Matson Global Distribution Services makes its debut

By Jeff Berman, Senior Editor -- Logistics Management, 4/16/2007

OAKLAND, Calif.—Matson Integrated Logistics (MIL), a subsidiary of multimodal transportation services provider Matson Navigation Company, recently announced it is bolstering its capabilities with a new subsidiary, entitled Matson Global Distribution services.

This new unit will be comprised of warehousing and distribution, freight forwarding, and non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) services, according to the company. And it added that Matson Global will compliment its existing product offering from ocean transit to inland distribution, as well as help it to better serve its growing domestic customer base and become a more well-rounded third-party logistics (3PL) provider.

MIL president Bob Papworth told Logistics Management that the addition of Matson Global will give provide shippers with warehousing and distribution services, which are at the epicenter of the supply chain.

“We will now manage the entire supply chain process for our customers, from warehousing to distribution, using the most cost-efficient transport mode available - truck, rail, ocean or air,” said Papworth.

MIL added that Matson Global will provide significant benefits for the company’s China-Long Beach Express ocean transit service. Company spokesman Jeff Hull said this service was established in February 2006 and since then it has forged a reputation for reliable, expedited service from Ningbo and Shanghai to Long Beach.

“As Matson Navigation continues to build its reputation in the China market, the company will benefit from Matson Global’s focus on providing warehousing and distribution services for the growing Asian market,” explained Hull. “Through MIL and Matson Global, Matson Navigation’s China service will be able to offer customers premium service far beyond port to port operations.”