KLM launches four-speed product range

Clients choose time frame best suited to their needs, writes Ray Smuts MORE VALUE for money options to suit customers already burdened with spiralling airfreight costs is behind KLM Cargo's new 'Select' marketing thrust focusing on general cargo. Consisting of the components Crucial, 100, 300 and 500, 'Select' is a four-speed, airport-to-airport product designed to afford customers the best solution and the most desirable value-for-money option each time. Select Crucial offers the fastest arrival of smaller urgent express shipments and Select 100 the earliest possible arrival of loose cargo for larger shipments. Select 300 offers a standard transit time while Select 500 is the most economical service if arrival within seven days is acceptable. Following the September 11 terror attack on the United States and its aftermath, KLM Cargo noted some hesitation on local markets, especially imports, but remains quietly confident of doing business in South Africa and elsewhere. "An overriding principle, KLM Cargo will always go the extra mile to accommodate customers, especially our key customers," says Rudi Konings, regional sales manager. The airline's customer-driven approach offers a range of prices rather than one published price as many carriers still do. Airfreight rates in rand have climbed steadily over the years due to pressure from hard currencies in which the majority of any airline's costs lie. KLM's pricing gives customers choices and it also allows KLM an effective System Profit Management concept to keep margins healthy to allow for growth and Expansion, says Konings.