Pure logic Broekman Logistics

PURE LOGIC

Broekman Logistics is based in Rotterdam, Netherlands and is a fast growing specialist logistics provider in three key areas: Forwarding & Shipping, Warehousing & Distribution and Breakbulk Terminals. Philip Yorke spoke to Albert Hoek, the company’s managing director for Shipping and Logistics, about its increasing global reach and unique range of logistics services.

The Broekman Logistics success story began in 1960 when Aad Broekman established Broekman Motorships in Rotterdam with an initial contract to handle the shipping of a conventional cargo of 18 cars. With the increasing demand for consumer goods, Broekman was well placed to take advantage of this new growth market and its established relationship with shipbrokers and shipping lines operating out of Rotterdam. However, a major turning point for the company came in the 1990s when it focused on supply chain management and breakbulk logistics services.

Following an on-going programme of strategic acquisitions, the company is now positioned to match the remarkable growth it has achieved over the last 15 years. Today Broekman Logistics employs more than 800 people throughout the world at its facilities in India, Singapore, Holland, Belgium, the Czech Republic and Poland.

Flexible freight forwarding & shipping

Whether the business concerned is food, chemicals, industrial hardware, electronics or any other product in demand, importing or exporting these products can involve multiple carriers, special requirements and legalities. Complicated customs and tax issues and communications with foreign ports can add up to a complex administrative burden. As an experienced partner, Broekman can provide flexible and reliable transportation at competitive rates, as well as the support of a full range of freight forwarding services on a global scale, with the benefit of local expertise and communications.

Broekman can also control and optimise its clients’ shipping needs by selecting the most suitable international shipping lines and airlines, as well as negotiating the best rates and the preparation of the numerous documents associated with shipping items overseas. The company is strategically headquartered in Rotterdam from where it is possible to reach key locations throughout the EU and further afield. These hubs include Amsterdam Airport, Bruxels Airport, Antwerp, Eemshaven and Rotterdam, Holland’s largest port with a strong connection to the Rhur area in Germany.

When it comes to shipping, clients can rely on a highly qualified team of experts with over 55 years’ experience in the maritime logistics industry. The company offers a full range of marine services at all major ports and specialises in dry bulk, liquid bulk and breakbulk containers, roll-on, roll-off and special project management services.

Flexible chemical warehousing

Producers and distributors of speciality chemicals recognise the importance of flexible, innovative and individually tailored technical logistics solutions. Broekman understands the market’s complexi-

ties and the need for targeted customer services where safety is paramount, especially when it comes to the storage and handling of dangerous goods.

The company is also able to react quickly to sudden market and legal changes using the latest logistics technology and best-practice protocols. Broekman Logistics offers maximum flexibility and accurate information whenever it is needed for a clear overview of the entire supply chain for its customers.

Hoek said, “We are continuing to invest heavily in our range of customer services and in particular in our state-of-the-art warehousing facilities, which currently extend to more than 350,000 square metres at our three key sites in the Netherlands. We have a rolling programme of investment that takes us right up to 2020.

“We always go that extra mile for our customers and our reputation for reliability and commitment is second to none. We are more than just a local hero, and this, combined with our unrivalled logistics expertise is the main differentiator between us and our big logistics competitors. We provide unlimited innovative technical services for our clients with new operations focused on the growing 3D printing market among other emerging commodities. Our diversity and product mix is our strength combined with our flexible can-do attitude. We are a true global operator, but with a local, personal touch.

“We will continue to see strong organic growth, however we keep the door open for any acquisitions that will provide us with the right synergy and will compliment our wide range of quality logistics services.”

Cryoport expansion

Following the successful cooperation between Broekman and Cryport in Rotterdam, it was recently announced that Broekman Logistics will provide secure and full-service warehousing facilities for Cryoport Inc., the world’s premier provider of advanced cryogenic logistics services, throughout the entire Asian region.

Cryoport Inc. is the leading provider of cryogenic solutions to the life sciences industry through its purpose-built proprietary packaging, information technology and specialised cold chain logistics expertise.

Cryoport provides cutting-edge logistics solutions for biologic materials such as immunotherapies, stem cells, and reproductive cells for its clients worldwide. With the support of Broekman Logistics, Ctyoports’ Asian clients will benefit from its unrivalled professional services and excellent track record.

Jacques Kleinkramer, managing director of Broekman Logistics for warehousing and distribution, said, “We are delighted to be partnered with Cryoport and to help support its growing client base and business in Asia, with its validated cryogenic logistics solutions for the life sciences industry. The spike in the need for safe and controlled shipments of temperature-sensitive commodities, within a framework of strict regulations and procedures, is being addressed by Cryoport in a comprehensive manner. We look forward to helping Cryoport build on its foothold in the cryogenic logistics market.” n

For further details of Broekman Logistics’ innovative logistics services visit: www.broekmanlogistics.com