DACHSER UK & Ireland’s recent addition – Daniel Bateson, Regional Chemical and Cosmetics Solutions Business Development Manager – gives insights into his day to day role and the world of chemical logistics.
How does DACHSER ensure the safety and compliance of hazardous goods during transport?
At DACHSER, we provide a bespoke solution called DACHSER Chem Logistics, specifically designed for the safe handling of hazardous goods from collection through to delivery.
Our drivers, who are the initial handlers of your goods during their journey, undergo comprehensive training to ensure the safe management of these materials.
Our European-wide network is also fully ADR compliant, ensuring that all regulations for transporting dangerous goods are met.
Globally, each of our branches has multiple dangerous goods safety advisers, and we train over 10,000 staff annually in hazardous materials to uphold the most current and highest standards.
We also cater for the storage of hazardous goods. For example, in Rathcoole, Dublin, we operate an upper-tier COMAH site catering to a variety of needs. Whether you are storing Class 3 flammable liquids, gas cylinders, or caged aerosols, we’ve got you covered.
How do the services you provide for hazardous goods apply to cosmetics?
While cosmetic products do contain chemicals, they need to be handled in a completely different way to hazardous goods that are transported in bulk. The delivery locations can be radically different too.
Delivering an IBC to a chemical processing plant varies enormously to delivering a pallet of perfume to a duty-free section of an airport at a certain time of day. Intricate details such as returns management, special packaging solutions and replenishment management in warehousing must also be taken into careful consideration.
Cosmetics is also a growing sector in the UK, and in 2024 the revenue in the cosmetics market in this country alone is projected to be £2.5 billion. We are seeing now, more than ever, new and existing companies expanding into the sector and we have created this solution to help them with their logistics requirements.
How does your role influence your travel schedule?
As my role is regional, it involves a lot of travel around the UK and Ireland, visiting customers and attending various networking and trade events. Recently, I was lucky enough to be invited to the prestigious Institute of France in South Kensington to attend their inaugural French Beauty experience, so it can be very varied.
As part of my chemical and cosmetics solution induction I was also invited to join my colleagues at DACHSER Manheim. We met in the historic city of Heidelberg where I was really taken aback by the mountains and stunning scenic views. As someone who loves the outdoors I am eager to return with my mountain bike to do some further exploring.
What changes can we expect in the field of chemical transportation and distribution?
In the ever-evolving landscape of chemical logistics, sustainability takes centre stage. Industry players are increasingly committed to eco-friendly practices, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. Notably, last year DACHSER Ireland achieved a milestone by integrating three high-roof electric vans that fully comply with ADR regulations. This success story underscores the growing trend toward cleaner transport solutions.
Moreover, digitisation, artificial intelligence and automation are streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency, and promoting sustainability. As battery technology and alternative fuel solutions advance, emission-free vehicles are poised to play a pivotal role in chemical transport, offering a greener alternative for the future.
