Koppel Logistics Case Study: From Beneficiary to Supplier in Actionable Progress

Overview

Koppel Logistics is a 100% black woman-owned perishable logistics agency providing ocean and road freight services. As a beneficiary of the Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) Enterprise Development Programme, Koppel Logistics demonstrated notable growth across key performance indicators, successfully transitioning to a supplier role. The interventions provided by the programme led to an increased client base, expansion to new export destinations, and diversification of export products. The business also created a job opportunity, improved its financial management practices, enhanced operational efficiency, and achieved compliance with industry regulations.

Background

Koppel Logistics, a 100% black woman-owned perishable logistics agency specialising in ocean freight, has been navigating the industry’s complexities while maintaining its commitment to excellence and service reliability. With a focus on providing access to cold stores, ensuring compliance with stringent protocols, and offering comprehensive documentation consolidation services, Koppel Logistics has carved a niche for itself in the competitive landscape.

Challenge

Despite its aspirations, the founder struggled to manage all aspects of the business efficiently on her own. With a shortage of manpower, the absence of essential accounting systems, and the lack of online presence, the company struggled to assert its presence in the market. These challenges constrained marketing, financial management, and day-to-day operations. To actualise growth, the founder needed specialised support.

The Solution

Koppel Logistics turned to Damen Shipyards Cape Town for guidance and support. Through a comprehensive assessment of the company’s needs and challenges, DSCT’s Enterprise Development implementation partner, Zevoli Growth Partners devised a tailored solution to address each obstacle. From financial management training to the acquisition of laptops, the interventions were designed to bolster operational efficiency, enhance financial literacy, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The founder also met regularly with business coaches to sharpen business acumen.

Impact

The impact of the strategic interventions was nothing short of transformative. Within the programme period, Koppel Logistics successfully graduated from beneficiary to service provider, validating the effectiveness of the targeted interventions. In just 3 months, Koppel increased its client base from 3 to 19 export shippers. New exports opened up to Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana. The company handled its first air freight project and managed ocean freight exports for various products, including chilled meat, tractors, wine, rooibos tea, sauces, spices, gin, juice, and peanut butter.

The Results

The acquisition of laptops led to improved operational efficiency and reduced work turnaround time—hands-on financial training empowered better financial oversight and control. Through website creation, social media marketing, and branding support, Koppel Logistics established an online presence and started attracting new leads. Bringing on a new staff member, a young black female transport manager whose salary was subsidised through the programme, alleviated the pressure of wearing too many hats for the founder.

In addition to operational enhancements, Koppel Logistics prioritised compliance and regulatory adherence. With guidance from Zevoli Growth Partners, the company Registered with the Agricultural Produce Agents Council, as required by industry regulations, successfully navigated tax filings and VAT compliance, ensuring its operations were conducted with transparency.

Furthermore, the company’s digital marketing and branding efforts bore fruit, with leads pouring in and market expansion becoming a reality. The founder plans to hire additional staff, acquire warehousing space, and explore new services. Her ambition for Koppel Logistics is bold, and now her business is equipped with the capabilities and competitive edge needed to excel. Through strategic interventions and a commitment to excellence, Koppel Logistics emerged as a formidable player in the perishable logistics arena.