TNT Express has taken major steps to capitalize on an expanded European Union. Preparations include investments of approximately $13.4 million in new linehaul connections, a new road hub, additional sortation facilities, and new vehicles and drivers. Last month the carrier, which already had an extensive express-delivery road network in Europe, launched 16 new road linehaul connections between eight new E.U. member states to offer customers better service and improved transit times. (www.tnt.com)

Global Trade Systems, a new consulting firm, will use its "Trade Security Equation" program to help businesses meet security challenges associated with global supply chain operations, including manufacturing, transportation, distribution, and regulatory compliance. The firm's principals include trade experts formerly with Staples, Reebok, and APL; Converse; and U.S. Customs. (www.GlobalTradeSystems.com)

DSC Logistics is building a facility in the newly-developed intermodal park near Joliet, Ill. Scheduled to open this summer, the one million square-foot distribution center will include a foreign trade zone. It also will provide quick access to intermodal capabilities, multiple railroad lines, and major interstates. (www.dsclogistics.com)

The Raymond Corporation has opened a new training facility at its Greene, N.Y., headquarters. The center features five classrooms, a truck lab, and two breakout rooms overlooking the factory floor. Courses will cover such topics as new products, lift-truck and operator safety, and lift-truck maintenance. (www.raymondcorp.com)

Two of the United States' largest trading companies, Nissho Iwai American Corp. and Nichimen America Inc., have merged to form Sojitz Corporation of America. Sojitz's Trade Management Solutions Group will leverage its global scale to provide consulting and management services in global sourcing, distribution, and import/export operations. (www.sojitz-trademanagementsolutions.com)