Could you provide an overview of GEFCO’s presence in Romania and the importance of the energy sector in your portfolio?

When GEFCO first entered the Romanian market about 15 years ago, we started from scratch and have since established ourselves as one of the top logistics players in the country. Our portfolio boasts hundreds of industrial clients, with whom we have built strong, long-term relationships. We attribute this success to our trust and proximity with clients. The energy sector is one of our strategic areas of focus in Romania and globally due to its rapid development. Our energy clients primarily consist of the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors, and we provide them with transportation services across Europe, as well as to and from China and the United States. We recently organized a complex bulk cargo transportation operation from Constanta to Turkmenistan, which involved navigating the Danube River and crossing the Caspian Sea.

As a global company, how does Romania fit into your overall operations strategy?

We were unsure of what to expect when we first entered the Romanian market, but it has proven to be a positive experience, and the country now plays a strategic role in our organization. We have established a substantial subsidiary here and find that Romania offers many competitive advantages. Its location on the Black Sea, between Eastern and Western Europe, provides numerous transit opportunities across the continent. Additionally, the country’s industry is well-developed, especially the automotive sector, which boasts two major car manufacturers. We believe there is still significant potential for development in Romania.

What is your evaluation of Romania’s infrastructure and customs operations?

Infrastructure is crucial for logistics, but it is a level playing field for all parties involved, and any problems we encounter are likely to be faced by our competitors as well. While highways and railways have room for improvement, we welcome any plans to upgrade them. Customs operations have not posed any problems for us, as we have experts handling the procedures who work closely with the authorities.

How is GEFCO adapting to technological innovations in the transport and logistics sector?

Innovation is a core focus for GEFCO. We anticipate significant changes in how people consume goods and services and want to take an active role in shaping these developments. As a result, we invest in IoT solutions, artificial intelligence, big data, and other innovative technologies. We utilize drones in our warehouses and connected glasses to measure goods’ volumes. Recently, we launched the Innovation Factory program, encouraging employees to submit ideas that are then presented to the board and developed into real projects. Additionally, we have established the “Innovation Watch and Business Intelligence” team to monitor global market developments and anticipate changes. With the rise of electric cars and autonomous vehicles, we recognize that these changes will significantly impact our business, and having this knowledge gives us a competitive advantage.

What are your plans for GEFCO’s future in Romania?

Currently, GEFCO is one of the leading logistics companies in Romania and the top player in the automotive sector. Our plan is to maintain this position while expanding our portfolio to other industries, with a specific focus on the energy sector. We already have all the necessary capabilities to provide complex solutions tailored to the industry’s needs.