DHL UAE wins Hitachi data systems logistics contract
Under the contract, DHL UAE takes bulk receipt of spare parts from HDS in The Netherlands, flies them into its express logistics centre in Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) where they are stored ready for express despatch to regional distributors and customers on demand.
‘DHL was selected after meeting our requirement for high service levels and after demonstrating its international and regional experience on other HDS operations,’ said Henk Witteman European Spare Parts Logistics Manager, HDS.
DHL UAE, the Emirates’ leading air express and logistics provider, has won a fiercely contested Middle East logistics solutions contract from leading storage solutions provider Hitachi Data Systems (HDS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hitachi Limited.
‘Other determining factors included the proximity of its DAFZA facility to Dubai International Airport thereby securing speedy turnaround when orders for spares are placed, or a ‘repair and return’ service is needed.’
DHL has committed to a maximum of one hour response time from order to take off for the HDS contract.
‘We are confident of meeting HDS’ requirements because our DAFZA express logistics centre specialises in storing high value inventory with the appropriate round-the-clock service support,’ explained Dirk Van Doorn, Quality Logistics Manager, DHL UAE. ‘We have also contracted to provide a dedicated manager and handler for the HDS account to ensure goods are cleared in various countries despite challenging customs scenarios.’
The outsourcing of supply chain logistics management is fast becoming an essential business element within the competitive information technology sector.
‘Speed of supply is a key factor in the sales and after-sales scenarios of any commodity and the I.T. sector has embraced logistics outsourcing as a cost-effective solution not requiring capital investment in warehousing facilities or investment in specialised human resources,’ explained David Wild, General Manager, DHL UAE.
