GSSA F


noted. In this evolving backdrop, ECS Group has strategically adapted


operations to remain competitive and responsive to the changing dynamics of the air freight market in India. “At ECS Group, we understand that success comes from anticipating


market needs and delivering unmatched value. In India, a market that epitomises economic and logistical growth, our per formance this year has been nothing short of extraordinary, achieving 300 percent of our budget,” Adrien Thominet, ECS Group Chairman, stated. “We’ve focused on enhancing our partnerships with airlines to ensure


we can provide our clients with optimal capacity and services,” Kunder continued. “This adaptability has allowed us to streamline our operations and


improve ef ficiency in handling increased volumes. “Additionally, we’ve invested in digital tools to better understand


shif ting market demands, enabling us to of fer personalised solutions to our customers. “ECS Group is positioned to capitalise on opportunities that arise from


the current trends, ensuring that we continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients in the region.” “Our Indian subsidiary, GAC, has risen to become one of the top five


contributors to our global results,” Thominet continued. “This success is a testament investments commitment


in to


to the dedication of our technology with providing


tailored, local CargoTech,


teams, our strategic and


our sustainable, and


solutions. India is not just a key market for us; it is a cornerstone of our global ambitions.”


Success factors The key to growth for airlines and General Sales and Service Agents (GSSAs) in India’s current landscape lies in their ability to embrace a multifaceted approach that


incorporates growth,


sustainability, and specialisation. “Airlines and GSSAs must


digitalisation, remain agile, adapting quickly to market


trends and customer demands,” Kunder expressed. This requires capacity expansion, exploration of new routes, and


investment in emerging markets. Furthermore, the aforementioned role of digitalisation is vital to operational ef ficiency and by adopting data analytics and automated systems, ECS Group enhances transparency across the supply chain and improves customer experience. Implementing data analytics and automated systems can optimise enhance


processes, intelligence decision-making, learning to and create improve


throughout the supply chain. “ECS Group has made significant investments in artificial and machine


service of ferings, including predictive pricing and capacity management through tools like Apollo and Quantum,” he highlighted. “We collaborate with CargoTech to


integrate cutting-edge technologies that


streamline enhance operations data-driven teams and and decision-


making at the service of all MDs. Those tools are being used by the Indian


strengthen the


dif ference in term of added value when it comes to competition.” From a sustainability perspective,


ECS Group is clear that a unified industry approach is key to achieving necessary developments. ECS Group and TUI have partnered


on a sustainable


unwavering connected


“Prioritising sustainability alongside growth and digitalisation, and


specialisation, stakeholders can address environmental challenges and drive long-term success,” Kunder stated. The fourth pillar is providing specialisation, which focuses on niche


markets, particularly pharmaceuticals, perishables, and e-commerce. “By


of fering tailored services, companies can build relationships with clients and enhance service value,” he continued.


Driving demand e-commerce has emerged as a major driver in India’s air freight industry, with companies increasingly looking for quick and reliable delivery solutions; with a growing focus on health and wellness, the demand for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products is on the rise; the agricultural sector is thriving, with increased exports of fresh produce; and as India continues to strengthen its position as an automotive hub, there is increasing demand for the timely shipment of automotive components. “These segments collectively contribute to a vibrant air cargo


landscape in India, driving innovation, ef ficiency, and the overall growth of the industry,” Kunder outlined. “The boom in e-commerce has significantly increased demand for


fast and reliable air cargo services. “India is a major player in the global pharma supply chain, and the


need for ef ficient air transport is critical for timely delivery. “Air cargo provides the necessary speed to maintain the quality and


freshness of these goods as they reach international markets. “Air freight plays a crucial role in ensuring just-in-time delivery for manufacturers.”


Capitalising on opportunities The air freight industry in India is dynamic but faces several potential pitfalls and challenges that could unsettle the market, including global supply chain disruptions,


strong


AIR CARG O WEEK


“Airfreight plays a crucial role in ensuring just-in-


time delivery for manufacturers.”


rapid technological change, and capacity


issues during peak seasons. “By addressing these challenges proactively, we can strengthen our


operations and continue to provide reliable air freight solutions to our clients, regardless of external circumstances,” Kunder elaborated. “Events such as pandemics or geopolitical


tensions can disrupt transparency


supply chains and trade routes. To prepare for such scenarios, we maintain flexible contingency plans, allowing us to adapt quickly by leveraging alternative sourcing and routing options. “We prioritise continuous training and development of our workforce


thanks to our digital training platform discovery, alongside investing in cutting-edge technology to stay competitive. “We strategise by maximising fleet utilisation and exploring partnerships with other carriers to ensure that we can meet demand ef fectively.” With that set up,


looking forward, ECS Group


sees a significant opportunity in the evolving air freight


landscape across India and the


surrounding regions. “As regional economies grow, there is


a rising demand for air cargo services. We are expanding our network to include emerging markets, enabling us to tap into new customer segments and strengthen our footprint in these regions,” Kunder expressed. “New trade


agreements between India traf fic. We 09


and


various countries can create opportunities for increased air cargo


aviation


fuel (SAF) initiative, which provides 1 percent SAF on all TUI flights since August 2022, with an option for clients to increase SAF content for their shipments.


seize these export and import opportunities. “By


are researching potential markets to strategically position ourselves to leveraging opportunities, we are well-prepared


to expand our services and continue delivering value to our clients while contributing to the growth of the air freight industry in India and the surrounding area.”


www.aircargoweek.com


9 DECEMBER 2024 ACW


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