ACFI ‘South India Summit’ spotlights the region’s role as future growth engine

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
ACFI ‘South India Summit’ spotlights the region’s role as future growth engine

The Air Cargo Forum of India (ACFI)’s flagship Southern Region event ‘South India Summit’ held on February 02, 2024 (Friday), at Taj Bangalore set the bar higher by showcasing the collaborative efforts of visionary leaders, experts, and industry stakeholders in driving the growth and advancement of the air cargo and aviation sectors in the Southern India region.

The ACFI Chapters of Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kerala collaborated and put forth their collective action and efforts to set the perfect stage for this important event themed ‘South India: Connecting Horizons’. With 21 domestic and 12 international airports, the Southern states of India are set for to propel growth of the region as aviation economies and give wings to the Indian air cargo ecosystem.

The summit provided an exceptional platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration to pave the way for growth of the air cargo sector in the southern region — the major contributor to the nation’s economic growth.

Dr Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary cum Development Commissioner, Government of Karnataka presided over the occasion as Chief Guest, whille Kajal Singh, IRS, Principal Commissioner – Customs ACC & Airport, Bengaluru; Bhaskar Anand Rao, CFO, BIAL; and Pradeep Panicker, CEO, GHIAL graced the event as Guests of Honours, alongside over 150 industry delegates from within the air cargo sector and airlines, as well as media delegates who attended the event.

The welcome address was delivered by Chairman ACFI – Bangalore Chapter, Fletcher Samuel, followed by ACFI President, Yashpal Sharma.

The Keynote speech was delivered Dhruv Lal, Partner, BCG, who emphasised on the indicators leading India towards the 3rd largest economy rank by the year 2030. During his presentation, he casted light on various factors leading phenomenal growth of the country as the fastest developing economy. He also highlighted that India’s domestic consumption acts as a key driver and the accelerating FDI that has doubled in the last seven years, coupled with the PLI scheme that caters to the sectors like auto, pharma, solar equipment, etc. which also benefit and uplifts the air cargo sector’s potential.

Chief Guest Dr. Shalini Rajneesh commented on the potential that the southern states hold for the whole world in terms of air cargo transport. She highlighted how in Karnataka alone there is immense scope for horticulture items to be marketed to customers globally, particularly perishables and cut flowers. She also highlighted the need to connect the producers from the hinterland to the airports.

“Cargo plays a very critical role when it comes to transporting perishables. It is extremely important to understand how our air cargo stakeholders work with the producers and other logisticians of the state for timely movement and delivery of perishable goods,” Dr Shalini noted.

The strategic business sessions, expertly curated by senior figures in the air cargo industry like Manish Agnihothri, CEO, WFS India; Reshma Zaheer, Chief Operating Officer, TT Logistics & Cargo; and Satish Lakkaraju, Global Head – Air Freight and Pharma, WIZ Freight, delved into key themes such as connecting supply chain horizons, identifying trends, challenges, and opportunities, and creating value within the air cargo ecosystem.

Key highlight of the summit was the powerful fireside session led by ACFI President Yashpal Sharma and Vice President Sanjiv Edward, which underscored the pivotal role of South India in driving the growth of the Indian air cargo industry and enhancing global connectivity. The session also focussed on how ACFI is set to pivot from being a facilitator to a ‘Business Developer’ for Air Cargo.

Overall, the summit successfully fostered collaboration, discussion, and knowledge exchange, aimed at collectively addressing regulatory, technological, and environmental challenges, and driving sustainable growth and innovation in the air cargo and aviation segments within the southern region of India.

ACFI Governing Board Members and regional leaders including Kamesh Peri, Keku Bomi Gazdar, Prasad Gengusetti, along with other leaders of ACFI namely, Fletcher Samuel, Chairman – Bengaluru Chapter; V Chandra Kumar, Vice Chairman –Bengaluru Chapter; Parul Kulshreshtha, Chairperson – Hyderabad Chapter; Kamal Jain, Vice Chairman – Hyderabad Chapter; Manoj P Joseph, Chairman – Kerala Chapter, further emphasised the importance and commitment to addressing regional challenges and opportunities within the air cargo sector.

