Rapport d’activité et de responsabilité sociétale d’entreprise 20220323 Activity and sustainability report
2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 3 MESSAGE FROM MARIE‑CHRISTINE LOMBARD 4 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION 8 1.1 Presentation of the Group 9 1.2 Activities 9 1.3 Business model and value creation 14 1.4 Trends 16 1.5 Strategy 17 1.6 Innovation 18 1.7 Corporate governance 21 2. CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY POLICY 28 2.1 CSR policy 29 2.2 Main challenges and GEODIS’s responses 32 2.3 Stakeholders 34 2.4 CSR governance 36 2.5 Recognition 37 3. ENVIRONMENT 40 3.1 Climate 41 3.2 Air quality 50 3.3 Managing natural resources 52 3.4 Other environmental challenges 54 4. SOCIAL 58 4.1 Health, Safety and Security 59 4.2 The Group’s employees 63 4.3 Management of talent 65 4.4 Diversity and inclusion 70 4.5 Compensation and benefits 73 4.6 Labor relations 74 4.7 Employee engagement 75 4.8 Human rights and fundamental freedoms 75 4.9 Corporate citizen initiatives 76 4.10 Service continuity 77 5. ETHICS 80 5.1 Compliance and business integrity 81 5.2 Responsible value chains 86 5.3 Data protection 87 5.4 Promoting CSR to our stakeholders 88 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS 92 Environmental indicators 92 Certifications 95 Social indicators 96
Message from Marie‑Christine Lombard Chief Executive Officer of GEODIS In 2023, GEODIS once again delivered a strong performance in a difficult international environment, marked by a global economic slowdown and geopolitical tensions. Weak demand affected the freight market, as did a general decline in volumes and significantly lower air and sea freight rates. This resilience is reflected in our results. Thanks to the commitment of its teams around the world, the Group generated sales of €11.6 billion in 2023, and succeeded in improving its margins thanks to its robust and balanced business model, its policy of price adjustments coupled with productivity gains on costs, and its sales development strategy. GEODIS remains committed to its ambition of developing global logistics solutions to support its customers. The acquisition of trans-o-flex, the German leader in express and temperature-controlled transport of pharmaceutical products, is a perfect example of this. It also reflects our desire to strengthen our positions in activities with a strong social impact, such as the healthcare sector. Resilience, integrated logistics solutions and decarbonization: three strong markers of the Group’s transformation 4 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
The agility and resilience of our business model have been proven in recent months, inspiring us to strive now for even greater performance. This is reflected in our strategic plan, Ambition 2027, which calls for us to continue supporting our customers in their global logistics projects, and to accelerate the growth of our financial performance and operational quality, while giving our social and environmental commitments their rightful place, in line with our corporate purpose. On the environmental front, it is decarbonization that is driving our transformation. In compliance with the Paris Agreement, we have set targets of a 42% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from our fleet and buildings (scopes 1 and 2) and a 30% reduction in the carbon intensity of subcontracted transport (scope 3) by 2030, taking 2022 as our baseline year. We are deeply committed to achieving these targets, which will be subject to approval by the Science Based Targets initiative. We have rolled out a number of measures to achieve this, including continuing the transition of our fleet to low-carbon or bio-sourced energies, making lowcarbon deliveries in 40 French cities by the end of 2024, supporting our customers in optimizing flows and improving the energy efficiency of our sites. Thanks to this commitment and these actions, GEODIS has been recognized by the CDP organization for its leadership in 2023. As far as social issues are concerned, our Group is committed to cultivating an open and inclusive working environment and mindset. By 2023, GEODIS will have 39% female employees overall, 35% female managers and 22% female Top Executives. We continue to implement numerous initiatives to achieve professional gender equality, with our employees playing an active role. I am thinking in particular of the GEODIS Women’s Network, our dynamic global network which celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2023 and is designed to encourage the entry of women into management positions, while supporting them in their professional development. Professional diversity also means the inclusion of people with disabilities. GEODIS has a longstanding commitment in this area, and is developing partnerships to help people who are far removed from the workplace to return to stable employment. In September 2023, GEODIS launched a diagnostic study with Agefiph (a French organization that manages funds for the integration of people with disabilities) to develop an employment policy for people with disabilities. This will be rolled out in 2024. Our business would not exist if it were not for strong partnerships with our suppliers and subcontractors, who work with us to provide optimum service to our customers. We attach great importance to their expertise and to developing and maintaining relationships based on trust, and we are proud to be working with them on developing responsible logistics. GEODIS is very aware that much remains to be done. It is constantly striving to improve its CSR strategy. In this light, the Group carried out a double materiality analysis in 2023 as part of its dialogue with stakeholders. Discussed in this report, this analysis has enabled us to identify our priority sustainability issues, and the results obtained are guiding us in updating and enriching the Group’s CSR strategy. As a logistics provider, it’s our responsibility to ensure the continuous supply and distribution of goods that meet the essential needs of end-users. This is reflected in our corporate purpose, which is what always drives us to go the extra mile: Serving people by delivering their goods all around the world with innovative, sustainable and ethical logistics. I would like to end by paying tribute to the unwavering commitment of all our teams, who work day in and day out to fulfill our ambition of being a global operator, capable of offering each of our customers, from the largest groups to the smallest businesses, comprehensive, innovative and tailor-made logistics solutions. This commitment is a great strength, and it will play a key role in achieving the objectives of the Ambition 2027 plan. The teams’ expertise and capacity for constant adaptation enable our Group to be even closer to the aspirations of its customers and, of course, to constantly achieve higher levels of performance and responsibility. 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 5 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS
