In an exclusive dialogue with Air Cargo Update’s Associate Publisher, Poonam Chawla, Dr. Raman Kumar, the pioneering Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Logistics, reveals the company’s groundbreaking strategies and its ascent to the zenith of industry excellence.
As the MENA region catapults onto the global stage as a pivotal player in air cargo, Dr. Kumar’s insights offer a captivating glimpse into the future of logistics. From cutting-edge 5G tracking systems to AI-powered document processing, Al-Futtaim Logistics is harnessing state-of-the-art technology to navigate the complexities of a post-pandemic world.
New Markets for Aerospace
How is the MENA region emerging as a key player in the global air cargo industry?
The air cargo industry is at a transformative juncture. Digitization, e-commerce and sustainability will remain pivotal in shaping its future. Companies that embrace these trends and invest in innovative solutions will lead the way.
The MENA region is on the cusp of becoming the epicenter of global air cargo operations. Airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways and Saudia Cargo are driving this growth, supported by the region’s strategic location.
The geographical advantage allows for swift connections between Asia, Europe and the Americas. Goods often transition from sea to air in this region, facilitating rapid delivery to destinations worldwide. For example, Saudi Arabia’s central position enables quick deliveries to key markets within hours.
Visions like Saudi 2030 and the UAE’s development plans underscore the region’s potential. With strategic investments and advancements, the MENA region is poised for remarkable growth in the air cargo sector.
In 2025, we are expanding our aerospace logistics services to KSA, Kuwait and Oman and will be offering customers time critical freight and local services solutions. Over time, we have gained momentum through client recommendations. The services we will extend in these new markets includes freight solutions for AOGs, time critical parts from MROs, airlines and part suppliers, overcoming uncertainties and designing custom solutions to respond to the aerospace client’s pain points.
Al-Futtaim Logistics, being part of one of the largest automotive conglomerates in the UAE – Al-Futtaim Automotive, is poised to spearhead this charge into a more interconnected, efficient and sustainable future.
Secure Aerospace Logistics
Dr. Kumar, Al-Futtaim Logistics has recently secured the prestigious ASA-100 accreditation. Can you elaborate on the significance of this achievement?
Securing the ASA-100 accreditation is nothing short of a prestigious moment for Al-Futtaim Logistics. This accolade propels us into an elite echelon, as one of only five 3PL companies globally to hold this esteemed accreditation. It’s not merely a feather in our cap; it’s a resounding affirmation of our unwavering commitment to excellence in freight handling and security standards in aerospace logistics.
Al-Futtaim Logistics’ compliance with ASA-100 standards includes meticulous documentation control to ensure traceability and accountability for all aircraft parts. Rigorous inspections are conducted on inbound and outbound shipments to identify and address any hazardous materials, suspected unapproved parts, or counterfeit components. When such items are detected, Al-Futtaim Logistics swiftly notifies clients and implements quarantine and segregation procedures to maintain safety and quality standards.
How will this accreditation impact your clientele and operational paradigm?
For our customers, it means they can trust us to handle their freight with utmost care and precision, especially when it comes to safety of parts and products. This certification ensures that we meet and exceed industry standards, providing our clients with peace of mind and reliable service. It instills an unprecedented level of confidence in our ability to handle cargo with surgical precision and utmost care. This isn’t just a seal of approval; it’s an ironclad guarantee of reliability and excellence, equipping us to tackle the most formidable logistics challenges.
In what ways does the ASA-100 accreditation align with Al-Futtaim Logistics’ overarching strategy?
The ASA-100 accreditation serves as the cornerstone of our forward-thinking strategy. In the dynamic realm of logistics, stagnation is tantamount to regression. This certification acts as a springboard for perpetual innovation. We are not content with merely maintaining
standards; we are committed to continually raising the bar. Our goal isn’t just to participate in the logistics industry; it’s to reshape its very foundations.
Last Mile E-Commerce
How have customer expectations and logistics evolved in e-commerce over the last five years?