V-Trans unveils ‘Vision 2026’ with strategic focus on network expansion, driving innovation and sustainability

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
V-Trans unveils ‘Vision 2026’ with strategic focus on network expansion, driving innovation and sustainability

Integrated logistics solutions provider, V-Trans India on Wednesday (February 07) announced its Vision 2026 plan designed to position the company for sustainable long-term value creation, with targeting a turnover of Rs 3000 cr in revenue, double of what it is expecting to generate by the end of the current fiscal.

“Vision 2026 plan will aggressively pivot V-Trans India for improved profitability and the company is prioritising investments in areas of the business it has identified as growth drivers over time,” Rajiv Bhattacharya, VP– Strategy and Projects, V-Trans India said while revealing on the developments.

Vision 2026 includes the following high-growth mandates and strategies: 1) expansion of branches, warehouses and distribution infrastructure in the North India region; 2) rightsizing growth in surface transport while capitalising on the dominant full truckload (FTL) market and expanding multimodal logistics operations which will include a mix of air and road; 3) deep tech integration into processes, alongside customised solutions for specific requirements of clients, providing them with better control, efficiency, and real-time visibility, and 4) reduction of CO2 footprint by utilising optimisation tools and methods, and contributing towards green logistics.

V-Trans India affirmed that as it accelerates its efforts to become increasingly purpose-driven, it also continues to invest in people and empower them in an ever-evolving business landscape. By continuously driving holistic advancements as well as employee well-being, it aims to deliver transformative solutions in the times to come.

“At V-Trans, our vision goes beyond logistics; it encompasses building a future where growth is sustainable, technology is transformative, and our ecosystem flourishes,” said Mahendra Shah, Chairman and Managing Director, V-Trans (India).

“The Rs 3000 crore turnover target by 2026 reflects not just our ambition but also our commitment to a responsible and impactful journey,” he said and added, “I am proud of the team’s dedication, and I assure our customers, partners, and stakeholders that V-Trans will continue to be at the forefront of positive change in the logistics industry. Together, we are not just moving goods; we are propelling growth, fostering innovation, and building a future that transcends expectations.”

Relentless focus to stay ahead of the competition

With 30% of overall revenue coming from North India, V-Trans India’s strategic focus is to further expand its operations, increase efficiency and credibility of its services, thus elevating the experience of its consumer base. The company is moving to new transhipment facilities in Ghaziabad (Uttar Pradesh) and Zirakpur (Punjab) apart from its existing and already operational hubs in Dharuhera and Raliawas in Rewari district of Haryana. The company is also set to open up new branches in II, III and IV tier cities across eastern and western UP, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Building and growing its presence over the years, V-Trans is planning to expand its contract logistics operations in the Northern region under the V-Logis brand — its wholly-owned warehousing and 3PL subsidiary. V-Logis warehouses are Grade A facilities and equipped with advanced features, ensuring top-notch quality and reliability. Its dedicated chemical warehouses, such as Chem Store, boasts cutting-edge installations and meticulous safety provisions.

With a strong presence in multiple cities across India, complemented by a network of 1200+ branches, 52+ warehouse and transhipment hubs, and 1500+ vehicle trucks, over and above the strength of owned and attached fleet, V-Trans India is in a motivated position and will explore opportunities to increase its multimodal logistics services and leverage the existing and growing infrastructure developments in the country. The company will always prioritise growth in its core competence area — road transport, providing Partial Truckload (PTL), Full Truckload (FTL), and Over-dimensional Cargo (ODC) services, however, to provide the desired flexibility to clients, tailoring their transportation needs based on time or cost efficiency, V-Trans India will take advantage of integrating certain modes like air, thereby reducing reliance on one mode and achieving economies of scale.

To capitalise on the ~US$120 billion FTL market, considering the huge increase in demand for this method of transportation, V-Trans India intends to capture a more significant share by enhancing its presence in this lucrative segment. V-Trans has years of experience and expertise in the FTL segment and as a Group, it will continue to offer operational excellence alongside offering unmatched PTL services and express cargo distribution.

