Interview: Nick Trott, Modern Freight Company

Nick Trott, general manager of Modern Freight Company (MFC), reflects on business in 2009 and looks ahead to a bright future in Middle East logistics.

When did Modern Freight Company (MFC) first establish its operations?
Our operations commenced in Dubai over 30 years ago as a liner agent, but we have since transformed into one of UAE’s leading logistics companies, with a central headquarter and three warehouses in Jebel Ali Free Zone, together with offices in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Doha.

How has the company performed during the global recession in 2009?
Like all companies in the industry, MFC has been affected by the crisis. However, we have been able to weather the storm very successfully due to the diverse nature of our business activities. With the slowdown in cargo moving by sea and air, it has been the logistics division where MFC has fared better than many local Dubai companies. In fact, our container depot operation has seen an excellent growth during the year, not just from the local clients, but from clients abroad. However, 2009 has not all been about business growth. It has been a period to reflect on improving the way in which MFC conducts business.

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FEATURED COMMENT Good interview and very well replied. Thanks and best regards, Darshana.   1 Comments Read more comments »

What have been the highlights of the year in terms of regional operations?
MFC has procured more warehousing capacity in Jebel Ali Free Zone to cater to the needs of our clients. In addition, we recently installed solar panels at our new canteen and prayer facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone. This will not only reduce costs quite significantly, but will also help to reduce our carbon foot print. We did not stop there. Being a quality driven company, MFC is now moving towards the health, safety and environment accreditation of ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18000. We have already trained our 250 staff and commenced the full risk assessment, which should result in accreditation by 2010.

What are your predictions for the company in the coming year?
It was almost impossible to predict the events of 2009 and 2010 may be equally as difficult. However, with us continuing to diversify our business activities and also concentrating on our highly successful core competences, we should continue to see our figures grow over the coming year.