Asian carriers accounted for approximately 40 per cent of global air cargo traffic last year, while sustained consumer demand in the region and beyond is creating a growing need for innovative cargo management solutions. Recognising this demand, CHEP Aerospace Solutions has nurtured a business model that helps raise the industry's competitiveness by offering the world's largest pooling and repair of air cargo containers or unit load devices (ULDs) and galley carts. Backed by the financial strength of Brambles, CHEP is the collaboration of Swiss-based ULD pooling specialist, Unitpool, and two of the industry's most respected maintenance service providers, JMI Aerospace and Driessen Services. Covering Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, CHEP offers complete management of more than 53,000 ULDs in more than 300 airports. It boasts the largest global network of 50 certified repair centres and provides round-the-clock tracking and customer support from its global operations centre in Bangkok. "We're continuously strengthening our global network and this gives us an advantage in the market," says president Dr Ludwig Bertsch. A main attraction to clients is the operational efficiency that CHEP proposes by applying its expertise to the entire chain covering logistics and repairs to renewal of ULDs and galley carts. With no capital expenditures, clients can expect nearly 15 per cent reduction in operational costs. CHEP's ULDs are 20kgs lighter than conventional aluminium containers. This translates to real savings of approximately HK$310,000 on fuel per aircraft yearly. The value proposition, coupled with long-term environmental concerns, has signalled leading airlines, such as Air Canada, Jetstar Japan and AirAsia X, to turn to CHEP. Focused on attracting Asian partners, CHEP is in talks with several major carriers in the region. "We can provide economies of scale to Asian airlines and help bring significant positive impact to carriers and their associated affiliates," Bertsch says. CHEP Aerospace Solutions www.chep.com/aerospace