V-Trans India’s relentless focus on innovation and technology has propelled the company to stay ahead of the competition. The other outcome is enhanced flexibility which has generated a climate of innovation, allowing the company to stay relevant in a volatile market. Logistics solutions offered by the company have revolutionised operations by ensuring transparency and offering the required visibility. The company’s clients have reported increased efficiency, reduced costs, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced decision-making capabilities. Most recently, the company invested in a new ERP system, ensuring advanced functionalities, as well as API integrations with government portals, customers, and vendors for seamless information flow, following the launch of the revolutionary Unified Logistic Interface Platform (ULIP) platform. Innovex — its Control Command Centre or Logistics Control Tower is in the early stages of development and once launched, it will bolster the company’s end-to-end logistics model and enable ground-breaking innovations. Besides, building on its commitment to transparency and compliance, the entire V-Trans Group is moving its financial system to a standard global platform to bring in more efficiency in the entire process from procure to pay. Additionally, maximum vehicle utilisation and planning of optimal schedules which includes optimisation of routes and networks is being looked into and sufficiently explored through the use of IoT-powered GPS tracking and telematics solutions.

With sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) becoming mainstays of business activities, V-Trans India’s commitment to incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into its operations through initiatives like green tree plantation, rural life upliftment, and energy conservation is steadily increasing. The company is further working towards harnessing the power of the sun and determined towards adding less polluting vehicles to its fleet. It has already installed solar panels in all its large hubs, substantially reducing electricity consumption levels. The company has also become the owners of the first CNG truck produced by Ashok Leyland. At present, the logistics service provider is keenly monitoring the Electric Vehicle (EV) segment and is soon expected to make the move towards adopting sustainable automobile solutions as this will lessen oil dependability, improve financial efficiency, and protect the environment.

Turkish Technic hits a milestone in first A330P2F conversion

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
Turkish Technic hits a milestone in first A330P2F conversion

Turkish Technic, a leading MRO company certified as Part 145 and Part 21 J&G organisation, has embarked on A330P2F conversions in collaboration with Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW), the centre of excellence for Airbus Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversions.

As the first MRO company to operate as a conversion house directly collaborating with EFW for A330P2F, Turkish Technic has recently achieved a key milestone by performing the Upper Frame Shell (UFS) cut-out and successfully locating the new UFS, which is a key step for the installation of the main deck cargo door.

The first conversion is part of a series of P2F conversion projects, and it is planned to be completed by the middle of 2024.

Commenting on the milestone, Mikail Akbulut, CEO of Turkish Technic said, “We are happy to reach a major milestone on the first conversion as we partner with EFW to meet high level demand in the market. Passenger-to-freighter conversions require a combination of industry-leading expertise, structural skills and operational excellence. Leveraging our extensive know-how and strong collaboration with our partners and suppliers, we are fully equipped to deliver technical services and innovative solutions. We’re looking forward to successfully completing the conversion and providing the best possible performance for our customers with our extensive structural and avionic modification capabilities.”

Zomato, Blinkit picks up 3.08 lakh sq ft warehouse space at Sumadhura Logistics Park

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
Zomato, Blinkit picks up 3.08 lakh sq ft warehouse space at Sumadhura Logistics Park

Restaurant aggregator and online food delivery company, Zomato, and its online grocery delivery platform, Blinkit, have entered into an agreement with Sumadhura Group to lease ~3,08,300 sq ft space at Sumadhura Logistics Park in Hoskote, Bengaluru.

This marks Zomato’s largest warehousing lease in Bengaluru, indicating the company’s commitment to grow the Blinkit business further.

The transaction emphasises a quick turnaround, state-of-the-art facilities, and cold storage zones. The said deal is for a tenure of seven years and is expected to start soon.

Sumadhura Logistics Park prioritises Grade A+ specifications, accessibility, security, modern amenities, and sustainable features for warehousing and industrial tenants. The park’s appeal is evident from its high standards of functional performance with dedicated food delivery players like Zomato already securing deals, establishing Sumadhura Logistics Park as a key player in the evolving landscape of industrial and warehousing sector in the Bengaluru region.

One of the key conduits in the country, serving as a gateway to southern India, Bengaluru, has rapidly evolved into a dynamic epicenter for warehousing and logistics. With its strategic location, booming industries, and a forward-looking approach to infrastructure development, the city has become a pivotal hub for storage, distribution, and supply chain management. Research by various international property consultants reveals that demand for both warehousing and industrial space in Bengaluru is expected to be 15-20 million sq ft by the end of this year. With the Bengaluru warehouse market catching momentum and newer demand trends, the city has  become an attractive investment destination, further opening promising opportunities for institutional investors.

