Logistics service expanded to include forwarding in SA

LCL Grindrod plans more China offices RAY SMUTS THE JOINT venture between LauritzenCool Logistics and Grindrod is going swimmingly after seven months of operation. Johan Kruger, executive director of LCL Grindrod, reports that the logistics product has been advanced to include forwarding in South Africa. “The biggest successes, however, are the expansion of the multi-destination desk for clients and the flexibility of a wide range of logistics channels.” Kruger explains grower/exporters now have the benefit of LCL Grindrod “taking the pain” on their behalf. The grower/exporter makes contact with LCL Grindrod for all requirements. This includes shipping to any destination, sometimes on a variety of shipping lines, and getting the product to the market on time. The company handles logistics all over southern Africa, including Zambia and Zimbabwe, from about 40 different loading points through some 50 different discharge ports to around 100 inland destination points worldwide. The latter is made possible through LCL Grindrod’s global network of 32 offices worldwide, supported by an integrated logistics system. Fine distribution networks are continuously expanded, the Valencia office being well placed for cross docking to end outlets, for example. Kruger says this fine distribution has recently been expanded in the UK by LCL AB and George Hammond PLC, through their joint venture company, LCL UK & Eire, acquiring Meridian Shipping Services of Dover in Kent.