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Profile and ambition 1 1.1 PRESENTATION OF THE GROUP 9 1.2 ACTIVITIES 9 1.3 BUSINESS MODEL AND VALUE CREATION 14 1.4 TRENDS 16 1.5 STRATEGY 17 1.6 INNOVATION 18 1.7 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 21 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 7
1. Profile and ambition In a constantly changing world, logistics has become a key factor in the competitiveness of companies. GEODIS ranks among the world leaders in its sector and supports its customers on a daily basis, helping them overcome their logistical constraints. Breakdown of revenues by activity Revenues EBITDA 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION KEY FIGURES 2023(1) (1) Financial data is expressed according to the financial scope of the Group at December 31, 2023. Number of employees: Number of customers: Number of countries served: Number of sites: 52,819 81,500 166 1,079 Chiffre d’affaires EBITDA 2022 2023 2022 2023 €4,3 bn €1,9 bn €3,7 bn €3,8 bn €4,0 bn €1,2 bn €3,0 bn €3,4 bn €11.6 bn €13.7 bn €1,163 m €1,118 m • France & North Africa • Europe • Americas • Asia-Pacific (APAC) & Middle East Chiffre d’affaires EBITDA 2022 2023 2022 2023 €4,3 bn €1,9 bn €3,7 bn €3,8 bn €4,0 bn €1,2 bn €3,0 bn €3,4 bn €11.6 bn €13.7 bn €1,163 m €1,118 m • France & North Africa • Europe • Americas • Asia-Pacific (APAC) & Middle East In an international freight forwarding market that is coming to the end of an exceptional two-year cycle, GEODIS saw a 15% reduction in revenues, as a result of the normalization of air and sea freight rates, and lower volumes owing to the global economic slowdown. Despite the impact of the return to normal prices in the international freight forwarding sector, GEODIS has generated continuous growth over the past three years, thanks to its dynamic sales performance. In this context, the Group has managed to maintain its margins thanks to a diversified business model which has ensured its resilience, and thanks to actions it has taken to optimize costs. 4% Others 32% Global integrated freight network 26% European overland network 2023 2% Others 47% Global integrated freight network 22% European overland network 29% Contract logistics 2022 Répartition du chiffre d’affaires par activité 4% Others 32% Global integrated freight network 26% European overland network 38% Contract logistics 2023 2% Others 47% Global integrated freight network 22% European overland network 29% Contract logistics 2022 Répartition du chiffre d’affaires par activité 8 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
1. 1.1 Presentation of the Group As a growth partner to more than 81,500 companies, ranging from local SMEs to multinationals, the Group is recognized for its expertise and mastery of all aspects of the supply chain. The Group’s ambition is to support its customers by offering them an end-to-end service, in any part of the world. With a global network covering almost 170 countries and more than 53,000 employees, GEODIS is ranked world number five in its sector. GEODIS recorded revenues of €11.6 billion in 2023. The Group draws its strength from more than a hundred years of experience, an attentive and structured approach to its customers and constant innovation. On this basis, it is GEODIS’s goal to offer its customers all over the world innovative, fully integrated and tailored logistics solutions that optimize the economic, operational and environmental performance of their supply chains. To succeed in a world that is rapidly evolving, GEODIS has to constantly reinvent itself by adapting its business model, processes, tools and organization to address fast-changing markets, customer needs and stakeholder expectations. Changes in the Group’s scope GEODIS carried out acquisitions in 2023 in line with its ambition of supporting its customers in all parts of the world by meeting all their needs in logistics. ● Acquisition of trans-o-flex, a German company specializing in the temperature-controlled distribution of pharmaceutical goods and a leader in express premium delivery. This acquisition establishes GEODIS as one of the most prominent players in the key market of healthcare and significantly enhances its delivery capabilities in Europe. ● Acquisition of Transports DEVOLUY, a family-owned French company specializing in distribution and express services, which has been a partner of GEODIS for several decades. With this acquisition, the Group has consolidated its territorial coverage and distribution capabilities. ● Acquisition of Southern Companies, one of the leading drayage providers in the United States, founded in Miami in 1965. The company runs operating terminals serving seven key ports and provides a full range of import and export services. ● Acquisition of the Swiss freight forwarder, ITS (International Transport & Shipping Ltd). ITS organizes transport and logistics for dedicated industrial projects and services for ocean freight and air freight. 1.2 Activities A specific offer for each business sector At the core of the Group’s approach to earning the trust of its customers is understanding their needs, designing the best solutions, implementing them consistently, measuring operational performance and identifying areas for improvement. To help its customers access its offer, it is structured around two main areas: ● freight management for air transport, sea transport and land transport (road and rail); ● inventory and order management. With 81,500 customers around the world, GEODIS has a thorough understanding of the specific logistics needs of each business sector and it possesses the agility required to meet them. To help customers overcome the logistics constraints of their markets and gain a competitive edge, the Group’s experts design customized transport and logistics solutions specific to each sector of industry. 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 9 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS
