Set against the picturesque backdrop of The Tudor Barn in Belstead, Hive Connect’s third networking forum took place yesterday, on 29th April. It brought together industry professionals for an insightful and impactful event. Here, Porttalk shares highlights from this shipping-centric gathering, offering a closer look at the key insights shared by its distinguished guest speakers.

David Kennedy Browne, Director of Corporate and Social Affairs at Maersk, discussed the company’s ambitious sustainability goals, including its revised target to achieve net zero by 2040, a decade ahead of its previous projections. With Maersk responsible for moving 20% of the world’s goods, David emphasised that sustainability is a core part of the company’s strategy and how this commitment to net zero extends beyond shipping operations, encompassing everything from offices to planes, vessels, and every other facet of the Maersk empire.

David also detailed Maersk’s decarbonisation strategy, including unconscious decarbonisation, which resulted from the 2008 decision to reduce fleet speeds from 24 knots to 12 knots, and its conscious decarbonisation efforts, which include adopting methanol, developing ships powered by alternative fuels, and exploring options such as ammonia and hydrogen. Maersk’s recent retrofitting of an existing diesel engine to run on methanol was also highlighted as a significant step towards accelerating the company’s methanol-powered fleet.

The audience was intrigued to learn about Maersk’s East/West Network and the company’s Cape of Good Hope routing, a critical adjustment made in response to the Houthi situation in the Red Sea. Following an attack on the Maersk Yorktown last year, where the UK’s HMS Diamond intercepted missiles aimed at the ship, Maersk was forced to reroute all vessels via the Cape of Good Hope. This necessary detour, while ensuring the safety of their personnel, fleet and clients’ cargo, resulted in increased fuel consumption due to longer voyage times, which posed challenges to the company’s sustainability objectives.

Alison MacLeod, Maersk’s Growth Enablement Manager, then discussed how the company applies its decarbonisation strategy on the final mile of logistics, outlining their collaborative efforts, innovations, and plans to ensure seamless end-to-end integration in the supply chain.

In a broader context, Alex Leanne and Gavin van Marle from The Loadstar provided a deep dive into the impact of Trump’s tariff escalations on global supply chains.

Their comprehensive market overview included an analysis of how tariffs have disrupted container and air cargo markets, resulting in immediate drops of 30-50% in shipping bookings. They also revealed troubling forecasts of empty shelves in the US in the coming months, a 42% blank sailing figure for the Asia-NAWC route anticipated for next week, and how major retailers like Walmart and Target have adapted by revising their supply chains and pricing strategies. The audience was also informed of a significant shift: from this Friday (2nd May 2025), the de minimis exemption for imports into the US will no longer apply to goods from China and Hong Kong, meaning US duties, taxes, and fees will apply to all imports, even those under the previous $800 threshold.

The event concluded with an emotional and powerful presentation from Hannah Walker of Brave Futures, a Suffolk-based charity dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse. Hannah also delivered an impassioned plea, urging attendees to take action by supporting vital prevention efforts.

Paula Bellamy and James Miller, co-founders of Hive Connect, reflected on the event: “Our third networking forum has been a resounding success. The calibre of speakers, the depth of their presentations, and the feedback from attendees acknowledge the crucial role Hive Connect has in the region’s logistics industry.

“David and Alison’s insights into Maersk’s sustainability efforts and future ambitions provided valuable takeaways for organisations of all sizes. We also thank Alex and Gavin for returning to share their expertise on the complex challenges brought on by Trump’s tariff decisions.”

Hive Connect’s next meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, June 25th, will focus on freight forwarding. For more information or to attend and become a member, please visit Hive Connect.

Image: Credit Janine Edwards, Media Pimps.

In an industry where efficiency and collaboration are crucial, networking has often been overlooked as a strategic tool in the supply chain. Yet, as global pressures mount, fostering strong local connections has never been more important.

Recognising this need, Hive Connect – founded by James Miller and Paula Bellamy – has been designed to bring together stakeholders from across the local supply chain, from ports to liner shipping to container haulage, rail operators, customs brokers, freight forwarders, cargo handlers, warehousing, and distribution.

Breaking Down Barriers in the Supply Chain

James Miller explains, “We are on a mission to create an accessible and dynamic network where businesses can exchange knowledge, tackle challenges, and forge stronger industry connections beyond their own organisations and sectors – because we are all so interconnected.”

To achieve this, Hive Connect will host six events per year—four structured breakfast briefings with specialist speakers and two evening networking sessions designed for informal connections.

“Our breakfast meetings offer market insights from The Loadstar, expert discussions on key industry issues, and engagement with education providers to help develop the next generation of supply chain professionals,” says James. “The evening events, meanwhile, provide a more relaxed setting where members can build relationships beyond the usual corporate environment.”  Importantly, he says, “both are designed to create new business opportunities for the members and delegates.”

Beyond Events: Building a Connected Community

While face-to-face meetings form the foundation of Hive Connect, the initiative extends far beyond in-person gatherings.

“We want this to be more than just an events platform,” says Paula Bellamy. “Between meetings, members can continue discussions, share knowledge and collaborate, helping build a more integrated and resilient supply chain when adaptability is critical.”

Why It Matters Now

With geopolitical shifts, economic pressures, and regulatory changes reshaping global logistics, well-connected businesses will be better prepared for the challenges ahead.

“Initiatives like Hive Connect reflect a wider industry shift towards collaboration over isolation,” adds Paula. “By creating a space for structured, insight-driven networking, we are laying the groundwork for a more strategic and resilient supply chain ecosystem—one that could shape the industry for years to come.”

Next Hive Connect event

23rd April, The Tudor Barn, Belstead, Ipswich. To find out more, please get in touch with Paula or James.

e: hiveconnect@maritimestandard.net

w: https://www.hiveconnect.me/

What is the New Anglia Peer Networks programme?

Peer Networks is a national peer-to-peer networking programme for SME leaders that want to grow and develop their organisation for future success.

The New Anglia Peer Networks programme is delivered through our Growth Hub and will support over 200 eligible businesses, fully funded.

We create diverse cohorts of individuals to collaboratively work through common business issues. Through interactive action learning, we enable you to discuss your own challenges, gain and reflect on valuable feedback and implement practical solutions to overcome them.

Up to 18 hours of fully funded networking support is provided through the programme as well as up to 3.5 hours of one-to-one support matched to specific needs to your business to help build on your learning experience.

From logistics and HR to sales, marketing and more, our expert business consultants give you the flexibility to create a trusted support network that works for you. We can help you to build and strengthen your business, improve its overall performance and increase your own leadership confidence.

How do I get started?
Build a strong, trusted network of connections to help your business grow and develop further by filling out the form here.