Sensing the opportunities, Bangalore-based builder Sumadhura Infracon is currently developing 2.5 million sq ft of warehousing space with a total investment of Rs 600 crore in the first phase, out of which 2.2 million sq ft is already developed and ready to be leased. Looking at the burgeoning demand, Sumadhura is planning to expand the total development to 6 million sq ft and is in the process of acquiring 150 acres of land on Hoskote-Chintamani Road.

Fuelled by the ongoing rise of digital commerce, logistics facilities across all of tier I, II and III are considered hot spots. This is particularly true in India, which is ranked as the world’s 8th largest e-commerce market. The pandemic further put the spotlight on e-commerce, same-day or next-day delivery, and the need to diversify supply chains. India’s e-grocery market gained substantially from demand created by the consequent lockdowns, shut-ins, and restrictions, thus making shopping for groceries online commonplace. All of these has been pushing the demand for warehousing and logistics.

The growing market demand has prompted e-commerce brands to strengthen their hyperlocal networks — collaborating with local manufacturers, shopkeepers and logistics vendors to procure, ship and fulfil orders as fast as possible. For hyperlocal deliveries, speed is the core essence, where customers expect their deliveries within a few hours, if not minutes. Be it ordering food from nearby restaurants or calling up the neighborhood grocery shop to deliver the monthly kitchen essentials, or some spur of the moment buy.

According to data provided by homegrown consulting firm RedSeer, the online grocery market is set to touch a whopping US$24 billion by 2025.

RE Rogers ensuring you look no further than them for a great exhibition experience

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
RE Rogers ensuring you look no further than them for a great exhibition experience

Building a visionary company requires one percent vision and 99 percent alignment. This analogy resonates deeply when we compare the process of building a company to conducting a symphony orchestra. Just as a conductor leads musicians to create a harmonious masterpiece, a successful business and its management fosters alignment among team members to achieve extraordinary success.

In the business world, this vision translates into a clear understanding of where the company wants to go and what it aspires to achieve. The one percent of vision acts as the guiding force that sets the stage for greatness. However, a conductor alone cannot create a symphony. The true magic lies in the collective effort of the musicians, each playing their part to perfection. Similarly, in a visionary company, alignment becomes paramount. Every team member needs to be facing in the right direction, equipped with the right skills, and focused on delivering the right results at the right time.

By fostering alignment, harnessing the diverse talents within the team, and continuously fine-tuning performance, savvy teams and visionary leaders carry the potential to transform their companies into harmonious and successful organisations that resonate with greatness.

Embracing the power of alignment, inspiring teams with a clear vision, and actively cultivating an environment where every member can contribute their unique talents, RE Rogers India has over the years formed an indispensable pillar of business triumph. Most recently, the company orchestrated a symphony of success handling over 300 events in the fiscal year 2023.

Four of these were mammoth events taking place in four different cities at around the same time frame. And these were not merely gatherings, they were milestones. The four gigantic events (CPHI and PMEC 2023 – 28 to 30 November at India Expo Centre, Noida; ENGIMACH 2023 – 6 to 10 December at Helipad Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar, Gujarat; EXCON 2023 – 12 to 16 December at Bangalore International Exhibition Centre, Bengaluru; PLASTIVISION 2023 – 7 to 11 December at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai) entailed approximately 650 on-ground manpower, 4300 packages, 370 equipment display, and 3600 vehicles.

The symphony of greatness bubbled up in RE Rogers India’s operational procedures and functions, and the teams and management leadership soared to create a masterpiece of lasting success as always.

“To our heroes who faced the challenges head-on in handling their jobs with total finesse, and to our valuable customers who trusted us blindly during our busiest period pan-India: A HUGE THANK YOU!,” the RE Rogers India team was quoted expressing in a LinkedIn post.

