Tap into benefits of new logistics centre – Stephenson
THE KINGSTON Wharves Limited (KWL) Global Logistics Centre, a one-stop facility that offers opportunities for global logistics, warehousing of auto parts, tyres, and motor vehicle accessories was yesterday officially launched at Tinson Pen in Kingston.
Grantley Stephenson, chief executive officer of KWL, said that $150 million had been invested in the auto logistics centre located on 18 acres of land.
The KWL CEO told invited guests at the commissioning ceremony held at Tinson Pen in Kingston that the area would facilitate domestic motor vehicle distribution, locally. It will also be used as a transshipment centre for vehicles destined for other ports.
WAREHOUSE IN THE WORKS
Given the strategic location of the facility, Stephenson said that the logistics centre would also establish warehouses on the site.
“Seeing the value to our local clients, KWL has been expanding services offered and inviting local dealers and distributors of cars and car parts to tap into the benefits of the SEZ (special economic zones) by partnering with Kingston Wharves to create hubs and distribution centres here,” the KWL boss added.
Stephenson revealed that a local used-car distributor would be exporting pre-owned
cars from the centre in Kingston.
Another major used-car player in the local market will be occupying lands in the next phase, set to be ready by the end of January 2018.
In his remarks, Transport and Mining Minister Mike Henry said that 10 acres of government land would be made available at Vernamfied in Clarendon to relocate the aeronautical training school at Tinson Pen.
“Today, we are seeing the implementation
of the Cabinet decision to decommission the aeronautical training school to support logistics development in the port of Kingston.”
He said that over time, all the current tenants at Tinson Pen would be relocated to provide space to grow the logistics opportunities in Kingston.