Independent forwarders go global
The logistics industry without question is deeply rooted within the global economy – and the success and future of the individuals in the industry are affected by the global markets. In such an international market where borders have thinned and economics rule – how does the local independent freight forwarder survive?
Independent freight forwarders are experts in their local market – being from their home region and having experience on the ground allows them to understand the details needed to get the job done in the most efficient manner possible. In order for them to adapt to this global economy it is imperative that the independents look beyond their borders and expertise and expand their business outward. The best way for them to do this is to meet with fellow independents from around the world and to discuss business opportunities and global changes to keep abreast on industry specific data.
The 7th Annual Sino-International conference held at the Asia World Expo in Hong Kong offered the perfect venue for the independents to accomplish their global needs. Over 1400 logistics professional from 171 countries and over 600 cities and ports gathered together at one location – all with the common goal of improving business services.
Delegates met with existing and potential partners from across the globe at one venue. Several delegates commented that the savings in dollars by not having to travel to the individual countries is in the hundreds of thousands. More importantly, the savings in time and energy to come to one location and meet everyone at one venue is what makes this event so invaluable.
Delegates were able to pre-select one-on-one meetings with individuals from different regions of the world in order to find the ideal partner to work together for cross border transports. This system allows for the most efficient use of time to meet with delegates at the event that best fit the needs of the independents. It allows them to identify before hand potential partners that can assist improve the level of service for the shippers and consignees. Many delegates also took advantage of informal networking opportunities offered such as a cocktail reception, gala dinner, city tour and even a round of golf.
The organizers of the event include the China International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFA), World Cargo Connections (WCC) and the WCA Family of Logistics Networks. Working together the event proved to be the largest collection of independent forwarders, cargo airlines, ports and other logistics professionals.
For the first time the event included several multi-national airlines such as Emirates, Qatar, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, Etihad and others who have come to meet directly with their clients, the independent forwarders. Bringing such service providers will allow the independents to discuss and negotiate better deals in order to provide their customers with better rates and services.
Despite the size of the event delegates commented that it was a family atmosphere and delegates were happy to offer and share their experience as well as knowledge about their local markets. Delegates are able to discuss freely, mutual opportunities and how to adjust their business to the changing global economy in order to offer the best custom fit logistics solution for their clients. It is this commitment to service and ability to adopt their services to best fit the client’s needs that have allowed the local experts to thrive no matter what curve ball the global economy throws at them.
Independent freight forwarders are experts in their local market – being from their home region and having experience on the ground allows them to understand the details needed to get the job done in the most efficient manner possible. In order for them to adapt to this global economy it is imperative that the independents look beyond their borders and expertise and expand their business outward. The best way for them to do this is to meet with fellow independents from around the world and to discuss business opportunities and global changes to keep abreast on industry specific data.
The 7th Annual Sino-International conference held at the Asia World Expo in Hong Kong offered the perfect venue for the independents to accomplish their global needs. Over 1400 logistics professional from 171 countries and over 600 cities and ports gathered together at one location – all with the common goal of improving business services.
Delegates met with existing and potential partners from across the globe at one venue. Several delegates commented that the savings in dollars by not having to travel to the individual countries is in the hundreds of thousands. More importantly, the savings in time and energy to come to one location and meet everyone at one venue is what makes this event so invaluable.
Delegates were able to pre-select one-on-one meetings with individuals from different regions of the world in order to find the ideal partner to work together for cross border transports. This system allows for the most efficient use of time to meet with delegates at the event that best fit the needs of the independents. It allows them to identify before hand potential partners that can assist improve the level of service for the shippers and consignees. Many delegates also took advantage of informal networking opportunities offered such as a cocktail reception, gala dinner, city tour and even a round of golf.
The organizers of the event include the China International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFA), World Cargo Connections (WCC) and the WCA Family of Logistics Networks. Working together the event proved to be the largest collection of independent forwarders, cargo airlines, ports and other logistics professionals.
For the first time the event included several multi-national airlines such as Emirates, Qatar, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, Etihad and others who have come to meet directly with their clients, the independent forwarders. Bringing such service providers will allow the independents to discuss and negotiate better deals in order to provide their customers with better rates and services.
Despite the size of the event delegates commented that it was a family atmosphere and delegates were happy to offer and share their experience as well as knowledge about their local markets. Delegates are able to discuss freely, mutual opportunities and how to adjust their business to the changing global economy in order to offer the best custom fit logistics solution for their clients. It is this commitment to service and ability to adopt their services to best fit the client’s needs that have allowed the local experts to thrive no matter what curve ball the global economy throws at them.