Global Logistics Network
Interview with Martijn van der Geer, Director of Skynet Worldwide Express B.V.
The world is getting closer together. With its specialization in far-flung destinations and challenging transports, Skynet Worldwide Express contributes to this. The logistics company based in Amsterdam has a global network that also focuses particularly on express transports. This network enables the fast, reliable, and secure delivery of packages and goods to any country and territory worldwide.
Wirtschaftsforum: Martijn, what would you name as special strengths of Skynet Worldwide Express to a potential client?
Martijn van der Geer: We are very flexible, listen carefully to our customers, and provide personal service. There is always someone available to reach at our company.
Wirtschaftsforum: And what services can you offer your customers?
Martijn van der Geer: As a parcel carrier, we are particularly comfortable in the niche of distant destinations and special assignments. Our motto is 'Small enough to care, big enough to deliver'. Especially in e-commerce, there are many opportunities to collaborate with us. For example, we serve many countries in South America for Amazon, and in South Africa, we are active for Temu.
However, there are also other countries like Morocco and Tunisia where we are actively involved. The common markets are not so interesting for us; we see our strengths more in countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique, Lebanon, Israel, or Singapore. Thanks to our network, we can also offer an express service in the Netherlands. Within the country, for example, we deliver spare parts in just an hour and a half using our own vehicles. Here, we are also present at other airports in addition to Shiphol. We offer export shipments worldwide. Additionally, postal services are part of our portfolio. With our global network, we see ourselves as a one-stop shop for our partners: B2B or B2C, including handling all customs formalities.
For this, we have our Skysafer Road Network Europe. Specifically for Germany, we have a gateway for postal services and express shipments with a hub in Frankfurt and a hub in Munich. In Frankfurt, Jobst Leder is the contact person for customers. Frankfurt–Amsterdam–London is a daily connection. In Munich, Oliver Thurner and Bastian Weber assist customers; here Munich–Milan is a daily connection. This makes it easy for German companies to connect with the European network of SkyNet.
Wirtschaftsforum: Who are your customers?
Martijn van der Geer: Here our range spans from small to large. Notable clients of ours include Amazon, Temu, Cartier, and Johnnie Walker.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you maintain your existing customers and through which channels do you address potential new customers?
Martijn van der Geer: Innovation and technical adjustments to existing products play a role here. For marketing, we focus on search engine optimization and online presence. We are also present at trade fairs, such as the 'Deliver' in Amsterdam.
Wirtschaftsforum: What importance do digitalization and sustainability have for you?
Martijn van der Geer: Digital interfaces integrate us into our clients' processes. Being in the market for 50 years is inherently sustainable. In the Netherlands and Great Britain, we have an electric vehicle fleet. With our CSRD project, we aim for long-term zero CO2 emissions.
Wirtschaftsforum: How would you characterize the corporate culture of Skynet Worldwide Express?
Martijn van der Geer: Change is in our DNA. We employ staff ranging in age from 22 to 66. Our mentality is hands-on.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are your plans for the coming years?
Martijn van der Geer: We definitely want to become even more well-known. With new offerings, we also want to drive our growth. Moreover, the further expansion of remote destinations is on our agenda.