E-commerce has undergone a rapid transformation. What previously took decades to develop now evolves within a few years. If companies fail to adapt swiftly, competitors will overtake them.
Think about how straightforward it is to order items from anywhere in the world and receive them within a week, something that was unimaginable just a few years back. Today, this has become the norm, all thanks to improvements in last-mile logistics.
The global e-commerce companies have set new benchmarks by transitioning from e-commerce to becoming global logistics leaders. Their efficiency in digitization and innovation has become a model for others. At Al-Futtaim Logistics, we have introduced AI-driven solutions that automate document scanning and data extraction, reducing processing time from hours to minutes.
Last-mile delivery has also expanded from ground-based solutions to aerial logistics, showcasing the industry’s readiness to embrace innovation.
What role does collaboration play in shaping the future of the e-commerce industry?
Collaboration is essential for driving innovation in e-commerce. While e-commerce will coexist with traditional courier and logistics businesses, there will be a shift in balance. Traditional methods won’t disappear, as services like urgent shipments and fuel transport remain essential. Instead, the focus should be on fostering healthy competition and leveraging each company’s strengths to propel the industry forward.
Environmentally Conscious 3PL
Could you elaborate on Al-Futtaim Logistics team’s sustainability initiatives?
Sustainability is a cornerstone of our operations, aligning with the UAE’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050 and Al-Futtaim’s internal targets. We address sustainability through controllable and non-controllable factors. For instance, while we rely on shipping partners for fuel emissions, we actively manage our fleet operations.
Our initiatives include transitioning vehicles to biofuels like B5 and B100. The latter uses sustainably sourced raw materials, significantly improving our net-zero score. Additionally, we have incorporated electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid trucks into our fleet to further reduce emissions. To validate these efforts, we have partnered with Green Freight Asia for sustainability audits. After a rigorous three-year process, we are nearing the highest possible sustainability score. These efforts reflect our commitment to regulatory requirements and actionable sustainability targets.
Digitization
How is digitization transforming the cargo industry?
Digitization is streamlining operations and reducing manual processes in the cargo industry. We at Al-Futtaim Logistics have implemented digital initiatives like Yard Management System for better automotive logistics operations, leading to increased productivity. The adoption of digital technologies has enabled real-time ocean container tracking and improved communication between stakeholders in the supply chain.
Digital solutions are providing better visibility across the supply chain. Freight forwarders can now collect and analyze vast amounts of data about shipments, carriers and markets, leading to better decision-making in pricing, routing and risk management. Al-Futtaim Logistics has deployed new technologies in their systems for contract logistics, general transport and last-mile deliveries, increasing transparency in the entire supply chain.
The industry is moving towards paperless operations, with innovations like the electronic Bill of Lading (e-BoL) reducing administrative burdens, eliminating manual errors and accelerating the documentation process. Digitization is enabling freight forwarders to provide better customer service. Al-Futtaim Logistics’ e-commerce logistics platform offers last-mile delivery, assembly services and shipment tracking, prioritizing customer convenience.
What are the key challenges in the implementation of digitization?
One of the biggest challenges is the lack of standardization across the industry, making it difficult for businesses to exchange information and connect electronically. There is also a lack of integration between different software systems, hindering a complete view of the supply chain.
Implementing digital solutions requires significant investment in time and money, which can be a barrier for small and medium-sized businesses. The industry needs to adapt to and effectively utilize new technologies. This includes training staff and updating existing systems to work with new digital solutions. With increased digitization comes the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
While digitization presents challenges, Al-Futtaim Logistics is embracing these changes to improve its operations and service offerings. The industry as a whole is moving towards a more digitized future, with the potential for significant improvements in efficiency, visibility and customer satisfaction.
The logistics landscape is undergoing a seismic shift. How is Al-Futtaim Logistics staying ahead of the curve?
The world has significantly changed, especially after COVID, emphasizing the importance of adopting digital solutions. Consumers now demand instant availability of goods, whether essential items or aerospace components, pushing for seamless logistics.
