You’re More Than Welcome!

Members Reflect on the Warmth, Connections, and Opportunities That Define The Cooperative Logistics Network, and its 9th Annual Meeting in Bangkok

We are truly grateful for the many kind and heartfelt messages we received from members following The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 9th Annual Meeting in Bangkok. Beyond the business opportunities and one-to-one meetings, many of the testimonials shared a common feeling: appreciation for the warm welcome, the positive atmosphere, and the sense of belonging that continues to define the network.

From first-time attendees describing how welcomed they felt, to long-standing members celebrating years of friendship and collaboration, the reflections reminded us that strong partnerships are built through genuine human connections. To every member who travelled to Bangkok, participated actively, and helped create such a memorable event: thank you for your trust, your involvement, and for continuing to strengthen the network throughout the year between meetings.

The recently concluded conference once again demonstrated that successful networking is about far more than business meetings alone. While members explored new opportunities and future collaborations, what stood out most throughout the event was the spirit of community, openness, and cooperation shared among attendees.

First-Time Attendees Share Their Experience

IL Rae Cho - The Coop Seoul

For many first-time attendees, the conference became far more than a networking event. Between the one-to-one meetings, social gatherings, and informal conversations throughout the week, members had the opportunity to build genuine relationships with partners from across the world. IL Rae Cho from Nest Sea and Air, a member in Seoul, shared that although nervous at first, the “warm welcomes and kindness from everyone” quickly made the experience feel “comfortable and happy.”

The relaxed and friendly atmosphere throughout the Bangkok gathering helped transform professional connections into personal ones, something many attendees highlighted in their feedback after returning home. Anu from LogiBeats Freight Service Pvt. Ltd., a member in Ahmedabad, India, described the event as “wonderfully organized” and reflected on how “people I had only known through email turned out to be friends in person.”

For many participants, finally meeting long-time overseas partners face-to-face became one of the most rewarding aspects of the conference. The event created space not only for business discussions, but also for trust, familiarity, and stronger collaboration moving forward. Anna-Lena, a first-time attendee from Kopf & Lübben GmbH, founder member of The Coop in Bremen, Frankfurt and Hamburg, Germany, described the conference as a “wonderful and memorable experience,” especially because of the opportunity to start “putting faces to the voices from phone calls” while creating many new connections along the way.

Reconnecting with Old Friends and Building New Partnerships

One of the most valued aspects of the conference continues to be the opportunity to reconnect with long-standing partners while also building relationships with new members joining the network from different parts of the world. Throughout the event, conversations extended far beyond the meeting tables, creating an atmosphere that blended business development with genuine friendship. Tonny Yeh from NVISION Limited, a member in Ningbo, China, described the experience as “great seeing old friends again and meeting new friends.”

For many long-time members, the annual conference has become a tradition that strengthens relationships built over many years of cooperation. Gopala Pandey from  Three Aces Global, a member in New Delhi, India, who has been attending the conference for years, expressed his pleasure at reconnecting with old partners once again. The Bangkok gathering also created opportunities for members from different regions to finally meet in person after years of working together remotely.

Elsa You from Expoline, a member in Incheon, Korea, shared that it was “wonderful meeting everyone,” while Marlon de Guzman from EMCS Philippines, Inc. a member in Cebu City, Philippines, spoke about how happy she was “to have met everyone in Bangkok.” As the event came to a close, many members also took time to acknowledge the effort behind the organization of the conference and the continuity that has helped strengthen the network year after year.

Christopher Aquino from Road Logistics Inc, a member in Buffalo, USA, thanked the COOP team “for all the work on this year’s conference,” while Rakibul Islam from Swift Freight International, a Coop member in Dhaka reflected on attending all nine meetings, highlighting the long-standing relationships and continuity that continue to define the network.

A Conference Defined by Warm Hospitality and Outstanding Organization

The Bangkok conference left a strong impression on members from across the network, many of whom highlighted not only the quality of the meetings, but also the atmosphere, hospitality, and relationships built throughout the event. Lance Firmani from Skyline Freight, a  member in Johannesburg, described the conference as “unreal,” praising “the meetings, the parties, the late nights, the amazing food,” and adding that the event “once again exceeded all expectations.”

