IJS Global, a global logistics service provider, announced that it has made the strategic decision to move the company's worldwide headquarters (EXO) from Stamford, USA to Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This decision reflects the undisputed position of the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area as one of the world's most important distribution hubs.
The news of the decision was placed on the website of ACN, the branch organisation for companies active in the airfreight industry. The European (EMEA) headquarters is currently located in Amsterdam and will move to London. The EMEA region has been the most successful and fastest growing region of the company and by moving the EXO to Europe the company plans to build on that strength by locating its global headquarters in Amsterdam, the gateway to Europe.
Giorgio Laccona, previously Chairman and CEO of IJS Global, has elected not to move to Amsterdam and is planning to pursue other opportunities. Sjoerd van Loon, formerly CEO of EMEA, has assumed the position of President & CEO of IJS Global and will be leading the company's organisation from its new Amsterdam-based headquarters.
In commenting on these changes, Sjoerd van Loon stated, "Since founded in 2004, IJS Global has successfully achieved rapid growth in revenues, which can be attributed to aggressive strategies, dedicated staff, and its continued focus on customers and service offerings. Today IJS Global proudly operates a global network of offices in 78 countries worldwide and continues to be well positioned for future growth".
The Netherlands, and the Amsterdam Area in particular, remains an outstanding choice for European distribution from a cost and quality perspective. According to a benchmark study by the Holland International Distribution Council et al, the main advantages of the Amsterdam Area as a distribution hub are:
Costs: The Netherlands scores among the best in terms of total supply chain costs. This is largely due to its unique location and the large volumes of intercontinental freight that pass through the country. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, for example, is the third largest cargo airport in Europe.
Labour market: The Amsterdam Area is ahead of other European cities regarding flexibility of labour. This is often crucial for upscaling or downscaling logistics operations. Additionally, the Dutch tax and customs authorities are the most efficiently business-oriented in the world.
Environmentally friendly: Due to growing opportunities for the use of environmentally-friendly modes of transport, which is further strengthened by its location within the European consumer market, the Amsterdam Area proves the undisputed choice for a greener supply chain.
IJS Global is a global logistics service provider from the United States and was formed in 2004 by Brynwood Partners V LP. IJS Global is active in: Air & Ocean Freight Forwarding and logistics services all over the world with global offices and warehouse facilities in over 80 countries.
The Netherlands: attractive European business location