Change of course in Sri Lanka

 

Sri Lanka is considered an important logistics hub in South Asia, and the port in Colombo, the country’s capital, is one of the largest transshipment hubs in the Indian Ocean. The key role the tropical island plays in the region’s logistics was recently overshadowed by the coronavirus pandemic as well as economic and political crises. Now the wind is changing – also for Militzer & Münch Sri Lanka.

Militzer & Münch has been represented in Sri Lanka since 2018; the country unit is located in the immediate vicinity of the port. The challenging conditions in the country did not leave the activities of Militzer & Münch Sri Lanka unaffected. Freight rates rose sharply, fuel became scarce, and also the labor market was impacted by the crisis. But the M&M team overcame the hurdles with great commitment and continued to expand existing business. New projects and services include transports to Uzbekistan via Karachi (Pakistan), air freight handling in Colombo and sea freight consolidation services.

“The market is still volatile, but we are already sensing that the recent political upheaval will bring positive developments also from an economic perspective. This opens up new opportunities for us”, says Dilum Stembo, Managing Director of Militzer & Münch Sri Lanka.


More capacities at the port of Colombo

All over South Asia, new capacity is currently being created in the transport and logistics sector, and ports are growing. In Sri Lanka, the new dynamic is exemplified by the rapid growth of the port of Colombo, where handling volumes have recently increased significantly. The new Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) with a total area of 65 hectares is due to open at the end of this year. The new terminal will increase the port’s capacity by around three million TEU.

Militzer & Münch Sri Lanka is well prepared for the upswing and the expected increase in demand: the team has now grown to a total of 19 employees; at the end of 2023, the company moved to a new office due to expansion. “We have achieved a very good position in the logistics market. We are a member of the country’s important logistics associations and networks, and maintain long-standing and successful business relationships with shipping companies, airlines as well as our customers. That’s something we are very proud of.”


Plans for a promising future

An upswing in the country, increasing port capacities, a strong market position and a highly motivated, committed team – a promising future lies ahead for Militzer & Münch Sri Lanka. The country unit’s goal now is to optimize routes, reduce costs and offer even better service. The strategy to reach this goal is clearly defined: In future, Dilum Stembo’s team will focus more on multi-country cargo consolidation – a logistics practice that combines shipments from multiple suppliers in different countries into a single shipment and sent to a specific destination or country.

“You give your best and look after the company, and we will look after you. This simple yet powerful statement has guided us through tough times. It’s not just about managing a business; it’s about nurturing a family. When everyone feels valued and heard, they’re motivated to give their best, which in turn drives the company forward,” says Dilum Stembo.

Militzer & Münch Dubai: “Understanding hurdles as opportunities – that is our great strength”

 

After the relaunch of Militzer & Münch in Dubai in 2017, the young country unit quickly succeeded in building stability and positioning itself on the market. As Managing Director of Militzer & Münch UAE, Anil Manath experienced the rapid development as well as the challenges of recent years, above all the coronavirus pandemic, from the very beginning. We spoke to him about strategies in times of crisis, plans for the future and the merits of his team.

Mr. Manath, how have you experienced the development of Militzer & Münch in Dubai so far?

We managed to grow strongly in the initial phase and establish the location. This gave us an important foundation, which benefited us in the challenging years that followed. We clearly felt the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, for example in the form of supply bottlenecks and freight fluctuations. However, we were able to absorb this very well as we can react flexibly and have the right attitude when it comes to overcoming difficult phases.

Could you describe this attitude in more detail?

Only with motivation and enjoyment of our work can we be successful. That’s why it’s crucial to create the best possible working conditions for the team, and to adapt them to the situation. During the pandemic, we set up a dedicated team to support our employees, for example, in seamlessly continuing to work from home. However, it is just as important not to stick to the status quo in our own activities, but to view hurdles as an opportunity to break new ground – which is our great strength. We have encouraged our team to find innovative solutions to maintain customer satisfaction and our operational efficiency, for example by offering alternative routes and new products, such as LCL consolidation services. Thus, we made the most of the situation and even achieved record results during that time.

And Militzer & Münch Dubai has continued to grow…

That’s right, we now have 65 employees. That is also an impressive development in view of the sometimes adverse circumstances, and it’s a sign of our efficiency!

Which transport routes are particularly in demand, and what is the current focus of Militzer & Münch’s activities in Dubai?

Maritime transports are the most frequent, followed by air freight and road haulage. We are strongly product-oriented. Our services include LCL consolidations from France, China, India, Germany, Italy and Sri Lanka as well as LCL groupage transports from Kuwait. We are experiencing increasing demand in the area of ship spare parts forwarding and chandling services. We will soon be opening a new branch in the port of Fujairah to further improve service in this sector for our customers. We have also successfully expanded our asset-light contract logistics model: Our team now operates three leased warehouses with a total of some 1,670 square meters. We hold more than 4,000 pallets in external warehouses.

What motivates you personally in your work?

That I get to work with professionals who give their best every day and fully identify with the Militzer & Münch company. Our team does not shy away from difficult tasks, but works hard to solve them. The excellent results we achieve confirm my belief that working together as a cohesive unit is the most simple and effective recipe for success.

 

“Militzer & Münch China: experience makes the difference”

The Militzer & Münch Group has been active in the Chinese market for more than 40 years and has accumulated an enormous wealth of experience during this time. The first office in Beijing opened in 1981. Since then, the local team has steadily expanded its presence in the country. Over the years, the strategic importance of the People’s Republic for Militzer & Münch has also grown.

There is no way around the world’s second largest economy: the New Silk Road is one of the most important trade and transportation networks in the world and already connects the “Middle Kingdom” with more than 100 nations. Today, about 140 Militzer & Münch China employees at eleven locations and three sales offices handle domestic shipments as well as imports and exports via all modes of transport.

“What drives us is to develop new logistics processes and to continuously expand and optimize our product and service portfolio as a trustworthy, competent and high-performance partner for our customers”, says Elyar Sherkati, Managing Director of Militzer & Münch China.

Specialists for special challenges

A large part of the freight transported by Militzer & Münch China is shipped to Central Asian and European countries. Special services include AOG (Aircraft On Ground) and cross-border road transports for oversized and heavy lift goods. Major customers come from the electronics, automotive, manufacturing and medical industries.

“The market presents many challenges, but also just as many opportunities,” says Elyar Sherkati. “We have to respond to changing global conditions every day and adapt our transport routes and our services accordingly.”

 

Successful even in complex situations

A situation in August 2024 exemplifies the professional handling of complex situations: because of increased goods volumes, the traffic situation at the Chinese-Kazakh border crossing at Horgos/Korgas was particularly strained. The number of foreign vehicles crossing the border fell drastically within a short period of time due to regulatory measures by the Kazakh government, which led to a backlog of goods and rising freight rates.