The organization and coordination behind the event were also widely appreciated by attendees. Mr. Faizan Sattar, CEO of Infinity Shipping Services, a member in Karachi, remarked: “It was truly a rewarding experience once again to be part of the event and meet so many professionals from around the world. The conference was exceptionally well organized, and the hospitality, coordination, and teamwork shown by your team were outstanding throughout the event.”

In a similar vein, Pushpak Joshi from Realog Shipping, a member in Ahmedabad, thanked the Cooperative team for “a wonderful conference and excellent arrangements,” while also highlighting the “valuable meetings” and “stronger collaborations” built during the event.

Beyond the formal meetings themselves, many attendees emphasized how the conference created opportunities for meaningful interaction and stronger professional relationships. Daniel Sackeyfio from Kandiel Logistics, a member in Tema/Accra, Ghana, says, “Organizing programs like this is no easy feat, so thank you. Thanks also to all members; the one-to-one meetings and personal interactions were very refreshing.”

The smooth organization and welcoming atmosphere of the event continued to resonate throughout the testimonials shared after the conference. Rini Verhoef from C-Log Worldwide, a member in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, expressed special thanks to the Cooperative Logistics Network team for the “excellent organization,” saying “everything was perfect.” That sentiment was echoed by Ba Anh Vu Huynh from Alliance International Logistics, a member in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, who thanked Antonio, the Coop team, and all the members for making the conference both “friendly and productive.”

Productive Meetings and Future Collaboration Opportunities

Beyond the networking and social activities, many members emphasized the long-term business opportunities and partnerships strengthened during the conference. The one-to-one meetings once again played a central role in helping members exchange ideas, explore new collaborations, and reinforce existing relationships across the network.

Shraddha Jadhav from Pace Global Logistics, a member in Los Angeles, USA, thanked all the partners “for taking the time to meet,” reflecting the collaborative spirit that defined the event throughout the week. The conference also encouraged members to continue building on those connections long after returning home. Ricardo Videga from Portos International, a Coop member in Monterrey, Mexico, encouraged fellow members to “stay in touch to grow our businesses,” while Mizanur Rahman from RMK World Freight, a member in Dhaka, Bangladesh, described the gathering as “a successful and productive conference.”

Several attendees also highlighted their enthusiasm for future cooperation within the network. The MER Shipping team from Istanbul reaffirmed their commitment to “grow the organization & collaboration to much higher ground day by day.” Similarly, Deedy Phueanpitak from Sonic Interfreight, a member in Bangkok, Thailand, encouraged members to “keep Sonic Thailand in mind” for future cooperation opportunities, expressing hopes to work with more partners across the network in the near future.

A Community Where Everyone Feels Welcome

Many testimonials reflected the friendly and supportive spirit that continues to define the COOP community. Throughout the conference, members repeatedly highlighted the welcoming atmosphere that made both long-time participants and newcomers feel equally at home.

Arda Uluca from Ard Arda Lojistik, a member in Istanbul, Turkey, thanked fellow members for the “great atmosphere.” Cisil Murat Akman from Chain Lojistik Hizmetleri, a member in Izmir, Turkey, expressed appreciation to “the Coop family” and shared how “wonderful” it was to meet everyone once again.

The sense of openness and friendship extended beyond the conference itself, with members already looking toward future growth within the network. One attendee shared thanks for the “warm welcome” and the “amazing few days in BKK,” while also introducing “a good client and friend” who may be interested in joining the community in the future.

 

Explore the photos from The Cooperative’s 9th Annual Meeting in Bangkok, share your favourite moments on social media, and tag us if you post your own pictures from the event. We’d love to see them.

The Cooperative Logistics Network Partners with Baltic Ports Conference 2025

The annual event will bring maritime leaders together to discuss sustainability, security, and the future of European trade

The Cooperative Logistics Network is proud to serve as a media partner for the Baltic Ports Conference (BPC) 2025, organized by the Baltic Ports Organization and hosted by the Port of Gdańsk. The event will take place from 6–8 October alongside the 23rd International Maritime and Military Fair BALTEXPO 2025.

