IMPERIAL Logistics acquires InSync.

Oils automotive offering.

IMPERIAL Logistics, a global leader in logistics and supply chain management has acquired 60% of automotive logistics and supply chain specialist, InSync Solutions. Following the establishment of Panopa locally in 2010, the union further entrenches IMPERIAL Logistics’ service offering to the automotive industry with particularly time sensitive and accuracy-driven logistics needs.

InSync contributes to IMPERIAL Logistics being a trusted Logistics Service Provider (LSP) to the automotive sector, through design and operational solutions that improve vehicle production speed and control at reduced cost and risk. The company will operate within the IMPERIAL Logistics Consumer Products division and will report into member company, IMPERIAL Distribution.

“InSync enables IMPERIAL Logistics to deliver a comprehensive solution to the automotive industry from a basis of industry understanding, robust Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) relationships and blue chip customer experience,” says Heinrich Strauss, MD of IMPERIAL Distribution.

He says that the company’s operational and consulting track record is excellent. “Its strengths lie in delivery of integrated and synchronised logistics solutions for complex requirements. It is known by OEMs for its logistics solutions design and development, and the ability to implement complete solutions.”

Between 2008 and 2010, InSync participated in a consulting role on a project at Volkswagen Group South Africa. The task was to create a synchronised plant logistics process that could meet the high speed production cycle of the New Polo line. The team achieved the goal of supplying at a line speed of 2.4 minutes vs. the previous Polo at 6.5 minutes cycle time. This was a major step for Volkswagen Group South Africa towards its goal of becoming a world class automotive plant in South Africa.

InSync’s customers also include Mercedes, Tiger Wheel & Tyre, Midas and Hyundai. “In the automotive sector, purchasing is becoming a global activity that requires local executive ability. IMPERIAL Logistics provides us with global reach, which is imperative within such market dynamics,” says Niel Cronje, MD of InSync.

Cronje, who was previously Vice President of Production Control and Logistics at Toyota, refers to the need for greater logistics service offering integration for OEMs. “A group such as IMPERIAL Logistics can deliver this,” he says. “We are looking forward to sharing best practice and solution design approaches with Panopa International and IMPERIAL Logistics International, whose Just-In-Time logistics track record to brands such as BMW, General Motors, Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen is impressive.”

Strauss adds that InSync understands OEMs at a senior level and is able to translate strategic intent into supply chain design and operations. “From warehouse layout, equipment, process and systems design to implementation – the team understands the intricacies of the sector and has a hands-on approach to its consulting offering. In this way, they really become part of the customers’ management team,” he says.

“We are excited about the growth opportunity that we have through becoming an IMPERIAL Logistics member company. We can now offer much more comprehensive solutions to our customers as we have access to substantial local and international resources and support. This we believe will realise exceptional value for our customers,” concludes Cronje.

About InSync Solutions

Automotive logistics and supply chain management specialist, InSync Solutions was established in 2006 by two former senior Toyota employees. In 2011, global logistics and supply chain leader, IMPERIAL Logistics acquired a 60% stake in the company. Its team, operating within IMPERIAL Logistics’ Consumer Products division services the South African market, with the ability to upscale as required by customers that include Volkswagen South Africa, Mercedes and Hyundai. InSync’s deep understanding of design and operational solutions for the automotive sector, together with its trusted reputation with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) enables it to deliver improved speed and control within the supply chain, at reduced cost and risk. For further information, please visit http://insyncsolutions.co.za/.

27th July 2011