Militzer & Münch was nevertheless able to successfully complete two important international truck transports and deliver the goods safely and on time from China to Uzbekistan and Slovakia: The transport specialists managed the 6,000-kilometer route from Guangzhou to Tashkent in only 12 days. For the 9,000 kilometers from Tianjin to Bratislava, they only needed 19 days.

“The Militzer & Münch Group has built a strong name for itself in its more than 140 years of existence – and for more than 40 years here in China”, says Elyar Sherkati. “With high-quality products and services as well as a strong corporate culture, we ensure that we live up to this continuing good reputation.”

 

“We are known for meeting even the strictest customer requirements” – an interview with Filip Simovic

Filip Simovic is Managing Director of M&M Militzer & Münch Serbia. The company is one of the market leaders in the Balkan region. In our interview, he discusses what defines good logistics, what the biggest challenges are for global supply chains, and where his company is heading.

Mr. Simovic, how would you describe the focus of Militzer & Münch’s activities in Serbia?

M&M Militzer & Münch Serbia offers a wide range of logistics services, which include road, air and rail transportation, warehousing and supply chain management. We have evolved into a stable company and an important player in the regional logistics network. We offer our customers reliable and efficient services. Here I would like to emphasize road transport in particular, which is an important element in the global logistics chain. Commitment to quality and reliability is the cornerstone of our business philosophy at Militzer & Münch Serbia.

Our broad portfolio includes diverse services, with a focus on the automotive industry and time-critical deliveries throughout Europe. We are known for meeting even the most stringent customer requirements. To this end, our high number of truck transports with two drivers helps us in particular. The automotive industry requires a lot of attention and efficiency. Since our foundation, we have achieved exceptional lead times in both the LTL and FTL sectors.

In my opinion, good logistics include above all fast and accurate delivery, efficient inventory management, cost optimization, the selection of ideal transport routes, a high level of safety, and high-quality customer service. These are the principles on which we align our business and our activities.

What role does Militzer & Münch Serbia play within the Militzer & Münch Group?

The role of M&M Militzer & Münch Serbia is to act as a central hub for logistics activities in the region. We integrate our local resources and expertise into the global framework of the group. The appeal of the Balkan countries lies in their ability to offer customized logistics solutions while meeting global quality and reliability standards.

What were the most important milestones you have achieved in the last five years?

We have reached our goal of becoming a market-leading company. This required the continuous improvement of our operational capabilities, hiring experts with in-depth experience and local market knowledge, and adapting to specific customer needs. One of the most important milestones of the last five years was building a professional and dedicated team, which is crucial for our long-term success. In addition, our stable growth in market share, improvement of operational efficiency through advanced technological solutions, and the expansion into new geographical areas in the Balkans contributed significantly to our success. The expansion of our warehouse capacity was also a decisive step in meeting the growing demands of our customers.

My goal for Militzer & Münch Serbia is for us to continue on our path to market leadership in the logistics sector in the coming years. We want to expand our services to new market segments and further increase our operational efficiency.

In your opinion, what are the biggest global challenges in the supply chain industry?

The biggest global challenges in the supply chain industry are the complexity of global networks, different regulations, supply chain risks and the implementation of digitalization and sustainable practices. Overcoming these challenges requires innovative technological approaches, increased collaboration within the supply chain and active risk management.

How important is sustainability in logistics today?

Sustainability is an imperative not only in logistics, but in all industries. In my opinion, sustainability should not just be a marketing term, but rather part of everyday practice. Many companies are making efforts to implement ecological ideas in their facilities, as I was able to see personally at the recent “(Un)ready for the Green Future” event organized by the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce. The event sparked important discussions about the challenges and opportunities of a green future. The focus of a panel discussion, where I represented Militzer & Münch Serbia, was on the propagation of best practices among the participating companies. There is an ever-increasing demand on the part of customers for responsible logistics that minimize their environmental impact via efficient resource management, the use of environmentally friendly means of transport and the reduction of their carbon footprint.

You were recently elected to the board of the German-Serbian Chamber of Commerce. What do you hope to accomplish in this new role?

Indeed, I was recently elected to the Board and have since been appointed Deputy Chairman of the Board. My aim is to contribute to strengthening the economic cooperation between Germany and Serbia and to represent the interests of our members. I want to use this role to promote innovation, to facilitate cooperation between companies, and to advance economic opportunities and the exchange of knowledge.

“Transport to Central Asia is our great strength”

Since 2020, Militzer & Münch has been present with a branch in Austria. From the new office in Vienna, the three-person team is active in both operations and sales. In addition to customer-oriented solutions and first-class service, the team is particularly characterized by comprehensive know-how and many years of experience in rail and truck transport, which enables the Vienna branch to offer Austrian companies ideal access to Central Asian and Eastern European markets. In this interview, Branch Manager Nikolay Gueorguiev talks about the challenges of recent years, outstanding projects, and plans for the future.

Mr. Gueorguiev, you have almost twenty years of experience in the logistics sector. What brought you to Militzer & Münch?
I started my forwarding career in 2006 at a company specializing in rail transport as a scheduler and salesman. After a company takeover, I was appointed head of the rail transport department. In 2019, I took on a position as the authorized signatory and branch manager at a newly founded company with a focus on projects and oversized transports.

As I had had good contacts with Militzer & Münch for many years and had previously been their partner in Austria, I knew the company quite well. I therefore suggested opening a branch in Vienna for Militzer & Münch. After several discussions and meetings, I was able to convince the group of this plan.

What were the biggest challenges for your team in Vienna in the first few years?
We opened our branch in Vienna in September 2020. The first coronavirus lockdown had just come to an end in summer 2020. We assumed that everything would be over after that and things would pick up again – then the second lockdown came in November 2020, and things were even worse than in the first one. Nevertheless, we didn’t give up and fought our way through.

As we were new to the Austrian market, it was very challenging as we had not yet built up a customer base. So, during these tough times, we had to try to acquire customers. However, it was almost impossible to reach the right contacts due to forced short-time working and work from home regulations, among other things. In addition, only a few customers were open for change. Many companies were fighting for their existence. Our branch too would probably not have survived this time without the financial and moral support of the Militzer & Münch Group.

Today, we are on the right track, and I am convinced that this will also be reflected in our results. We also want to continue growing; we are planning to hire another employee this year.

What notable projects have you recently completed with Militzer & Münch in Vienna?
In spring 2024, we received an order to transport 36 combine harvesters and cutting units by rail from Poland to Uzbekistan. We first transported the cargo to Lithuania on flatbed trailers and from there on rail wagons to Tashkent. Transporting agricultural and construction machinery in multimodal transport from Europe or via Europe to Central Asia is our great strength, and we have extensive experience in this field.

We handled another interesting project for a machine manufacturer in summer 2024. We transported heavy machinery from a plant in the Czech Republic to another plant in Turkey. This involved several trucks, including two special transports with machines weighing 40 and 70 tons. In the case of the 70- ton machine, we had a total weight of over 100 tons on the road including trailer and tractor unit. Oversize transports by truck and rail are also among our strengths.

