Sofie’s Harbour Journey and the Power of Women in Leadership
With a physical presence in Europe's pivotal ports and international offices strategically located in places such as France, Brazil and Southeast Asia, Manuport Logistics boasts an extensive network of premier partners that extends its reach across the globe. At the heart of this logistical powerhouse is Antwerp, where the company has its headquarters and where we find Sofie De Vree, a seasoned freight forwarder specialising in chemical products for a major client.
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'At Manuport Logistics, I enjoy a workplace culture that breaks the norm.’
Hotel California
Sofie organises container bookings with shipping companies, predominantly steering exports to Asia and America, while also managing imports from Canada and Singapore. She has been with the company six years, the last two dedicated to chemical logistics. 'My journey in the maritime industry began in 2007', Sofie recalls, 'although I did briefly leave the sector to explore other avenues, l even was a train conductor for a while!' The allure of the maritime world proved irresistible, however, drawing her back into its embrace. In her words, 'It is like in that song, Hotel California, you can check in, but you can never leave.' Her familial ties to the maritime industry are deeply rooted, with a father who served as an import supervisor and who cautioned his children against the industry's demanding nature. Despite this advice, Sofie and her sister eventually found their way into the martime fold.
A stance to be different
Acknowledging the sector's demanding nature, Sofie recognises that it is not for those confined to a nine-to-five mentality. She also notes the challenges the maritime sector faces, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. 'Higher costs, more rigid procedures and a growing distance in dealings with the centralised global headquarters of carriers have unmistakably changed the industry compared to when I started out', she says. However, her job comes with its unique set of advantages. At Manuport Logistics, I enjoy a workplace culture that breaks the norm, where women hold prominent managerial positions, distinguishing the company from the broader industry landscape.' The company's proactive stance to be 'different' is evident in events such as the boss's birthday party, staff gatherings and participation in community events like the Antwerp Ten Miles. While the maritime sector remains relatively obscure and misunderstood, Sofie underlines the familial nature of a port community like Antwerp's, where connections endure. 'People may leave a particular company, but you are bound to meet them again in another role', she testifies. The sector somehow combines vastness and global outreach with an undeniable sense of interconnectedness and tamiliarity.
© Patrick Verhoeven - Harbour Life
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Market situation – container flows – December '24
As part of our commitment to our partners, we share information and try to provide you with some context with periodic reports like the following, with relevant information on the logistics industry. To keep some overview, we have broken this report down into geographical regions and into bullets. Although not all trades are in the report, similar trends apply. If you require more detailed info on a specific trade or topic you can always reach out to your usual Manuport contact.
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Manuport Logistics Sets Sail with Pindar to Launch New Nautical Logistics Unit
Manuport Logistics (MPL) is excited to announce its partnership with Pindar, a leader in Marine, Sport, Leisure, and Event Logistics. Together, they are launching a new business unit: Nautical Logistics, which will focus on delivering yachts, spares, and equipment; providing ground support; and managing logistics for major nautical events.
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Manuport Logistics expands further: opening a fourth office in Indonesia
Earlier this year, Manuport Logistics (MPL) opened three new offices in Indonesia, located in Jakarta, Semarang, and Surabaya. Building on that successful growth, MPL is thrilled to announce the opening of a fourth office in Indonesia, strategically located in Yogyakarta. This latest addition brings the MPL Indonesia team to more than 50 members, including 10 team members in MPL Yogyakarta. This move marks a significant milestone in MPL’s continued investment in Southeast Asia, further strengthening our footprint across key economic regions.