TNT Express expands RP operations with new tie-up

European based courier company TNT International Express has signed a five-year mmemorandum of agreement with Airlift Asia Inc (AAI) as part of its ongoing expansion program in the Philippines.

TNT country general manager Jose Luis Romero-Salas described the agreement as a major step in its bid to corner the still large and untapped markets in several high growth areas around the country.

"We have always been known as a company that handles large corporate accounts. This agreement now gives us the leverage to have an even bigger presence in Metro Maila and Cebu and gain a major foothold in strategic industrial areas nationwide," Romero-Salas said.

The agreement with AAI, one of the biggest freight forwarding companies in the Philippines will have TNT Express products and services made available in its area of operations.

AAI is expected to fully utilize all its 16 depots and outlets strategically located nationwide to serve as pickup and delivery points for export and import shipments.

Initially expected to benefit from the tie-up are export related companies that require fast paced package and courier service.

"We maintain that we offer the best cost efficient service to local companies. With this agreement, our products and services just got better," Romero-Salas said.

AAI general manager Alfonso Santiago for his part said the agreement was a perfect complement to their line of business.

"We have domestic and international freight forwarding, logistics handling, and customs brokerage. Now, with TNT Express, we are able to enter into courier service," Santiago said.

Both parties are expected to exploit the full potential of the partnership that has been created with the launching of other innovative products and services.

TNT Philippines was established in 1982 and has since grown to be one of the major players in the local courier industry.