SFN Operations Manager Jess Baker recently hosted two Zoom Socials for SFN members to connect, chat and discuss potential business opportunities.
Jess told us more: "The Zoom Socials are a great way to connect our members around the world for a fun, social chat. We met in the morning, and again in the afternoon, in order to include as many time zones as possible. Each person who attended was able to share some details on their company background and services, as well as making suggestions for potential business opportunities. I was also able to confirm to everyone the various ways in which I can support them in making the most of their membership; for example, creating news articles to promote their companies."
You can see a photo of each call below:
Some of the topics discussed included: handling of more niche forwarding services such as personal effects and dangerous goods; the effects of political instability on local forwarders in Kenya; the effects of the war in Europe on logistics routes; strikes in France and the effects on the ports; customs duty payments in India (with a poorly implemented new system causing chaos), and how investing in skilled staff is key to providing the best service.
At the morning session, the subject of ocean freight rates in China was also raised. Terry at Shanghai Young & Win Supply Chain Management commented: "Carriers are making things hard. Rates used to be valid for two weeks, now it's one week. We have to book in advance, to secure the space, but without knowing what the final rates will be."
At the afternoon session, Jose from Multitrade in Spain shared his thoughts on larger forwarders vs smaller independent forwarders: "We have seen larger forwarders ('the big sharks') losing some business. People care only about rates and less about service. Their rates may be lower but we keep on top of the cargo and help if there's a problem or a bad situation."
Some of the members who joined the discussion also shared their comments on the Zoom Socials: "It was big pleasure. Thank you for organizing this meeting," said Jonas at LOGNET, Lithuania.
"Thanks a lot with Zoom social yesterday! It’s been quite a while, so really nice seeing your face and other members, have a little talk with them. Thank you for your support and dedication as always," said Kay at Transportations, Japan.
Carlos from World Ocean Cargo Iberica in Spain, who attended both calls, also shared his thoughts on the Social: "It's good to see one another, not face-to-face but video-to-video! Helia from our company will be attending the next meeting in Costa Rica, too. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with SFN members."
Jess concluded, "It was great to hear the comments from our different members, to hear directly from them how things are going in their country. Connection is key to networking and we want to ensure we support all our members to develop as many relationships as possible within the group. Zoom is a great platform for doing so."
If interested in joining SFN and attending the next Zoom call, please complete the Application Form.