The world is moving fast and the road transport industry sits at the crossroads of major change. From green logistics and digital innovation to the growing pressure of driver shortages, freight transport is no longer just about moving goods. It expands in connecting economies, people, and sustainable practices. As Europe races to modernize its supply chains while reducing emissions and costs, the road ahead demands smarter infrastructure, collaboration across modes of transport, and a skilled, adaptive workforce.
These challenges/ opportunities were at the heart of a recent presentation at our event, delivered by Mrs. Iro Doumani, General Manager of the Hellenic Federation of Road Transport and President of the IRU Goods Transport Council. With her extensive experience and strategic outlook, Doumani shared a clear and compelling vision for how road freight can remain the backbone of European logistics in a changing world.
Paving the way with purpose
During her speech, Mrs. Doumani emphasized that road transport plays a key role in economic and social connectivity, particularly for countries like Greece. Her insights included:
- The dominance of road freight in the European supply chain (74.6% of inland transport).
- Greece’s untapped potential to become a regional logistics hub—especially through the Port of Piraeus.
- The urgent need for intermodal synergy—where road, rail, and sea work together, not in competition.
Facing the triple challenge: Decarbonisation, Digitalisation, Drivers
DecarbonisationThe road freight sector is under pressure to cut emissions while demand continues to rise. Doumani explored the transition to Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) and the obstacles they face, from battery weight and range limitations to inadequate charging infrastructure. Her approach? Advocate for realistic, phased energy solutions, tailored by fleet type and geography. 
DigitalisationFrom fleet management systems to e-documents, digital transformation is non-negotiable. She presented the digital future of road transport as one of integration and adaptability—where operators who embrace change gain competitive advantage, efficiency, and transparency.
PeoplePerhaps most strikingly, Mrs. Iro didn’t shy away from one of the sector’s toughest realities: the driver shortage crisis. With over 230,000 unfilled driver positions in Europe and a growing need for tech-savvy, safety-conscious, and environmentally aware professionals, the road transport workforce is due for a makeover.
What this means for you
Whether you’re a logistics manager, supply chain partner, or fleet operator, Mrs. Iro’s message is clear: the road ahead requires investment in people, processes, and planet. This is not just about policy—it’s about competitive survival and sustainable growth.
Her insights leave us with:
A deeper understanding of the macro trends shaping European logistics. Practical awareness of the challenges facing modern transport operators. Strategic foresight on where to invest: technology, training, and collaboration.
Why DS Freight Forwarding supports voices like Mrs. Iro Doumani’s
We focus on moving forward along with moving goods. That’s why we proudly hosted Mrs. Iro Doumani as a speaker during our 2025 client event. Her vision aligns with our core values: innovation, responsibility, and partnership. In the ever-evolving landscape of cold chain logistics, insights like hers help us and our partners stay ahead.
If you’d like to learn more about how we’re applying these principles in real-world freight operations, or how we support a smarter and greener transport future, we’d love to connect.
We can build tomorrow’s logistics—together.
This blog is based on the insightful presentation delivered by Mrs. Iro Doumani at our 2025 DS Freight Forwarding client event. We extend our sincere thanks for her expertise, forward-thinking vision, and the valuable perspectives she shared on the future of road transport. Her contribution offered clarity on today’s challenges and inspiration for building a more efficient and sustainable logistics landscape.
