Geodis Wilson to handle AstraZeneca pharmaceuticals

GEODIS Wilson has been selected as one of AstraZeneca's preferred suppliers to handle its airfreight out of Sweden, the UK, Italy, France and Germany.

The scope of the business enables Geodis Wilson to handle 60 per cent of the airfreight from these countries. The contract runs for two years with an option of extending for one additional year. The revenue potential is estimated at EUR20 million (US$27.29 million) per year. The Geodis Wilson assignment covers all parts of the world, a company statement said.

"What makes the assignment so special is the high level demand of temperature management, quality management and lead-time accuracy that apply for handling pharmaceuticals," said Martin Svantesson, global account manager at Geodis Wilson.

The distribution of pharmaceuticals, with all the rigorous controls throughout the supply chain, presents a challenge to logistics operators. "Throughout the chain, the temperature of the shipment must remain within agreed temperature range; a sustained temperature-controlled distribution is an absolute must."

Geodis Wilson was selected as one of the preferred suppliers owing to its pricing, company culture and the speed with which it could handle shipments.