Inchcape expands in Iraq

Inchcape expands in Iraq    Inchcape Shipping Services is expanding in Iraq with the opening this week of a cargo services office in the port of Umm Qasr in southern Iraq.
   The diversified port agency and logistics service company has a total of 257 employees in offices across Iraq, of which 90 percent are of Iraqi nationality.
   Inchcape said opening of the Umm Qasr office will complement its existing businesses and premises in the port. John I’Anson, Inchcape Shipping Services cargo services manager in southern Iraq, will be in charge of the office. He has already spent time working for the company in Baghdad and Basra “and is therefore experienced in how to deliver a quality service in a difficult environment,” Inchcape Shipping Services said.
   Inchcape Shipping Services has had a presence in Umm Qasr since March 2003, originally in support of the British military forces. Over the past 15 months, the company has expanded its military support function by adding port agency, liner representation, in-shore logistical support and marine surveying activities. Inchcape was appointed Lloyd’s agents in southern Iraq and also represents DHL Danzas in the port of Umm Qasr.