One of our customers will soon be starting a major project from Austria to Tajikistan. A power plant is being renovated in Rogun, for which we will be shipping plant components and accessories.

Which modes of transport are most in demand from your customers? Which industries are represented in your customer base?
We are known as a overland freight specialist. Our strengths are road and rail transportation and, of course, multimodal transport. As already mentioned, our customers include manufacturers of agricultural and construction machinery as well as mechanical engineering companies, but also plant manufacturers, manufacturers of rail vehicles, of power plants and of consumer goods.

Women in logistics: “Don’t be afraid to stand up for your ideas”

Lorna Davies, Manager Freight and Contract Logistics, and Priya Khushalani, Trade Lane Manager, are two of our experienced logistics experts at M&M Militzer & Münch UAE, based in Dubai. In our interview, they talk about their areas of responsibility, their thoughts on equality, and what advice they would give to women who want to work in the industry. 

 

What motivated you to join the logistics industry?

Lorna Davies: I entered the logistics industry because of the subject matter and the opportunity to work as a Customer Service Executive. I was attracted by the industry’s dynamism and the central role it plays in global supply chains. The opportunity to solve complex logistics challenges and contribute to efficient operations appealed to me. As I delved deeper into the subject matter, I discovered my passion for optimizing processes and ensuring the smooth transportation and distribution of goods.

Priya Khushalani: I come from the Indian state of Gujarat, which has two important ports – Kandla and Mundra. This is what motivated me to go into logistics. It is an industry with a global impact that allows me to build an international network. In the logistics industry, I have a wide range of responsibilities, and it never gets boring. There are many opportunities for professional development, and the demand for motivated professionals is high.


What are the main tasks and responsibilities of your positions?

Lorna Davies: My role as Manager Freight and Contract Logistics involves a wide range of tasks aimed at ensuring smooth and efficient operations in freight management and contract logistics. In summary, this means strategic planning, operational control, customer management, team leadership and a commitment to efficient, reliable and cost-effective logistics solutions that promote business success and customer satisfaction.

Priya Khushalani: As a Trade Lane Manager, I am responsible for developing various trade lanes, including India, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Taiwan and the United States. The term “trade lane” refers to the established transport routes along which goods are imported and exported. My responsibilities include promoting the growth of my trade lanes, developing strategies, services and products, and negotiating prices and contracts. My work is heavily influenced by trade agreements, the political climate, weather conditions and many other factors.


What has been your experience as women in leadership positions in an often male-dominated industry?

Priya Khushalani: Equality, diversity and inclusion should be the guiding principles of every leader and team. Creating progressive workplaces that are equitable and fostering a culture that encourages honest conversations about equality beyond the policy has positive ripple effects for everyone. This builds as teams evolve and leaders move on. It is incumbent upon us to support and represent women in leadership positions to create a good platform and more opportunities for subsequent female colleagues.

Lorna Davies: My experiences have been shaped by both challenges and opportunities. Initially, navigating gender dynamics required a blend of assertiveness and diplomacy to build credibility and gain the respect of peers and industry officials. Being part of a minority often meant having to deal with stereotypes and prejudices. I am passionate about gender diversity and inclusion. Fostering open dialogue, mentoring emerging professionals and actively supporting diversity initiatives have been instrumental in creating a more balanced environment within our organization. Overcoming challenges and achieving milestones as a woman in a leadership position has been incredibly rewarding for me. Celebrating these achievements not only strengthens personal growth, but also inspires other women to take on leadership roles in the industry.


What advice would you give to young women pursuing a career in logistics?

Lorna Davies: Have faith in your abilities and believe that you have the skills and potential to succeed in the logistics industry. Seize opportunities for learning and continuous improvement because logistics is a dynamic field that is constantly evolving. Try to build a strong network, seek out mentors and role models. The logistics industry can be challenging with its fast-paced environment and unexpected obstacles. That’s why you need to develop resilience and stand up for yourself. Don’t hesitate to advocate for your ideas, skills and professional advancement.

Priya Khushalani: Lifelong learning is a continuous process of self-improvement. My mother had two degrees at a time when education for girls was still a taboo where I come from. This is the legacy I have inherited and would like to pass on to young women. We are often underestimated and have to work much harder to be recognized. But we also possess qualities such as generosity, kindness, empathy and inclusiveness that enable us to excel in areas such as conflict management. Women have always created opportunities to make a difference on a global scale. These include promoting trade relations and advancing sustainability. My favorite example is Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo. Thanks to her leadership, PepsiCo’s annual net profit rose from USD 2.7 billion to USD 6.5 billion. In 2007 and 2008, she was named by the Wall Street Journal as one of the 50 women to watch. In 2007 and 2008, Time Magazine named her one of the 100 most influential people in the world. Forbes named her the third most powerful woman worldwide in 2008. Here is what she had to say on the subject: “The next decades are the decades of women. Women should dream big. They should have full confidence in themselves. Because if you have self-confidence, you can overcome anything.”


What makes Militzer & Münch stand out as an employer?

Priya Khushalani: Militzer & Münch provides the best transportation solutions in demanding markets. Our goal is to offer only products and services that meet or exceed our customers’ requirements – we are committed to our promises. Personally, I like our well-designed office and our corporate colors. Blue stands for stability and reliability.

Lorna Davies: Through my work at Militzer & Münch, I have access to a global network and a wide range of logistics services. This global presence offers me the opportunity to develop professionally, to work internationally and to come into contact with different cultures and markets. Militzer & Münch invests in training programs, workshops and certifications to improve our skills and knowledge in various areas of logistics and supply chain management. Teamwork, mutual respect and open communication are encouraged so that employees feel valued and motivated to give their best. Our employees are proud to work for a company that is committed to corporate responsibility and environmental protection.

 

 

15 years of Militzer & Münch Tajikistan: a transport hub in the high mountains

The rough mountains of Tajikistan are a very special environment for logistics service providers, but Militzer & Münch Tajikistan’s experienced experts in demanding road transport master every terrain. In July 2024, the country unit celebrated its 15th anniversary.

M&M Militzer & Münch Tajikistan L.L.C. is based in the capital, Dushanbe. The 17 employees primarily handle road and rail-based overland transport. The main focus is on national and international trucking with the company’s own fleet. “In recent years, our company has grown considerably and has become a well-known player in the Tajik logistics market,” says Aziz Sharipov, Managing Director of Militzer & Münch Tajikistan. “During this time, we have built up our own truck fleet, which we now operate with great success. This enables us to offer very reliable and efficient road services”.

More than 90 percent of Tajikistan is mountainous – much of it rough and inaccessible. The landlocked country is well over 1,000 kilometers from the seaports of Iran, Georgia and Turkey. Many of the approximately 10 million inhabitants live in the country’s largest cities, all of which are located in the west of the country. Dushanbe is the most important among them and, with 1.2 million inhabitants, is almost seven times larger than the second largest city, Khujand.

