Hettich has opened an International Distribution Centre (IDC) in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Located in the free trade zone within Tanjung Pelepas Port, the IDC serves as the company’s logistic hub in South East Asian countries, as well as Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.
“We chose the Port of Tanjung Pelepas Free Zone in Johor Bahru because of its strategic location – its multi-modal global connectivity facilitates the transportation and distribution of goods. From Johor Bahru, we can easily deliver Hettich products to countries in Asia-Pacific seamlessly,” shared Philipp Rode, managing director of Hettich Marketing und Vertriebs.
According to Hettich, the IDC supports more than 20,000 stock keeping units (SKUs). Simplified and fast customs clearance from Johor Bahru into Singapore, which is in close proximity, ensures that Hettich’s customers based in the country will continue to enjoy convenient and uninterrupted access.
The new IDC is another important milestone in Hettich’s customer-focused logistics strategy. It offers shorter delivery times to clients paired with a broader range of products. In addition, the fewer shipment splits will translate to lower distribution costs.
“As we continue to grow with our partners in this region, we are mindful of our long-term corporate strategy goal, which is to synergise business success and responsibility towards the environment and society,” said Matthias Bertl, managing director of Hettich SEA. “We will continue to work towards a sustainability-focused business of enhancing spatial design projects with our high-quality and durable furniture fittings.”
The choice to house the IDC at Tanjung Pelepas Free Zone reflects Hettich’s journey to sustainability. Situated in the Iskandar Malaysia development, it has road access to three international ports and three international airports. By streamlining its supply chain management and optimising routes by air and sea, Hettich is implementing measures to reduce its carbon footprint by reducing energy and fuel use.
The IDC also plays another role in strengthening Hettich’s presence in South East Asia with the company having offices and experience centres in major markets in this area.
