Airfreight wholesaler Air Menzies International (AMI) will move to a new purpose-built facility in Johannesburg as it looks to cater for ongoing demand growth in the country.
The new facility is based less than 1 km from OR Tambo International Airport and will replace AMI's existing facility on Aviation Park, Pomona.
The move is scheduled for September 2023 and will "increase capacity, improve efficiency and support long-term growth in the region", the company said.
The building includes a 47,500 sq ft warehouse.
"The introduction of a new, off-airport airfreight de-group warehouse for import customers will add to the wider range of freight services already on offer to the southern African market," AMI said in a press release.
"From the opening date, the new facility will be fully compliant with the relevant regulations from the South African Civil Aviation Authority, including Part 108, requiring all screening to be done on site."
The building will have solar panels installed on the roof to produce up to 80% of the facility’s electricity demand, as well as electric forklifts and 24/7 security and CCTV.
The company is also making upgrades to its specialist perishables facility at the airport, including expanded capacity and variable temperature control.
Jonathan Clark, chief executive, AMI, said: “We continue to see strong growth in our airfreight services in South Africa which has led to increased demand from customers.
"Our new building gives us increased capacity and modern facilities that will enhance the services we offer to existing and new customers while strengthening our position in the market.
“The strategic location of the new facility will make a substantial difference to our operational efficiency.
"Together with the planned upgrades to our on-airport specialist facility, it will also help facilitate the movement of exports and imports to our other branches in South Africa, in particular Cape Town, where many perishable and temperature-sensitive goods are sourced."
The additional facility is the wholesaler's second expansion this year after it added a new facility in Canada in April.
https://www.aircargonews.net/people/ami-makes-three-sales-appointments/