In aviation, supply chain efficiency has become critical. We are not merely adapting to change; we are orchestrating it. Our advanced 5G-compatible tracking systems and AI-driven document processing are revolutionizing our modus operandi. We are transmuting raw data into actionable insights, slashing processing times from hours to mere minutes. This digital metamorphosis isn’t just about enhancing efficiency; it’s about redefining the boundaries of possibility in logistics.
What has been the biggest impact of digitization on your operational ecosystem?
Digitization has impacted us in many ways. First, it has increased operational costs. However, this is offset by improved resource planning and operational efficiency. Integrated systems ensure seamless data flow without manual intervention, streamlining the supply chain for customers and us.
About Aerospace Logistics at Al-Futtaim Logistics
| · Headquartered in the UAE
· Established in 1980 · Airside operations in major UAE airports · 24 x 7 AOG operations · ASA-100 accredited 3PL services · 65+ aerospace network member and 300+ stations · Own aerospace hubs in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman by 2025 · Centralized aerospace services, with global coverage and dynamic freight, haulage and storage solutions · Technicians Onboard Charters (TOC) · Winner of Emerging Aerospace Logistics award |
For more information on services, please contact contact@aflogistics.com
DB Schenker, a global leader in logistics, has officially launched a new air cargo route connecting Ezhou Huahu International Airport in China to Frankfurt, Germany. The inaugural flight, operated by Etihad Cargo, departed on January 7, marking a significant milestone in strengthening cross-border trade between Central China and Europe.
The Ezhou-Frankfurt route will operate weekly, providing reliable air freight capacity for a wide range of cargo, including e-commerce, high-tech, electronics, industrial goods, consumer products, and automotive parts. The service is projected to handle an annual cargo volume of 5,200 tons, enhancing connectivity and efficiency in managing international supply chains.
“Ezhou Huahu International Airport not only boasts advanced infrastructure and efficient operational systems but also serves as a strategic node advantage in connecting international industrial and supply chains,” said Ramon He, Senior Vice President and Head of Air Freight at DB Schenker Greater China. “We are optimistic about its development potential and have chosen it as our key air freight hub in Central China.”
Read: Etihad Cargo Boosts Operations with Over 300 Flights from Ezhou to Abu Dhabi
Ezhou Huahu International Airport, Asia’s first dedicated cargo hub, has rapidly expanded since its opening in 2022. With 30 international and 53 domestic cargo routes, the airport ranked fifth in China for cargo throughput in 2024, handling over 1.2 million tons of goods. Its strategic location near major urban and economic zones ensures seamless multimodal connectivity, supported by extensive railway, highway, and port networks.
“Our partnership with DB Schenker allows us to meet capacity needs while ensuring seamless operations,” said Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo. “By leveraging Ezhou’s strategic location, we’re connecting Central China and Europe with unparalleled efficiency.”
This new route represents a strategic air logistics corridor, supporting regional growth and enhancing DB Schenker’s footprint in the Chinese market.
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has signed an Memorandum of Understanding with the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) that aims to strengthen the collaboration and elevate the performance of the civil aviation sector. This partnership reflects the shared commitment of both entities to support the UAE’s strategy of developing advanced infrastructure and a sustainable aviation industry.
The MOU was signed by His Excellencies Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director General of DCAA, and Nasser Al Neyadi, CEO of PCFC, in the presence of senior officials and executives from both sides. It establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework to coordinate efforts in key areas, including the management of drone operations and heliports landing fields, as well as the enhancement of data exchange and system integration mechanisms.
Commenting on the MOU, H.E. Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi said: “This Memorandum of Understanding underscores the DCAA commitment to strengthening aviation safety and security while advancing the organization of civil aviation affairs to achieve our strategic goals of leadership in the civil aviation sector of the Emirates. Our collaboration with PCFC marks a significant step forward in developing Dubai’s aviation infrastructure and fostering innovation and sustainability in this vital industry.”
