Africa network adds value for European shippers

Logistics major SDV – a subsidiary of the Bolloré group – is seeing increased airfreight export growth out of South Africa into Europe, particularly in the automotive sector. “Europe remains one of South Africa’s biggest trade partners and, as a Europeanowned company, we hope to leverage off that relationship to grow business between the two regions,” said Alexander Kaufmann, newly appointed cluster general manager of SDV’s airfreight division. He added that Europe’s economy was strengthening again as emerging markets were softening, which is why SDV South Africa was focusing on growth from its traditional trade partner. Kaufmann told FTW that there had been a “big step up” in manufacturing in South Africa’s automotive sector, with increased foreign investment in the sector, particularly by the big European car makers. “Because SDV’s airfreight division has no limit on its cargo weight – as we have partnerships with several charter companies as well as scheduled carriers – we are able to get parts, equipment and even fully assembled vehicles out to our customers via air in a very short turnaround time,” he said. The group’s strong air network into Africa is an advantage to European customers as well, added Kaufmann. “We offer an end-to-end (or door-todoor) service in nearly all the African countries, plus we have an on-the-ground presence with offices in several of the large African cities.” He pointed out that the group’s global expertise, combined with its experience and established track record of doing business in Africa, provided the kind of peace-ofmind trading that European customers demanded. According to Kaufmann, SDV’s airfreight division is also seeing increased trade in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, aerospace and food and beverages. INSERT & CAPTION Europe remains one of South Africa’s biggest trade partners. – Alexander Kaufmann