THE NEW-age logistics operator is no longer merely a buyer and reseller of cargo space. He is integral to a client’s supply chain. Niche specialisation, warehousing and distribution are all becoming part of the services of local and international forwarders, says a Barloworld spokesman. “The recent acquisition of the established SA-based ZA Trans Logistics by Barloworld Logistics is a good example of the need to extend the supply chain offering at both ends,” he said. “From the forwarding aspect, client supply chains need to extend beyond port of entry, and from the logistics aspect freight forwarding companies increasingly have to cover the full spectrum of requirements.” “Our business has always been about taking care of our customers better than the next guy,” says Warren Erfmann, CEO of ZA Trans. “We have developed a great team of capable, knowledgeable people who use practical and useful tools to provide better service.” The acquisition rationale suited both parties, he added, in that clients are now exposed to more services and the increased resources offered by Barloworld Logistics’ size. “This is significant because now a client can rest assured that we can clear goods, provide cross trade solutions here or around the world, and ensure that the goods enter a well-managed logistics network that ends with the consumer,” adds Erfmann. He is upbeat about the outlook for the ZA Trans and Barloworld Logistics integrated offering in the current global climate. “We’re seeing greatly increased demand from our international customers for integrated solutions. It’s no longer just a question of forwarding freight, but about a total service offering. The management and planning skills we now have access to as part of a larger integrated logistics company are invaluable additions to our service offerings, and bode very well for our future,” he concludes.