A country on the rise

Government investment in the road and rail network has improved the situation for logisticians in the country in recent years. Militzer & Münch Tajikistan itself has also contributed to this, as the company handles large-scale orders in connection with infrastructure projects, for example in road building or in the construction of water and solar power plants. Advancing digitalization and intensive cooperation with the other states in the region further support Tajikistan in its role as a transport hub. “In a challenging environment like Tajikistan, you have to stay very alert and be willing to constantly improve and find flexible, innovative solutions,” says Aziz Sharipov. ”I find our task of overcoming all obstacles and setting up customized services to connect remote areas while stimulating economic growth at the same time very rewarding.”

Among Militzer & Münch Tajikistan’s most important customers are companies from the medical technology, textiles, food and agriculture sectors. Important import and export markets are the EU countries, Turkey, Russia and Kazakhstan, as well as some Southeast Asian countries, especially Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. This gives Tajikistan a special strategic role as a transit country for traffic between Central and Southeast Asia. To neighboring Afghanistan, Militzer & Münch mainly delivers food and relief supplies. A corresponding project for the World Food Programme (WFP) is to start before the end of this year. The cooperation with the WFP has existed since 2018.

15 years of high commitment

On July 25, 2024, M&M Militzer & Münch Tajikistan L.L.C celebrated its 15th anniversary. Since its foundation, the company has firmly established itself in the national market and in transport with neighboring countries. “Our highly experienced team in Dushanbe and our loyal customer base are thrilled about this special anniversary”, says Aziz Sharipov. “For us, this is just one of the reasons to be proud of Militzer & Münch. We appreciate the company for its positive corporate culture, professionalism and sustained stability”

Nikolaus Kohler, Regional Managing Director Middle East / Central Asia, emphasizes the subsidiary’s importance for the network: “It is a core component of our strategy at M&M Militzer & Münch to cover niche markets where people and knowledge count. In this sense, Tajikistan fits very well into our strategy. We are proud of our team there and wish them only the best for the next 15 years”.

 

The world of Militzer & Münch: facts and figures

In almost 145 years, the small forwarding business founded by Richard Militzer and Werner Münch in Bavaria in 1880 has grown into a logistics company that connects worlds. A brief overview of the key data of the Militzer & Münch Group.

The M&M Militzer & Münch Group employs circa 2,400 persons across all business areas, working at 49 companies with over 100 locations around the globe. The headquarters are located in St. Gallen, Switzerland. The range of services covers 5 business segments: airfreight and sea freight, overland transportation by road and rail, and project logistics.

Militzer & Münch offers its services in 6 regions: Central Europe, North East Europe, South West Europe, South East Europe, Middle East / Central Asia and Asia / Far East. From North West Africa to East Asia, Militzer & Münch operates business units in 35 countries. Since the end of 2023 alone, 4 new country units have been added: in Vietnam, Indonesia, Mongolia and India.

In total, the group’s warehouse and terminal area is approximately 164,000 m2. The joint fleet comprises more than 240 trucks and around 450 trailers. Militzer & Münch secures additional transport capacities via cooperation with CargoLine, FUTURE, Group’99 or the Global Container Group (GCG). In 2023, the group generated a turnover of EUR 630 million euro (including customs duties). In the 2023 business year, the share of air freight in Militzer & Münch’s total transport volume was 14 percent, sea freight 16 percent, rail freight 10 percent and road freight 51 percent.

Militzer & Münch opens country unit in India

St. Gallen, August 28, 2024: Logistics group Militzer & Münch is on a strategic growth path in Asia: a new country unit in India, registered under the name of M&M Militzer and Muench (India) Private Ltd., started operations on August 5. The new company focuses on air and sea freight – with a particular focus on the pharmaceutical industry and AOG services – as well as project logistics.

Militzer & Münch India handles road transportation, air and sea freight, and project logistics for its customers, both domestically as well as in import and export. The portfolio includes value-added services such as customs clearance and warehousing. The first branch office is registered in Mumbai. Vijay Narayan, an experienced logistics specialist, is the managing director of M&M Militzer and Muench (India) Private Ltd. Particularly for traffics to and from China, Southeast Asia, Europe and Africa, India is to serve as an important hub in the Militzer & Münch network.

Militzer & Münch is strategically expanding its business in the region’s growth markets: Within the last two years, M&M country units were launched in Vietnam and Indonesia, and most recently in Mongolia on July 1, 2024. In Sri Lanka, Militzer & Münch has been operating its own company for several years already.

 

Air freight and pharmaceutical logistics for the growth market

With the exception of a few outliers during the pandemic, Indian economy has mostly been able to post growth rates of between six and nine percent over the past ten years. According to forecasts by the International Monetary Fund and the German Federal Statistical Office, Indian economy will overtake both Germany and Japan within just a few years. “The country is one of the fastest growing markets in the world, and is already among the global leaders in many industries,” says Holger Seehusen, Militzer & Münch Group Manager Air & Sea. “India is therefore an extremely important component in our increasingly dense network in Asia. We see great opportunities for our new country unit to grow sustainably and organically. In conjunction with our increased activities in Africa, particularly in the sub-Saharan region, we see great potential here.”

India’s most important export goods by value are technical appliances, precious stones, crude oil products and textiles. In addition, the country plays a decisive role in the global pharmaceutical industry. In 2021, for example, India ranked third worldwide in terms of the volume of pharmaceutical products and 14th in terms of value, according to market research firm Mordor Intelligence. India met over 50 percent of the world’s demand for vaccines, 40 percent of the demand for generic drugs in the United States and 25 percent of the demand for generic drugs in the United Kingdom.

What’s more, India is expected to become the world’s third-largest aviation market in the near future – accordingly, the air segment is of particular importance to M&M Militzer and Muench (India) Private Ltd. Initially, the company will focus on the challenging and time-critical AOG (aircraft on ground) sector, where Militzer & Münch can draw on many years of experience in Germany and China.

 

Ready for the Future: Modernized Warehouse in Sofia

Militzer & Münch Bulgaria is the country’s leading provider of transportation and logistics services. Currently, the company is investing in even more operational efficiency and sustainability, and is modernizing a warehouse measuring almost 19,000 square metres. Part of the facility is being converted into a temperature-controlled warehouse for pharmaceuticals.

Since the beginning of the year, the warehouse in Sofia, which is owned by the sister company TransTerminal, has been undergoing extensive modernization. Among other things, more than twice as many pallet spaces as before are being created on 7,500 of the total 18,900 square meters of storage area. In addition, the facades are reinforced with thermal panels, doors and docks are renewed, additional loading ramps are built, special industrial floors and concrete paving are laid, and the entire lighting and electrical systems are brought up to the highest technical standards.

“Our primary goal in this modernization is to optimize our logistics flow and energy consumption, which will reduce our ecological footprint,” says Svetoslav Sashev, the CEO of TransTerminal Bulgaria. “We are also giving the building a facelift, including new facades; our customers will surely appreciate the aesthetically appealing facility.”