Baltic Ports Conference
Baltic Ports Conference

As one of Europe’s fastest-growing ports, the Port of Gdańsk will provide the perfect setting for discussions on key challenges and opportunities facing today’s maritime industry. The conference will address topics such as adapting to rapid market changes, implementing pro-environmental solutions, strengthening maritime security, and exploring the future of seaports in a shifting global trade landscape.

Held together with BALTEXPO, a major meeting point for the maritime economy and military sector in Central and Eastern Europe for over four decades, the BPC remains the flagship annual event of the Baltic Ports Organization. It brings together port authorities, industry leaders, and logistics professionals to collaborate and advance shipping opportunities across the Baltic Sea region.

This year also marks the return of BPC to an in-person format after last year’s online edition. The conference will feature discussions on recent geopolitical developments, their impact on energy security and Baltic trade, and Europe’s push to make transport more sustainable through initiatives such as the European Green Deal and the Fit for 55 package.

The Coop members who wish to participate in this event can find all relevant details about the conference on this website.

Registration for the conference can be done by clicking here.

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 8th Annual Meeting to Feature a Captivating Day Trip in Abu Dhabi

The optional day trip with the delegates and their spouses will provide an exceptional opportunity to explore, engage, and strengthen partnerships

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s Day Trip

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s much-anticipated 8th Annual Meeting in Abu Dhabi will include an optional day trip on 28th May, designed to delight, inspire, and connect its members. Running from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, the day trip complements the Annual Meeting’s intensive business agenda, which includes one-to-one networking with fellow members. Therefore, this leisurely excursion is the perfect opportunity to unwind and forge stronger bonds within the The Cooperative community.

“The Cooperative’s Annual Meeting is not just about expanding business connections—it’s about strengthening our network’s sense of camaraderie and trust. This day trip is a step towards building partnerships that last beyond the boardroom,” says Antonio Torres, The Cooperative Logistics Network’s President and Founder.

The trip will commence with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a true architectural marvel adorned with majestic white marble domes and intricate designs. This serene landmark provides a profound insight into Abu Dhabi’s spiritual and cultural essence.

Next on the itinerary is the Yas Marina Circuit, home to the adrenaline-filled Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Attendees can immerse themselves in the thrill of motorsports while learning about this world-class racing venue. The tour continues to Heritage Village, where delegates can step into the past, exploring the Bedouin lifestyle and gaining insight into the traditional Emirati way of life.

Midway through the day, delegates will enjoy lunch at the Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi, offering not just delicious food but also an informal setting for fostering deeper connections. Finally, the trip concludes with a visit to the magnificent Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace that showcases Arabian craftsmanship and cultural significance. Along the way, attendees will also take in the scenic views of the city’s iconic Corniche Road, a breathtaking blend of modernity and natural beauty.

The trip is designed to perfectly complement the meeting’s business agenda. Most importantly, this excursion provides a balanced blend of productivity and relaxation, giving attendees the opportunity to unwind while strengthening their connections within the network. “The Cooperative’s Annual Meeting goes beyond business—it’s about building a community. This trip is our way of fostering deeper engagement among members, encouraging interactions that go beyond formalities and lay the groundwork for lasting partnerships,” adds Torres.

To join this day trip, attendees can book through the Members Area on The Cooperative’s website, ensuring they don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to connect and collaborate.

All Set for The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 8th Annual Meeting

The international freight forwarders conference will take place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 28th to 30th May 2025

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 8th Annual Meeting will in the dynamic city of Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 28th to 30th May 2025. The highly anticipated event will take place at the Intercontinental Hotel Abu Dhabi, a stunning beachfront property just a short drive from the international airport. This annual conference provides a premier platform for freight forwarders to connect, collaborate, and explore new business opportunities. With a focus on boosting project opportunities for its members, the conference will help participants maximize the full potential of their network membership.

freight forwarders conference
The Coop’s 8th Annual Meeting

 

The event will kick off with a Corporate Day Trip, followed by a Welcome Cocktail Reception, allowing delegates to break the ice and network in a relaxed setting before the intensive one-to-one business meetings begin the next day. During the conference, each participant will have the opportunity to engage in up to 32 pre-arranged one-to-one meetings with fellow network partners. These face-to-face meetings are the cornerstone of the event, playing a crucial role in fostering business collaboration and creating lasting professional relationships. Additionally, attendees will benefit from FreightViewer workshops, where they will learn about the latest tools and features of The Coop’s exclusive freight rate management platform.

