African enterprises eager to enhance their skills in the warehousing sector have an opportunity to do so with the launch of a groundbreaking freight handling qualification by Metro Minds.
According to MD Juliette Fourie, this qualification goes beyond theoretical learning, offering students a hands-on experience in a real warehouse environment.
In the final quarter of 2023, a decrease in import volumes is anticipated due to diminishing demand for goods. This decline in consumer spending comes as rising living costs influence the economy.
Kreeson Moodley, trade lane manager at SACO CFR, said the reduction in import volumes was evidence that consumers were tightening their purse strings amid cost-of-living increases, which included rising prices for essential goods and services."Economic uncertainty, high percentages of inflation and increased costs are placing a strain on people’s livelihoods, which is resulting in reduced consumer spend and lower demand for products."And as consumer spending dwindles, businesses are adapting their import strategies.
With the perishable season in full swing, the airfreight industry is experiencing a notable surge in congestion on the export side, leading to concerns about the timely and efficient transport of fresh goods to international markets. Cape Town, in particular, is grappling with a significant increase in export volumes, making it increasingly challenging for businesses to secure cargo space at reasonable rates.
As global trade continues to evolve, the shipping industry is experiencing a significant shift in focus towards establishing new direct services connecting Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent into Africa.Eva Rasmussen, general manager for ocean freight at SACO CFR, says there
Despite efforts to promote gender diversity and equal opportunities in the transportation and logistics industry, women are still underrepresented in several key sectors, such as port operations, container freight stations, warehousing and transport.
The airfreight sector faces unrelenting pressure on margins in a highly competitive market.
Debby Gray, Johannesburg airfreight branch manager at SACO CFR, said competition in the sector remained high. However, amidst this challenging landscape, a glimmer of stability has emerged thanks to airfreight rates being more stable than in years. Moreover, the increasing prevalence of contract rates, said Gray, was providing this much-needed stability.
In a proactive move towards fostering sustainable practices, SACO CFR Group of Companies has developed an innovative strategy map and emissions schedule. These strategic frameworks aim to set clear monthly and yearly targets while ensuring regular monitoring, review, and prompt action to drive the company's commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
