‘The market is beginning to turn’

After a real slowdown during the global recession the Gauteng market is now showing distinct signs of turning, according to Stephen van Zuthen of Gotrans Freight Services. “The demand for freight – especially on the export side – will increase due to the recovery from the global economic slump last year,” he told FTW. “I am constantly hearing about positive results across a broad spectrum of various industries – and large requests for export requirements.” The Gotrans company records show “sustainable” increases in business, added Van Zuthen, with turnover growth on a year-to-year basis exceeding the 30% mark. This, he said, came from offering the market personal attention to detail and keen, competitive pricing. “The ultimate aim,” he added, “is to provide customer service on a face-to-face basis.” Questioned on the challenges facing the industry, Van Zuthen highlighted the way unnecessary strikes by various unions were affecting the SA economy on an almost daily basis. “This means that challenges are becoming a way of life,” he said. “We really need to stay positive, to ensure that we handle our resources from A-B as efficiently as possible, and assist our clients through any challenges we foresee.” To this, he added the need to sustain a suitable market share. “We must grow gradually, and maintain customer satisfaction within Gauteng.”