Five quick fire questions with Greg Olsen - CEO Agility Dubai

by From the Top on 2010-10-15

Greg Olsen is the CEO of Agility Dubai. With extensive experience at an executive management level, Greg takes the time to answer 5 questions surrounding the Logistics indsutry in the UAE and provides a great insight into the effect the recession has had, not only on Agility but the indsutry as a whole.

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Q1. The recession has impacted on the Logistics industry across the world more so than other industries, what has Agility done to minimize the impact on the business and its customers?

The slump in international economies has caused global trade volumes to plummet, having a significant impact on the transport and logistics industry. At Agility we are able to combine freight forwarding, contract logistics and transport with specialist capabilities in project logistics, fairs and events and chemical logistics. This range of services has enabled us to minimize the effects of the recession as we are not reliant on any one component and have continued to utilize our assets effectively. These products also give us the flexibility to tailor our solutions to meet the needs of customers, as it is becoming increasingly important to understand their changing requirements and react accordingly. Ultimately, relationships are key, improving connections and providing a greater degree of personal service will go a long way to ensuring customer retention.

Q2. Depending on whom you talk to, some say the recession is just about over and we are starting to see signs of recovery, others say the worst is yet to come, what is your view?

Because of its close connection to economic cycles, the logistics industry is a good gauge of how markets are performing. When economies are buoyant, the need for our services is equally strong. Consumer and business demand for goods and services inevitably translates into a greater requirement for transport and logistics services.

Therefore, we often see the first indicators of stability and growth. The first half of the year has brought about a marked increase in demand of our contract logistics services indicating a positive sign for the market. Having said that, I still believe that whilst the indicators are encouraging it is still early and prudent to remain cautious as markets continue to adjust.

Q3. Heading into the future, what are the major opportunities for Agility and where are we likely to see the emphasis?

Agility is the only top ten logistics provider with roots in a developing market. We understand emerging markets, their needs and unique challenges and as a result have developed specific solutions and capabilities.We are starting see a greater interest in Yemen and Iraq, as well as continued growth in the Saudi market. As a result more emphasis is being put on Dubai as a transshipment hub, providing support to neighboring countries where infrastructure is less advanced. Therefore, I believe that Agility’s strengths in new markets will position us well for growth in the future.

Q4. What is your advice to businesses wanting to expand into the UAE especially those businesses that are looking to import and set up a distribution model?

Emerging markets continue to draw interest from large international companies, attracted by the revenue generating potential of the region, away from more mature and highly competitive developed countries. I think that it is important to be aware of the unique challenges of doing business in the region and ensure that you partner with organizations equipped to mitigate these potential stumbling blocks. Possible obstacles include political instability, complex regulatory procedures, language and cultural barriers, security and a large logistics infrastructure disparity, all of which can be potentially detrimental to successfully operating in the  region. As a logistics provider our goal is help organisations overcome these challenges and enable customers to focus on their core business.

Q5. For a business looking to utilize the services of a global integrated logistics provider, what key questions should they be asking so they can make an informed decision?

First and foremost it is important to ensure that the logistics provider can meet your immediate and long-term needs, with flexibility to adapt to changing requirements and market demands. Also strong regional capabilities that can be utilized to facilitate furthergrowth in your business is key as well as their ability to provide a full range of supply chain solutions and meet the challenges of working in the region. Whilst still important, cost is no longer the number one priority, customers are also increasingly looking for logistics providers, with expertise across a number of verticals, who understand and can provide tailored solutions to meet specific industry requirements.

Global Logistics Media, Interview
Greg Olsen, CEO, Agility Dubai