Additionally, the conference provides numerous opportunities for delegates to socialize, develop trust, and form stronger working relationships. Social events such as the group tour, the Welcome Cocktail Reception, and the Gala Dinner Party will ensure a perfect balance between business and leisure throughout the conference.

Antonio Torres, President and Founder of The Cooperative Logistics Network, emphasized the network’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled experience: “We’ve put significant effort into making sure our annual meetings provide maximum value to our members. Our team is dedicated to creating a seamless, productive, and rewarding networking experience. This event will act as a dynamic hub where members can forge long-term partnerships with reliable logistics partners worldwide.”

To streamline the experience, The Cooperative will once again provide a dedicated web app that consolidates all essential event information, ensuring that attendees have easy access to meeting schedules and other important updates at their fingertips.

Stay tuned for more information on The Cooperative’s Annual Meeting page.

The Cooperative Logistics Network takes part in the Digital Logistics Conference 2023

Organized by PTN Events, the goal of this conference goal was to gather diverse perspectives from thought leaders, suppliers, and industry experts to explore areas for innovation in the logistics sector

Andrea Martin, The FreightViewer Coordinator of The Cooperative Logistics Network gave a presentation in the Digital Logistics Conference 2023. The online conference that took place on 11th and 12th October served as a platform for pioneers in logistics technologies to come together and participate in discussions focused on sustainable digitization in this sector.

In this conference, Andrea Martin delivered a presentation on “Challenges and Opportunities for Freight Forwarders in Logistics 4.0.” During her presentation, Andrea Martin emphasized the significance of devising a digital strategy within the logistics sector to effectively adapt to the technological shifts occurring in the industry. She also shed light on how The Coop’s member-exclusive TMS FreightViewer plays a crucial role in assisting members with their digitization endeavours.

Digital Logistics Conference
Digital Logistics Conference

 

Moreover, she explained how  wholeheartedly embracing technology will enable freight forwarders to  trim costs and expedite their operations while creating novel solutions for intricate logistical problems. Furthermore, she stated how the rise of digital freight forwarders and user-friendly online platforms promises to add an extra layer of convenience and excitement to the Logistics 4.0 narrative. In her words, “This conference helped to keep people working in this sector well-informed about the latest developments in the logistics sector and also provided an opportunity to position our member-exclusive transport management software, FreightViewer, in the context of the new era where establishing a digital strategy has shifted from being optional to becoming a mandatory requirement for freight forwarders.”

The aim of the Digital Logistics Conference was to exchange valuable perspectives and crucial strategies in digitalization & e-commerce, innovation & new technologies, sustainability, and integrated shipping & logistics. With an intense 2-day agenda, the conference organized in-depth discussions to increase efficiency, and enhance safety in the logistics industry by an innovative digital strategy.

 

The Coop media partner Breakbulk Europe 2023 surpasses all previous attendance records

The three-day event that took place at Rotterdam Ahoy, Netherlands was attended by more than 10,445 supply chain industry professionals

Breakbulk Europe 2023
Breakbulk Europe 2023

 

Breakbulk Europe 2023 – a media partner of The Cooperative Logistics Network took place from 6th to 8th June 2023, at Rotterdam, Netherlands. The event which was attended by a record 10,445 industry professionals from over 126 countries, had been an out-and-out success. Held from 6th to 8th June 2023, the conference witnessed a 15% increase in total attendees as compared with 2022. Although most of the visitors hailed from the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, there was a significant increase in the number of participants from countries like India, China, Turkey, the UAE, Brazil and Singapore.

