ZA Trans takes on Barloworld Logistics name

CLEARING AND forwarding major Z A Trans has officially changed its name to Barloworld Logistics. The Johannesburg-based company was acquired by the Barloworld supply chain major in 2004 and the name change goes along with a major strategic realignment for the company, positioning it to move up the freight forwarding value chain, says Garth Schwikkard, who leads the division. “All of our clients increasingly require added supply chain capabilities, including transportation, warehousing, systems and process skills, for the endto- end and cost-effective management of their cargo. “Barloworld Logistics is a market leader in the supply chain management field, so it makes sense for us not only to change the brand, but to offer a much broader and more integrated range of skills and capabilities to our clients who might traditionally have viewed Z A Trans as only freight forwarders.” Barloworld Logistics Africa sold 25% of the company to an empowerment consortium in 2005. “The empowered status of Barloworld Logistics Africa is an important consideration for our multinational customers, who earn their empowerment stripes through dealing with empowerment partners rather than selling equity,” comments Schwikkard. The newly positioned freight forwarding division of Barloworld Logistics is also looking to expand its network of international freight forwarding partners.