Rolls-Royce awards KLM and Kuehne + Nagel global contract

Ian Shellard, Programme Manager, Global Physical Logistics for Rolls-Royce outlined the reasons for selecting a single global service provider and in particular why the KLM, Kuehne + Nagel partnership was selected. “As our business becomes more global, both in terms of the supply base and the customers we support, we need international supply chains that are dependable, repeatable, cost-effective and that give us clear visibility of where the goods are at any point in time. KLM Aerospace Logistics and Kuehne + Nagel, in partnership, won this contract - against some of the very best alternative companies in the logistics industry, not least because the combination of KLM's long-standing experience in aircraft and engine support and Kuehne + Nagel’s extensive global network of offices and facilities was uniquely suited to understanding and fulfilling our needs. We have already seen significant opportunities for improved service and cost reduction and we are confident that this is just the start of a very successful relationship.”

Rolls-Royce plc will take advantage of a unique internet based track and trace system which combines the capabilities of KLM and Kuehne + Nagel’s stand alone systems. ‘SMARRT’ will allow Rolls-Royce full visibility of all parts in transit as well as detailing the Standard Operating Procedures and providing management reporting information.

“Combining KLM’s aviation skills and multi-lane control of freight capacity with Kuehne + Nagel’s operational strength, award winning IT systems and specialist knowledge in aviation logistics, provides Rolls-Royce with a unique logistics solution.” Says Chris Edwards, Director Airfreight, Kuehne + Nagel.

Gert-jan van Noordt, Director Aerospace Logistics, KLM, had this to say about the new relationship between Rolls-Royce, KLM and Kuehne + Nagel. “The employees of KLM Cargo Aerospace Logistics really look forward to working with Rolls-Royce. The contractually agreed improvement program for Rolls-Royce is a challenge for us but we believe is achievable based on our experience from the improvement program for KLM Engineering & Maintenance and other Aerospace customers. With the scale of the contract we are able to provide a unique product. This will be because we will be using the airlines CARGO and MRO expertise along with a global freight-forwarding network of Kuehne + Nagel.”

Rolls-Royce is also looking forward to the successful implementation of this contract and reaping the benefits of the partnership throughout the supply chain.

About KLM

KLM Cargo enjoys a reputation of speed, care and punctuality in airfreight transport. From its home base at Schiphol Airport, The Netherlands KLM Cargo serves together with partners more than 300 destinations worldwide. With a modern fleet that includes 17 Boeing 747-400 combi aircraft and 3 Boeing 747-400 Extended Range Freighters, KLM Cargo 's freight traffic was 4,400 million ton kilometers in the last year, with an average load factor of 72.9%. KLM Cargo has 2,700 employees worldwide.