It's the first step in Laser's plan to build a diversified freight division
- Fairweather
LASER, THE Cape-based transport company, has bought Docks Shipping, one of Cape Town's oldest independent customs clearing houses, in a deal worth several million rand.
It is the first major move in this direction by Laser since former South African Airways Cargo c.e.o. Charles Fairweather joined them in a similar role and opened up the new freight and logistics division.
It's the first step towards the implementation of Laser's plan to build a diversified freight division, says Fairweather.
It is an area of great growth potential and Docks Shipping is an ideal company to spearhead this growth, as it has an established blue-chip client base.
In addition its exemplary service record, competent work staff and capacity within sea, road and air freight is what we require, together with the Docks network of agents and partnerships worldwide.
Fairweather, who will work with the existing team to expand Docks Shipping business capacity, with particular emphasis on the airfreight sector, is satisfied that existing clients will benefit from the vast network Laser also offers, with opportunities for cross-selling, tie-ins with existing Laser services, and utilisation of Lasertrans's warehousing and logistics capabilities.
Tony Williamson, chairman of the Laser group, is upbeat about the purchase. The acquisition, he says, fits squarely within the group's strategy to continue meeting the outsourcing needs of corporates with additional value-added services.
Laser has diversified its core business during the past 18 months and will be looking at further acquisitions, both here and abroad, to enhance growth, he says.
By Leonard Neill