Plenty of space for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals

All in all, the remodelling and modernization are scheduled to take three years. The first phase is to be completed by October 2024. In the second phase, a 700-square-meter area will be modernized and converted into a temperature-controlled warehouse for pharmaceuticals.

“With our warehouse for temperature-controlled goods, we are catering to a broader customer base,” says Svetoslav Sashev. “Our new facility will totally comply with the standards for the storage of pharmaceutical products. We are already looking forward to seeing the results.”

Bosnia-Herzegovina: high-quality logistics, and the EU in focus

Bosnia-Herzegovina, a country in the heart of Southeast Europe, offers an exceptional environment for logistics activities. The mountainous landscape, as well as infrastructural and political challenges, call for a holistic approach to supply chain management. To overcome these challenges, M&M Militzer & Münch Transport & Logistics DOO combines global know-how with local insight. The country unit, founded in 2021, has already managed to establish itself as a reliable logistics partner. The company sees growth opportunities in the EU context: Bosnia- Herzegovina is the latest EU accession candidate, and in March, Brussels gave the green light for negotiations, thus sparking optimism in the economy.

In recent years, Bosnia-Herzegovina has turned into an emerging market for the logistics industry. The country’s geographical situation means it forms a strategic link between Western Europe and the Balkan states. Its proximity to major European markets makes it an important hub for international trade. However, despite these advantages, there are also challenges, particularly in terms of infrastructure: the road network is often outdated, and there is a lack of modern logistics centers.


A wealth of opportunities

Despite these challenges, Bosnia-Herzegovina’s strategic location at the crossroads between Europe, the Middle East and the Balkans offers enormous opportunities. “The country serves as a transit hub for the goods flows between these regions, and acts as a gateway for their international trade”, explains Nikola Vasiljevic, Executive Director of M&M Militzer & Münch Transport & Logistics DOO. “This opens up a wealth of opportunities for us as a logistics company.”

M&M Militzer & Münch Transport & Logistics DOO has been active in Bosnia-Herzegovina since October 5, 2021. The independent subsidiary of the Serbian Militzer & Münch country unit has already established itself as a fixture in the country’s logistics landscape. The company’s expertise in road transportation, coupled with in-depth knowledge of the local market, enables it to offer its customers comprehensive and customized solutions.


A broad range of services for every requirement

Militzer & Münch offers a wide palette of logistics services in Bosnia-Herzegovina. In addition to the core services of full and part load transports and customs management, the company also offers warehousing, distribution, freight forwarding, supply chain management and value-added services. The team is thus able to optimize the entire logistics process for its customers. The company will continue investing in the further development of its service portfolio, the optimization of efficiency, and the promotion of strategic partnerships.

Another focus is on the implementation of new technologies and the digitization of processes. “We rely on innovative technologies to make our services more efficient and transparent”, says Nikola Vasiljevic. “This includes, among other things, the use of telematics systems for fleet tracking and the optimization of supply chains through modern IT solutions.” In addition, the team in Bosnia-Herzegovina also places great emphasis on ecological responsibility, and takes measures to reduce its ecological footprint.

The Militzer & Münch customers in Bosnia-Herzegovina come from a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, retail, automotive and fashion. Militzer & Münch meets these challenges, as well as the logistical shortcomings of the country, with customized solutions and a high degree of flexibility.


A promising future

The appointment of Bosnia-Herzegovina as the latest EU accession candidate opens up promising prospects for the development of the country’s economy and, in particular, for the logistics sector. Although the full impact is yet to be seen, Militzer & Münch anticipates an increase in trade, simplified regulations and improved investment opportunities, all of which will benefit the company’s growth and the further development of the logistics industry in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

“The EU candidacy is a turning point for Bosnia-Herzegovina,” Nikola Vasiljevic points out. “We are happy to be part of this journey, and to contribute to the country’s integration into European and global markets.”

 

Trade Lane China: “The market is turbulent”

Frankfurt is home to the team that drives business with customers and partners in China for the M&M air sea cargo GmbH in Germany. No easy task, as the market environment in the world’s second largest economy is highly competitive.

The importance of China for the German import and export balance could hardly be greater: for the eighth time in a row, China was Germany’s most important trading partner in 2023. Goods worth almost 255 billion euros were traded between the two countries. As a result, this trade lane is highly competitive for logistics companies.

“The market is turbulent”, says Jie Li, Trade Lane Manager China at the M&M air sea cargo GmbH. “In airfreight, the industry is experiencing capacity bottlenecks in some cases due to the sharp rise in e-commerce volumes generated by the industry giants Shein and Temu. The local economy is showing the first signs of a downturn, which we are preparing for at an early stage.” For Militzer & Münch, this means intensifying the exchange with Chinese partners and prioritizing increases in efficiency. An important strategic focus is therefore on digitalization. Key technologies such as AI are to help simplify processes and shorten response times. The agenda also includes further expanding the sea freight services. The emphasis is on introducing new products such as a groupage service from China to the West. Militzer & Münch is also aiming for additional growth in airfreight. “Our business is running smoothly despite the strong competition”, says Jie Li. “We are benefiting at this time from our valuable, long-standing relationships with our partners in the Greater China region.”

Militzer & Münch has a wealth of experience in the import and export business with China: the company has been active in the country since 1981. In the “Middle Kingdom”, the company has dedicated experts for all customer needs, whose work is complemented by the team in Frankfurt. “In Trade Lane Management, we work together to maintain existing partnerships, develop new products and support our sales team here in Germany”, explains Simon Lu, Trade Lane Manager China at the M&M air sea cargo GmbH. “Our task requires a lot of intercultural negotiating skills and diplomacy.”

Due to the six-hour time difference between Germany and China, mornings in particular are always very busy for the team in Frankfurt. The exchange with contacts in China usually takes place before 12 noon, when the working day slowly ends in China. “I’ve gotten into the habit of having breakfast after 1 p.m.,” says Jie Li. “That may seem unusual, but it allows me to be as productive as possible and respond quickly to our customers’ needs.”

M&M: Using artificial intelligence to clear resources

Innovative technologies play a decisive role for a modern service provider like Militzer & Münch. At the moment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is an issue that is causing a stir in the logistics industry. In order to explore the individual needs and potential applications of this technology, Thies Spannagel has been appointed Group Project Manager AI. His task is to evaluate processes where AI can be used to reduce the workload on employees and increase the service level and efficiency of the logistics service provider. Thies Spannagel has been with Militzer & Münch for over six years and has more than 20 years of professional experience in the logistics industry.

 Mr. Spannagel, what is your task in the AI project?
As Group Project Manager AI, I am like a hub. I receive input from the country units telling me what challenges they have to overcome on a daily basis, and where major expenses arise that could be reduced using AI. The focus is always on improving the quality of service for our customers. I then check whether there are any suitable AI modules that we can integrate into our IT infrastructure. I’m very interested in AI because I’m very process-oriented and want to achieve my goals fast and efficiently. If we process the orders in a clean and orderly manner, we achieve a high level of customer satisfaction.

