Ghana, Angola, Kenya and Nigeria already on track
Joy Orlek
MSAS Global Logistics has stepped up its Africa growth plans with the launch of a new Africa division, Exel (Africa), which will spearhead the opening of own offices in key regions on the subcontinent.
The company has for some time been actively developing sub-Saharan Africa traffic. Exel (Africa) will consolidate that business and concentrate on building a logistics chain across Africa focusing on the three key sectors of energy, mining and telecommunications.
Heading up the operation is general manager Stephen Sharratt who believes that the new initiative will ensure the necessary control not only at destination but also at origin.
The company has already opened Exel offices in Ghana, Angola, Kenya and Nigeria. "We've taken an aggressive approach and before the end of this year expect to open in three additional countries," Sharratt told FTW.
"MSAS previously had a number of businesses in West Africa, but operated through agents. Based on the needs of our market segments, we will create full Exel subsidiaries in certain areas," he said.
"From a client perspective it's important to have Exel at both ends of the supply chain, providing a global track and trace facility which can be accessed via the internet."
Sharratt brings to the position a wealth of experience on the subcontinent having previously headed up a group company in Angola. He relocated to South Africa 15 months ago and is based at Isando head office.
The South African operation will not only serve traffic from South Africa but will be developed as a hub for transit cargo.
l The UK parent of MSAS Global Logistics recently merged with logistics major Exel. Exel (Africa), the newly-created Africa division, is part of the global rebranding of this freight forwarding and logistics company.
Stephen Sharratt ... before the end of this year we expect to open in three additional countries
