Neutral consolidator CFR Freight has re-evaluated its African partners as part of a process to ensure the best combination of price and service to its clients. According to the company’s air freight director, Stephen Bishop, most of its market in exports are small to mediumsized freight forwarders, which don’t always have the global network in order to be competitive. “It is therefore critical to offer a competitive price, but also exceptional service,” he said. “We are a member of the AirCargoGroup, which has several members in Africa, and we supplement this with our own agents to offer delivered-at-place (DAP) into 85% of Africa.” Considering some of the big challenges for operations in Africa, particularly the lack of infrastructure, the importance of one’s partners in countries cannot be over-estimated. “Customs and bureaucratic red tape can also be problematic, but because the continent offers a level playing field, the right partner on the ground can make all the difference. It is absolutely key to success.” Bishop said it was just as important in the African market to communicate continuously with clients. “The information does not always flow on the continent, and this affects one’s ability to meet client expectations. It is therefore important to be honest with clients about what is happening on the ground – again signifying the importance of partners on the ground that contribute to this.” Bishop said that having reliable partners was critical, and to this end, much effort went into ensuring that the company had the right partners at all times. Asked about his outlook for the African air freight market, Bishop said exports had kept pace with expectations thus far, but hopes were high for a peak season from September onwards
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It is critical to offer a competitive price, but also exceptional service. – Stephen Bishop