1. Profile and ambition GEODIS offers a complete range of services based on highly structured customer segmentation. This approach enables the Group to provide more effective support for each of the markets in which it operates. Whether on a global or a local scale, GEODIS’s tailor-made solutions address specific challenges at each link in the logistics chain and create value for its customers. The Group provides expertise to its customers in seven key vertical markets as well as through a dedicated program for “French Champions”. Industrial GEODIS offers a full range of multimodal and more environmentally friendly transportation solutions to meet the challenges of its customers at all stages of their logistics chains. These solutions are adapted to each project, including the most unusual and challenging ones, calling for a high level of technical expertise, solid logistics and great precision. They aim to optimize supply, distribution and after-sales flows. Retail GEODIS supports the retail market by implementing its customers’ omni-channel strategies and providing them with the keys to take full advantage of the growth of e-commerce through specific integrated solutions. The Group helps its customers optimize their logistics chains through complete real-time visibility of their inventories, strategic allocation of orders through a decentralized management system, and greater visibility of distribution to ensure that no sale is missed. Fast-Moving Consumer Goods GEODIS provides its FMCG customers with an agile and robust logistics chain to cope with significant volume fluctuations due to micro and macroseasonality, the impact of marketing campaigns and new product launches. The Group’s logistics solutions are both global and local, and are designed to adapt to all scales, regardless of the supplier’s location. 10 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
1. Healthcare As a flexible solutions provider for many leading pharmaceutical companies, GEODIS excels in meeting the demands of the strictest legislation across the entire healthcare logistics chain. The Group provides logistics solutions that are innovative at a global level and compliant with regulations, no matter where the suppliers are located. From inventory planning to climate-controlled storage and specialized transport, GEODIS’s added-value solutions will adapt to its customers’ every need for true operational excellence. Automotive & Mobility GEODIS draws on decades of logistics expertise to help its customers navigate the challenges of an ever-changing industry. The Group’s experts help their customers redesign their supply chains in the face of new advances such as autonomous driving, shared mobility, connectivity and the electrification of vehicles. Customers can benefit from GEODIS’s resources and expertise in dealing with the complexities of automotive logistics and the challenges of the new era of mobility. High Tech GEODIS offers agile and secure solutions for all of the logistics operations of its High Tech customers. The Group provides support throughout the product value chain, from supplying components through VMI (Vendor-Managed Inventory) to final recycling. GEODIS also ensures order management across all sales channels and direct deliveries to resellers or end consumers. Aerospace & Defense GEODIS’s activities for the aviation, space and defense sectors tackle the specific challenges of each stakeholder, from manufacturer to after-sales service. The Group uses its thorough knowledge of aerospace and defense logistics to create new methods and tools to optimize the logistics chains. French Champions GEODIS supports French companies recognized in their market segments with multi- or omni-channel logistics solutions, backing them in their national and international growth. Through its expertise GEODIS helps them improve customer experience by optimizing their warehousing and transport network as well as product availability. 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 11 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS
1. Profile and ambition Four complementary lines of business dedicated to creating shared value GEODIS operates in four complementary lines of business: ● Global Freight Forwarding; ● Global Contract Logistics; ● Distribution & Express; ● European Road Network. GEODIS can offer its customers unique know-how at every stage of the supply chain, adapted to the needs of each market and each part of the world, with a focus on end-toend optimization. To provide its customers with this comprehensive service, GEODIS employs its own resources as well as working with a network of partners and subcontractors. Distribution & Express: GEODIS has a network of more than 100 agencies in France and ranks as the leading French operator of express solutions for next-morning delivery and courier solutions for deliveries in 24 to 48 hours. Serving customers of all sizes and in all sectors innovative solutions designed for their shipments and their recipients, this line of business covers 35 European countries. It specializes in lowcarbon deliveries in dense urban areas. ➔Over 100 million parcels delivered annually ➔Over 6,000 rounds daily ➔Over 120,000 recipients delivered daily Global Freight Forwarding: GEODIS offers multimodal transport solutions (sea, air, road and rail) throughout the world, with high added-value services including customs operations to guarantee its customers the optimal routing of their goods in terms of lead time, cost and environmental impact, regardless of the place of departure or of arrival. In the context of its project logistics activity, GEODIS designs specific tailor-made offers, primarily for large-scale projects in the oil & gas, mining, petrochemical, rail and energy sectors. ➔265,000 tonnes of air freight ➔858,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of sea freight ➔909,000 customer orders managed by Supply Chain Optimization Integrated into Global Freight Forwarding, the Supply Chain Optimization activity supports and advises customers seeking to optimize their logistics chains. In addition to consultancy on supply chain management, the selection and management of service providers and strategic outsourcing, other specific optimization solutions are also offered, such as reverse logistics. STORE WAREHOUSE GEODIS Last-mile delivery Air freight Road freight Customs brokerage Fulfillment and warehousing services Sea freight Rail freight Consolidation Control tower Ship to Store 12 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
