SSI Schaefer on track for expansion

New developments for material handling company in Dubai Logistics City, Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia. The forthcoming expansion of SSI Schaefer will continue on schedule in the Middle East, despite the onset of a global recession, according to the company’s regional director Geoff Wheatley.

The material handling specialist is approaching the completion of a multi-million dollar facility at Dubai Logistics City, which will provide a central base for operations in the Middle East and Africa. In addition, a secondary branch has been confirmed for Abu Dhabi to support a growing list of clientele in the United Arab Emirates capital.

“We have launched a self-sufficient branch in Abu Dhabi to provide a direct and high-level service to the local market, recognizing the cultural requirements of our capital city and our commitment to conduct as much business as possible in Arabic,” Wheatley explained to Logistics Middle East. “The operations will be managed by Abdul Latif, the first Emirati to be employed in this specific sector.”

SSI Schaefer is expected to make a final decision on the office’s location in the coming weeks, once its registration is completed in conjunction with sponsor Sultan Al Mansouri. The company also plans to expand its network into other parts of the Middle East and Africa to capitalize on growing demand for material handling solutions.

“A branch is being finalized for Saudi Arabia in 2009, possibly located in Jeddah, and we’re also looking at the first office for SSI Schaefer in Africa, which will be opened in Johannesburg by the end of the year,” ended Wheatley.