Enjoying the benefits of strong global connections

WITH AN increase of 60% in its IATA turnover, Kintetsu World Express was well above the 50% average growth in airfreight exports in 2003, recording a total of R25.6-million and taking 22nd spot in the Top 30. Although normally reticent to talk about his business, MD Andy Pearce told FTW that it was “just business as usual”. The company invented nothing new, he added, and described the Kintetsu performance as “normal growth”. “We obtained a couple of nice contracts,” Pearce said, “which certainly helped to build business, but I wouldn’t highlight anything in particular – although we are enjoying the benefits of our strong global connections.” Africa is proving to be a point of focus for Kintetsu – with Pearce convinced that “the time is right” to take on this market area. First tactic, he told FTW, is to balance the local operation correctly – with plans for a new office complex in SA. Eastern, southern and western Africa are the three important destination areas on the continent – with Kintetsu targeting countries as far afield as Kenya and Ghana. “Business is starting to prosper in the east and west sides of Africa,” said Pearce, “so we are looking to establish a presence in the continent – probably starting in East Africa.”