Agility has announced plans to set up a joint venture company with Schmidt Heilbronn, a leading European dry bulk chemicals logistics provider, to tap into the growing demand for dry bulk solutions in the region.

The JV combines Schmidt Heilbronn’s specialized expertise in bulk polymer logistics with Agility’s global logistics network, strength in emerging markets and in-house chemicals specialty.

The new venture, Samel will cater to the increasing need – especially across the Middle East – for dry bulk solutions on the back of rapid growth in chemical manufacturing in the region, said Agility in a statement.

Samel’s focus will be on the Middle East and other major developing economies around the world, it added.

The collaboration brings to the market - and to its customers - a complete package from design and construction to ongoing supply chain management, operations and dry bulk transport.

“Schmidt and Agility are delivering the right solution to the market at the right time,” said Andrew Jackson, president and CEO of Agility Chemicals.

“We now have everything we need under one roof to meet customer needs across the Middle East and beyond – including tailored financing packages, turnkey construction and modern, reduced carbon footprint freight methods,” he stated.

“This venture brings together a unique blend of experience and technical knowledge,” said Wolfgang Hoppmann, CEO of Samel.

“The degree of success with which our two companies have worked together is a tremendous platform for Schmidt and Agility as we look to the future and to the massive opportunity we see both in the Middle East and across emerging markets generally,” he added.

The companies have previously worked closely on the massive Shanghai Logistics Hub project, one of the biggest facilities of its kind in China.-TradeArabia News Service