He added: “Through this partnership, we aim to enhance operational efficiency by focusing on advanced technologies such as drones and ensuring the regulation of heliport landing fields according to the highest global standards. We are dedicated in providing a safe and sustainable environment that supports the aviation sector in the emirate and maintains its rapid growth trajectory, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global aviation leader.”
H.E. Nasser Al Neyadi, CEO of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, stated: “This Memorandum of Understanding represents a pioneering model of corporate cooperation that enhances our operational capabilities and elevates the level of services provided. Furthermore, the collaboration with Dubai Civil Aviation Authority marks a strategic step towards developing the infrastructure for aviation and transportation sectors, reflecting Dubai’s vision of becoming a global hub for innovation and sustainability, thereby strengthening its position as a global destination in aviation and logistics services”.
The MOU emphasizes regulating the drones operations, with the DCAA set to enable PCFC’s use of drones in its operational domains, providing a clear guidelines to define permissible geographic zones for drone operations and issue necessary permits. Regarding heliport landing fields, the MOU outlines the procedures for service requests and requirements for certifying heliport landing fields owned by PCFC. The DCAA will oversee approvals and conduct inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards, while PCFC will provide necessary facilities for approvals and operational processes.
To enhance technical collaboration, the MOU includes provisions for technical support to facilitate secure and efficient electronic integration and data exchange. Both parties, have also committed to developing joint plans to address potential technical challenges and system updates, for uninterrupted service delivery.
This Memorandum of Understanding marks a pivotal step in government collaboration and service integration, which contributes to enhancing the competitiveness of the Emirates civil aviation sector and supports the UAE’s vision for a thriving and sustainable aviation landscape.
Chapman Freeborn has appointed Cam Bolton-Wilson Vice President of its Humanitarian and Government division in the Americas.
Bolton-Wilson, or “Bolts,” joins Chapman Freeborn after six years as a UK Royal Marines Commando and eighteen years in defense and humanitarian leadership roles in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Yemen.
“In an increasingly uncertain world, demand from government and humanitarian sectors has steadily increased over recent years,” said Eric Erbacher, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chapman Freeborn.
“With over twenty-four years’ experience serving in the military, conducting high threat security operations in complex and restrictive environments, Bolts was a natural fit for this role and will be key to Chapman Freeborn’s continued expansion over the coming years.”
Chapman Freeborn supports the UN World Food Programme by providing emergency airlifts, air bridges and freight hubs during crises.
“Having served in active conflict and disaster zones, I have seen the impact of humanitarian airlifts first-hand,” said Bolton-Wilson.
“Chapman Freeborn is an experienced and trusted partner for dozens of aid agencies, and I look forward to making sure it remains the charter broker of choice for humanitarian endeavours throughout the Americas.”
In November, Chapman Freeborn appointed Bernardo Nunes Global Chief Operating Officer as part of its continued recruitment strategy.
Qatar Airways Cargo and Unilode Aviation Solutions, the industry leader in outsourced ULD management, repair, and digital services, have teamed up to digitalize the airline’s fleet of more than 42,000 ULDs.
This partnership marks the biggest ULD digitalization initiative ever carried out by an airline. Qatar Airways Cargo will utilize Unilode’s cutting-edge ULD digitalization technology to access valuable data-driven insights and real-time tracking of ULD locations, sensor data, and asset usage. With Unilode’s digital solutions, Qatar Airways Cargo aims to enhance its operations, optimize resources, create new revenue opportunities, and improve overall performance, solidifying its leadership in the industry.
The partnership with Qatar Airways Cargo will make sure Unilode’s tag and reader network is further extended to cover the carriage of ULDs on the airline’s global passenger and cargo network. The tag and reader network will be supported by E-ULD, Unilode’s in-house developed mobile app and web portal that enables real-time visibility, and tracking, of ULDs. Unilode’s Enterprise Data Warehouse and customer portal, which provide the airline with enhanced data analytics to improve ULD utilization and further reduce costs.
