The global independent freight forwarding community is set to be represented within IATA's Time and Temperature Work Group (TTWG) for the first time, following the announcement that WCAworld has been elected to this influential body.

Historically, the TTWG has been comprised largely of multinational forwarders, airports, airlines, shippers and manufacturers. However, the influence of WCA’s Pharma network has ensured that SME forwarders will now also have a voice.

The TTWG develops and maintains standards for the procedures, documentation, cargo handling, packaging and acceptance of healthcare goods. This way it facilitates, improves and maintains the proper functioning of the pharmaceutical logistics sector. The group also lobbies government agencies, intergovernmental organizations, stakeholders, carriers, shippers and their intermediaries towards the recognition and adoption of these standards as well as promoting its activities with industry associations and shippers.

WCA Pharma network member, Thierry Moreno, CEO of Geneva-based NV Logistics, will assist WCAworld in representing members within the TTWG and will utilise members’ feedback from a new dedicated WCA Pharma portal, designed to ensure maximum input into the future of pharmaceutical transport.

Adam McKenna, General Manager of WCA’s Speciality Networks, said that it was a big moment for the industry with the independent sector having acquired equal standing and influence as multinational forwarders.

“What is important to us, as an organization, is that we will have input into changes that can better the industry. Collectively, we have gained recognition for the high quality of our training programmes and the excellence of member companies that excel at what they do. They can now genuinely have a collective voice that will be heard.”