Ensemble Analytics Completes Freight Innovation Fund Project, Successfully Trials Athena Workforce Scheduling Tool Across Five UK Sites

Ensemble Analytics has successfully completed its project under the Department for Transport’s Freight Innovation Fund (FIF), demonstrating the capabilities of its workforce scheduling tool, Athena. During the trial, Athena was deployed at five key sites across the UK, scheduling over 700 operatives and supporting the movement of more than 5% of the nation’s trade.

Athena, developed by Ensemble Analytics, leverages advanced analytics and automation to optimise workforce allocation, improve operational efficiency, and adapt to dynamic port requirements. Conducted in partnership with Associated British Ports (ABP) and Bristol Port, the trial showcased Athena’s ability to deliver significant operational improvements and support more sustainable freight operations.

Speaking at the Freight Innovation Fund closing event, Lilian Greenwood MP, Chair of the Transport Select Committee, highlighted the importance of projects like this: “It is really important that we innovate to find new, more efficient ways to operate, as it offers potential to drive economic growth, tackle issues around air quality, and contribute to us having greener transport.”

Cato Davies, CEO of Ensemble Analytics, added: “We are proud to have successfully trialled Athena across some of the UK’s busiest ports. Collaborating with ABP and Bristol Port has been key to refining our solution and ensuring it delivers tangible benefits for the freight and logistics industry.”

The Freight Innovation Fund, supported by the Connected Places Catapult, promotes innovation in the freight sector to support sustainability and operational efficiency. Ensemble Analytics’ Athena trial highlights the potential for data-driven solutions to transform the industry and enable smarter, more sustainable operations.