Growing UK volumes increase airfreight consolidations

HIKE FREIGHT Services has increased the frequency of its UK airfreight consolidations on the back of growing volumes on the route. “The additional volume has led to increased buying power with airlines which in turn leads to better and more competitive pricing for both new and existing business,” says MD Hilton Tait. Hike has worked hand in glove with its UK partner, the Davies Turner Group, to grow the business and Tait believes they’re reaping the dividends. “On the seafreight side both Hike and Davies Turner have seen a big increase in volumes and we are now close to having our own dedicated weekly groupage containers on the route. “Davies Turner is one of the largest independent freight groups and operationally very strong, but the trick in growing volumes has been the effort put in by both SA and UK sales staff,” says Tait. The European market has also been an area of focus for Hike, which has developed a comprehensive independent agency network. With positive growth expected in 2008, Hike is planning to set up or acquire branches in Cape Town and Durban. “Sales and operation departments will be increased to cope with new demands while additional funds have been allocated to improve IT systems.”