As the demand for large-scale events and exhibitions continues to rise, the need for comprehensive and reliable exhibition logistics services has never been more critical. In India, where the exhibition industry thrives, one name stands out among the rest — RE Rogers India — who have been delivering unparalleled logistical solutions tailored to the unique demands of the exhibition sector. RE Rogers India have years of first-hand, specialist experience in handling every aspect of exhibitions, ranging from freight forwarding, transportation, customs formalities, secure handling of materials, on-time delivery and site assistance and supervision.

Remember that logistics is not just about getting your materials from point A to point B; it’s about ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for everyone involved in your exhibition, from exhibitors to attendees. So, if you partner with RE Rogers India, you’re not just hiring a logistics company; you’re bringing a dedicated and reliable team on board to ensure your exhibition materials reach their destination in perfect condition and on time. Having served a variety of clients from both the domestic and international arena, the company has developed deep understanding of the unique challenges of delivering time-critical goods in the face of huge crowds, open day pressure, and complex logistical requirements.

RE Rogers India fully understands the value of complete exhibition sets in terms of the clients’ reputation and market standing, ranging from trade show booths, exhibits, and other equipment, which include wooden panels, steel frames, prefabricated designs, bunk houses, E-houses, printed material, lights, electronic items and other display resources. The company therefore takes utmost care to pay close attention to critical things like packing, loading, storing, lifting, etc. so as to eliminate any chance of damage. Due diligence is also exercised in choosing optimum and fastest mode of transport to enable the materials to reach the venue well in time, so as to facilitate timely set-up by the clients team at the venue. Post-exhibition, pick-up and delivery back to the shipper is also handled.

With RE Rogers India as your esteemed logistics partner, you can focus on wowing your audience and making the most of your exhibition experience.

Under the astute leadership of Ravinder Sethi, RE Rogers India is not just reaching new heights; it is setting successive benchmarks. With the innate ability to see through the intricacies and a commitment to perfection down to the minutest detail, Sethi has steered the company towards a trajectory of unparalleled success. His visionary approach complemented by the team’s meticulous attention to excellence have become the driving force behind RE Rogers’ ascent in the events and exhibition logistics sector. The collective efforts of Sethi and his entire team continue to sculpt a legacy of precision and excellence in the world of logistics that remains exciting, challenging and rewarding.

KSH Logistics announces appointment of Vinay Patil as VP– Business Development

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
KSH Logistics announces appointment of Vinay Patil as VP– Business Development

KSH Logistics has announced the appointment of Vinay Patil as the new Vice President for Business Development.

With nearly two decades of expertise in business development and a well-established history of success within the logistics sector, KSH envisions that Patil’s role will be pivotal in steering the company’s strategic growth initiatives, cultivating vital partnerships, and amplifying the company’s market footprint.

Patil, most recently, served as the Director of Enterprise Solutions (Business Development) at Delhivery, where his contributions significantly propelled the company’s growth and expanded its presence. Prior to his tenure at Delhivery, Vinay held pivotal roles at 20Cube Logistics, where he drove both profitability and sustainability throughout the business.

“At KSH, our strategic roadmap for the next five years involves fortifying our market presence and extending our reach into industrial hubs and tier I and II cities. Additionally, we are committed to enhancing our capacity to cater to e-commerce giants, offering them comprehensive pan-India distribution capabilities and state-of-the-art inventory storage facilities,” said Deepak Tiwari, CEO at KSH Logistics.

“Vinay’s profound expertise in the logistics and supply chain industry aligns seamlessly with our vision for growth and expansion. His leadership and strategic insights are poised to play a pivotal role in identifying and capitalising on opportunities that will propel our company to new heights and position us as a leader in the logistics sector,” he further added.

Vinay Patil commented, “KSH Logistics stands as a cornerstone in India’s logistics sector, and I am excited to be part of a company leading the way in optimising supply-chain operations. Working with a world-class team, I am eager to contribute to KSH Logistics’ commitment to excellence and innovation in the logistics industry during this exciting time of growth and expansion.”

KSH Logistics is at the forefront of optimising logistics operations, offering a range of services, including line feed, in-plant operations, DC consolidation, and network optimisation. Leveraging Grad-A-compliant multi-client facilities (MCFs) at strategic locations spanning over a million sq ft, with a complementary fleet of 100+ vehicles, KSH is strategically positioned to serve key markets in India.

