DP World’s Foray into Chemicals and Retail Logistics

There’s no disputing DP World’s status as a major player in logistics.

This supply chain behemoth moves no less than 10% of global trade through its infrastructure and operates more than 800 global locations for logistics, marine services, ports and terminals.

Further evidence of DP World’s remarkable growth was showcased in a recent edition of Supply Chain Digital, when Beat Simon, Global Chief Commercial Officer for Logistics, discussed the organisation’s journey to becoming an end-to-end services provider. 

Now, the company is expanding its specialist logistics service offering for customers in the retail and chemicals sectors, adding new capabilities and expertise to its global networks of supply chain infrastructure.

These new specialisms complement DP World’s existing expertise in automotive, perishables, healthcare and technology.  

Supporting chemicals logistics

DP World already boasts substantial existing expertise in chemicals through its subsidiary, Legend Logistics, a Singapore-based global logistics firm. 

It is set to continue building this capability globally to cater for the US$4.2tn international chemicals industry, which requires sophisticated logistics solutions to boost efficiency, drive down costs and meet increasingly rigorous environmental and safety standards.

DP World is anticipating a host of future challenges and opportunities, such as the need for more sustainable logistics solutions and expanding service reach to emerging markets. Its investment in chemicals logistics is aimed at supporting the sector’s projected US$1tn growth over the coming decade.

“We’re adding fresh impetus to our mission to lead global trade into a more resilient and efficient future,” explains Beat.

“Under this expanded offer, we’ll give our chemicals customers the confidence and capabilities to expand into new markets worldwide, safe in the knowledge that we’re unlocking new energy solutions and operating processes to track, measure and reduce environmental impact.”

Cargo Services joins DP World portfolio

Expansion of its sector-specific expertise forms part of DP World’s bid to offer a greater range of tools for end-to-end logistics solutions – a wider strategy designed to ensure customers are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow with confidence.

The firm’s foray into retail logistics coincides with its acquisition of Cargo Services Far East, a global supply chain provider and market leader in origin services headquartered in Hong Kong.

Cargo Services, which moves goods from the factory floor to the customer’s door, employs more than 2,500 people in Greater China as well as across Asia, Europe, South Africa and the US. 

Founded in 1989, the business was one of the first foreign logistics service providers to enter the China market. It has since established an extensive portfolio of solutions such as origin purchase order management, ocean freight, air freight and warehousing for a diverse range of sectors. 

This includes sophisticated supply chain management services for retail and high-fashion customers in the US, UK, Europe, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. It has also expanded its portfolio to provide specialised cruise logistics services globally.

“Cargo Services' logistics expertise and global network perfectly complement our own footprint and will be yet another tool in our offering to customers,” adds Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO at DP World.

“Together, we'll create a powerful force propelling trade globally. 

“By combining our strengths – technology, a growing logistics portfolio and strategic infrastructure – with Cargo Services' expertise and network, we’ll be able to offer unparalleled value to customers seeking to strengthen existing trade ties or enter new markets.”

DP World: Led by customers

Following its acquisition of Cargo Services, DP’s World’s global workforce now exceeds 115,000 people. 

By the end of the year, it will operate more than 200 freight forwarding offices, covering up to 95% of global trade flows.

With industries such as automotive, chemicals, healthcare, perishables, retail and technology requiring tailored logistics solutions, DP World is strategically focused on creating specialised offerings that address each sector’s specific challenges and opportunities. 

Its goal is to provide comprehensive, sector-specific solutions that drive efficiency, innovation and growth.

Beat continues: “With the addition of new expertise, we enhance our ability to provide an unparalleled service to customers worldwide and especially those seeking to access specialised services in two diverse, but fast-evolving sectors in global trade: chemicals and retail.”

DP World continues to be led by its customers worldwide and is working diligently to extend its reach, build new capabilities and open new routes and solutions wherever they’re needed. 

The group remains laser-focused on connecting and simplifying processes, reducing friction and enhancing technology to help goods flow faster and drive global prosperity.

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