As stated by Juliana Gibbons, VP for breakbulk specialist Swire Projects, “This event is truly exceptional in its ability to bring together a vast number of industry professionals in a condensed time frame. Breakbulk Europe presents an incredibly powerful business opportunity. Moreover, it extends beyond mere networking to provide a platform for showcasing your company, products and services.”

Furthermore, DHL Global Forwarding sponsored the main stage at this year’s event. It served as a platform for a series of captivating panel sessions. Renowned speakers engaged in thought-provoking discussions, covering a wide range of pertinent topics. From nuclear power and offshore wind to air cargo and the pivotal role of ports in enhancing supply chain efficiency, these sessions offered valuable insights and fostered meaningful dialogue among attendees.

Gelu Batrinca, a participant from Romania, expressed the enduring impact of Breakbulk Europe in forging strong and long-lasting partnerships. “With its diverse range of exhibitors and visitors representing various segments of the supply chain, Breakbulk Europe provides an outstanding platform for networking, and the formation of fruitful collaborations,” she says.

More than 150 participants enjoyed an inspiring session at the Women in Breakbulk Breakfast. Additionally, innovation and technology played a primary role at the all-new Breakbulk Futures Zone. The Futures Zone was an experienced-based space featuring products and services from industry innovators.

Historical record attendance of freight forwarders at The Cooperative’s 6th Annual Meeting held from 11th to 13th March in Phuket

230 freight forwarders from over 60 different countries participated in 6000 one-to-one meetings in Phuket

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 6th Annual Meeting which took place from 11th to 13th March at Le Meridien Beach Resort in Phuket, Thailand, has been an out-and-out success. The event brought together 230 members from more than 60 different countries for three days of networking and entertainment, a 25% increase in attendance comparing to the previous one. Attendees have also had the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and innovations in the freight industry and connect with other professionals in the field.

The Coop's 6th Annual Meeting
The Coop’s 6th Annual Meeting

The primary objective of this conference was the interchange of projects among members with the help of scheduled one-to-one business discussions. Moreover, this year, The Cooperative Logistics Network has created a new web app that has allowed delegates to constantly stay updated with the meeting agenda. On logging into this application, the members could access every meeting information and check all the required information about the everyday agenda of the meeting which greatly helped the agents.

“We are thrilled about the huge turnout we have had at The Cooperative’s Annual Meeting this year, which is the largest attendance ever. This year’s conference was all the more significant since it took place after a three years’ hiatus because of the pandemic when the network had to organize virtual conferences. We were delighted to see that everyone was looking forward to meeting each other once again,” says Antonio Torres, the President and Founder of The Cooperative Logistics Network.

The conference started with a Corporate Day Trip to the Phi Phi Islands, that not just allowed the delegates to explore the marvels around Phuket but also made way for lasting bonds and friendships among the members.

During the second and third day, members engaged in over 6000 One-to-one meetings with chosen partners to discuss the prospects of future collaboration.

The Cocktail Reception and the Gala Dinner Party were some of the other highlights of the event that helped to reinforce the connections among the delegates while allowing the members to bond over food, drinks, and live music.

As stated by one of the attending members, “This Annual Meeting exceeded our expectations. There were more members than ever from all over the world participating in the one-to-one meetings. It has been a wonderful and highly productive experience, since it has allowed us to secure new projects from our partners within the network.”

Additionally, 5 prominent websites dedicated to the logistics sector have covered the news about the record turnout and the success of The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 6th Annual Meeting. Websites that have published the news about the conference are- Cargo Breaking News, Globe News Wire, E Cargo Log, Morning Star, and Forwarder Magazine.

The Coop launches a new web application for their upcoming Annual Meeting

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s new web app will guide the members through every aspect of their meeting schedule with just a few taps on their phone

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 6th Annual Meeting is all set to be held at Le Meridien Beach Resort, Phuket, Thailand, from 11th to 13th March 2023. On the occasion of this event, the Coop has launched a new web app that will allow agents to seamlessly browse through every detail of the event agenda.

