Durban focus supports Africa growth

Currently focusing on bedding down and streamlining its operations in Durban, JF Hillebrand has great expectations for the KwaZulu Natal region and the gateway it provides into Africa. According to business development executive for KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape, Nicky Burke, the company sees major growth potential into Africa. “Developing our Trans Ocean flexitank brand within the Durban market as a reliable, cost- effective way to move bulk non-hazardous liquids throughout the world remains a key focus,” she said. “But at the same time we are also strengthening our position in terms of taking advantage of the opportunities in Africa. With the Durban port accounting for a significant portion of the exports and imports to and from South Africa, and being a conduit to East Africa, we believe that our decision to develop and grow our footprint in Durban and the surrounding area will continue to benefit us into the future.” Based in Umhlanga, the office was first opened in 2011 predominantly to serve existing customers in the region, but having firmly entrenched themselves in the market, growth has been on the cards for some time. Said Burke: “It has allowed us to enhance our service on the Johannesburg and Durban corridor while it now also gives us an opportunity to branch out even further – especially in the light of the major focus on Africa.” And with volumes on the increase in the food and beverage as well as the bulk liquid flexitank business, and the increased focus on emerging markets, it has been a good decision all round, she said. At the same time, the move to capture more of the East African market is not only on the JF Hillebrand agenda, but one that the Durban Chamber of Commerce as well as local government is punting. “While it is always beneficial to bring on large companies who can encourage revenuegeneration, it is also a focus for JF Hillebrand and Trans Ocean to look at ways to work with and assist where we can upand- coming small and medium enterprises who are looking to develop their business in new markets,” said Burke.