Tim Bett will present his observations on the impact of the recession on the chemical industry and the role of supply chain management in “strategies for survival.” This analysis will draw from his recent experience as Supply Chain Director of DSM and prior to that, as European Logistics Director at Rohm and Haas.

In his keynote speech at Global Distribution Strategy conference, October 6-7, 2009, Brussels, Ti’s Chief Executive, John Manners-Bell, will talk about prospects for the logistics industry. In his speech he outlines three scenarios for the market: ‘golden’, ‘difficult but manageable’ and ‘meltdown’.

In these fast moving times, it is vital to stop and think critically not just about the ideas of the moment, but also about important long term trends. One of the biggest debates revolves around the future of 'offshoring' of production, the trend which has driven the global supply chain industry over the past decade. 'Nearshoring' has become an important countertrend, due to factors such as supply chain risk and the cost of fuel.

In the latest feature discussing the key topics which will be addressed at the Global Distribution Strategies Conference, 6-7 October 2009, in Brussels, Jef van Doorslaer of real estate company Cushman & Wakefield shares some insights on the state of the European logistics property market.

In the first of a series of weekly features examining timely issues which will be discussed in more detail at TI's upcoming Global Distribution Strategies 2009 Conference in Brussels in October, John Manners-Bell looks at the impact which the recession is having on the European road freight market.