Aramex, a leading global provider of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions, has announced the expansion of its operations across Ethiopia through a master franchise agreement with Logix Express.

Aramex Ethiopia will be inaugurating five outlets in Addis Ababa by August, which will increase the number of outlets in the city to 10.

With this move Aramex aims to cater to the country’s rapidly growing need for innovative logistics and last-mile delivery solutions, said a statement from Aramex.

Aramex’s operations in Ethiopia include door-to-door delivery and pickup, customs clearing, freight forwarding, and e-services, including Shop & Ship and Drop & Ship, said a statement.

Hussein Hachem, chief executive officer, Aramex, said: “As one of the world’s fastest growing economies, Ethiopia is an exciting market for us, and we believe there is vast potential to expand our specialised logistics services throughout the country.”

Outside the capital, the company currently operates two outlets in Dire Dawa and Hawassa and has plans to open five new outlets in Bahir Dar, Gondar, Jimma, Dessie, and Mekelle. Aramex Ethiopia also plans to further expand its operations by adding 15 new outlets by the end of 2017, it added.

“With the continued growing demand for logistics and transportations services in Ethiopia, we have already started planning for additional investments in technology infrastructure upgrades, and developing our local human talent to meet the needs of our customers throughout the region and globally,” he said.

Dawit Woubshiet, director of Logix Express, said: “Ethiopia is a key market for us and we have witnessed an increase in the logistical needs throughout the region.”

“The new facilities will complement our existing suite of services in Ethiopia, enabling us to expand our service offerings to effectively meet the domestic market needs,” he said.

“We also hope our expansion plans will help promote economic developments leading to better opportunities for all Ethiopians, and support efforts of the African Union to promote sustainable growth across the continent,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service