SCRS Conference Day 1 Session #15
EMEA Spotlight: TAPA EMEA’s Regional Developments, Updates, and Initiatives for Supply Chain Resilience
By Ms. Leonie Buthey, Board of Director, TAPA EMEA and Senior Manager Security & Loss Prevention, Maersk
The Supply Chain Resilience and Sustainability (SCRS) Conference 2024, hosted by Transported Asset Protection Association Asia Pacific (TAPA APAC), has offered a rich platform for discussing critical issues affecting supply chain security and resilience during June 25 and 26 in Shanghai, China. Among the highlights of Day 1, Session 15 was a compelling presentation by a distinguished board member of TAPA Europe, Middle Eastern and Africa (EMEA) and Senior Manager of Security and Loss Prevention at Maersk, Ms. Leonie Buthey, who shared insights into the state of supply chain security in Europe and the dynamic growth of TAPA in response to evolving threats and opportunities.
As an annual trademark event in the supply chain field, SCRS Conference 2024 welcomes over 250 delegates across the region to discuss important topics and opportunities in enhancing global security standards and practices.
Emerging Risks in the EMEA Region
Leonie began her session by emphasizing the escalating risks that are currently impacting supply chains in Europe. “Most of the risks we are encountering are increasing, especially with various threats coming from different angles,” she noted. She pointed to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, disruptions in the Red Sea, and the war in Ukraine as significant contributors to the instability. Europol’s identification of over 5,000 organized crime groups from 180 nationalities underscores the severity of the situation. Additionally, the cost-of-living crisis and soaring fuel prices are compounding these challenges, making it increasingly difficult for companies to operate efficiently.
One particularly pressing issue in Europe is the shortage of truck drivers. “We have a significant shortage of truck drivers, with many current drivers nearing retirement and the younger generation showing little interest in the profession,” Leonie explained. This shortage is forcing transportation companies to hire drivers with minimal vetting, increasing the risk of security breaches.
Additionally, the lack of secure parking for trucks in Europe presents significant security challenges, with only a few fully secured parking facilities available and many truckers forced to stop or park in unsafe locations, such as along highways or at petrol stations. “This situation creates ample opportunities for criminal activities,” she added, highlighting the urgent need for more secure parking solutions.
Leonie also discussed the increasing incidents of cargo crime, as monitored by TAPA’s Intelligence System (TIS). “We are seeing a rise in the number of incidents, and the value of the stolen goods is also increasing,” she remarked. Fraudulent pickups, where criminals buy bankrupt transportation companies or create fake online profiles, are becoming more common. Additionally, there is a growing number of attacks on last-mile deliveries, particularly targeting vans.
The impact of transportation disruptions was emphasized through real-world examples. For instance, delays caused by incidents in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal have led to significant operational challenges for Maersk, including extended shipping times and increased fuel costs. These disruptions not only affect logistics but also heighten security risks as goods are delayed or rerouted.
Fraudulent activities remain a critical concern, with criminals employing increasingly sophisticated methods. Examples include the acquisition of bankrupt transportation companies for illicit use and the creation of fake online profiles to deceive procurement teams into selecting non-legitimate companies. Additionally, attacks on last-mile deliveries, particularly targeting vans in urban areas, highlight vulnerabilities in the final stages of the supply chain.
TAPA’s Rapid Growth and Achievements in EMEA
Leonie proudly shared that TAPA has seen unprecedented growth in EMEA, with over 1,200 companies and partners now involved. This growth is complemented by the involvement of more than 250 law enforcement agencies, reflecting the organization’s expanding influence and collaborative efforts. Notably, the past year has been marked by the highest growth in membership, certifications, and training in TAPA EMEA’s history. Recent events and regional activities, including conferences in South Africa, Amsterdam, Spain, and a forthcoming virtual conference, highlight TAPA’s commitment to fostering networking and knowledge-sharing among members within the region.
From geopolitical tensions and economic pressures to logistical hurdles and security threats, industry must navigate a myriad of risks. However, through proactive measures and collaborative efforts spearheaded by TAPA, there is hope for a more secure and resilient supply chain across the globe. TAPA is dedicated to setting standards, fostering networking opportunities, and leveraging intelligence systems is instrumental in helping its members mitigate risks and ensure business continuity in these uncertain times.
To know more about TAPA APAC and TAPA Standards, please visit www.tapa-apac.org or email to info@tapa-apac.org.
About the Speaker
Ms. Leonie Buthey
Board of Director, TAPA EMEA
Senior Manager Security & Loss Prevention, Maersk
Leonie Buthey, the Maersk European Senior Manager Security and Loss Prevention has played an essential role in Supply chain security throughout her career. Her adeptness in managing complex projects soon led her to a pivotal role in security management. This took her to Asia, where she adeptly handled various challenges, including risk assessments and crisis management, gaining invaluable international experience. Leonie leveraged her expertise by joining Amazon in Luxembourg, where she served as the Senior Manager Supply Chain & Transportation. In this capacity, she was responsible for safeguarding the company’s assets, mitigating risks, and ensuring the security of operations. Her strategic approach and dedication were instrumental in enhancing Amazon’s security protocols. In addition to her professional responsibilities, Leonie is passionate about mentoring, providing guidance and support to aspiring professionals in the field of security management.
Email: leonie.buthey@maersk.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonie-buthey-6508724/