Concerns are rising within the UK transport and touring industries over the looming enforcement of EU travel restrictions. The Entry/Exit System (EES), expected to launch in November, will enforce the 90/180 rule - limiting stays in the Schengen Area to 90 days within any 180-day period. This has major implications for British hauliers, coach operators, and touring crews supporting UK performers across Europe.

Unlike EU artists entering the UK under a single immigration framework, UK performers must navigate varying entry rules across EU member states. The British government is working with industry voices to push for more flexible arrangements, aiming to make travel smoother for creative professionals and their support teams. These discussions are expected to feature in upcoming UK-EU talks, with calls for visa-free movement and streamlined customs processes.

Although some EU countries have shown hesitation towards the UK’s proposals, there is interest in reaching a broader agreement, particularly around youth mobility between the UK and EU. This has encouraged hopes of a tailored exemption or visa scheme to avoid disrupting international tours.

Industry leaders are calling for solutions that will maintain the UK’s strong touring presence in Europe and protect the livelihoods of those working behind the scenes in transport and logistics.

Logistics professionals are embracing artificial intelligence at a rapid pace, with a recent study revealing that 62% of information-handling staff in the sector are already using it—and nearly all report positive results. According to research from The Access Group, 97% of logistics workers using AI say it has improved their working life.

Although the logistics industry trails the tech sector in AI uptake (74%), it far outpaces sectors like not-for-profit and health and social care, where adoption is below 30%. Within logistics, employees highlighted reduced workloads, improved focus, and increased productivity as the main benefits. Better communication and enhanced customer service also ranked highly.

ChatGPT emerged as the most widely used AI tool, with more than half of respondents relying on it. Many users said it helped ease workplace stress. However, concerns remain - particularly around the risk of job losses (51%) and data privacy (46%).

Industry leaders say AI offers a transformative opportunity. Jarrod Adam of Unleashed noted that AI can help small and mid-sized logistics firms overcome skills shortages and cut costs. Meanwhile, Access Group’s Marko Perisic stressed the importance of proper training and secure platforms. With the right approach, AI can foster innovation, efficiency, and safer data handling across the logistics workforce.