Qatar Airways Cargo’s Chief Officer Cargo, Mark Drusch said, “We are excited to join forces with Unilode to embark on this groundbreaking transformative digital journey. Our shared vision for ULD digitalization and innovation will undoubtedly set new benchmarks in the air cargo industry for operational excellence, enabling us to elevate our customer experience and further optimise our resources. By implementing Unilode’s innovative digital solutions, we are able to allocate ULDs more effectively across our vast network of destinations and this, in turn, will increase asset utilization, reduce costs, and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly operation.”
Also Read: DB Schenker Launches Ford’s Advanced Parts Distribution Center in Dubai South.
Unilode’s, Chief Executive Officer, Ross Marino said, “Our collaboration with Qatar Airways Cargo represents a major digital milestone in the industry. This reinforces our commitment to our digital journey and providing our customers with technology-based solutions for their fleet or as part of our full-service ULD management solutions.
With this partnership, we are confident it will reshape ULD digitalization across the industry and contribute to a more connected, efficient, and sustainable aviation ecosystem. With Qatar Airways Cargo as our partner, we look forward to working together on developing and enhancing our digital solutions further.”
Royal Air Maroc Cargo, Morocco’s national airline, has reinforced its 15-year partnership with CHAMP Cargosystems by integrating Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot Handling.
With these new additions, Royal Air Maroc Cargo continues to strategically expand its CHAMP portfolio, effectively addressing critical challenges in the air cargo industry with solutions like Cargospot Airlines, Cargospot Handling, Traxon Global Security, and Traxon Global Commerce.
Implemented earlier in the year, Cargospot Mobile elevates RAM’s hub operations in Casablanca by putting Cargospot Handling in the hands of employees through mobile devices directly on the warehouse floor. This will equip Royal Air Maroc Cargo with live shipment status updates, data insights and safety mechanisms for the handling of dangerous goods, unlocking profound efficiency gains through enhanced connectivity and streamlined operations.
July marked another milestone with Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s successful deployment of Cargospot API giving the airline access to CHAMP’s industry-leading suite of APIs which include services for booking and pricing to be used in tandem with CHAMP’s Cargospot solution. Royal Air Maroc Cargo was particularly enthusiastic to connect with API marketplace, cargo.one, to deliver a world-class digital booking experience and visibility across global customer markets.
Both implementations were executed successfully with impressive speed and were made possible through shared values of collaboration, innovation, and interconnectivity.
Ali Ghaffar, Head of Sales – EMEA at CHAMP, said “We are delighted to equip Royal Air Maroc with Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot APIs and facilitate their continued success. The addition of new Cargospot products combined with their existing suite of CHAMP solutions positions them for excellent growth and opportunities ahead.”
Also Read: CargoAi Partners with KUB Air for Seamless eBooking.
Yassine Berrada, VP Cargo at Royal Air Maroc said “The implementation of Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot APIs have been an exciting development that enables us to automate repetitive tasks through digitalized operations. We look forward to increasing our efficiency, productivity, and interconnectivity with the latest technology and innovative software solutions from CHAMP.”
CargoAi, a leader in digital airfreight solutions, has announced an exciting partnership with KUB Air Cargo, enabling a seamless eBooking experience from major European gateways to China. Leveraging CargoAi’s digital platform and APIs, KUB Air Cargo will now offer streamlined booking capabilities with Air China Cargo and China Southern Airlines, two of the most significant carriers in the China-Europe corridor.
This collaboration strengthens the digital transformation in air cargo logistics, particularly between Europe and China. By integrating KUB Air Cargo into CargoAi’s platform, users gain access to efficient and transparent booking, tracking, and rate management for freight shipments bound for key Chinese destinations.
KUB Air Cargo’s integration on CargoAi marks an important step toward a fully digital airfreight ecosystem. The new eBooking capability promises users greater flexibility and control over their shipments, with improved operational efficiency and reduced booking times.
