Project Cargo Network (PCN) Celebrates 3rd Anniversary
Project Cargo Network (PCN) is celebrating its 3rd anniversary and its’ most progressive year since its inception in August 2010.
Today, PCN (ISO 9001:2008 certified) has an international presence that extends to 197 Specialist Members in over 700 worldwide offices in 93 countries. PCN is also a Founder Member of ELITE the foremost network of networks representing in excess of 3,500 SME’s in 189 countries and annual revenues exceeding USD 50.0 Billion.
Over the past 12 months, PCN has experienced growth in all major markets. This has led the organisation to develop several new tools for their Members, including customised Marketing Brochures for Members, improvements to the password protected section of their website and release of version 2.0 of their Smartphone Service. The PCN Head Office team are now in the midst of preparations for what promises to be their largest gathering to date, when Members will descend on Bangkok in November for 3 days of business development.
Rachel Humphrey, Founder and Chairwoman of PCN stated that starting a network in the midst of the global financial crisis was a calculated risk. "Having seen recessions in the past we positioned ourselves to take on the many challenges associated with managing a network through difficult times," said Rachel. "In working with heavy lift and project cargo specialists we have found that a company's ability to adjust to the changing economic climate significantly affects how well it will emerge from challenging times. We were prepared and ready to assist our Members to help build and develop their specialist services”.
A clear example of this was recently published on the front page of the Italian newspaper "Il Messaggero Marittimo" where a heavy cargo shipment was moved from Venice to Antwerp with the teamwork of 3 PCN Members. The shipment was coordinated by V Alexander (PCN Rep in Germany); the handling, loading and chartering in Italy was arranged by Fortune Italy and the arrival, discharging and delivery in Belgium was arranged by Wirtz Shipping.
The future is looking bright for PCN and its Members as management look to further strengthen and expand their position as market leaders in the heavy lift industry.
Rachel adds “I passionately believe it is essential that we build a global network of true professionals within the heavy lift industry and our success at recruiting suitable applicants has been proven by the many articles in our Latest News section, often republished by HLPFI. Over the past 12 months we accepted 71 Members and rejected over 80 applications (due to insufficient experience or too many of their own overseas offices). We have also turned away many applications as we are already fully represented in their country.
Many networks are forced to make difficult decisions in an effort to remain competitive. We have noticed that many of the applicants that we have declined for various reasons are appearing in other networks. This may increase their revenue, but it won’t necessarily strengthen the network. And that is what PCN is, a strong platform of companies who are increasing their business by actively working together. I personally believe that once a network is established, that becomes the USP, not the management. The network management is the frame, the Members are the picture.”
For more details, visit www.projectcargonetwork.com and www.elitelogisticnetworks.com