Given the amount of bad news coming out of South Africa on an almost daily basis, it is great to see that there are still companies in the logistics arena which are moving forward and expanding despite the constant barrage of problems facing the country.
One of these is Seabourne Logistics, a leading independent logistics operator with offices in the UK, the Netherlands, France and South Africa, which is moving into a new, expansive facility in Gauteng. The new 22 000 square metres premises signals a significant step forward for the company’s growth and operational capabilities in the country.
Located in the Eastport Logistics Park in Kempton Park on the East Rand, the move positions Seabourne as a critical player in the region’s logistics landscape. With ample space and a well-planned layout, the facility is set to enhance Seabourne’s efficiency, capacity and ability to serve its clients.
The contemporary office and warehouse complex boasts 18 500 square metres under its roof, complete with newly installed 15-metre-high racking systems. During the initial phase, 5 600 pallet spots will be readily accessible within the racking infrastructure, while an additional 5 400 places are slated for implementation during the subsequent stage.
The transition from a building that was not conducive to cross-docking facilities to one equipped with 10 dock levellers, 10 courier doors and 10 warehouse handling doors represents a significant leap forward. These enhancements will have a profound impact on the company’s operations.
“This move represents a significant milestone for Seabourne as we continue to execute our growth strategy that has been crafted to leverage every angle, from courier and e-commerce to warehousing and final mile delivery,” says David Frank, newly appointed Warehouse Executive at Seabourne.
“We are well-equipped to provide seamless logistics support. Our new facility is a testament to our commitment to providing top solutions and exceptional service to our clients. The new facility moves us closer to achieving our expansion goals and improving efficiency,” says Rouche Van Der Westhuizen, Johannesburg Branch Manager.
According to Frank, the Eastport Logistics Park’s reputation for hosting some of the country’s most extensive facilities and prominent players, further bolsters Seabourne’s credibility and capacity to provide improved client services. Centrally located near the airport and all of the major highways in Gauteng, it will allow for easy access and movement.
The company is scheduled to transition out of its current facility by December. To ensure minimal disruption to operations and partners’ businesses, Seabourne will gradually move its principals over weekends. “Our approach is methodical planning and a systematic schedule, with a dedicated effort from the entire team,” says Frank.
