SB Global Logistics in $10 million new build

13 November 2013

SB Global Logistics in $10 million new build with Christchurch International Airport

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Continued expansion at Christchurch-based SB Global Logistics is prompting the company’s shift to new premises being design built by Christchurch International Airport Ltd (CIAL) at its Dakota Park business subdivision in Russley Rd.

Work is scheduled to begin later this year on the mammoth 5000m2 warehouse that is earmarked to open in May 2014 with the new offices to follow by October. Total cost of the facility to estimated to be $10 million.

SB Global Logistics was initially established as a freight forwarding business in 1990, expanding into logistics in 1996. The company now employs more than 50 staff and is on the expansion trail, having recently announced its purchase of another locally owned freight forwarding company, Cunninghame Global Logistics. Its alliance with global freight forwarding leader DB Schenker, of Germany, was established 23 years ago and has been a key factor in the company’s success.

General manager Reon Edwards said the company has outgrown its current facilities, located just off Ron Guthrey Rd near the airport with another specialised inventory managing centre in Hornby. The two warehouses currently total 3200m.

“We are absolutely confident in the Christchurch market and believe renewed signs of optimism are appearing across the broader business sectors. We’ve committed to a long-term lease in Dakota Park as we see logistics and freight forwarding services continuing to be in high demand as the rebuild gathers pace.”

While freight forwarding has been SB Global Logistics’ core business, Edwards sees significant growth opportunities in the logistics arena.

“We’ve already seen evidence of a number of national and international suppliers seeking logistics warehousing in Christchurch so that they are on the doorstep of the rebuild.”

The new facility is on a 13,500m2 site allowing plenty of scope for the future expansion SB Global Logistics envisages.

“Growing our logistics business gives us the opportunity to add value to our customers by being able to offer a range of warehousing and distribution services,” Edwards said.

The company specialises in intensive ‘pick pack’ operations, allowing it to customise orders for clients large and small.

Edwards said that crucial to the logistics business in today’s market is investment in IT.

“We have made substantial and on-going investment in warehouse management systems that account for every single item in a warehouse – its place, its movement, its delivery.

“In the old days you could rely on a forklift, four walls and good staff. Today you need good systems. The information needs to flow seamlessly between you and your customers.”

Dakota Park is an 80ha business park being developed by Christchurch International Airport Ltd.

Christchurch Airport CEO Jim Boult says the airport company is delighted to be undertaking this development for SB Global Logistics. 

“We will develop a significant new office and warehouse premises for the company, with an estimated development cost of $10 million. SB has occupied a building at the airport for a number of years, but the new development will enable it to consolidate its existing airport operation with its other division, currently off-campus. We look forward to continuing what is a valued relationship with SB Global Logistics and welcoming them to Dakota Park.”

ENDS

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