The international freight forwarding community has convened in Hull for a major annual event hosted by Neill & Brown Global Logistics.
One hundred delegates from across Europe came together for the 63rd International Forwarding Association (IFA) Meeting from 15th to 17th May, where they discussed shared opportunities, current challenges, and conducted official business.
Hessle-based Neill & Brown is a long-standing partner of the IFA, the membership of which strengthens its European logistics services across road, rail, sea, and air freight.
The conference took place at the DoubleTree by Hilton before the guests dined at The Deep on Hull’s waterfront surrounded by the attraction’s spectacular marine life displays.
Carl Andrew, managing director of Neill & Brown and spokesman for IFA’s New Members Group, said hosting the conference in Hull provided a valuable opportunity to showcase both the company and the region.
“I am so proud of our achievements and of the high standards that shone through in the organisation of the conference. It was professionally delivered and represented us exactly as we would want to be seen. Everyone at Neill & Brown contributed, and that collective effort made a real difference.
“From our CEO Peter Brown setting the tone when he took IFA members on our journey from 1917 to where we are today, to the smaller details delivered by our staff, we made a clear and confident statement about our history, values, and direction.”
The IFA network comprises more than 50 independent small and medium-sized forwarders throughout Europe, working together to ensure exceptional quality in freight forwarding services.
Partner companies attending the conference travelled from across Europe, including Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Romania, and countries across the Balkans region.
Carl Andrew added that the time spent together outside the formal sessions was equally important.
“Sharing good food and drink, and spending time together helped strengthen relationships, build trust, and reinforce the personal connections that support long-term cooperation. These moments are often just as important as what is discussed in the meeting room.”
Delegates also praised both the conference and the city of Hull, with many commenting on the warm welcome they received and the quality of the programme throughout the three-day event.
For Neill & Brown, the conference was not only an opportunity to host international partners, but also a chance to reinforce the company’s reputation within the European logistics community to support future collaboration across the IFA network.