Demand for machinery logistics grows

KEVIN MAYHEW CAPITAL EXPENDITURE by major companies in the private sector is driving demand for contractors that are specifically geared up to cope with the full spectrum of machinery logistics, according to the joint MD of Lovemore Bros in Pinetown, Rob Lovemore. Demand from this sector has seen a 40% growth for the company this year and consequently substantial new investment is being made in new trucks, cranes and warehouse space as well as relevant skilled new staff. “There are major projects currently under way within companies like Mondi, Sappi and Tongaat Hulett in KwaZulu-Natal. Containerised delivery of components, from long sections of heavy piping to complex machinery, calls for very specific warehouse design and customised handling equipment to undertake the efficient unpacking,” he explains. Lovemore Bros is presently being called on to find offloading solutions for containerised marble and granite from overseas that is being used in upmarket housing developments during the current housing construction boom. Although Pinetown based, the company undertakes work around the country with a weekly schedule to Gauteng and is beginning to find a greater call for its expertise in Port Elizabeth due to growth in the motor sector. It attributes a large portion of its success to its broad customer base.