Logistics provider Kuehne + Nagel has expanded its presence in India with the start of new operations at a facility in Pune dedicated to the automotive sector.
The ‘Automotive Solution Centre’, established in one of the company’s existing facilities in Pune, will supply a range of services to carmakers in the region, including vendor managed inventory just-in time and just-in-sequence deliveries and cross-docking.
The company has been present in India since 1987 and already operates 47 warehouses at 26 locations throughout the country for a range of industries including automotive. A spokesman said that, given its this coverage, and the strong presence of the automotive sector in Pune, it was “a logical, strategic step” to set up a dedicated solution centre for the industry.
Asked about the challenges of operating in India, the growth of the market was something that Kuehne + Nagel needed to focus on. “It is a big challenge to not only keep on track with this growth and changing customer needs, but to be always a step ahead. The local knowledge is of utmost importance, combined with the global network,” said the spokesperson.
Another challenge the company faces is the transport infrastructure in India, something demanding good coverage and a comprehensive network. “A facility alone will never do, cargo has be brought in from the seaport/airport, must be customs cleared, stored and delivered. So the entire service portfolio, including consolidation and LCL services will contribute to the success of the Pune facility,” he said.
“We are strong on imports and exports, being present at all major seaports and airports, provide warehousing, logistics and local distribution. With the facility in Pune, Kuehne + Nagel India is increasing its service portfolio and providing additional know-how for the automotive customers in India,” he added.
The facility is similar to the Kuehne + Nagel’s facilities in Bremen and Shanghai and is supported by the company’s global network of integrated logistics services.
