GF-X OPENS EXCHANGE

GF-X OPENS EXCHANGE    Global Freight Exchange Ltd., a U.K.-based business-to-business e-commerce start-up, has opened its wholesale air freight exchange for forwarders and airlines after completing a pilot of the system in September.
   GF-X has received significant support from leading air freight concerns. Deutsche Post AG and Lufthansa Cargo are among the largest investors in GF-X. Other companies working with the marketplace developer include American Airlines Cargo, British Airways World Cargo, Cargolux Airlines, Continental Airlines Cargo, Danzas AEI, DHL International, Emirates SkyCargo, Fritz Cos., Kuehne & Nagel, Exel, Panalpina, Swisscargo and Yusen Air and Sea Service.
   New members continue to come on board. GF-X recently has secured commitments from China Airlines, Geodis, Schenker and UTi Worldwide. GF-X will work with these and existing clients in coming months to expand systems infrastructure needed to use the exchange.
   “There are several key challenges in continuing to promote electronic trading,” said David Ravech, co-chief executive officer at GF-X. “First, ensuring all users have the infrastructure required for speedy access to a secure trading system over the Internet; and secondly, educating an expanded base of users about new ways of transacting business.
   “GF-X is enthusiastic about working with all its carrier and forwarder clients in designing and implementing the change programs required to bring about this transformation,” Ravech said.