 

When was the project launched, and what is the objective?
We started the project on 1 March. Of course, I had already been looking into the topic of AI before then. In November 2023, M&M air sea cargo GmbH took a new transport management system into operation, our central software that we use to process all orders. The task now is to further develop this system – including with AI. The aim is to continuously reduce for our colleagues the number of manual data entries in order to increase productivity. However, we are also looking at other areas where AI can support us.

 

Where do you see the biggest challenges?
The Militzer & Münch Group’s country units are relatively heterogeneous. Each country has its own transport management system and its own IT infrastructure. This is a challenge when we purchase new modules, as we have to ensure that they can be used by as many country units as possible. Evaluating the modules is also demanding. Service providers often present demo versions in their showcases. The scenarios shown in these demos are often perfectly tailored to the tool’s capabilities. However, the problems we face in reality often have completely different parameters, for which the AI must first be trained over a lengthy period of time before we can use it – a new AI module is never ‘plug and play’.

A good example is something we saw with one of our partners in Canada. They wanted to implement a module that uses AI to process customer enquiries quickly and efficiently. When I looked at this with my colleagues, I was initially really impressed. After a few months, when we asked if our partner was happy with the tool, they said it wasn’t being actively used yet. There were still too many early problems and the tool was not even suitable for many areas in the company. Manual intervention was required so often that it was more efficient for employees to process enquiries manually.

When we select providers, they often ask in advance for examples from our company that they can use to demonstrate their tool. However, we also always bring along a few cases that the provider is not yet familiar with. That way we can better assess whether we can actually use the tool or whether the provider has only customised the demo to our specific case. Risk management is also my task when selecting these tools. That’s why for such meetings I take up to three experts with me who deal with the issues under review on a daily basis, so that we don’t conclude contracts lightly.

 

What characteristics do AI modules need to have in order to be considered for Militzer & Münch?
At the moment, we are primarily interested in using AI for repetitive tasks in order to free up resources in other areas. We can thus optimize processes and become more efficient.

A good tool has to fit in well with our IT infrastructure, which is of course difficult due to the different systems we have in the individual countries. When I talk to the provider of an AI module, I naturally always ask what interfaces are available. The API standard, which has the advantage that the code does not have to be rewritten from scratch during implementation, is already widely used. We have to check which providers are available on the market and for which areas they are suitable. One example is customs clearance. The aim is to automate the process so that the documents we receive from the customer are already prepared to such an extent that our colleagues only have to look over them again and add small details – but don’t have to search for and enter all the information themselves.

With technologies such as AI, it’s important to be involved right from the start and follow the development of promising modules so as not to be left behind later on. My job is to play a leading role in supporting my colleagues in the other countries in implementing the modules. However, the respective country unit must provide sufficient resources – in particular a temporary implementation team of local experts who are familiar with the regulations of the respective country. Teamwork is absolutely called for here.

AI systems rely on data, and the data must be prepared in such a way that the AI can process it. Last year, for example, the colleagues at the German Road (M&M Militzer & Münch GmbH) began using an AI module that extracts orders from major customers’ emails and automatically creates an order in our transport management system, largely eliminating the need for manual input. However, it took a year to train the system so that it works for us, which tied up a lot of resources.

 

Which institutions or service providers are supporting Militzer & Münch in the project?
 We cooperate with the University of St. Gallen. In this context, we also exchange ideas with a student consultancy that also collaborates with the university. The consultancy has already supported AI projects. Their experience is very valuable to me, because we don’t want to make mistakes that we only notice years later. There is a lot of potential for mistakes, especially in the field of innovative technologies. That’s why it’s important to get input from different areas. We need to find out which technologies are on the market, which areas they cover and what potential they have. The price-performance ratio and the options for implementation in our IT infrastructure also play an important role. Only once we have gathered information about all of this can we decide whether an AI tool or module is of interest to us.

 

Militzer & Münch Algeria: close to the customer

Militzer & Münch Algeria: close to the customer with local experts

 

With many years of experience in the demanding markets of the region, Militzer & Münch is considered the leading specialist for transports to and from Algeria. An important unique selling point are the regular groupage services for sea freight from France to Algiers and Oran – and since late 2023 also to Béjaïa.

 Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean, Africa’s largest country is one of the most important logistics hubs in the region, with transportation infrastructure concentrated almost exclusively in the country’s fertile north, while almost 85 percent of the area is covered by the rock and sand deserts of the Sahara. Algeria is rich in natural resources – crude oil and LNG account for around 95 percent of total exports. On the other hand, many different goods are imported, including machinery, textiles, food and various other commodities.

Militzer & Münch has been active in Algeria with its own country unit since 2016, and now operates its own branches in the port cities of Algiers, Oran and Béjaïa. From these locations, the company covers the entire logistics spectrum, from sea and air freight to road haulage and value-added services such as customs clearance and consulting. Import traffic mainly comes from Western Europe or South East Asia, exports are primarily destined for West Africa and Southwest Europe.

“The logistics sector in Algeria is governed by strict laws and regulations. In addition, transport costs are high and customs procedures are lengthy, which can be quite a challenge if you are not familiar with the local conditions”, says Lamia Hani, Managing Director Militzer & Münch Algeria. “With our own local experts and a strong partner network, we can support our customers very effectively here”, she adds.

 

Focus on groupage ex France

Among the most important services provided by Militzer & Münch in Algeria are groupage transports from Marseille. For several years now, there have been two regular connections, one each from France to Algiers and Oran. In November 2023, a maritime groupage service to Béjaïa was also launched.

The port city lies around 180 kilometers east of Algiers, the capital, and is one of the most important cities in the country. Due to its location, it serves as an important hub for maritime traffic with Europe, Africa and other regions. Modern infrastructure makes the port’s processes particularly efficient and allows it to handle various types of cargo, including bulk goods and containerized freight. In addition, the port boasts a high level of security and efficient hinterland connections. From Marseille, Militzer & Münch offers a service to Béjaïa every 15 days with CMA CGM vessels. Militzer & Münch takes care of all processes, from consolidation to container loading; transit time is only five days. As there are hardly any comparable offers on this route, the service has been correspondingly well received by customers. A large proportion of the goods transported so far are destined for the food industry: food processing equipment, flavorings, food additives, packaging and so on.

In the medium term, Militzer & Münch Algeria plans to expand its market leadership on the Algeria-France route and to set up further LCL services to and from Turkey and Italy. “Algeria is a country where it never gets boring”, says Lamia Hani. “We are always happy to take on new challenges for the benefit of our customers.”

 

Trade Lane Africa: “There is always a way”

In view of the impressive economic growth in some emerging markets south of the Maghreb, Militzer & Münch is expanding its activities on the African continent. We asked Irene Pinkrah, Business Development Manager Trade Lane Greater Africa, about the special aspects of working with Africa, the challenges she and the team have to overcome, and what she likes best about her job.

Ms. Pinkrah, what are your tasks as Business Development Manager for Trade Lane Africa?

