Abu Dhabi Ports yesterday celebrated the ground-breaking of Schmidt ME Logistics' new facility in Khalifa Port's industrial, trade and logistics zone, Kizad.

The ceremony was officiated by Dr. Wolfgang Hoppmann, CEO of Schmidt ME Logistics, along with senior company representatives and Kizad officials.

Schmidt ME Logistics specialises in the packaging, product handling and intermodal transportation of dry bulk products, in addition to providing value added services to include patent technologies exclusive to Schmidt Logistics. Schmidt ME Logistics will cater for the dry petrochemical and mineral industries across the region and internationally.

The new dry bulk logistics centre, which is the company's second branch in the UAE, will cover 21,000 square metres and represents a capital investment of DH20 million.

Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, said, "Today, Schmidt ME Logistics is one step closer to securing the business advantages that benefit investors locating in Khalifa Port's trade and logistics zone.

"Logistics connectivity and greater trade facilitation are, in essence, tools to further increase the nation's prosperity. The supply chain connections available through Khalifa Port, and the exceptional transport infrastructure, allow investors to receive materials and reach customers and markets quickly, easily and cost effectively securing the competitive advantage. Kizad now has more than 70 investors who benefit from its outstanding access to markets, and at least ten of them will be fully operational by the end of this year."

Dr. Hoppmann added, "The proximity to Khalifa Port and the supply chain connections readily available will increase the speed in which we deliver our services, expand our reach and ease the complexity that is usually faced with distribution networks allowing us to continue providing quality services as well as delivering on-time and safe transportation as well as cost effective strategic logistics solutions."

At the moment, the company's primary export destinations are Saudi Arabia and Oman, and customers include W.R. Grace and Co, Borouge, BASF, and Grand Mills Abu Dhabi.
Source: WAM