'Logistics industry will rise to Soccer World Cup challenge'

DESPITE MISGIVINGS about the readiness of stadia for the 2010 World Soccer Cup extravaganza, Joachim Bade, CEO of WorldNet Logistics, is not only confident of a successful outcome but believes the logistics industry will rise to the occasion. Fielding questions at a media conference of the Waco System annual general meeting in Cape Town last week, Bade, whose company is the SA member of the exclusive Waco network, said: “I know we will make it happen from a logistics point of view. “The burden on us as service providers to manage our risk is an expensive one. It’s difficult to explain to clients we are working in a lowprofit environment and are often expected to compensate for this.” Bade is optimistic about the country’s future and says investment generally is creating a positive climate. “Volumes are moving and the government’s re-commitment to the automotive industry is another positive signal.” He was in full agreement with transport minister Jeff Radebe’s assertion that transformation of the industry requires a change in the profile of logistics operators to improve the demographics of this country. WorldNet Logistics has entered into a trainee development programme with a German company to offer a nine-month training course. Bade is also exploring the idea with chief executives of other logistics companies of setting up a threemonth exchange programme for students. Waco board chairman Wibo Aris said initial misgiving about the long-haul aspects of coming to South Africa for the conference and concerns about security had been overshadowed by members’ positive impressions. “There sometimes seems to be an over-emphasis overseas of negative elements in your country.” Formed in Europe 35 years ago, Waco is the largest global strategic alliance and if considered as one entity, among the four largest airfreight forwarding organisations in the world, with member companies handling some ¤1 billion in turnover.