Launch of global day celebrating supply chain, logistics and transport

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) has announced the launch of an annual, global day to recognise the vital contributions of the supply chain, logistics and transport industry in keeping the world connected.

The International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation will take place on Sunday 3rd November and marks 105 years to the day since the establishment of CILT. This year’s inaugural event, entitled ‘The World In Motion’ will comprise of events, launch initiatives and activity by CILT and other member organisations across the world.

This inaugural celebration will run under the theme ‘One Network, One Global Community – Celebrating the Impact of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation – reflecting the interconnected nature of the industry and its vital role in connecting people, businesses and communities across the world.

According to the United Nations, there are more than 450 million of supply chain, logistics and transportation professionals employed around the globe, nearly 13 percent of the world’s total working population. The International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation will celebrate the impact of this community – ensuring that commerce and retail functions smoothly, and that individuals are able to travel for work, education and leisure.

As part of these celebrations, CILT will be launching an important new initiative – the International Education Standards Committee (IESC). The IESC has been established to maintain and develop CILT’s professional status and qualifications across the Institute.

CILT members across the globe have already started taking part in the International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation with their own activities, including:

• A special launch event in Sri Lanka in collaboration with CILT Sri Lanka
• Career and Life Formula (CALF) Programme launch, led by Women in Logistics and Transport, supporting young managers in the industry become effective leaders
• The publication of a Shipping & Maritime Webinar eBook (CILT Singapore)

CILT was formed on 3rd November 1919 at the Savoy Hotel in London. A group of senior transport professionals, after witnessing the failures of moving goods and vehicles in the First World War, were determined to change the world of logistics and transport. To do so, they created a professional body that would promote, encourage and co-ordinate the study of the science and art of logistics and transport in all aspects.

The Institute was awarded a Royal Charter in 1926 and more than a century after its creation, now has over 30,000 members in over 40 countries around the globe. CILT is the world’s leading organisation voice for professionals in logistics, transport and supply chain, creating deeper intelligence needed for the world’s future.

The International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation has been created to honour and recognise this heritage whilst also celebrating the impact of the modern logistics and transport industry, driven by millions of forward-thinking, innovative professionals across the globe.

Chief Teete OWUSU-NORTEY, International President at CILT said: “CILT’s work in logistics, transport and supply chain has kept industries all over the world moving and communities thriving for over a century. It’s amazing to be part of something that plays such a crucial role in the global economy, and we are excited to celebrate this on our first International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation. We hope that all our members, and the wider transport and logistics community, will join us on 3^rd November to mark this important milestone – this year, and for years to come!”