My main task is to expand and maintain business relationships with existing partners in Africa and to identify new partners for potential collaboration. I also build and maintain business relationships in Germany together with our sales team and take care of customer acquisition. And I also define marketing strategies and develop and optimize the trade lane between Germany and Africa by analyzing, planning and implementing efficient transport and logistics solutions.

How is the Militzer & Münch business developing in Africa?

We are currently in the process of developing the Sub-Sahara segment and are very optimistic. Africa has experienced significant economic growth in recent years and offers considerable development potential in some sectors. Militzer & Münch has been active in Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria for many years, and is very successful in this field. We are therefore confident that we will also be successful in sub-Saharan Africa. Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria, for example, are very interesting for us.

We are currently working on establishing a partner network. Against this background, several Militzer & Münch country units, including Militzer & Münch Germany, joined the Airfreight Logistics Network for Africa (ALNA) some time ago, a strong network for airfreight to and from the African continent. With ALNA, we have access to a secure and reliable network of companies in many African countries.

In order to tap into the potential of the Ghanaian market for us, I will be attending the Supply Chain Business Forum and Exhibition in Ghana’s capital Accra this coming July. The trade fair will focus on current trends, challenges and opportunities in the supply chain sector. As Militzer & Münch is sponsoring the event, we also have the opportunity to present our products and services on site.

What are the main goods Militzer & Münch transports to and from Africa?

African countries import a variety of consumer goods, including electronics, vehicles, clothing and household appliances. The primary exports are raw materials as well as agricultural and pharmaceutical products.

What challenges have you experienced with transports to and from Africa?

Many parts of Africa have only insufficient transport infrastructure, both in terms of roads, railways and ports. This sometimes leads to bottlenecks, delays and increased transportation costs. In addition, different customs regulations, complicated documentation requirements and inefficient customs clearance procedures also complicate and delay transportation. Instability in some regions and cultural differences can also hinder transportation. But as long as we are prepared for these hurdles, there is always a way to overcome them. After all, challenging markets are our specialty.

What positions have you held at Militzer & Münch so far, and what do you like best about your work?

I have worked in operational positions in air and sea freight for over 20 years. Most recently, I worked in the export department of M&M air sea cargo GmbH in Frankfurt for 15 years. In 2022, I participated in our internal Talent Management Program, where one of our tasks was to identify promising new markets. We singled out Africa as one of the most interesting areas.

I really enjoy working for Militzer & Münch because the company is characterized by a family environment, motivated colleagues, openness and diversity. What I particularly like about my current position as Trade Lane Manager is that I can work independently. I can really make a difference here. The diverse challenges my job entails motivate me, too.

EMEX Kazakhstan on track for success

The courier, express, and parcel service EMEX Kazakhstan, a subsidiary of the Militzer & Münch Group, looks back on the past years with great satisfaction and plans further growth.

EMEX is the official partner of FedEx in Kazakhstan and handles all FedEx CEP transports within the country. The company operates its own substantial fleet of circa 100 vehicles as well as a dense network of branch offices in the country. The main sorting center is located in Almaty. All international shipments, including customs clearance, are handled via this hub, with transit times for express delivery between one and four days. EMEX’s major customers operate in the retail, fashion, pharmaceutical and medical technology, as well as oil and gas sectors. What they value most about their CEP provider are the comprehensive turnkey solutions and personalized support.

This year, EMEX is about to celebrate an anniversary. The Militzer & Münch Group’s CEP service in Kazakhstan turns 20 years old and has had a successful time recently: “We were able to increase our market share and consolidate our strong position among the top three service providers in the industry, we obtained important ISO certifications in the areas of quality, environment and safety, and were even awarded industry prizes,” says Tatjana Vorobyeva, who has been heading the company with a staff of more than 360 as Managing Director since 2016. “The positive results are largely owed to growth in e-commerce and consolidated domestic transportation.” In 2023, EMEX also opened its first location in Kyrgyzstan, expanding its extensive branch network in Central Asia.

Into the future – with big plans

EMEX plans to continue growing in the future by investing in personnel management to attract new talent and in its own warehousing space, for example. Strategic marketing measures are to further strengthen the EMEX brand, while an expanded range of services will appeal to new customer groups. These include the Fourth Party Logistics (4PL) and Fulfilment Services divisions, among others.

“We have big plans – and of course we are already preparing for our 20th anniversary”, says Tatjana Vorobyeva. “Our customers rely on EMEX because their consignments are in good hands with us and reach their destination reliably and on time. This trust has brought us to where we are today and spurs us on to continue to improve and grow.”

Militzer & Münch Dubai: Strong in ship supply

About five years ago, the Militzer & Münch Dubai team moved from the city’s airport to the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) at the western end of Dubai, one of the largest free trade zones in the world. The move was the result of the country unit’s strong growth, which is still ongoing: Militzer & Münch Dubai is continually expanding its range of services and its customer base is growing. The supply of ships on the water is developing into a particularly successful line of business.

At the location in the Jebel Ali Free Zone, the Militzer & Münch Dubai team focuses on the transport of ship spare parts. For some time now, there has also been an increasing demand from customers for the complete supply of ships. In addition to spare parts, this includes the delivery of further technical equipment, consumables, bonded goods, food for the crew and maintenance services. Militzer & Münch is responsible for the procurement of equipment and goods, their storage, and delivery on board the ships – even beyond the Jebel Ali Free Zone.

Growing market segment in the port of Fujairah

Thanks to the strong commitment of the Ship-Spares-team, led by Business Development Manager Kiran Kumar, the local company has seen a significant increase in orders for ship supplies at the Port of Fujairah. Located on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the port is a major hub for shipping in the Gulf region and the Fujairah Offshore Anchorage Area (FOAA) offers 133 berths for incoming vessels as well as a wide range of maritime services.

“Our aim is to offer our national and international customers an all-inclusive package with real added value in ship handling, from spare parts in transit to catering for the ship’s crew” says Anil Manath, Managing Director of Militzer & Münch Dubai.

Militzer & Münch not only handles ships moored at offshore anchorages in Fujairah but also ships in transit. For this “midstream” supply, Militzer & Münch exclusively delivered more than 200 shipments in UAE waters by using hired supply boats and made over 50 round trips in 2023 – aside from deliveries to local agent’s boats. The ships served by the Militzer & Münch Dubai team currently come mainly from international waters while passing through the OPL (outer port limits) and inner anchorages of the United Arab Emirates during bunkering and maintenance.

“The port of Fujairah has become an important location for us and we expect a further increase in the volume of orders for ship supply”, says Anil Manath. “We will continue to expand our local presence in the future so that we can provide our customers with a central one-stop-shop for the optimal handling of ships round the clock.”

“I have to constantly reinvent myself”

Lauriane Boyer joined Militzer & Münch France eleven years ago. As Air & Sea Director for Militzer & Münch France, she is constantly tackling new challenges in the sea and air freight industry. We asked her how the company copes with the challenges, what opportunities are opening for the industry, and what makes Militzer & Münch a good employer in times such as these.

