Strong emphasis on new business development drives growth strategy

Leschaco has entered the year with renewed confidence in South Africa’s clearing and forwarding environment, citing improving macroeconomic conditions, stabilising energy supply, and operational gains across the country’s port and rail networks. According to commercial manager Simon Chalker, last year was marked by disciplined execution amid ongoing industry challenges, positioning the business well for the period ahead. “We successfully navigated a complex operating environment and delivered a solid year. Looking ahead, there is a far more positive sentiment around South Africa, driven by economic recovery, easing interest rates and a stronger rand,” he told Freight News. He said improvements in the logistics system were increasingly visible, particularly at Transnet. “The operational performance at the ports has improved and there is growing momentum around private sector participation in rail. The commitment we are seeing from some shipping lines to engage in rail operations bodes well for the broader supply chain.” Against this backdrop, Leschaco has placed a strong emphasis on new business development while continuing to reinforce its operational base. “We are very active in the market, engaging directly with customers and seeing tangible interest coming back to us through referrals and recommendations,” said Chalker. “That reflects how the market is perceiving our capability and service levels.” Internally, the company has focused on strengthening its teams, systems and processes. Over the past 12 months, Leschaco has added staff across key functions while investing in technology, reporting and operational controls. “From top to bottom, there is a hands-on management approach. There are no ivory towers; everyone is involved in driving service delivery,” he said. While Leschaco is globally recognised for its strong footprint in chemicals and automotive logistics, Chalker said its South African operation was deliberately positioned as a diversified, full-service provider. “Locally, we operate across all sectors and are very much all-rounders. That said, we have deep expertise in dangerous goods, and our Durban office in particular has a strong focus on breakbulk and ro-ro cargo, alongside FCL, LCL and airfreight.” Service reliability remains a key differentiator in a cost- pressured market, he said. “Cost will always be a factor in logistics, especially where cargo values are low relative to transport costs. But good logistics is also about avoiding costly mistakes. The cheapest option can easily backfire if it’s not the right solution.” He said being part of a global network allowed Leschaco to balance cost efficiency with service integrity. “Our focus is not cost alone. It is about providing the right solution, at the right speed, with the right level of service. That’s where bespoke logistics solutions make a real difference.” LV