By
Rebecca Gibson |
This article was first published in the Autumn/Winter 2018 issue of International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Why is Saifee a natural fit for the cruise industry?
Saifee is growing continuously and as such, we’re no longer managing what a ship supplier would typically refer to as a retail inventory – we’re now very much a wholesaler for food and provisions (known collectively as victuals) and technical supplies for cruise operators. We have more than 45,000 line items in stock and our distribution infrastructure enables us to operate with the cost and operational efficiencies of a retail giant. Our distribution network, combined with our interest in and commitment to the cruise industry, makes us a well-established and flexible supply chain partner for cruise operators deploying their ships in the Middle East.
How does Saifee operate?
We carry out programmes that are aimed at providing ship operators with competitive, volume-based procurement services for all the food, provisions and technical supplies they need for their vessels. This is possible due to our large storage and inventory systems, which enable us to deliver cost-effective, urgent supplies to our clients. We are particularly quality-conscious when it comes to the supplies we deliver – this is especially true when it comes to fresh produce.
Saifee focuses on carrying out clear, transparent communication with our clients. That way there are no surprises, and companies come back time and again to us because they get the service they require.
What makes Saifee a reliable partner for cruise operators?
When cruise operators have a ship with 5,000 guests, there is no room for error, delayed deliveries or providing poor quality supplies and services. At Saifee, we understand this challenge and we have the facilities, infrastructure and procurement capacity to effectively manage the requirements for large vessels carrying more than 5,000 passengers, and we do this efficiently throughout the season. Many of our existing cruise operator clients acknowledge our capabilities and appreciate the services we provide because we’ve supported them consistently over the years. We’ve built and grown our business on the pillars of reliability, integrity and trust for the past 50 years.
Can you share Saifee’s 2018 highlights?
Since last year, we’ve been growing our business and securing supply chain contracts across the cruise industry. Our investments in logistics are yielding great results, making us more competitive and agile. We’ve also enjoyed an organic increase in market share and we see this as a reward for our hard work.
What does the company hope to achieve in 2019?
Our key aim is to focus on building long-term supply chain partnerships with cruise vessels that are calling at ports in the United Arab Emirates.
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