1. Global Contract Logistics: with more than 360 sites and 8,400,000 sqm of warehousing throughout the world, GEODIS is one of the market leaders in contract logistics. From the management of warehouses (whether automated or not) and distribution centers to deliveries to production lines, the Group offers a wide range of services enriched with innovative solutions, targeted to manage flows cost-effectively, reduce storage costs, increase stock rotation, and thus improve the efficiency of the logistics chain. GEODIS is also a major player in the e-commerce sector through its fulfillment and e-fulfillment offers to online marketplaces. ➔360 warehouses in 34 countries worldwide ➔Over 8.4 million sqm of warehousing European Road Network: with more than 6,500 self-owned vehicles (both powered and towed vehicles) and a vast network of partners, GEODIS is one of the leading European players in the transportation of full and partial loads. It offers a wide range of specialized solutions for chemical, industrial and automotive products as well as for retail and consumer goods. The Group develops, sets up and implements addedvalue solutions for multimodal transport flow management and logistics in Europe, for both packaged and bulk goods. ➔73 logistics platforms in 15 European countries ➔Over 6,500 self-owned powered and towed vehicles A customer-oriented regional organization With its four complementary lines of business, GEODIS operates through a customer-focused regional organization. The Group is organized into four major geographical areas under a single management team responsible for the entire GEODIS transport and logistics offering: France & North Africa, Europe (excluding France), Asia-Pacific and Middle East, and the Americas. 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 13 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS AMERICAS EUROPE FRANCE & NORTH AFRICA ASIA PACIFIC & MIDDLE EAST Americas Asia Pacific & Middle East France & North Africa (European Road Network line of business not included) Europe (The freight road transport activities in France, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Finland, Slovakia, Czech Republic report to our European Road Network line of business)
1. Profile and ambition 1.3 Business model and value creation GEODIS, a world leader in logistics, is committed to creating long-term value for its customers, employees, partners, shareholders and society more broadly. This positioning and value creation are fully in line with the Group’s purpose: “Serving people by delivering their goods all around the world with innovative, sustainable and ethical logistics.” Human 52,819 employees of which 39% women and of which 71% outside France Commercial 81,500 active customers worldwide 100,000 suppliers and subcontractors Financial Stable ownership 100% SNCF (rated AA- by S&P and Aa3 by Moody’s) Operational 1,079 sites Network covering 166 countries 12 million sqm of warehouses and operating premises Fleet of 4,302 self-owned vehicles Advanced IT system Environmental Fuel consumption: 76 million liters Electricity consumption: 263 GWh Natural gas consumption: 231 GWh Our resources Our purpose Serving people by delivering their goods all around the VISION We want to be our customers’ preferred growth partner • Make it easy for the client to do business with us • Win, retain and develop profitable clients • Always deliver a perfect service • Get paid for what we do • Recruit, develop and retain quality people • Ensure people’s health, safety & security everywhere, at all times • Be a good citizen 7 GOLDEN RULES Common principles of excellence A global offer to provide our customers with end-to-end support for their logistics needs The strengths of a world leader Freight management Warehousing and high added-value logistics services 14 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
1. In its pursuit of performance, GEODIS applies a model of business excellence that gives an operational definition of the organization, each person’s mission, priority measures, expected results and performance indicators. To reflect this model in the day-to-day work of its teams, GEODIS has defined 7 Golden Rules and 7 Leadership Principles founded on the “Investors In People” framework. The 7 Golden Rules summarize the important actions required to deliver excellent results. The 7 Leadership Principles address the behavior of our managers needed to support, empower and engage our employees. Along with its purpose, vision and values, these foundational elements are the cornerstones of the Company mindset and culture. On employees Overall satisfaction rate for employees: 82% 35% of women managers 10 hours of training annually per Full Time Equivalent Frequency rate of lost-time accidents: 9.8 Severity rate of accidents: 0.56 On customers Overall satisfaction rate for customers: 91% Net Promoter Score: +31 23% of sites triply certified Quality‑Safety-Environment On our shareholder Revenues €11.6 billion EBITDA €1.12 billion Operating cash flow transformation: 84% On society EcoVadis evaluation: 70/100 (Gold) Commitments to the community Taxes paid in 2023: €265 million On the environment 8.3% of alternative vehicles in GEODIS’s self-owned fleet CO2 emissions scopes 1+2+3: 3.8 MtCO2e CDP Climate score: AOur impacts world with innovative, sustainable and ethical logistics VALUES • Be a GEODIS ambassador • Own the all • Engage and empower people • Debate. Decide. Align. • Duty to communicate • Walk the talk • Drive results 7 LEADERSHIP PRINCIPLES CLOSE TO OUR CUSTOMERS • Industrial • Retail • Fast-moving consumer goods • Automotive & Mobility • High Tech • Healthcare • Aerospace & Defense VERTICAL EXPERTISE Drivers of transformation A structured organization aiming for excellence LINES OF BUSINESS • Global Freight Forwarding & Supply Chain Optimization • Global Contract Logistics • European Road Network • Distribution & Express • Data management • Cybersecurity • Robotics • Low-carbon mobility INNOVATION & DIGITAL SUSTAINABILITY • Climate & environment • Responsible employer • Ethics & compliance Commitment Innovation Trust Solidarity Passion • Europe • France & North Africa • Americas • Asia-Pacific & Middle East 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 15 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS
