MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 11, 2013 — FedEx Trade Networks, the freight forwarding arm of global shipping giant FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX), has expanded its presence and service capabilities in the Latin America region through a series of strategic operational developments. Over the last several months, the company has executed an organic expansion plan including opening new offices, establishing alliances with regional service providers and launching new freight forwarding service options.
“FedEx Trade Networks is committed to delivering reliable supply chain solutions where our customers do business,” said Fred Schardt, president and CEO of FedEx Trade Networks. “Trade volumes continue to increase in Latin America, and our expansion efforts provide customers with greater access to superior freight forwarding in these emerging markets.”
Organic growth in the region has been a key part of the company’s aggressive global expansion. Continuing its goal to offer best-in-class freight forwarding solutions around the world, FedEx Trade Networks recently opened new offices in Brazil and Mexico. The company has operated in both countries since 2009 and added new locations in Rio de Janeiro, Guadalajara and Monterrey to its existing infrastructure. In addition to owned offices, FedEx Trade Networks has also established strategic alliances with locally-based regional service providers to enhance its coverage and extend its capabilities to reach 19 countries throughout Latin America.
FedEx Trade Networks also announced a new strategic alliance with Portlink Logística Multimodal Ltda, one of the largest freight forwarders in southern Brazil. This is the company’s largest alliance in Latin America, which increases its reach and capabilities in the high-growth Brazilian market. The alliance also gives Portlink Logística Multimodal customers access to the FedEx Trade Networks solutions portfolio and global network, while enabling both companies to build new business and strong customer relationships.
In another move to meet the needs of shippers in Latin America, FedEx Trade Networks now provides an air consolidation service between Mexico and Brazil. The new service combines customers’ shipments to help streamline their supply chain between the Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) and São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU). With this service, FedEx Trade Networks experts consolidate, coordinate, transport, track and facilitate inspections for businesses that want to make shipping between these two major airports faster and more cost-effective.
As trade in the Latin America region grows, so does the FedEx Trade Networks infrastructure and solution portfolio. The company’s continued expansion allows it to deliver efficient multi-modal transportation solutions, backed by global and local expertise, throughout Latin America.