IMPERIAL Logistics scores hat-trick at PMR Awards

Johannesburg, 15 September 2010 - IMPERIAL Logistics, a global leader in logistics and supply chain management is once again the proud recipient of several PMR Awards, with member companies, The Cold Chain and TFD Network Africa having received the Silver Arrow and Bronze Arrow Awards respectively.

The PMR awards confirm IMPERIAL Logistics' leadership in the FMCG industry, with proven delivery in ambient, chilled and perishable supply chain management solutions. The Cold Chain received the highest rating in the Chilled and Frozen Products category, while TFD Network Africa competed in the General Supply Chain Management category.

PMR Africa recognises leaders in the South African FMCG Supply Chain industry for outstanding business processes, commitment to customers, innovative solutions and fulfillment of service level agreements.

"The Cold Chain plays a leading role in the provision of end-to-end supply chain solutions," says Jonathan Hartley, Acting Managing Director of The Cold Chain. "We manage the largest basket of Chilled and Frozen Products in the South African FMCG industry from forecasting, warehousing, distribution, inventory and debtors management on behalf of our customers to sales, merchandising and reverse logistics."

"Receiving the PMR award is acknowledgement of our long-term commitment and achievements in the market," Hartley says, adding that the company focuses on providing reliable, consistent fundamental services and tangible value add solutions.

Nico Koekemoer, Managing Director of TFD Network Africa says, "We are thrilled to be recognised again for our leadership in the FMCG supply chain industry. In line with our vision and development strategy, we continuously invest in our processes, people and technology to accelerate performance and sustainability."

"We have allocated significant resources to the development of integrated and leading edge IT systems that have fast-tracked our advancement in effective warehouse management, inventory management and distribution. Our award is evidence of TFD being a true Lead Logistics Service Provider," he says.

TFD Network Africa and The Cold Chain operate within the IMPERIAL Logistics Consumer Products Division, which provides an integrated supply chain solution to a wide range of FMCG and Retail companies, as well as the agriculture markets in southern Africa.

PMR Research conducts annual national surveys on FMCG supply chain management companies, measuring service levels and customer satisfaction across various industry sectors.

Companies are rated across a range of 25 attributes, including collaboration, technology development, cost effectiveness, flexibility, innovation, just-in-time deliveries, problem solving, facilities, commitment to customers in adding tangible value, competence, thoroughness, reliability, administration and overall fulfillment of service level agreements.

"Awards such as these provide logistics and supply chain companies with critical measures from which to consistently develop best practice in the industry. We are proud of our member companies who are winners, year after year," IMPERIAL Logistics Consumer Products CEO, Dougie Truter concludes.

About IMPERIAL Logistics

IMPERIAL Logistics is a global logistics and supply chain leader that moves business and industry through innovation, inspiration and foresight. Through its established Southern African and International divisions, IMPERIAL Logistics' service delivery comprises fundamental logistics and end-to-end supply chain management solutions to blue chip customers in almost every industry. As a preferred logistics outsource provider, IMPERIAL Logistics positions itself as an extension of its customer's business, building its customer's brand alongside its own. IMPERIAL Logistics Southern Africa is a multi branded business, categorised into four key divisions, namely Transport and Warehousing, Consumer Products, Specialised Freight and Integration Services. IMPERIAL Logistics International comprises four operating units, namely Panopa Logistik, neska, IMPERIAL Reederei and Brouwer Shipping. For further information, please visit www.imperiallogistics.co.za.

About TFD Network Africa

TFD Network Africa is a member of the IMPERIAL Logistics Group and a major player in the third party ambient warehousing arena. TFD focuses on effective warehouse management, inventory management and distribution, supported by up-to-date IT systems and automated procedures. The TFD distribution network has been developed and optimised to ensure reduced turnaround times from order to delivery. TFD believes strongly in establishing solid relationships with its customers in order to become their leading logistics partner. For more information, please visit: www.tfd.co.za.

About The Cold Chain

The Cold Chain is a member of the IMPERIAL Logistics Group and specialises in the provision of a comprehensive range of logistics and supply chain management services of chilled and frozen products. It focuses on effective warehouse management, inventory management and distribution solutions. The Cold Chain also provides sales, merchandising and pioneers market intelligence services to more than 30 of South Africa's top food manufacturers, through its dedicated division Mercor Solutions. Operating from 12 distribution centres across southern Africa, The Cold Chain has built a reputation of high quality service, exceeding its customers' requirements in an effective and efficient way. For more information, please visit: www.thecoldchain.co.za and www.mercorsolutions.co.za.