1. Profile and ambition 1.4 Trends The global environment in which global supply chains operate remains complex. The succession of crises over the last ten years has triggered profound transformations in globalization and in the international production systems of global companies. These crises have played out against a backdrop of persistent concerns over long‑term issues: global warming, biodiversity losses, social and economic disparities, energy insecurity, geopolitical risks and international governance. The consequent build-up of complexity has introduced significant uncertainties into the global supply chain model. The combination of the causes and effects of these crises varies depending on geographical zones, countries, markets and business sectors. In this unsettled context, global companies are increasingly forced to modify their sourcing, production and distribution logistics strategies. Some companies in the West have responded to increased economic and geopolitical complexity by simply shortening their supply chains (“re‑shoring” or “near-shoring”) or making them less vulnerable to geopolitical turbulence (“friend-shoring”). However, for many companies, a change of strategic model because of “supply chain risk” rather than that of cost reduction requires profound transformations. These transformations can generally only be gradual, since they require reconsidering cost structures, developing new local partnerships and reviewing the positioning of certain assets. Because of these changes in the global context, or of societal and environmental transformations, several factors strongly impacted the transport and logistics sector: ● high inflation was recorded in many countries in 2023. This inflation has had an impact on household purchasing power, prompting pay increases by employers. This effect, combined with high energy costs, has led companies to seek savings, notably through competitive bidding for logistics services. As a result, we observed a significant increase in the number of tenders in 2023; ● restrictions or temporary closures have affected certain maritime routes. These have been both for environmental reasons (e.g., the Panama Canal, which has been forced to reduce traffic due to a lack of water) and because of conflict situations (such as the Red Sea, which has experienced armed attacks on ships). GEODIS has adapted in response to these traffic disruptions, offering its customers alternatives that enable them to transport their goods under the best possible conditions; 16 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
1. ● uncertainty was felt regarding the availability and cost of different energy sources, owing to geopolitical tensions, competition in the use of biomass and new energies, and the development of the infrastructure needed to ensure their accessibility. Although the impact of price volatility has been limited for GEODIS due to its contractual arrangements, this uncertainty concerning energy availability and costs in different geographical areas makes it more complex to plan the energy transformation schemes that are essential for the decarbonization of the economy; ● the strengthening of regulations relating to social and environmental impact, linked in particular to the European Green Pact, imposed a sustained pace of transformation of fleets and the organization of certain logistics chains. As far as the climate and polluting emissions are concerned, regulatory changes are particularly strong with the Fit for 55 European legislative package and the introduction of Low-Emission Zones (LEZs) for downtown deliveries. GEODIS is constantly monitoring and trying to anticipate these changes for each of its lines of business and geographical areas. However, the lack of visibility on the availability of technologies, infrastructures and access to decarbonized energies at a competitive cost is an obstacle to the anticipation that GEODIS wishes to initiate, in line with its commitment to a path to decarbonization in compliance with the Paris Agreement; ● e-commerce has remained at a very significant level, particularly for Retail activities after the very strong growth seen in 2020-2021. This has generated an increase in the volume of small and medium-sized parcels to be delivered within short timeframes as close as possible to consumers in urban and suburban areas, entailing complete rethinks of flow and inventory management, optimizing them without compromising on service quality. To meet this demand, GEODIS constantly adapts and innovates, taking account of its customers’ omni-channel strategies and providing them with its know-how in real-time optimization of their logistics chains through complete visibility of their inventories and flows; ● finally, tensions in some lines of business, the rise of artificial intelligence and new expectations in terms of quality of life at work are all having an impact on the Group’s recruitment and employee development strategies. To continue attracting, developing and retaining the talent the Group needs, GEODIS is adopting a proactive approach to raise awareness of the logistics industry and is strengthening its employer brand, which highlights its values and incorporates its vision of sustainable logistics. Aware of its responsibilities and the difficulties of a world that has become more uncertain and unpredictable, GEODIS is constantly adapting and evolving, bringing its customers global solutions that meet their expectations. As an architect of logistics solutions and a direct operator itself, GEODIS focuses on agility, working together with its customers to anticipate the changes required to cope with this changing environment. Its expertise, complementary lines of business and geographical footprint put the Group in a strong position to support its customers in addressing supply chain risks. GEODIS’s strategic plan, “Ambition 2027”, fully supports the Group’s baseline, “A better way to deliver”, by reinforcing its demands for operational, financial, social and environmental performance. 1.5 Strategy Having achieved the objectives of its strategic plan for the 2018-2023 period, GEODIS is pursuing its development under its new strategic plan, “Ambition 2027”. The new strategic plan continues the momentum of the previous one, while stepping up the Group’s ambitions in terms of operational and financial performance. More than ever, the Group is placing CSR and its social and environmental performance at the heart of its strategic plan, with the aim of significantly reducing its carbon footprint and being recognized as a leader in sustainable logistics. Thanks to the past and future financial performance of its lines of business, and strengthened by the integration of its most recent major acquisitions (Keppel and Need It Now Delivers in 2022 and trans-o-flex in 2023), GEODIS will have significant scope for further innovation and investment. These investments will support the Group’s organic growth aligned with the outlook for growth in the transport and logistics market. They will also support a proactive policy of targeted acquisitions designed to seize market opportunities. GEODIS’s strategy is designed to strengthen its position as a leader in sustainable and innovative end-to-end logistics solutions to help its customers succeed and grow around the world. This strategy continues to be based on three pillars, each imbued with the Group’s innovative spirit and its capacity for investment: expertise in its core businesses coupled with support for its customers, an acceleration of its digital transformation, and its ongoing policy of external growth. 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 17 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS
