THE FUTURE OF LOGISTICS: EUROPE'S CHANGING INFRASTRUCTURE

As part of the Business Administration 2 - Supply Chain Management course, Nola Rohr, HR Manager at logistics company Spontex, gave an exciting insight into the major European Brenner Base Tunnel project in May 2025. The lecture at the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol highlighted infrastructural, logistical and ecological aspects of one of the most important construction projects in Europe - with a particular focus on its relevance for the economy and society.

CONSTRUCTION PROJECT WITH EUROPEAN SCOPE

With a total length of over 64 kilometres, the Brenner Base Tunnel will be the longest railway tunnel in the world when it is completed in 2032. As part of the trans-European TEN-T axis between Rotterdam and Genoa, it will significantly relieve traffic travelling across the Alps. "Around eight billion euros have already been invested in the project," reported Rohr. The dimensions of the tunnel - including a maximum gradient of just 0.4 per cent and continuous double tracks - will enable cross-border transport without changing locomotives and with significantly shorter journey times.

ADVANTAGES FOR THE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY

For companies like Spontex, which are closely integrated into international supply chains, the tunnel opens up new logistical opportunities. Rohr showed how shifting freight transport from road to rail can lead to more efficient, environmentally friendly processes. Digital traffic management systems help to recognise bottlenecks at an early stage, plan routes flexibly and make optimum use of existing infrastructures.

FOCUS ON INFRASTRUCTURE & SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability issues were also at the centre of the presentation. The Brenner Base Tunnel was certified in accordance with ISO 14001 and is considered an environmentally friendly infrastructure project. Reduced lorry journeys not only reduce emissions, but also the impact on roads and the population. Aspects such as energy-efficient construction, CO₂ savings and the social approach to major projects were discussed in detail.

IMPULSES FOR STUDENTS

In the concluding discussion, students on the Bachelor's degree program in International Business Studies reflected on the challenges and potential of logistics in the future. Among other things, they discussed developments in the field of autonomous driving and the requirements for digital skills when starting a career. Rohr encouraged the participants to look at infrastructure projects not only from a technical perspective, but also in terms of social acceptance, sustainable development and interdisciplinary collaboration.

BRIDGE BETWEEN PRACTICE AND TEACHING

Nola Rohr's presentation fitted seamlessly into the practice-orientated profile of the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol. As a partner company of the Career Centre, Spontex is in regular contact with the university - with the aim of giving young talents an insight into real challenges and professional fields. Rohr's visit was a successful example of how course content can be linked to current developments in the logistics industry.

Links:

• International Business Studies | ft