Boutique Approach Boosts Logistics Operations: KENSA

Q: Many logistics companies say they offer tailored services. How does KENSA Logistics go beyond the industry’s standard? 
A: The reference to tailored services is quite common in the logistics sector; however, we prefer to say that we offer a boutique service, not because it is exclusive to a few but because we truly care about every last detail. When you enter a boutique, they greet you and offer you a glass of water and give a great service beyond just selling something to you. The treatment goes beyond just being tailored to your needs. We convey this to all our associates in the company since it is what we strive to offer to all our clients.

Q: Among the wide variety of industries the company serves, which is the most challenging? 
A: The logistics world has become increasingly complicated in recent years due to factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and lack of space as well as shortages of containers and drivers. However, logistics has always been a complex sector. 

The key is to have people who understand customer needs, which can be challenging. Generally, more complex solutions tend to be more expensive but we always strive to find those solutions that work according to the client’s specific situation. It also depends on the customer's budget and timeline. If there is an urgent deadline, for example, air freight may be necessary. But, if there is a limited budget, then trucking may be the alternative. It is about knowing the available options and offering the appropriate choice based on the customer's budget and needs. It is not so much about a specific industry but rather the specific time-sensitive requirements of each client that determine the complexity of the operation. 

Q: In which industry is KENSA mostly focused and how have you achieved a greater degree of specialization in this sector?   
A: We believe that specialization comes from people. This means that training people to specialize in specific services is better than just focusing on one industry. We have personnel who are specialized in customs, project management, automotive, retail and various sectors. However, sectors also change over time. Not long ago, the renewable energy sector was booming, so we had personnel within KENSA who specialized and received extensive training in solar and wind energy. However, that industry is not what it used to be, although it is projected to regain momentum at some point. In the meantime, KENSA is focused on industries that are currently in high demand, such as oil and gas, infrastructure and large-scale projects where significant stakeholders are involved.

Currently, automotive is our main sector. However, this industry has also changed. While, previously, it involved auto parts, there is now a significant trend of importing fully assembled vehicles. We are prepared to face these changes. 

Q: What are the main challenges when transporting goods all over Mexico? 
A: The biggest challenges in Mexico are port congestion and insecurity. Nonetheless, we have solutions to address each of these challenges. Depending on the product, additional security measures are implemented if the cargo exceeds a certain value, for example. Regarding port congestion, due to our years of experience and contacts in the industry, we can rely on support to prioritize our clients. Even though our company is relatively young, everyone here has extensive experience, which enables us to seek a better solution for our clients.

Q: How is the company dealing with poor transport infrastructure and security issues? 
A: Talk about the Port of Lazaro Cardenas is not the same as talking about Ensenada. Each port has its capabilities and limitations as well as its benefits. It is important to understand the extent to which we can operate at each port. For instance, today the Port of Progreso is completely saturated, with a queue of ships waiting to dock, but this is not a usual scenario. The norm is a completely different situation. In addition, within the peninsula, there are other alternatives. Due to our knowledge of Mexico in general and specifically that region, KENSA has other solutions to offer to our clients, which opens doors and allows us to provide alternative and often more cost-effective solutions to fulfill the needs of any project.

Q: How does the Mexican Army holding control of the country’s customs impact logistics operations?
A: It is a process of migration and change. Like any change, there is always resistance and a learning curve. Therefore, both our clients and ourselves, as well as the authorities, need to adapt and find ways to make logistics more efficient. Ultimately, the intention of the Army holding control of customs is to prioritize safety and efficiency. It certainly poses a challenge nowadays, and there is a great deal to learn. However, we know how to search for solutions and guide the authorities to ensure that we are doing things correctly. We do not simply aim for customs clearance but rather strategic solutions for our clients, such as when they are importing temporarily to subsequently export to different countries. There is a set of rules to comply with, and we seek to help our clients meet all those requirements without any issues.

Q: How do you expect projects like the Interoceanic Corridor or the Mayan Train to impact the company’s services? 
A: All companies around the world, especially following the pandemic, are in great need of efficient logistical solutions. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; it is important to have options and alternatives. The Interoceanic Corridor will provide us with another good alternative for those clients that aim to reach the Gulf of Mexico without going through the Panama Canal, for example. This is just one more solution and KENSA is actively participating in analyzing the alternatives together with various clients and suppliers to see how we can optimize logistics and assist clients. 

Q: How is KENSA contributing to a greener industry?
A: For some years now, KENSA has been part of an association called Econetwork, which is a Spanish based nonprofit organization with worldwide presence. It focuses on helping our clients reduce their carbon footprint. The first step is measuring this impact. Then, through this same association, we seek to offer our clients other options to reduce their footprint, like carbon offset bonds or tree-planting initiatives, which are certified by global authorities. Through these contributions, clients can help offset their emissions and make a positive environmental impact.   

Q: What are KENSA’s plans for 2023?
A: As a medium-sized company, we have the flexibility to adapt to our clients' needs and the market. Our plans have been in place for a while but we constantly adjust them as required. Currently, our focus is on strengthening our presence in Mexico by opening new offices in the next two months, starting with Guadalajara, Jalisco. We aim to be closer to our clients and provide them with the best solutions.