1. Profile and ambition Developing expertise in core businesses and supporting Group customers The first pillar for GEODIS consists of capitalizing on the knowhow and value creation of its four lines of business, whose diversity, complementarity and policy of business excellence should ensure constant commercial development that exceeds that of its market. The Group intends to ensure the growth of its core businesses by supporting the development of its customers, by bringing more value to its customers and by taking account of the specific nature of each market. Each of these lines of business is organized according to its specific characteristics so as to optimize the level of service to customers. Changes were made in the organization of the Group early in 2023, with the creation of a new Europe region, a France and North Africa region and a Global Contract Logistics line of business, increasing the Group’s capacity to serve its customers, while making the most of its regions and lines of business. This development enables GEODIS to combine expertise in its lines of business with detailed knowledge of regional conditions to achieve ever greater commercial and operational efficiency. Each core business also has its own capabilities for investment, combining different modes of holding and using assets to suit the situation (the “asset right” notion) and the spirit of innovation that drives the Group. Speeding up the digital transformation Innovation and investment are central to the second pillar of GEODIS’s strategy, digital transformation. The Group focuses particularly on innovation to enhance its customer service offering, and to simplify these services as well as making them more accessible. On the one hand, this transformation relates to the support functions in their drive for business excellence, management and internal control via a dedicated transformation program called Odyssey. The pooling of data enables a more detailed performance analysis of the Company’s activities and the development of new opportunities for cross-selling. On the other hand, digital transformation affects the lines of business at the heart of their operational processes: its purpose is to enrich their ranges of services with innovative digital solutions to create more value for the Group’s clients and improve access to its services. This transformation is based on a set of functional and technical solutions directed by the Digital and Technology Department, including the Data Office and the Digital Factory, to capitalize on data, which is a key asset in the Group’s business. For example, Upply, a digital marketplace that compares freight rates in real time, combines business expertise and data science to meet the demands of a changing logistics market. The start-up has continued to grow since its launch in 2018 with the addition of new features on the matchmaking platform for transporters and shippers. In 2023, Upply launched Connect, a new platform that puts shippers, carriers and freight forwarders directly in touch with each other. Continuing a proactive, targeted external growth strategy The third pillar of the strategic plan is a continuation of the Group’s external growth policy, applying a proactive, targeted approach to support the Group’s growth and position it as a leader in sustainable logistics. The desire for expansion is intended to provide a better response to the demands of the Group’s customers by supporting them in the development of their businesses with an end-to-end service, however their supply chain is configured, but also to broaden the range of services in line with the Group’s CSR ambitions, while strengthening its geographical footprint in strategic markets (North America, Europe and South-East Asia). In a sector that is still largely fragmented, GEODIS seeks to consolidate its positions by targeting companies whose activities are consistent with the Group’s aim of offering endto-end service throughout the supply chain. Thanks to the acquisition in 2023 of the German company transo-flex, which provides temperature-controlled last-mile transport for the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, for instance, GEODIS will be able to offer an end-to-end temperature-controlled network between Germany, Europe, Asia and the United States. 1.6 Innovation GEODIS’s capacity for innovation is a key differentiator compared to its competitors, a means of creating value for its customers and a major lever for growth and performance. Data management and digital technologies are two fundamental dimensions of digital transformation. The support functions will benefit from this transformation in terms of business excellence, management and internal control, as will the lines of business in terms of their operational processes and new offerings. The Group focuses on three main areas of innovation: ● digital technology, at all stages of the Group’s processes, from customer relations to delivery; ● robotics, a powerful lever for operational performance and making tasks less arduous; ● decarbonization, to address the climate issue (discussed in section 3.1, dedicated to the climate). 18 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
