Bertling to strengthen Africa muscle

Significant new project developments are under way on the continent as improving commodity prices set the scene for expansion and new developments in 2010. That’s according to logistics and project specialist Bertling, which constantly tracks project developments on the continent, says commercial manager – sales and marketing, Isabelle Drouard. It’s welcome news after a turbulent year in which the financial crisis was not the only challenge facing the project and logistics industry. “Political issues and instability discouraged investors and resulted in project delays, while the strong rand was a further detractor,” Drouard told FTW. “In addition, freight forwarders who saw business declining in the textile and automotive industries shifted their focus to cross-border business, including projects.” But she believes the company is well-positioned globally to meet the increased competition “We can respond to changes in the countries of origin for major components as we are most likely present there as well. Cross trade makes up a large part of our business and our expertise.” The company has a network of 66 offices based in 38 countries. “In Africa alone Bertling is currently engaged in projects in 19 different countries,” she told FTW. These include a large coal mine in Mozambique, a gold mine in Eritrea, various copper mines in the DRC and Zambia, as well as mining operations in Ghana, Guinea and Mali. For the year ahead, its priority is to increase its presence on the continent. The company ventured into the DRC in 2007. “Now we are opening up in Beira and Tete and also have a permanent representation in Ghana in cooperation with a local partner.” Investment in critical resources is key to the Bertling philosophy. “This is why we have two warehouses in Johannesburg, a fleet of vehicles that provide collection and deliveries locally and an investment in the running of a cross border truck fleet.