Nationally developed specialised products

WITH AN upward jump of 59.2% to an IATA turnover of R25.2-million, SA Express Line (SAEL) – logged as Seaways on the IATA list – has snatched 23rd spot in the Top 30. The company, operating since 1985, “is proud to be one of the very few wholly-owned independent SA companies providing a service for exporters,” according to airfreight branch manager, Fergus Fitch. With offices in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, SAEL has nationally developed specialised products and loading systems with services tailor-made for Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) exports, for example. “However,” Fitch said, “supply chain management and general cargo have more than played their part in this increase.” The company has increased its warehousing and groundwork facilities in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town to cope with the continued growth, recently expanded its local customs clearing facilities, and increased its staff numbers to 170. Overseas partners have played a role, according to Fitch. “The growth in figures can also be attributed to this strong worldwide network.” Major export destinations for the company are the UK, USA, Asia Pacific and Europe – with an extensive African partnership providing access to export markets throughout the continent.