1. Innovating to meet the challenges of the Group’s customers Innovation is one of the basic values of GEODIS. It is at one and the same time a major vector of operational excellence, a source of value creation and a key differentiator in markets where the Group is present. With sophisticated processes, GEODIS offers solutions to the new challenges of a rapidly changing world. In response to the dramatic growth in e-commerce, GEODIS provides end-to-end logistics support to B2C brands, with the goal of offering customers the same personalized experience online and in-store. The GEODIS eCommerce solution draws on the Group’s global network of warehouses and transport facilities to direct the customer to the nearest available product, thanks to real-time visibility of inventory worldwide. GEODIS is committed to putting its innovative capabilities to work for its customers, whether it involves just-in-time delivery, visibility of the logistics chain or social responsibility. Faster implementation of robotics Recent years have seen the rapid and widespread development of robotics applied to logistics. The automation of logistics activities in warehouses is a considerable performance driver, enabling more flows to be processed in record time. Faced with a massive increase in consumer demand, particularly when it comes to online shopping, smart robots are becoming ever more mobile and autonomous and are carrying out order picking tasks, improving the quality and speed of operations. Data management solutions combined with artificial intelligence (AI) systems produce algorithms that increase operational efficiency and accuracy of forecasting. In addition, robotic systems improve working conditions and productivity in the warehouse by reducing repetitive tasks that are physically demanding for the operator (moving, bending, carrying loads), thus freeing up time for the personnel to perform higher value-added tasks. GEODIS has approximately 80 highly automated sites around the world, making it one of the leaders in the integration of the latest generations of robots within warehouses. Its teams are working on the development of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and Plug & Play solutions that are seamless and fast, improving connectivity with its customers’ systems. This edge in robotics is both a source of differentiation and a growth driver for the Group. Prioritizing digital technology Data and digital technologies remain two fundamental aspects of innovation that are adapted to the realities of the field and profitable for the supply chain and business management. GEODIS works continuously in close collaboration with its customers and academic and industrial partners to identify areas where digital innovation and data mining can make a difference. The Group has identified a relevant use case for blockchain technology to meet the challenges associated with vaccine distribution. Its teams ensured the logistics and transportation of batches in strict compliance with the cold chain and with precise monitoring of the data reported and validated automatically under the supervision of pharmacists. This technological breakthrough reduced the time required to record data by 12 hours, speeding up vaccine distribution and limiting the number of doses wasted because of inefficient logistics. The quality and robustness of data repositories are essential drivers of performance, quality of operations and regulatory compliance. In its quest for operational excellence, GEODIS uses algorithms to detect and process errors and missing data. The multi-channel businesses of the Group’s customers (traditional stores and online sales) combined with multiple end-customer delivery strategies (“ship from store” from warehouses and “in-store pickup”) require powerful software for real-time inventory tracking, calculation of replenishment strategies and order allocation, and tracking of shipments and deliveries (DOM [Distributed Order Management] systems). GEODIS and its software partner have established themselves as leaders in this field. 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 19 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS
1. Profile and ambition Seizing the opportunities of digital transformation The latest technological advances now make it possible to embrace an increasingly high portion of the complexity of the logistics industry, encompassing a significant number of distinct concepts required for present-day supply chain operations. Digital technology and other new technologies combine to intensify communication and data flows, providing better visibility of the arrival times of parcels and containers consigned to the Group by its customers. These communication flows must be secure, to protect customer data, but also resilient, to ensure an optimal level of service. The use of data captured, stored, transformed and then transmitted via the IT system and digital channels generates gains not only in functional, but also operational efficiency (optimized truck journeys, speed of last-mile deliveries, verification of transport conditions under stress – low temperature, real-time monitoring). Artificial intelligence is increasingly enabling GEODIS to make use of predictive models and suggest complementary logistics services from the Group’s catalog of offerings. GEODIS can thus develop cross-selling and build customer loyalty through end-to-end operations. On a more general level, digital technology also enables the Group to better integrate its ecosystem partners as it seeks to offer the most appropriate service to its customers. In addition, GEODIS is participating in the development of SDL (Shared Data Language), a standard for the world of logistics, in order to encourage the integration of “small” players within the value chain. The challenge is to limit the effects of lock-in by promoting free and fair competition and increasing the efficiency of the end-to-end logistics chain. 20 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
1. GEODIS’s commitment to innovation is reflected in the following highlights of 2023: Low Emission Zone (LEZ) access verification system There are more and more LEZs in French cities, and it is crucial for transport operators to be certain that GEODIS vehicles and those of its subcontractors are authorized to enter them. This is particularly complex when managing around 120,000 transport orders a day, when there is little harmonization of traffic regulations regarding LEZs from one urban area to another, and when GEODIS has no direct control over the vehicles of its subcontractors’ vehicles. Distribution & Express teams have developed a verification system connected to the French authorities’ database of roughly 5 million registered vehicles. When the license plate is entered, the system instantly classifies the vehicle concerned. An on-board IT tool to monitor driving performance The stakes are high when it comes to improving the driving behavior of GEODIS drivers, not only in terms of safety, but also energy consumption and reduced maintenance costs. With Trimble, their on-board IT tool, European Road Network teams have access to detailed data on the driving behavior of each driver, such as sudden accelerations and decelerations, or the correct use of cruise control. This data is shared with drivers and operational managers to establish a dialogue on driving behavior and create constructive competition between drivers. Collecting and analyzing these driving indicators also enables European Road Network’s in-house trainers and instructors to better target drivers in need of training, and to offer them better tailored programs. A decision-making tool supporting the optimization of logistics GEODIS optimizes its delivery routes in France using a solution developed by its service provider, 7Opteam. 