported an increase in new orders and a gradual improvement in confidence following a challenging period for the sector. However, the report also highlights ongoing cost pressures, particularly around energy and labour. While the expansion remains modest, the sustained run of growth suggests a degree of stability returning to parts of the UK manufacturing base after several years of volatility.

GXO CFO appointment

Global contract logistics provider GXO Logistics has announced the appointment of Mark Suchinski as Chief Financial Officer, effective from 1 April 2026. Suchinski brings more than three decades of experience across finance and operations leadership roles in large international businesses. He previously held senior positions at aerospace manufacturer TransDigm Group.

Leadership appointments at companies of GXO’s scale often reflect the complexity of managing large multi-site logistics operations, particularly as customer contracts grow in size and scope. As contract logistics providers continue to support increasingly automated warehouses and more integrated supply chain services, financial leadership plays a key role in balancing capital investment with customer expectations and operational performance.

Europa Worldwide Group marks 60 years and announces new growth strategy

Europa Worldwide Group has marked its 60-year anniversary by unveiling a refreshed brand identity and outlining plans for continued expansion across its freight and logistics operations. The company highlighted that it has moved more than £11.2 billion worth of goods between the UK and EU since Brexit, supported by its customs solution Europa Flow.

The announcement reflects Europa’s continued focus on cross-border trade between the UK and Europe, an area that has remained operationally complex since the introduction of new customs procedures. By strengthening its infrastructure and services around UK–EU freight, the company aims to further position itself as a specialist operator in this corridor.

Manston Airport freight hub proposal moves forward

Plans to revive Manston Airport in Kent as a dedicated air freight hub are progressing, with the project positioned as a potential boost to UK air cargo capacity. The redevelopment would focus primarily on freight operations rather than passenger services and aims to support the movement of time-sensitive cargo.

Located close to major road links and near the Channel, the site could provide additional capacity for logistics operators serving London and the South East. If completed, the project may help ease pressure on existing cargo facilities at major UK airports while strengthening regional freight infrastructure.

New EV charging hub planned at Hunterston PARC

Peel Ports has announced plans for a new electric vehicle charging hub at Hunterston PARC in Scotland. The facility will be powered by renewable energy and forms part of broader plans to develop the site as a hub for low-carbon logistics and energy infrastructure.

The development is part of a wider shift seen across the logistics and transport sector as organisations begin to prepare for the long-term transition to lower-emission vehicle fleets. Infrastructure projects such as this are expected to play an important role in supporting future electrification across freight and port operations.

Leadership and talent outlook

Across many of the stories in this edition, one theme appears repeatedly: supply chains are becoming more interconnected and more operationally demanding.

For many organisations, the difference often lies in how well teams understand the detail of their networks. That includes how quickly they can adjust routes, respond to changes in demand, or work through the operational implications of new regulations and infrastructure.

Experienced leadership and strong operational teams remain central to that process. When organisations understand their networks well and have the right people in place, they tend to be better equipped to handle change with greater confidence and consistency.

If it is ever useful to exchange views on the market or sense-check a future hiring strategy, we are always open to a conversation. Contact our team or subscribe to get this straight in your inbox.

We’ll be back in two weeks with The Brief. Until then, feel free to share this with your team or let us know if there’s a topic you’d like us to explore next.

Till next time,

The MVP Recruitment & Talent Solutions Team