Rhenus Logistics is making significant strides in digitalisation and automation to improve efficiencies, enhance agility, and provide an exceptional customer experience. In addition, the company is committed to promoting sustainability by focusing on procuring sustainable transportation products and reducing emissions.According to Kishore Kanayelal, KwaZulu-Natal regional director, one of the critical areas of focus for Rhenus is warehousing, with cross-docking emerging as a highly sought-after service. "Importers increasingly recognise the benefits of cross-docking, such as reduced lead times and cost savings through consolidated transport. Furthermore, there is a growing demand for fine-picking and kitting services as clients seek greater customisation and f lexibility in their supply chains.The company has been strengthening its foothold in the KZN region for some time. Last year it launched a new storage warehouse in Durban, expanding the Rhenus space to more than 24 000 square metres.Kanayelal says that clients are increasingly looking for warehouses compliant with ASIB regulations. "We understand the importance of this, and all our warehouses are compliant, ensuring the safety and security of stored goods."Asked about challenges in the Durban and Richards Bay region, Kanayelal said that the container terminals had made significant improvements in key metrics, such as truck turnaround time and truck staging, but there were still challenges related to port delays. "The booking system used by Transnet Port Terminals has parameters that must be met with available resources. The number of available slots has been reduced due to fewer straddle carriers being in action. There is also a lack of availability regarding container book i ng slot s."The rail infrastructure's shortcomings have only added pressure to port operations.Despite these challenges, the company has experienced a sharp rise in exports, primarily driven by a weaker rand. This positive trend, aligned with the upcoming reefer season and peak season citrus demand, will further increase demand for logistics services. "With global trade slowing down, rising inf lation and interest rates, and a weakened rand, it becomes imperative to run an efficient supply chain to mitigate potential risks and maintain business continuity," he said.
