OREANDA-NEWS.  Cellairis, the world's largest cellular accessory specialty retailer, knows that mobile customers are all about speed. So when consumers are ready to buy the latest merchandise, such as phone chargers, batteries and protective cases, swift and smart logistics ensure the hottest accessories are available.
To meet this logistics challenge and customer expectations that products are in stock, Cellairis partnered with UPS (NYSE: UPS) to retool its complex supply chain operations and optimize warehouse operations. An important component is UPS Worldwide Express Freight, a successful global transportation solution that guarantees on-time service (1 to 3 days) and full visibility for urgent palletized air freight shipments. As a result of the entire supply chain redesign, the retailer expects savings of 5,000 hours and USD 500,000 annually.
"Because many of our franchisees have limited retail space to showcase and sell products, it's critical that Cellairis teams up with a logistics partner it can trust to ensure prompt and precise delivery of inventory at a moment's notice," said Taki Skouras, CEO of Atlanta-based Cellairis. "From scheduled day-definite, guaranteed delivery for critical freight pallet shipments to same-day rate quotes, UPS Worldwide Express Freight is essential to the success of Cellairis's operations worldwide."
The success of UPS Worldwide Express Freight demonstrates the company's commitment to leverage growth opportunities in air freight transportation. According to a 2013 Seabury forecast, the global large express air freight market is expected to grow at an average annual rate of close to 6 percent through 2017.
Since its introduction in January 2013, UPS Worldwide Express Freight has experienced fast growth in part because the solution offers a unique combination of guaranteed on-time service and innovative technology to streamline shipping and billing processes. These include automated shipment preparation, online tracking and bill consolidation.
"We expect UPS Worldwide Express Freight to grow 20 to 25 percent in 2014 because it is meeting our customers' needs for reliability," said Nick Basford, UPS vice president of international marketing. "Expedited and express services remain vital parts of our portfolio because they enable our customers to provide better service to their customers. UPS solutions offer customers a level of service excellence across all modes - air, ocean, rail and ground."
Earlier this year, UPS Worldwide Express Freight was expanded into the United Arab Emirates. This brought the total countries and territories served to 38 origin and 42 destination countries. And speaking of expansion, Cellairis has growth plans of its own.
"UPS will be a big part of our international expansion," Skouras says. "A year ago, I thought UPS was just a shipping company. Today I think of UPS as a strategic partner, making our whole business more efficient."