CEO, Omani Integrated Logistics Services (ILS)
CEO, Al Madina Logistics
SALIM KASHOOB ILS, founded in 2008 as Oman’s first third-party logistics (3PL) company, focuses on integrated logistics solutions. The notion of 3PL was relatively new in Oman at the time of its creation, and ILS capitalized on this by specialized in warehousing, particularly cold storage. Cold storage, Haulage (container and loose trucks), cold delivery, Container freight station (CFS), and advanced freight forwarding are the core commercial activities of the company. To ensure effective product delivery to end consumers, ILS employs a variety of vehicles, including freezers, chillers, and dry vans. Aside from warehousing and distribution, ILS is operating in all Oman Gateway ports and airports as well as borders 24×7 and offers customs clearance services and many other added value services. In addition, ILS is also involved in many project logistics and runs a shipping agency called Salalah Shipping and Maritime Services, which represents vessels from various international liners and NVOCC companies from across the world.
MAHMOOD AL BALUSHI Market dynamics global and local always have a major influence on our operations, as logistics are considered support services for other business sectors. To mitigate all these effects, Al Madina Logistics focuses on its core competencies, which is providing efficient logistics and supply chain services with innovation. We have to provide value to our clients and focus on niche markets. As a result, we continue focusing more on customs-bonded facilities and dry port operations. We developed and now managing almost all dry ports in Oman. Mazunah Dry Port at the border with Yemen plays a vital role in trade facilitation. Sohar Logistics Hub provides quality standard inspection facilities for food safety and quality for almost all shipments via northern borders and seaports. Another aspect of our business is heavy dependency on electricity. To mitigate this challenge and still provide high-quality services at a reasonable price, we have installed a 2.5-MW solar system.
SK ILS is actively exploring the integration of AI tools into its operations. The company’s leadership uses AI available tools for their daily market analysis; however, the limited availability of data and a general lack of understanding regarding the benefits of AI present hurdles. ILS recognizes the potential of AI in predictive analysis and process automation, and the company aims to deploy such technologies, particularly in sales, as awareness and understanding grow.
MAB Using best-in-class software systems and technology is key for successful logistics service providers, and we place great importance on this to provide more efficient services and operations. It also helps serve our clients better with better real time data and analysis. To give this the right importance, we have transformed our IT department into a separate company called Bayanat Technology. This company is our IT arm that provides full support to the company as well as other interested parties. Currently, we have clients in Oman and in other GCC countries for the system modules. As part of our continuous development, currently, we are testing drones and eyeglasses that use AI to manage inventory and take stock counts. We test them in harsh environment conditions to better understand how equipment and operations work.
SK ILS is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. The company plans to transition its entire warehouse to solar energy and actively reuses water from its cold system for plant irrigation. Electric equipments are utilized wherever possible, and the company offers cold charging services for vehicles during waiting periods. ILS prioritizes cost-effectiveness, green practices, and emission reduction. However, the extent of these practices may vary based on client preferences, with some prioritizing sustainability as a bonus while others focus solely on the overall cost.
MAB Our commitment to environmental sustainability is ingrained in our operational ethos, and we actively pursue initiatives to reduce our environmental footprint. We have implemented the largest roof-top solar energy system in Oman that generates over 2.5MW. Furthermore, our facilities boast an environmentally friendly structure, incorporating LED lighting and an ammonia cooling system. Our distribution centers and logistics hubs are equipped with electrical forklifts, and we have embraced a completely paperless approach within our operations. Our facility, while not officially LEED-certified, aligns with LEED standards, reflecting our focus on creating environmentally friendly spaces. These collective efforts underscore our commitment to operating sustainably and reducing our ecological impact.
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