Liner Management News

Consortium: Blockchain Solution to Improve Ocean Shipping

A consortium comprising AB InBev, Accenture, APL, Kuehne + Nagel and a European customs organization has successfully tested a blockchain solution that can eliminate the need for printed shipping documents and save the freight and logistics industry hundreds of millions of dollars annually. The consortium tested a solution where documents are no longer exchanged physically or digitally but instead, the relevant data is shared and distributed using blockchain technology under single ownership principles determined by the type of information. Through a detailed review of the current documentation processes, the group examined a re-allocation of information ownership, accountability and risk enabled by the trust and security blockchain technology offers.

Tom Boardley, Marine Director

Tom Boardley assumes responsibility for Lloyd’s Register’s global marine activities, as Marine Director. He succeeds Alan Gavin. Tom has worked in the shipping industry since graduation from university in 1978 when he joined P&O. Working in liner management and agency operations, he represented P&O in the UK, Taiwan, Korea, Japan and Australia. In 2004 he became head of NYK Line’s European Container activities based in London. Most recently he was responsible for CMA CGM’s UK based operations, involving liner, agency and technical management responsibilities.