Additionally, the company’s innovative pay-per-use model uniquely addresses dynamic logistics needs for businesses of all sizes, showcasing its commitment to adaptive solutions in the evolving logistics landscape.

IFCBA marks International Customs Brokers Day on January 26th

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
IFCBA marks International Customs Brokers Day on January 26th

The International Federation of Customs Brokers Associations (IFCBA) announced that the association will observe International Customs Brokers Day on January 26 every year to honour and celebrate the outstanding efforts of customs brokers worldwide and recognising the critical role that customs administrations play in facilitating international trade and safeguarding global supply chains.

Commenting on the announcement and objectives of the same Shankar Shinde, Chairman of IFCBA said, “The initiative is marking a significant milestone for our esteemed fraternity. This date holds particular significance as it aligns with International Customs Day, providing us with a unique opportunity to celebrate our profession on a global scale.”

According to Shinde, this day serves as a testament to the CBs’ unwavering commitment, professionalism, and the vital role they play in connecting nations, businesses, and people.”

“This initiative aims to bring well-deserved recognition to our profession and celebrate the crucial role each one (CB) plays in facilitating global trade. It is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our members that we have reached this point of international acknowledgment,” the IFCBA Chairman added.

According to Shinde, the progress of Information Technology in customs has been remarkable, enhancing a CB’s professionalism and opening doors for the next generation of talented individuals, including young enthusiasts and women, to consider Customs Brokering as their first choice of industry.

“As the theme of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) for 2024 International Customs Day, “Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose”, we recognise the importance of collaboration with WCO and respective Customs administrations worldwide. This theme underscores our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging within the global Customs community,” Shinde noted.

He further highlighted the pivotal role being played by customs brokers in facilitating the smooth movement of goods across borders, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering international commerce. “Their dedication and expertise are essential components in the intricate machinery that keeps the wheels of global trade turning.”

“IFCBA envisions International Customs Brokers Day as an annual tradition that not only celebrates CBs’ achievements but also serves as a platform to foster camaraderie among our members. It is an occasion to share experiences, insights, and best practices, thereby strengthening our community and positioning customs brokers as integral contributors to the international trade landscape.”

“We encourage each member to take a moment on this day to reflect on the impact of your work, both individually and collectively. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the challenges you overcome, the relationships you build, and the positive influence you have on the global supply chain. Let this day be a celebration of your achievements, a recognition of your resilience, and a collective moment of pride for the customs brokerage profession,” Shinde appealed.

On the occasion of celebrating the 1st Customs Brokers Day on January 26, 2024 across the world, the IFCBA Chairman congratulated each member of the customs brokers fraternity.

“Your dedication and contributions have played a pivotal role in reaching this milestone. Together, we have formed a strong and supportive community within IFCBA. On this joyous occasion, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your continued efforts and support to IFCBA. Your hard work and professionalism have not only elevated our fraternity but have also contributed significantly to the facilitation of international trade,” Shinde concluded.

Congratulating the IFCBA, Dushyant Mulani, Chairman, FFFAI said, “It is very significant that the International Customs Brokers Day of IFCBA and International Customs Day of the WCO are being celebrated on the same day. The objective of IFCBA’s International Customs Brokers Day is far-sighted and will have a tremendous impact on the international customs brokers community in revitalizing their crucial role played for facilitating the EXIM trade.”

“Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose” has been the theme of the International Customs Day-2024 as declared by WCO. In view of this theme, it is apt and highly commendable IFCBA launched International Customs Brokers Day on the same day indicating greater partnership with Customs for a better understanding, mutual benefits and larger interest of the trade,” he highlighted.

“FFFAI being a member and close associate of IFCBA we reiterate our firm commitments to this international forum as well as to the international CB community regarding smooth functioning of the CB business while facilitating the EXIM trade across the globe. And, keeping this in mind whatever innovative initiatives are being taken by IFCBA our association would be at the forefront for successful implementation of the same at the ground level,” he further added.

