Cape Town office provides springboard for growth

FT Global Logistics has identified the wine and fruit juice industries as potential growth sectors in the Western Cape, says managing director Hilton Tait. “In spite of the fact that both areas are complex, as they require special equipment and employees with specialised knowledge, we are confident that this could become a major growth sector for the company in the coming years.” Tait is generally upbeat about prospects for the Cape Town office, which opened in August last year under the leadership of Kevin Beswick. “Exports to West Africa, Europe and the USA are seen as potential growth areas while the geographical location of the province at the tip of Africa bodes well for logistical efficiency.” He maintains that because companies compete on an even playing field where most agents utilise the same sea and air carriers, to ensure successful entry into this market differentiation is essential. “We believe that our differentiated offering to the market will be our personalised service and our ability to develop and nurture relationships.” With changes in SA Revenue Service (Sars) regulations and the rollout of new Electronic Data Interchange phases, some Cape Town freight companies have opted to centralise operations in Johannesburg, said Tait. “In this process, several Cape Town operations have been downsized. FT Global Logistics consequently identified two experienced management personnel who are now part of the team. Their existing relationships with local carriers make them a valuable asset to the company as we continue our reach into the wine industry.”