Johannesburg office sees airfreight exports flying

A year since the opening of its Gauteng office, GAC Laser has made significant inroads, says CEO Simon Hayes. “Our Western Cape and Natal operations are well established, but Gauteng was where it all happened for us last year. “This year we hope to consolidate and make the best of it.” Previously the company operated a satellite office in Johannesburg, run from Durban. “At the beginning of last year we employed some senior people and have grown revenue significantly. “We strengthened the sales team and took on a 5 000 m2 warehouse on the East Rand where we now have a 35-strong staff complement.” And it’s the company’s supply chain capability that adds value, says Hayes – from clearing and forwarding to warehousing, unpacking and distribution. While the Cape Town and Durban operations are strongly seafreight-focused, in Johannesburg airfreight exports are the mainstay, comprising some 80% of the business. “The Far East has been a big market for us – and through GAC we are well represented in the region.” While the macro-economic picture may appear less than rosy, the company is quoting on a number of international tenders to the Far East. “For us, business is looking very promising,” Hayes said.