New Report by Transport Intelligence: European Contract Logistics Sector Enjoys 'Solid' Year

The contract logistics market in western Europe grew by 6.7% in
2006 to reach EUR 49 billion. This is one of the key findings
contained in European Transport and Logistics Markets 2007, the latest
report to be published by leading research organisation Transport
Intelligence.

Some of the highest rates of growth were in the Nordic region.
Finland in particular has benefited from increasing trade with Russia,
and is well on the way towards positioning itself as a gateway to the
fast growing markets in the East.

Expansion in the more developed markets, however, was slower. In
Germany, low domestic demand resulted in below average growth despite
buoyant imports and exports. In Spain the drivers of contract
logistics market growth were reversed with strong domestic consumption
making up for relatively low levels of international trade.

In France the contract logistics sector actually outperformed the
overall logistics market as a result of a higher take up of
out-sourcing and a demand for higher value add services. The
Netherlands benefited from global trade due to its popular location
for European Distribution Centres, although domestic demand was weak.

The report also found that there was no evidence to suggest that
the UK's strong affinity with the contract logistics sector would end
soon. Above average growth was strongly influenced by buoyant
international logistics activity, but domestic demand growth was also
a factor.

John Manners-Bell, Chief Analyst at Transport Intelligence,
commented, 'On the whole, it was another strong year for the contract
logistics industry in Europe. Most countries experienced solid growth,
with markets at the periphery of the region enjoying the most
significant development, albeit from a smaller base.'

European Transport & Logistics Markets provides a 'road map' to a
complex market environment. It includes a wide range of data,
forecasts and analysis examining all aspects of freight movement--from
sea ports, road networks, airports, railways and distribution
property. The report studies country logistics markets and includes
rankings of the largest companies as well as contract logistics market
sizes and forecasts.

About Transport Intelligence

Headquartered in the UK, Transport Intelligence is the world's
leading provider of expert research and analysis dedicated to the
global logistics industry.

For more details go to www.transportintelligence.com