Growing its
transport
capacity in the
agricultural
and fast moving consumer
goods sectors is on the cards
for MSC Logistics in the
Western Cape.
According
to Mervyn
Padayachee,
logistics
director, the
slowdown
in economic
growth – inf luenced
both by global and
local challenges – has
downscaled prospects for
growth in the business
and there is no doubt
that companies at large
face some challenging
times in 2016.
“We are, however,
intending to
invest in our
infrastructure
and will be
well placed in
terms of our
capacity
and
location
to
offer
a competitive value
proposition.”
This includes a drivethrough
weighbridge to
facilitate the weighing of
containers in preparation for
the implementation of the
Solas regulation amendment
in July this year.
Commenting on trends
in the industry, he said the
company was seeing the
local road-to-rail transition
in the Western Cape gaining
momentum, with Transnet
Freight Rail’s Belcon
terminal being used more
and more as a regional
inland terminal, alleviating
traffic congestion at the port
entrance.
“We have also noted a
consolidation of resources
brought on by tough
economic conditions,
compelling transport
companies to merge in order
to retain market share,”
said Padayachee. “We have
also picked up that more
local transporters are
exploring and are willing
to take up opportunities
for long-distance and overborder
transport than was
previously the case.”
“Cape Town’s biggest
challenge though is still
the wind factor that during
the summer months
poses unique challenges
to shipping, transport
and related industries.
This may result in missed
opportunities when vessels
by-pass or when cargo is
rolled over.”
INSERT & CAPTION
Road-to-rail transition is
gaining momentum with
TFR’s Belcon terminal
being used more and
more as a regional
inland terminal.
– Mervyn Padayachee
