On this month’s edition of The Voice of Atlas, we feature Ivo Aris from NOSTA Group. With a lifelong passion for logistics, Ivo shares his journey, insights on industry challenges, sustainability, and market trends, along with a glimpse into his personal life. Let’s dive into his inspiring story!

How did you first get interested in logistics, and what keeps you motivated in this field?

My dad founded forwarding company (named Road Air) in The Netherlands in 1965. As from when I was 6 years old, I often joined him on Saturday mornings to Amsterdam airport. While he was talking with people on the tarmac, I was allowed to sit in the cockpit of e freighter, and life would never be the same again. I see myself as a child of Schiphol Airport as well as an airfreight guy (that always earned more money with ocean freight LOL).
My passion for airfreight made me joining and leading (airfreight) industry Boards for some 20 years. I’m still interested today because the dynamic buzz of being a freight forwarder. Never a dull moment and it is great to achieve things together with dear colleagues in a still blue-collar environment.

What do you see as the biggest challenge in logistics today, and how do you think the industry is handling it?

Not sure if the biggest, but for sure a big challenge seems to be finding young talent to pursue a life in logistics with the right 24/7 mentality. Perseverance and taking ownership don’t always seem to be common practices anymore (there are exceptions to the rule). As this is still very much a people driven business, working with great people still makes all the difference.
With some effort we still manage to find great talent, but choosing freight forwarding as a profession certainly has become an “acquired taste”.

Sustainability is a hot topic in logistics. How is your organization approaching eco-friendly practices?

NOSTA is deeply committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. We actively integrate environmentally conscious measures into our operations. To learn more about our initiatives and efforts, visit our website.

Could you describe a difficult moment in your career that shaped the way you work today?

I promised myself many years ago to always “take the high road” and maintain a high level of integrity. I also vowed to never do something I don’t feel good about. I’ve kept those promises, and while it may have closed some doors at times, that’s something I am completely okay with. These principles have shaped the way I work.

How do you view the logistics market for the rest of this year leading into 2025?

The economy in our region is currently relatively stable but slow, especially given some of the economic challenges Germany is facing. We don’t anticipate a significant upswing before the end of 2024, and it may even extend into mid-2025. However, in forwarding, you never know—further disruptions could change the situation at any time. On a positive note, our Eastern European branches are experiencing considerable momentum and tailwind.

What’s one resource or feature within the network you think more members should take advantage of?

One valuable resource within the network is Atlas’s own B/L, which proved incredibly useful to us in 2024. I also highly value the geographic exclusivity of membership—it’s a feature that can and should foster more focused and strategic partnerships.

When you’re not focused on logistics, how do you like to unwind and enjoy your free time?

I’m a family man and love spending time with my wife, Isabella, and our three kids. Now that our youngest has turned 18, they seem to be leaving home one at a time. Thankfully, we still manage to come together often as a family. At the same time, it’s given my wife and me the chance to enjoy more regular short vacation trips abroad, which has been a wonderful opportunity for us.

If you had to describe your logistics journey using a movie title, what would it be?

Rebel without a cause (1955).

Thank you, Ivo, for your time and insights!