‘New kid on the block’ offers custom-made solutions

ICM Group may be the new kid on the block, but there is no stopping this new generation logistics company. Within 12 months of opening its doors the company has not just managed to avoid the impact of the dreaded global economic downturn, but has in fact grown business to the point that it already has offices in Shanghai, China, and in the Indian capital of Mumbai, while the next two months will see it spreading its wings to Sao Paulo in Brazil and Houston in the US.Says CEO Kiall Marsh: “Our objective is to grow the company to become a logistics brand that is not just recognised globally but that is respected.” Marsh and his team admit that they are not traditionalists. “We don’t want to be just another logistics company, but rather a solutions-based company where we cater to the individual need of the client and tailor a package that caters just for them.” While the recession definitely impacted on the company – with volumes all but drying up late last year – it has all been part of the challenge of setting up a business, says Marsh. “As we are still a small company, it was easier for us to turn around and respond to the economic downturn as opposed to our big competitors. We also involved ourselves in as many diverse projects as possible while managing our cash flow well. We have placed a huge amount of focus on client-centricity.” Another reason for the company success is the core group of staff it has assembled, says Marsh. “We have a team of people on board who were willing to take a chance with us and their commitment has gone a long way in moving the company forward. Not only do they make things happen, there is a definite can-do and will-do attitude amongst our staff.” According to Marsh there is no denying that the entire company approach has been different. “We specialise in creating custom solutions that are specific to a client rather than force-fitting a project into an off-the-shelf-solution. For us the entire supply chain is our responsibility and we approach every project in an individual way.” And while many companies may have scoffed initially, they are finally turning heads, says Marsh. “We are expecting the second year to be tough as our competition is starting to take notice of us. But we are more than ready for the challenge.”