“Our partnership with KUB Air Cargo is a testament to CargoAi’s commitment to streamlining global air cargo booking processes. By leveraging our platform, KUB customers benefit from unprecedented access to China-bound flights,” said Matt Petot, CEO of CargoAi. “We’re thrilled to facilitate this connectivity, supporting freight forwarders and shippers alike.”
The platform integration enables KUB Air Cargo to offer fast, user-friendly bookings with complete visibility into available capacity, competitive rates, and end-to-end shipment tracking. This improvement not only benefits customers but also empowers freight forwarders to leverage CargoAi’s robust, data-driven ecosystem for optimally managing shipments and streamlining cross-border logistics.
For further information on this partnership and how CargoAi and KUB Air Cargo are bringing digital innovation to airfreight, visit www.cargoai.co.
Swedavia’s ten airports served over 2.3 million passengers in December, marking a 4% increase from December 2023. For the full year 2024, passenger numbers exceeded 32 million, up 1% from the previous year, with international travel showing strong growth while domestic travel declined.
“The year ended strongly, with a 4% increase in December compared to the previous year,” said Jonas Abrahamsson, Swedavia’s President and CEO. “Demand for international air travel continues to grow, and the decline in domestic travel slowed in the latter half of the month.”
Swedavia added more than 40 new routes in 2024, including 18 new destinations, primarily at Stockholm Arlanda and Göteborg Landvetter airports. Notable new routes include Kiruna to Copenhagen with SAS, and Arlanda to Dubai with Norwegian.
“Since the end of the year, domestic air traffic has been consolidated at Arlanda, strengthening Sweden’s connectivity,” Abrahamsson said. “In 2025, we look forward to unveiling new initiatives to enhance our airports.”
In December, international travel increased by 6% to over 1.7 million passengers, while domestic travel decreased by 3% to just over 569,000 passengers. Overall, December’s air travel was 82% of pre-pandemic levels.
Stockholm Arlanda Airport, the largest in Sweden, served over 1.6 million passengers in December, reaching 90% of pre-pandemic levels. International travel rose by 7%, while domestic travel fell by 4%.
Göteborg Landvetter Airport saw a 2% increase in December, with international travel up 3% and domestic travel down 12%. Passenger levels were 77% of pre-pandemic levels.
Among Swedavia’s regional airports, Kiruna Airport showed the strongest passenger trend in December compared to both December 2023 and pre-pandemic levels. Luleå Airport had the strongest full-year trend compared to 2019, while Ronneby Airport had the weakest December trend.
Air India has awarded cargo and ground handling contracts to SATS Ltd (SATS) and its wholly-owned subsidiary Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) across multiple major airports in regions in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.
The airline renewed 11 contracts and awarded 14 new contracts after a global tendering process, significantly expanding Air India’s partnership with SATS and WFS. The new cargo handling and ground handling stations span across North America, UK, Europe, and Asia, including but not limited to stations such as Chicago, Washington Dulles, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Birmingham, Frankfurt, Milan, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong.
“We are honoured that having conducted a global review of the cargo and ground handling market, Air India has chosen to make such a significant and growing commitment to SATS and WFS,” said Bob Chi, CEO Gateway Services, APAC, at SATS. “Our extensive capabilities and global network, along with the exceptional service our teams provide, uniquely position us to offer unparalleled international coverage to our airline partners. We highly value our partnership with Air India and are excited to represent the airline at these locations.”
“Streamlining our logistics processes and enhancing service levels across passengers and cargo are instrumental to the ongoing transformation of Air India. By strengthening our partnership with SATS and WFS, we look forward to delivering a world-class operation for our customers around the world,” said Ramesh Mamidala, Head of Cargo, Air India.