The Cooperative Logistics Network
The Coop’s New Web App

 

With the help of this app members can access all the pertinent information about the meeting schedule. All they need to do is open the web app on their phones and login with their email and password. This will enable them to browse through the one-to-one meeting timetable, the meeting slots, timings, table number, names of the delegates and the names of their companies and cities etc. Moreover, members will also be able to browse through the delegate list to locate a partner they might need to interact with. Finally, the app also allows members to view the photos taken in course of the conference and share them instantly on their social media handles.

To quote Maria Serrano, the PR and Event Coordinator of The Coop, “This new web application will help to bring together all the relevant information about the event at our members’ fingertips. We always try out best to enhance our services to ensure an unparalleled networking activity for our members. This is precisely why we have launched this web app that will help to ensure the smoothest possible conferencing experience for our delegates in Phuket. “

The Cooperative Logistics Network teams up with Logistics Business Show, to be held from 15th to 17th March

Andrea Martin, The Coop’s FreightViewer Coordinator, will be speaking in one of the Roundtable Panel Discussions during the event

The Cooperative Logistics Network has partnered with Logistics Business Show– an international virtual exhibition cum conference for the logistics and materials handling industry. The Logistics Business Show will take place from 15th to 17th of March. This event offers a collaborative platform for supply chain professionals. The Logistics Business Show takes place twice a year in March and October. Over 5000 industry professionals will be attending the March and October events.

Logistics Business Show
Logistics Business Show 2022

 

Andrea Martin, The Coop’s FreightViewer Coordinator, will be speaking at the Roundtable titled ‘Road Transport Challenges’. The Panel Discussion will be broadcasted live at their show on Tuesday 15th March at 10.00 am UK/11.00 am CET. Other topics for the Roundtable include- Software for Real-Time Visibility, Automation Systems in the Distribution Centre, Robotics Affordability & AI, Delivery WISMO & Inventory Management, Warehouse Worker Health & Safety, Track & Trace: Rugged Mobile, Sustainable Supply Chains, Forklift Innovation & Components.

Registering for the event will allow the participants to network with several renowned supply chain decision-makers. Additionally, the attendees can watch the conference and meet the panelists and exhibitors via live video calls and chats. They will also get to purchase products and solutions and ask questions to the panelist speakers. Most importantly, attending the event will enable the participants to enhance their networking and get an idea about the opinions and suggestions of industry experts and conference speakers.

The Coop members can register for this event by clicking on this link.

The Coop’s 2nd Virtual Meeting will be held in less than two months

The cloud conference to be held on 15th and 16th November will be an easy and effective way for members to expand their operations

After the success of The Coop’s 1st Virtual Meeting, The Cooperative Logistics Network is once again gearing up to organize its 2nd Online Conference. The Coop’s 2nd Virtual Meeting will take place on the 15th and 16th of November, 2021. This virtual meeting will bring the members together on one platform at one time for enhanced business networking.

The one-to-one video-conferences will form the core of the event. Members will get to participate in up to 32 video conferences of 20 minutes duration with previously selected network partners. The one-to-one business talks will cultivate long-term partnerships. Moreover, it will allow the participants to showcase their business and do the groundwork for many new collaborative projects. The Coop team has taken special care to accommodate delegates from all the different time zones.

The Coop-2nd Virtual Meeting
The Coop’s 2nd Virtual Meeting on 15th-16th November

 

The meeting will take place on a special platform designed by The Coop for a seamless online conferencing experience. Moreover, the meeting will also come with a special segment consisting of FreightViewer workshops. Andrea Martin, from The Coop’s FreightViewer department will explain the new updates of this quote generation platform via live demonstrations.

“We organize all our yearly meetings with one specific objective. We want to provide our members with a congenial atmosphere for enhanced networking so as to promote mutual collaboration and increase the business volume of the members. Now more than ever, the independent freight forwarders need to collaborate in order to recuperate from the aftermath of the pandemic. Our virtual meeting will allow the members to do the much-needed networking and nurture their business right from the safety and comforts of their home,” says Antonio Torres, the President and Founder of The Coop.

Register now to take your business to the next level!