CMA CGM, Google sign deal for AI across shipping, logistics

CMA CGM, a global leader in sea, land, air and logistics solutions, and Google announced a partnership to accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across CMA CGM's operations worldwide.

"By leveraging Google's proven AI solutions and insights from experts, CMA CGM will help empower its employees' decision-making. In fact, every programme and tool developed within the partnership will be designed to assist users in their decision-making processes across several key workflows," says a release from Google.

As part of the partnership, CMA CGM will actively seek to optimise vessel routes, container handling and inventory management to ensure efficient and timely delivery of goods while minimising costs and carbon footprints, the release added.

"CEVA Logistics, the logistics arm of CMA CGM, will pioneer the data-driven future of logistics, focusing first on warehouse smart management aimed at better operating its 10.3 million square metres of warehouse space. The smart management tool, built on Google technology, will allow CEVA Logistics to better anticipate and plan its operations thanks to an enhanced volume & demand forecasting."

The partnership will eventually benefit all CMA CGM associates, thanks to dedicated high-impact training sessions at TANGRAM, the Group's excellence centre for learning and innovation, the release added. "This collaboration is part of CMA CGM's overall strategy to transform its business through AI innovation. It follows key moves such as CMA CGM's investment in Mistral AI, PoolSide and Dataiku as well as the launch of open science lab Kyutai."

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO, CMA CGM says: "I am pleased to announce this global partnership between the CMA CGM Group and Google to accelerate AI adoption across our operations. This collaboration aligns with our digital roadmap and investments, marking a crucial step in our transformation strategy. Together with Google, we will lead the digital revolution in shipping, logistics and media, optimise our processes and enhance our competitive edge. We are committed to driving innovation with tangible benefits for our staff members and our customers."

Sundar Pichai, CEO, Google and Alphabet adds: "By combining CMA CGM's deep expertise in shipping and logistics with Google's AI tools and secure infrastructure, we can help CMA CGM digitally transform its own operations and those of its customers. This partnership is a prime example of how AI can assist employees, improve outcomes for customers, and revolutionise industries."

The CMA CGM Group serves more than 420 ports around the world across five continents with a fleet of around 620 vessels. It carried 21.8 million TEUs in 2023, and the Group employs 180,000 people worldwide of which around 6,000 are in Marseille at its head office, the release added.