FINLAND. Leading logistics services specialists ME Group and VSD Logistics have joined forces to offer their clients a “pan-Nordic logistic solution” to their needs. The aim of the partnership is to drive volumes, increase efficiencies and focus resources.
The ME Group Рowned by the Wikl̦f Holding company Рis based in Aaland, Finland. It is the leading operator in terms of traditional ship chandling within Nordic duty free, with offices in both Finland and Sweden.
In June, the company extended its reach in Estonia through the purchase of Linsala Oü. It is also one of the leading liquor distributors to Alko (the state monopoly in Finland) and to the hotel and restaurant sector. In addition, as the parent company of Drinks Logistics Partner in Sweden, the ME Group enjoys a 10% market share in Sweden in terms of wine and spirits. Its annual turnover is about €220 million (US$242 million).
VSD Logistics describes itself as one of the leading logistics operators of beverages to the FMCG market, and of all types of product to Nordic duty-free. It enjoys a strong presence in both the Finnish and Swedish liquor markets – its next key target is Denmark. Turnover is estimated to top €600 million (US$660 million) in 2003.
ME Group head Nils Lampi commented: “The industry no longer separates markets into national borders. Our partnership is an optimal solution on a Nordic level for our present as well as future clients.”
VSD Logistics managing director Oystein Ronningen added: “Pan-Nordic solutions are an important step forward for the logistics services we offer. In reality it means a focus on centralisation of the resources, warehousing solutions, transport solutions, IT/IS infrastructure and possibly also of the organisation within a long term perspective. The advantages our clients achieve are more effective logistics solutions from the supplier all the way to the end customer, which again leads to cost efficiency and increased levels of service.”