DB Schenker, a global leader in logistics and supply chain management, has joined forces with Ford to inaugurate a cutting-edge Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in Dubai South, the largest urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics, and real estate. The grand opening ceremony, held on January 9, 2025, marks a significant milestone in enhancing the efficiency and scalability of automotive supply chains in the region. Designed to set new benchmarks in operational efficiency and technological innovation, the 42,000-square-meter facility represents a monumental step in reshaping the region’s logistics landscape.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by HE Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, Ako Djaf, VP of Contract Logistics and SCM of DB Schenker in the Middle East and Africa, Kay Hart, President, International Markets Group, Ford Motor Company, Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East as well as other senior officials.
Placing DB Schenker’s expertise at the heart of its operations, the new PDC leverages advanced Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and a sophisticated racking system tailored to maximize storage capacity and picking efficiency. These include Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) systems, Multi-Tier Mezzanines (MTM), Deep Selective Racking (DSR), and Cantilever Racking (CR), which streamline order processing and ensure seamless operations. Complementing this, the facility features 20 container docks – 10 for inbound and 10 for outbound operations – enabling simultaneous activities to accelerate delivery times.
Ako Djaf, VP of Contract Logistics and SCM of DB Schenker in the Middle East and Africa, said, “At DB Schenker, we take immense pride in supporting Ford’s ambitious vision for operational excellence in the Middle East. The new Parts Distribution Center is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation, designed to streamline supply chain processes, enhance customer satisfaction, and contribute to sustainability goals. By leveraging our global expertise and advanced logistics solutions, we are excited to play a pivotal role in Ford’s journey to deliver unparalleled service to its customers across the region.”
“We are pleased to welcome Ford to Dubai South with the launch of its new facility. With the expertise and capabilities of DB Schenker, we are confident that this collaboration will bolster Ford’s expansion endeavors while delivering premium services to its customers across the region. At Dubai South, our mission is to support the government’s economic diversification plans through the comprehensive services and solutions we offer to both local and international companies, underpinned by our state-of-the-art infrastructure. We remain steadfast in our commitment to positioning Dubai as one of the world’s leading logistics hubs,” said Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District, Dubai South.
The PDC’s operations are anchored by DB Schenker’s expertise in implementing SAP S/4HANA warehouse management software, which facilitates paperless picking with barcode scanning for unmatched precision and speed. A dedicated Vehicle Off Road (VOR) processing team further ensures critical parts are prioritized, eliminating delays and boosting customer satisfaction.
“The new PDC will enable us to create a more streamlined and efficient process that enhances parts availability, optimizes inventory management, and elevates customer service,” said Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East. “By unlocking these operational efficiencies, we are delivering on our commitment to improve service and delivery times in the region, and we are thrilled to see this latest Ford project in Dubai come to fruition.”
Located strategically in Dubai South, the PDC consolidates Ford’s storage and distribution into a single, technologically advanced hub that serves key markets across the GCC and Sub-Saharan Africa. The facility increases capacity by 20 percent compared to its predecessor, significantly improving inventory management and operational efficiency.
Also Read: Aramex Teams with Admiral Mobility to Deploy its First Electric Trucks.
DB Schenker’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the facility’s design, which incorporates eco-conscious practices. A 400kW solar panel system, set to be installed in late 2025, will reduce energy consumption by 35 percent and lower the carbon footprint by 290 tons annually. Responsible waste management, including recycling and eco-friendly disposal, further reinforces the facility’s environmentally sustainable operations.
This advanced distribution center demonstrates DB Schenker’s dedication to redefining logistics innovation. By utilizing the latest technologies and sustainable practices, DB Schenker continues to set industry standards while empowering global brands like Ford to excel in the region.
Representing the pinnacle of logistical innovation encapsulated within a premier infrastructure network, Dubai South’s Logistics District offers premier services and operations as well as uninterrupted access to Jebel Ali Port via a bonded logistics corridor. The district comprises multiple zones, which have direct access to the cargo terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport; EZDubai, a fully dedicated e-commerce free zone; and a Contract Logistics Zone.
Technology has made the world smaller and faster.Real time communication with people from all over the world at different time zones through phones and gadgets