30 Distribution & Express branches import and process logistics geolocation data. Once it has been analyzed, this data enables planning teams to save time by reworking delivery routes throughout France. The 7Opteam platform not only saves planning teams time (up to ten days for complex studies), but also rationalizes routes, which is reflected in a reduction in kilometers traveled, and consequently in CO2 emissions. Optimized loading Whether on the oceans in containers, or on the roads in trailers or in the back of vans, the question of load optimization is vitally important, both for reducing transport costs and for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution in general. Supply Chain Optimization teams have developed a calculation program for optimizing loading plans, using data on dimensions and weight, while respecting the safety constraints of the products transported. The software also optimizes the grouping of goods according to their origin or destination into a minimum number of containers. After implementing the optimization program for a leading sports and leisure goods retailer in 2023, GEODIS teams reported a 10% increase in container loading rates. 1.7 Corporate governance GEODIS is committed to operating in an ethical and transparent manner. GEODIS, the parent company of the GEODIS Group, is a French limited company (société anonyme) that has adopted a dual management structure, with an Executive Board and a Supervisory Board. This organizational structure separates the management and direction of the Company, which is the responsibility of the Executive Board, from the control of this management body, which is exercised by the Supervisory Board, thus meeting the concern for a balance of power between the executive and control functions. The Supervisory Board has formed specialized committees to assist it in its deliberations. The Executive Board is supported by a Management Board, which comprises executive vice presidents for the regions, executive vice presidents for the lines of business and executive vice presidents for the support functions. As of the date of the present document, the Management Board consists of 17 members. GEODIS is a wholly owned subsidiary of the SNCF Group through SNCF Participations. The Executive Board The Executive Board of GEODIS SA is overseen by the Supervisory Board, to which it submits for approval the general strategy of the Company and the Group, as well as the annual budgets and multi-year plans of the Company and the Group. As of the date of the present document, the Executive Board consists of two members: Marie-Christine Lombard and David‑Olivier Tarac. The Executive Board is chaired by Marie‑Christine Lombard. At a meeting on March 2, 2021, the Supervisory Board reappointed Marie-Christine Lombard as Chair of the Executive Board for the duration of her term of office as a member of the Executive Board. At a meeting on December 6, 2022, the Supervisory Board appointed the Group Chief Financial Officer, David-Olivier Tarac, as a member of the Executive Board, succeeding Amaury Valicon on January 1, 2023, for the duration of his mandate (term ends 2025). 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT - 21 EDITORIAL > 1. PROFILE AND AMBITION > 2. CSR POLICY > 3. ENVIRONMENT > 4. SOCIAL > 5. ETHICS > 6. TABLE OF INDICATORS
1. Profile and ambition The Supervisory Board The GEODIS Supervisory Board consists of eight members, four of whom are external. A representative of the European Consultation Committee (ECC) also attends meetings of the Supervisory Board. ➔Number of meetings of the Supervisory Board in 2023: 5 ➔Attendance rate: 97.5% The Supervisory Board takes care to maintain a diversity of experience, particularly in international business, and a complementary mix of skills. It also ensures the presence of external members and a high proportion of women. As of the date of this document, the Supervisory Board is composed of eight members. Three of these are women (37.5%) and four are external to the SNCF Group (50%). The composition of the Supervisory Board covers the essential expertise required to exercise control over the Company’s management: transportation & logistics, strategic planning and business strategy, finance and management, legal and regulatory, mergers & acquisitions, corporate social responsibility, risk management and compliance. The Supervisory Board’s role is to oversee the management of the Executive Board and to ensure the smooth running of the Company. Specifically, it endorses all significant commitments and investment or divestment operations. To carry out its missions, the Supervisory Board relies on the work of two specialized committees: ● the Audit and Risk Committee (ARC), whose role is to report on the accuracy and the fairness of the parent company and consolidated accounts, as well as the quality of the financial information; ● the Human Resources Committee (HRC), whose role is to issue recommendations on the compensation policy for the members of the Executive Board, the Management Board and the Group’s leading executives. It periodically reviews the retention plan (Long-Term Incentive Plan) and any other incentive mechanism. In 2023, the Supervisory Board took positions on merger and acquisition projects and on the Group’s LTIP (Long-Term Incentive Plan) policy. As far as GEODIS’s CSR strategy is concerned, the Supervisory Board was also asked to give its opinion on the double materiality matrix, the compliance plan and the Group’s decarbonization trajectory prior to its submission to the SBTi (Science Based Targets initiative). In addition to activities and results, discussions in 2023 focused on the Group’s new strategic plan, Ambition 2027. 22 - 2023 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
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