 

How is the sea freight business in France doing at the moment?

The French sea freight market cannot escape global problems. We too are seeing a decline in global volumes, particularly on the Asia-Europe trade lane, due to consumer restraint and inflation. I also expect the current attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea to have a major impact on our industry in the coming weeks and months. We at Militzer & Münch however expect positive business development in the sea freight sector, albeit in a difficult business environment. Competition is tough, but this difficult environment also holds opportunities for our company.

 

What are the main goods Militzer & Münch France (Air & Sea)  transports?

The Militzer & Münch France teams mainly transport general cargo and dry freight, such as mechanical equipment, electrical goods, textiles, and various materials for local production. On a spot basis, we mainly transport pharmaceutical products, hazardous goods or dry foodstuffs. This is also where I see growth potential for the future.

Militzer & Münch France currently counts some 1,000 customers. Most of them are medium-sized companies, which allows us to spread our business risk. Our most important customers come from the humanitarian sector, from label and adhesive film production and from the freight forwarding industry.

 

What were the most important milestones for Militzer & Münch France (Air & Sea)?

For almost ten years, we at Militzer & Münch France have been pursuing an investment plan. Over the past few years, we have implemented a number of measures to strengthen our global organization as well as sales and marketing, to expand our team and, above all, to improve our results. We put a lot of effort into promoting the Air & Sea product internally so as to make sure everyone within the Militzer & Münch France organization is familiar with it and to convince our existing and potential customers to place their orders with us. We can be proud of this achievement, which will help us to continue growing in the future.

 

What plans does Militzer & Münch France have for the future?

In the context of Militzer & Münch France’s diversification strategy, we expect Air & Sea to become one of our main products in the coming years. This is why we are building our Air & Sea development plan around several themes. They include the development of intra-group partnerships between Militzer & Münch and TransInvest to strengthen our own network, as well as the acquisition of agents in countries where the Militzer & Münch Group is not yet active. We are also planning to develop pure Air & Sea consolidation products (Air & Sea LCL). The Southwest Europe & Maghreb region is to be promoted with combined solutions between the Maghreb and the rest of the world via France, and our sales activities in France are to be strengthened. All these measures will help us navigate through these challenging times.

 

Are there any important projects in the pipeline for Militzer & Münch France?

There will be numerous challenges for our company in the area of digitalization and data management. To give an example, we need to embrace artificial intelligence as an opportunity and a serious tool that will help us to improve and speed up our decision-making processes.

 

What is your career background and what are your tasks at Militzer & Münch?

I have 15 years of experience in our industry. I started my career as a customs agent at a renowned company in France that focused exclusively on air and sea transportation. I later became a forwarding agent and team leader there. The start of my career coincided with the global financial crisis of 2007-2008, and I quickly learned that I had to constantly adapt and reinvent myself in this profession.

In April 2024, I will celebrate my 11th anniversary at Militzer & Münch France, and I can say that I have never been bored. Today, as Air & Sea Director, I am responsible for the organization and development of our product. I work from our office in Pusignan, Lyon, and head my own team there. I regularly visit all our offices in France so that I am always where the action is. Militzer & Münch France Air & Sea employs 30 colleagues in eight offices. We operate from ten customs airports and six ports in France. I also regularly support our subsidiaries ACTE International and ITPL with Air & Sea issues.

 

What do you like about your job? What makes Militzer & Münch a good employer?

In our industry, we are all driven by passion. This motivates us in our daily work, which is all about solving problems and mastering unexpected situations. What I like best is that there are always surprises. Routine is just not my thing! I enjoy spending time with our teams. I truly value the trustful and transparent cooperation with committed managers. At Militzer & Münch, teamwork and flexibility are very important, and we cultivate a real pioneering and family spirit. We promote innovation, and decisions are made in a fast and direct manner.

Most of our competitors are paralyzed by their large and cumbersome organizations. With us, this is not the case. Militzer & Münch’s global structure is dynamic and offers lots of opportunities for career development and mobility. When I participated in our Talent Management Programme, I noticed that this attitude is shared by many within the Group. No matter which country we come from, we all have the same values. This makes Militzer & Münch a successful company – and a great employer.

 

 

From Japan to Turkmenistan with 200 excavators and bulldozers

M&M Militzer & Münch Turkmenistan is involved in a major national transport project between the State Committee for Water Management of Turkmenistan and the Japanese trading company Itochu Corporation.

Between October 2022 and December 2023, the Militzer & Münch team participated in the transportation of a total of 200 earth-moving machines from Japan to Turkmenistan by sea and land. The 167 excavators and 23 Komatsu bulldozers were first shipped from Japan to the Turkish ports of Izmir and Derince on ro-ro ships. From there, they were transported by truck through Georgia and Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan. Spare parts and oils for the Komatsu machines were shipped by container from Japan to Turkmenistan via the port of Poti in Georgia.

The vehicles are intended for projects of the State Committee for Water Management of Turkmenistan. This involves the water supply of agricultural areas, the creation of additional water reserves, the construction of new barrier lakes and the expansion of the capacity of existing reservoirs.

In this major project, Militzer & Münch not only handled the transport, but also the inspection of the cargo, unloading, arrangement of import customs clearance and additional services on site as requested by the customer.

“We already have experience with transport projects for government agencies in the region. The renewed participation in a government project proves the reliability and excellent service of M&M Turkmenistan.”, says Nikolaus Kohler, Regional Managing Director Middle East / Central Asia. “I am more than convinced that with our experienced team we will be able to win over more customers and partners to place their trust in Militzer & Münch in Turkmenistan.”

M&M Kazakhstan: Lots of good reasons to celebrate

The Militzer & Münch country unit in Kazakhstan was founded in 1993. Its development is impressive: Today, M&M Kazakhstan offers its customers national and international transports on all transport routes, as well as customs clearance – and all this with great success. The team is growing, as is the customer base; the range of services is continuously expanded, and new markets are opened.

In summer 2023, around 70 employees and customers of M&M Kazakhstan came together in a restaurant in Almaty to celebrate Militzer & Münch’s 30th anniversary with a colorful entertainment program featuring live music, a dinner buffet, and cocktails. Of course, a birthday cake had to be part of the event.

Zlata Kim, Managing Director of the Kazakh country unit since 2019, has closely accompanied and driven the development of the company in recent years. “We can be very proud of what we have achieved over the past three decades,” she says. ”We offer our customers transport logistics services at the highest level. We are constantly expanding our portfolio and adapting our services to current requirements. In the field of renewable energies, we have been able to handle some impressive projects, such as the transportation of large quantities of components and modules for solar plants from China to Kazakhstan.”

There is a close trade relationship between Kazakhstan and China; the European Union, however, has recently turned into the most important economic partner. Which also applies to M&M Kazakhstan. “Rail transports play an important role here, but at the moment, truck transports from Europe are also in high demand from our customers,” says Zlata Kim.