Logistics activities in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafz) is growing and volumes are increasing. The Dubai Ports Authority (DPA) has also reported 9-10 per cent growth in business, says MMI Logistics which is geared to take advantage of this positive trend.
The Jebel Ali-based MMI Logistics is among the six distinct divisions of Maritime and Mercantile International (MMI) of Dubai.
The ISO certified distribution centre is among the largest and most up-to-date facilities which covers a floor area of 18,000 sq m and has up to 28,000 pallet locations. With a capacity to handle a wide range of products, it can facilitate world-class service standards through round-the-clock operating schedules, says MMI Logistics' new manager Mike Lee.
The entire facility is temperature controlled and humidity is managed by pressurised air ejection. Ideal storage condition is provided for climate sensitive goods, even when the external temperatures exceed 45 deg C and the humidity reaches 90 per cent.
MMI Logistics has access to excellent local, regional and international communication links. Its vehicle fleet ranging from 40 ft tractor trailer units to integral delivery vans are insulated and temperature controlled, to ensure the highest standards of product care are maintained throughout the supply chain, he says.
A well-established agent network is in place to manage regional distribution overland or by sea, while air transport is handled through Dubai, or nearby Sharjah.
MMI Logistics has also launched an online service to provide information to its customers about the operation of the delivery chain.
"Today, the success of one's supply chain over its competitors drives one's performance in both winning new customers and retaining existing ones. The objective is to make sure the services offered to the customers are viable. Implementing good logistics throughout the supply chain is the key to its success," says Lee, who was recently appointed manager from his previous role of commercial manager.
With 13 years experience in the logistics industry, Lee is now enhancing the value of supply chain solutions offered to existing clients, developing new accounts, and the continual improvement of MMI Logistics' service offer to organisations wishing to do business in the Gulf region.
MMI Logistics' client portfolio has increased over the years. It today handles a diverse range of products. The company has shifted its focus from an in-house company to external.
The company is now in the process of getting ISO 14000. "We have identified the impact of our business over environment and have taken steps to reduce those by better management.
The company has appointed Moody International as its certification body for the ISO 14000 Environmental Management Standard which will not only aid in the reduction of unfriendly products but will provide a more cost-effective service to the clients.
MMI Logistics has introduced a number of energy saving initiatives with cost savings to be reinvested in technology that will deliver further benefits to the environment, demonstrating its commitment to an issue that needs to have greater acknowledgement throughout the region.
"We take our responsibility toward the environment very seriously in MMI Logistics and we believe that Moody International, a highly experienced and professional organisation, will keep us up to date with methods and processes we can adopt to preserve the environment, says Darryl D'Mello, finance manager of the Logistics Division.
The company also recently launched its online service, which according to the company is the first step in the process of taking full advantage of the e-commerce opportunities available in the Middle East.
