Future proof

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The true test of a logistics company's ambition is often revealed within its long-term plans. An astute knowledge of the market combined with a deep customer base, constitute the main principals for a bright future, a fact not lost on Danzas.

As part of the global goliath that is Deutsche Post World Net (DPWN), Danzas certainly appears veered in the right direction of success. Yet whilst its DPWN brother DHL Express tends to hog the media spotlight; its brightly branded name a shining symbol of effective marketing, the Danzas approach is somewhat more reserved.

An undoubted 3PL heavyweight in the regional ring, Danzas nevertheless keeps a relatively low profile. However, a new focus and approach has developed that is likely to make many logistical heads turn. An aggressive expansion policy is set in place that Dave Harris, general manager of contract logistics, is delighted to finally reveal.

"Demand is coming fast - the government is encouraging the logistics sector, resulting in Dubai changing from a regional hub to an international one," says Harris.

"This is why we have made the decision to become more active in the market and so are expanding rapidly," he smiles.

Expanding rapidly is of course a common phrase much coined in the business world, but it is certainly fitting for this example and the magnitude of growth Danzas is in the midst of. A clear path is paved for the company, which has a staged approached to planning that looks set to compliment potential demand in the region.

A defined timeline has been initiated, that should be addressed accordingly from the beginning. The current Danzas warehouse in Jebel Ali measures 80,000m² and was recently complemented with the acquisition of the former MICCO warehouse near gate 7. Adding another 20,000m² of storage capability, it is but a stepping stone to the next dimension of its Jebel Ali focus.

"Basically the current facilities we have are 100% full and we were having to contract or lease smaller facilities in Jebel Ali or other locations within the UAE to cope with the overflow.

We needed a long term solution for our customers and the MICCO facility became available so it seemed a logical step," identifies Harris. "The last phase of the complex was only completed a year ago, its predominantly air conditioned, has good cross docking features and large office space. It basically meets all our requirements."

Yet it is very much a pro-tem option, a site in the South of Jebel Ali marks Danzas' larger scope. Set to enhance storage capabilities by a further 54,000m², construction is currently underway and scheduled for completion by August of next year.

"By European standards the new warehouse is going to be A class in terms of security and control. The design is finished for the racking solution and an EXE warehouse management system will be implemented throughout," elaborates Harris.

A large part of the warehouse is to be dedicated towards the storage of pharmaceuticals, a side of Danzas' business that looks to be pivotal in the future. Temperature controlled to maintain a 14 degree climate throughout, with additional walk in chambers capable of going down to 0 degrees, it is to provide a complete solution to the medical supplies sector.

"We actually designed the facility to be lower in temperature then is in fact required for the storage of pharmaceuticals as it gives far greater flexibility rather than redundancy. The rest of the warehouse will be for general basic contract logistics, with some wider aisles for over sized pallets," confirms Harris.

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