Stemcor, the world's largest independent steel trader, has signed a long-term handling and storage agreement with logistics partner Katoen Natie in Antwerp, Belgium. The intention is to consolidate stocks of steel plate into a purpose-built transit and distribution centre to serve Stemcor's expanding European customer base.
The appointment of Katoen Natie coincides with a business improvement project whereby the entire supply chain from steel mill to customer has been analysed and optimised. Historically, plate stocks were held at numerous locations, fragmenting the inventory positions. This new central stock location will hold a wide array of both commodity and higher grade heavy plate and provide Stemcor's European distribution business with a flexible base to support further growth. In addition the central stock will serve the requirements of Stemcor's customers in African and Caribbean markets. It is anticipated that, by eradicating product overlap and centralising inventory replenishment control, stock levels and outbound logistics can be better forecast, resulting in significantly improved service levels. In addition to this central warehouse, Stemcor operates regional warehouses in France, Germany and Scandinavia for quick deliveries and bespoke logistics solutions.
Mr Robert Van der Weck Stemcor's Stockholding Director said that "Working with Katoen Natie, our efficient new transit and distribution centre will translate into better customer service. Stemcor's European plate business has an active customer base of more than 1,000 addresses, many of which are end users. The vast majority of these customers are located within a 650km radius of Antwerp, enabling short lead times when fulfilling orders. We are also adding a cutting and processing service to give our customers more choice."
