For our newest Alfa member interview, we sat down with Ahmed Zein from Alexandria, Egypt. We talked about starting his own company, the importance of sustainability in the logistics field and his company’s secret to customer satisfaction.
How did you get started in the logistics industry and what has your journey been like so far?
I embarked on my journey in the logistics industry as an operation officer in a shipping line. I was promoted rapidly to become the Import Manager of that shipping line in four years, driven by a strong passion for problem-solving and a keen interest in streamlining the operation processes.
Right after completing my Master degree in Supply Chain and Interaction Trading, I decided to establish my company in 2014 as a company that can provide a new philosophy for the logistics service in the local market.
As my journey continued, we established a sister company in 2019 to handle the first level and on-ground logistics services, starting from trucking to lashing and packaging.
As a logistics services providers group, we are proud of our success. In almost 10 years, we became one of the leading groups in the local market.
If there is one thing that you could change to the logistics industry, what would it be and why?
Digitization is the current tender, thus, it already has the priority globally. But I’m more keen on cost efficiency. While there might be initial investments in adopting sustainable practices, they can lead to long-term cost savings. For instance, energy-efficient transportation and optimized routes can reduce fuel costs, and the use of sustainable packaging materials can contribute to overall cost efficiency and help in achieving our environmental targets.
How do you set yourself apart from your competitors?
During our initial years in my company, we dedicated ourselves to understanding the various facets of factories and traders’ logistics, from inventory management to transportation logistics and distribution. We decided to provide something different, not just elite services but to provide tailored services that suit our clients. That’s how we differentiated ourselves from the market and succeeded in gaining the reputation that we have now. Furthermore, that’s our secret in gaining customers’ satisfaction and securing our overseas agents’ business by satisfying their clients, whether they are manufacturers or traders.
What do you like most about the industry and your job in particular?
In one phrase: “The dynamic environments on all levels”.
What do you like the most about being a member of our logistics network?
Being a new member, I’ve noticed the effort of the management to encourage the members to collaborate and get in touch. Furthermore, the simplicity and eagerness to increase the cooperation among partners in the ALFA network.
How do you relax in your free time?
Sport Sport Sport! 😊
— Thanks, Ahmed !
