Tailwind Shipping Lines: Navigating the Turbulent Waters of Ocean Shipping

This session at DELIVER Europe 2024 featured Alexander Pracht, Head of Sales and Contracting for Tailwind Shipping Lines, the shipping line of Lidl, discussing the company's unique approach to ocean shipping and its focus on reliability, simplicity, and collaboration.

The Challenges of Ocean Shipping

Prahl highlighted the challenges and uncertainties inherent in ocean shipping, comparing it to a turbulent "wormhole" where unforeseen events and disruptions can significantly impact supply chains. He emphasized that while the industry hoped for calmer waters after the pandemic, the reality is that disruptions like the conflict in the Middle East continue to cause significant delays and uncertainties.

Lidl's Solution: Ship Different

To address these challenges, Lidl launched Tailwind Shipping Lines with the goal of taking control of its ocean freight and ensuring the reliable delivery of goods to its stores. The company's "ship different" philosophy focuses on:

• Reliability: Ensuring vessels arrive at ports on time and according to schedule.
• Simplicity: Operating a simple and transparent network with minimal risk and complexity.
• Collaboration: Partnering with trusted providers and offering space to third-party customers.

Key Features of Tailwind Shipping Lines

• Reliable Service: Tailwind boasts a high level of schedule integrity, with minimal delays and a strong commitment to punctuality.
• Simple Network: The company operates a streamlined network with a focus on key ports and minimal transshipments, reducing risk and complexity.
• Space for Third Parties: Tailwind offers a fixed allocation of space to third-party customers, ensuring their cargo is not displaced by Lidl's own shipments.
• Strong Partnerships: Tailwind collaborates with trusted partners for various aspects of its operations, including logistics, warehousing, and intermodal transport.
• Digital Solutions: The company offers online tracking, API integration, and a growing range of digital services.

Tailwind Intermodal: Expanding Services

Tailwind has also launched a sister company, Tailwind Intermodal, to provide warehousing and hinterland logistics services, further expanding its capabilities and offering customers a more comprehensive solution.

Key Takeaways

• Control and Reliability: Taking control of ocean freight can significantly improve supply chain reliability and reduce disruptions.
• Simplicity and Transparency: A streamlined network and transparent operations can minimise risk and improve efficiency.
• Collaboration and Partnerships: Strong partnerships can enhance capabilities and provide a more comprehensive solution.
• Agility and Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and unforeseen events is crucial in today's volatile environment.
• Customer Focus: Tailwind's customer-centric approach prioritises the needs of its customers, both internal and external.

By embracing its "ship different" philosophy and focusing on reliability, simplicity, and collaboration, Tailwind Shipping Lines offers a compelling alternative to traditional ocean freight providers, particularly for businesses seeking greater control and predictability in their supply chains.