Mining industry drives growth for Durban logistics company

THE DURBAN transport, warehousing and distribution operation, Malden Logistics, is hot on the expansion trail – targeting major growth in handling commodity exports for the mining industry, with a particular focus on the fastgrowing demand from China. It also has a significant presence in the automotive industry, storing and distributing vehicle imports for dealers in the local market. In its five-year history, the company has enjoyed exponential growth yearon- year, according to CEO Malcolm Chetty, and is currently committed to undertaking a massive expansionary phase. “We have plans to increase our present 55 000 m2 of warehousing space,” he told FTW, “and to enhance our fleet of specialised handling equipment.” The bulk division is currently served by two weighbridges on site and a fleet of payloaders, miniloaders, forklifts and sidelifter, with a full weighing conveyor system to enhance the process. Later this year, this will be supplemented by the installation of Kalmar heavy-lift equipment. “This is designed to be up and running by July,” said Chetty, “and will allow us to significantly increase the volumes we can handle for the mining sector.” The transportation side of the business is also developing fast, with a large fleet of vehicles designed to handle the various applications served by Malden Logistics – and also supported by sidelifters when this specialised function is required. “Our large range of equipment enables us to efficiently pre-pack and preassemble cargo,” said Chetty, “and allows us to handle large volumes of commodities in both our warehousing, bulk handling and transportation divisions. “Thus we can offer a full logistics solution to our clients - and ensure efficient and effective operations at any given time.”