WIZ Freight garners Rs 125 cr in Series B funding round led by Japan’s SBI Investment and Nippon Express

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
WIZ Freight garners Rs 125 cr in Series B funding round led by Japan’s SBI Investment and Nippon Express

WIZ Freight, a full-stack digital cross-border supply chain start-up, has raised Series B funding of Rs 125 crore in equity led by Japan-based SBI Investment at a post-money valuation of Rs 1400 crore registering a 50% jump in the valuation from its last round.

The company plans to raise the Series B round in two tranches. The current fund raise is a part of the larger round which the company intends to close this year.

The round also saw participation from Tiger Global, NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, Axilor Technologies Fund, Foundamental, Arali Investments, Unikon Shipping Ventures, and a few Family offices.

WIZ Freight’s Series B investment not only strengthens its financial position but also propels the company into an exciting phase of expansion, innovation, and strategic partnerships. With the funding at this juncture, WIZ is well positioned for expansion of its overseas operations, continued development of the Indian operations and establishing its place as a prominent leader in the logistics sector.

Reportedly, WIZ plans to grow its global operations in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the US with the new investment and further enhance its technology-driven logistics solutions by providing effective, client-focussed tech-first logistics solutions.

WIZ Freight raised a Series A funding of Rs 275 Crores (US$36 million) in March 2022 in a mix of equity and debt led by Tiger Global with participation from Axilor Ventures, Foundamental, Arali Ventures, Alteria Capital and Stride Ventures.

WIZ had closed a US$3.5 million seed round led by Axilor Ventures in August 2021. Arali Ventures and Foundamental had also participated in the round along with angel investors Ramakant Sharma, Co-founder of LivSpace and Daniel Richner, Chairman of M+R Spedag Group, a Swiss based logistics conglomerate.

Speaking about the company’s plans and strategy, Ramkumar Ramachandran, Co-founder and Chairman at WIZ mentioned, “WIZ is set to double its workforce at the tech and R&D centre in Chennai, currently home to 200 employees. The primary focus is on scaling up the tech platform for enhanced efficiency. The tech team has demonstrated agility with the successful launch of Eylrx.AI, showcasing a commitment to cutting-edge tech products. More innovations are already in the pipeline.”

Speaking on the expansion plans, he noted, “WIZ, with a current presence in five countries, is gearing up to expand into five more countries with 10 new locations, across Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, and parts of Europe. We have acquired the India leg of M+R Spedag Logistics and ATZ Shipping and is looking to expand in the logistics and warehousing space via small and medium acquisitions.”

“Our revenue in FY23 was ~Rs 1325 crore. This is a 300% increase from FY22 revenue, and WIZ is expecting to maintain a similar revenue run rate in FY24.”

“WIZ has recently signed a MoU with the Tamil Nadu government for a proposed investment of Rs 300 crores in the state over the next five years and is expected to create 2000 more jobs,” said Ramkumar Govindarajan, Co-founder and CEO, WIZ.

“By investing in WIZ, a company strong in digital forwarding services in India and other emerging markets, the NX Group will bolster its own global forwarding business and accelerate its DX initiatives,” stated Nippon Express on the investment.

Ambit was the financial advisor to Wiz Freight on the Series B fund raise.

Founded in January 2020 in Chennai by serial entrepreneurs Ramkumar Govindarajan and Ramkumar Ramachandran, WIZ helps exporters and importers in emerging markets book and manage their cross-border shipments on its tech platform with e-commerce-like convenience. WIZ’s AI-powered platform offers instant capacity discovery, dynamic pricing, optimised routing, door to door tracking, and automated customizable document workflows, saving countless hours for shippers.

Wiz currently has a team of ~850 employees across 30 locations in India and 5 countries outside of India. With a network of more than 200 carriers and vendors, the startup is now successfully serving more than 1500 businesses, including Adani, Mahindra, Tata, Acer, Reckitt, Kraft and Skechers, which use the WIZ platform to ship thousands of tons of cargo over land and sea each month.

The company has successfully inaugurated a one-of-a-kind tech and R&D center in Chennai, which houses about 200+ employees including both tech and operations, which acts as a central control tower for all its global shipments. The company’s cutting-edge, technologically advanced command centre in Chennai keeps track of thousands of shipments being executed live each month, guaranteeing on-time delivery and 24-hour customer support.

