For more insight on what this award means for BDP and our customers, we asked Kevin Connor, Vice President of Global Airfreight Transportation, a few questions:
1.) Why is this Quest for Quality recognition important for BDP? for BDP's customers?
BDP is extremely honored and humbled by this recognition for a number of reasons. We are a recognized leader in the ocean freight industry but have certainly been making a name for ourselves over the past several years when it comes to airfreight. This award serves as a validation to our efforts - we want to cement the BDP name throughout all aspects of the global logistics industry, and continue to provide a high echelon of airfreight service to our esteemed customers.
2.) What are some of the major milestones for BDP's Air Transportation team?
Our team achieved numerous milestones in recent years, but we are very proud of the record-breaking year we had in 2016. Due to the high amount of airfreight kilos that we moved on behalf of our customers, we were delighted to see the BDP name climb into the top 15 list of IATA’s top air forwarders in the US. Beyond that, BDP is always striving to be the best, and deliver quality service. Our recent accolades from the past several years are a tribute to the unique, personal, and family-owned culture that is felt through the entire organization. We have been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for three consecutive years, and have earned silver-level ratings for the past four years for our commitment to corporate social responsibility.
3.) In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge customers are facing in today's market?
Customers are much more aware of ups and downs in today's markets, so the biggest challenge is information flow. Companies are looking to streamline the entire supply chain, so it makes it that much more important that they have the most up to date and accurate information possible. And that is really the challenge for airlines and forwarders as well. Technology has evolved so much in the past 15 years, so those of us in the business need to ensure the air freight industry is evolving with it. Forwarders and customers are in need of up to date information, real-time updates, and 24-hour access to shipment statuses. The biggest challenge is for the industry to keep up with the rapidly changing times.
4.) How will BDP continue to be a differentiator?
BDP has always followed the non-asset based model, and we will continue to move forward with our ability to be agile, nimble, and easily adaptable. In today’s market, we need to be creative and innovative in order to deliver a range of dynamic of supply chain solutions to our customers. This includes utilizing our robust supply of vendors, our global footprint, our industry expertise, and our industry-leading visibility technology.
