3 key takeaways from TOC Europe 2023

From 13–15 July 2023, our Smart Ports and Green Ports team, and Maritime colleagues, attended the Terminal Operators Conference (TOC) Europe in Rotterdam. And our Senior Smart and Green Port Consultant, Mark Wootton, also presented at the event.

For over 40 years, TOC Europe has been bringing together port experts and stakeholders from across northern Europe and the UK to discuss emerging trends and challenges.

We’ve narrowed down over 100 hours of content from the 2023 conference into three key takeaways. Read on to discover our highlights.

1: Digitalising the supply network

The theme for TOC Europe 2023 was “Building Bridges Across the Supply Network” – which Mark set out to discuss in his day-one presentation, How digitalisation leads to more resilient ports and supply chains.

Mark explained some of the obstacles preventing port operators from making the most of digitalisation. These include data silos and limited visibility, and a general reluctance to share data. He then went on to suggest what steps they can take to overcome them.

He expressed the importance of digital infrastructure and increasingly connected supply chains in enabling operators to manage disruption. From COVID-19 to the effects of climate change and geopolitical uncertainty, operators need connected, digitalised operations to better manage risk.

The session was chaired by Dr Oscar Pernia of NextPort, and included a panel of experts. All agreed that digital transformation and technological improvements will continue to be crucial to digitalising supply networks and delivering value.

2: Tackling the net-zero agenda

One of the most notable shifts from previous years at TOC Europe was the focus on sustainability. In fact, a whole stage was dedicated to the subject, with numerous speakers presenting on a range of topics – from sustainability regulations, to energy transitions, and alternative fuels.

Despite the commercial competition between operators, a range of port and logistics stakeholders came together to help tackle climate change. Throughout TOC Europe, they shared experiences and insights to benefit the industry and wider society.

We’re encouraged that ports are prioritising the net-zero agenda and focusing on the need for equipment and technology investment to aid sustainable improvements into the future.

3: Collaborating within the port community

The collaboration between stakeholders didn’t stop with sustainability. One of the main advantages of the event is that it acts as an AGM for leading port and cargo professionals.

With thousands of decision-makers in attendance every year, TOC Europe is a great way to network with and learn from influential experts within the maritime industry.

Mark said: “Besides the conference feeling like an extended reunion, we had serious discussions on topics such as standards, interoperability, and cyber security, to share data and drive the industry forward.”

Beyond TOC Europe, there are many well-established organisations that facilitate collaboration. And new ones are being created all the time, such as the Terminal Industry Committee 4.0, and the Digital Container Shipping Association.

Get the expertise to create sustainable and resilient facilities

We’re already excited to reconnect with the global community at TOC Europe 2024, and hope to see you at there next year.
In the meantime, you might be interested to see the work we’re doing to help create smart ports, and how we could help you work towards a sustainable future.