Çelebi India wins prestigious “Champion Sustainability Service Provider” award at Wings India 2024

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
Çelebi India wins prestigious “Champion Sustainability Service Provider” award at Wings India 2024

Çelebi India won the “Best Sustainability Champion – Service Provider” title at Wings India Awards 2024. This esteemed recognition was conferred by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to honour Çelebi’s outstanding contribution to the Indian aviation industry, with a focus on prioritising sustainability in all its operations.

The award presented by Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya Scindia was received by Kamesh Peri, Tauseef Khan, and Andy Dias, who represented the Çelebi India team.

Murali Ramachandran, President (India and South East Asia), Çelebi Aviation, expressed his gratitude saying, “Çelebi Aviation receipt of the ‘Best Sustainability Champion – Service Provider Award’ marks a significant milestone for our team. Our unwavering commitment to sustainability is reflected in our corporate culture, and we are proud to lead the aviation industry in eco-friendly practices. This award is a testament to our team’s collective effort and dedication.”

With operations at all major airports across the country, Çelebi India has not only been committed to delivering top-tier ground handling services but also promoting sustainability in all aspects. The award is a testament to Çelebi India’s dedication to creating a more equitable, cleaner, and liveable environment by setting industry benchmarks for environmentally conscious practices.

Çelebi India’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in various initiatives, including 100% electric-powered air-conditioned tarmac coaches, electric ground equipment, solar-powered cargo terminal facility, taxi-bot, paperless transaction and processes and bridge-mounted equipment services. These innovative solutions align with global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and make Çelebi India a front-runner in sustainable ground handling services.

Etihad Cargo achieves IATA’s CEIV Li-batt certification

Upamanyu Borah
-
0
Etihad Cargo achieves IATA’s CEIV Li-batt certification

Etihad Cargo has received the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators Lithium Batteries (CEIV Li-batt) certification. The carrier is the third Middle Eastern airline to attain this certification and has become the fifth airline globally to achieve CEIV Pharma, Fresh, Live Animals and Li-batt certifications.

CEIV Li-batt certification is a globally recognised endorsement, signifying an airline’s capability to handle and transport lithium batteries in accordance with the highest safety and efficiency standards. Certification involves a comprehensive assessment of an airline’s operational processes, staff training programs, and compliance with global safety regulations.

Etihad Cargo underwent an extensive audit by independent validators, demonstrating the carrier’s commitment to meeting and surpassing industry standards. This certification is a testament to Etihad Cargo’s sophisticated safety management systems, specialised equipment, and a team proficient in the specific logistics of lithium battery shipments.

Thomas Schürmann, Head of Cargo Operations and Delivery at Etihad Cargo said, “According to IATA, lithium batteries represent one-third of the dangerous goods transported by air and have become the preferred energy source for a wide variety of consumer goods, including mobile phones, cars, e-bikes and children’s toys. Achieving CEIV Li-batt certification highlights Etihad Cargo’s dedication to maintaining the highest safety and operational excellence standards. This achievement positions the carrier among an elite group of global airlines that are committed to meeting the safety obligations of the lithium battery supply chain through the competent handling and transport of these products. Rounding out the carrier’s suite of CEIV certifications, CEIV Li-batt underscores Etihad Cargo’s commitment to specialised and quality-driven cargo services.”

Gaining CEIV Li-batt certification comes at a crucial time when the demand for the safe and secure transportation of lithium batteries, widely used in a range of electronic devices, is surging. Etihad Cargo’s distinction in this area enhances its capability to support the growing needs of industries reliant on these critical components. This milestone also aligns with the carrier’s continuous strategic efforts to expand its product portfolio and adhere to the most stringent international safety and quality standards.

Kamil Al Awadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East said, “Consumer demand for items containing lithium batteries is growing rapidly. Handling and transporting these by air comes with stringent regulatory requirements. Adding CEIV Li-batt to its CEIV Fresh, CEIV Pharma and CEIV Live Animals certification means Etihad Cargo is committed to the highest levels of safety and compliance in the transport of dangerous and temperature-sensitive goods. We congratulate the airline on being one of the first airlines in the Middle East to complete the suite of CEIV certifications. Etihad Cargo’s customers can have confidence that their special cargo will be delivered in top condition.”

1234...328Page 3 of 328