6195 Barfield Road
Atlanta GA, 30328
United States
Over the course of the past few years, JAS Chicago has been one of the fastest growing and top performing branches within the global JAS organization. Then, in March 2020, the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting disruptions threatened to derail the results and momentum: the culmination of many years of hard work. Business continuity, especially consistency in high levels of customer service, was always goal number one, but shifting an entire office staff to a virtual work environment overnight while ensuring the safety of essential warehouse personnel was an incredible challenge.
While the immediate challenge was met head on, and successfully so, by the entire JAS organization, anxiety regarding the lingering economic impacts of the pandemic was ever-present. The challenge was now how does JAS adapt to a global industry that had essentially changed overnight. Based on the feedback of customers, JAS invested immediately into an own-controlled flight network with additional adhoc charter space to inject much needed air capacity on key trade lanes. Due to its strategic geographic location, warehouse, and airport infrastructure, Chicago became the US hub for both the trans-Pacific and trans-Atlantic flight operations.
In one month’s time, the uncertainty had begun to fade and the excitement about a new direction was taking hold. By the end of April 2020, the Chicago branch had transformed from a successful large local branch into a key strategic global gateway servicing the entire JAS network. This held its own challenges and many lessons were learned from issues that arose, but every challenge was met with hard work, determination, and an eye towards the future.
Over the following months, a continual drive to find efficiencies and improve the process and structure around the flight operations was a central focus. The JAS Chicago team knew that this would ultimately bring value to their customers while offering a differentiator in the market for future growth. Efficiencies in the warehouse were implemented in order to accommodate incredible volume growth in a limited space. Warehouse efficiencies resulted in faster turn-around times from flight arrival to final-mile delivery. High performing staff were given opportunities to grow into newly created gateway leadership roles, while no less than six other promotions within the branch were executed. New high-level talent was recruited and on-boarded that will one day grow into the future leaders within the Chicago branch and beyond.
In March of 2021, the annual USA Executive/Branch Manager meeting was held virtually. As a result of their incredible performance and impact to the JAS global network over the course of a most challenging year, it was announced that Chicago was named the JAS USA Branch of the Year for 2020. In the same meeting, it was announced that JAS Chicago would be expanding its footprint with plans to acquire additional warehouse space in the Chicago area in the very near future. These two announcements illustrate what has made JAS Chicago a true success story: utilizing the success of the past to invest in the future.
In the face of all challenges, thanks to the continued dedication and innovation of team members, JAS Chicago is able meet the needs of their customers. Especially over the last year, it is more apparent than ever, at JAS, people make the difference!
JAS team members worldwide celebrated Earth Month through various activities aimed at promoting sustainability and conservation. From beach cleanups to tree planting, each activity reflected JAS's dedication to making a positive difference in local communities and beyond.
In Germany, China, and Panama, JAS team members joined forces to plant over 1,300 trees. In Germany's Lower Saxony, to promote ecological resilience, employees chose a diverse range of tree species that they knew would thrive in the local climate and soil conditions. Similarly, in Xiamen, China, the JAS branch organized a poignant tree planting event aimed at enriching urban greenery and enhancing the cityscape, reflecting the team's commitment to sustainable development. Meanwhile, in Panama, JAS Panama collaborated with local organizations to plant native trees within the Camino de Cruces National Park, a vital initiative aimed at restoring habitats and preserving the region's rich biodiversity.
Simultaneously, in Taiwan, the Netherlands, Lithuania, and Sweden, JAS team members united their efforts as they cleaned up costal shorelines and forests, embodying their shared commitment to environmental preservation. With gloves on and bags in hand, they combed the beaches, collecting everything from plastic bottles to cigarette butts, restoring the natural beauty of the their local communities.
In Brazil, JAS team members partnered with the NGO Iracambi, and headed into the Atlantic rainforest to engage in various volunteer activities aimed at preserving this vital ecosystem. Through hands-on experiences like tree planting for reforestation and participating in educational workshops on sustainable practices, the Brazil team demonstrated their commitment to protecting biodiversity and promoting environmental awareness.
Andrea Goeman, Senior Vice President of QHSE & Sustainability, commented, "From tree planting to coastal cleanups, our collective actions reflect our dedication to making a real and tangible difference in the communities we serve. Through collaboration and shared responsibility, our teams contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come."
As Earth Month ends, JAS Worldwide stands proud of the collective efforts made by our global team to champion environmental stewardship. From tree planting endeavors in Germany, China, and Panama to coastal cleanups in Taiwan, Netherlands, and Sweden, and conservation efforts in Brazil's Atlantic rainforest, each initiative underscores our commitment to safeguarding the planet for future generations. These efforts exemplify the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility that defines JAS, inspiring us to continue our journey towards a more sustainable world. Together, we are paving the way for a greener, cleaner tomorrow.
At JAS, sustainability is a journey we're deeply committed to, and Earth Month serves as an ideal moment to shine a spotlight on initiatives that embody this commitment. One initiative that continues to drive positive change is JAS ECONTAINER, our innovative ocean freight solution designed to enhance operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
JAS ECONTAINER combines the efficiency of headload shipments with eco-friendly practices. This approach has been at the forefront of our efforts for some time now, as highlighted by Vice President, Global Head of LCL, Peter Sinka.
"In our ongoing journey towards sustainability, JAS ECONTAINER stands as a testament to our commitment to environmental responsibility," says Sinka. "By encouraging frequent replenishment and eliminating the pressure to fill containers to capacity, JAS ECONTAINER helps shippers reduce inventory costs, optimize warehouse space, and mitigate supply chain disruptions."
JAS ECONTAINER isn't just about operational efficiency—it's about driving meaningful change in the industry. Sinka emphasizes the product's positive environmental impact, citing its adoption of Marine Biofuel programs through insetting to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint.
"Our goal was to create a product that not only meets modern supply chain challenges but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability," Sinka explains. "By choosing JAS ECONTAINER, shippers not only benefit from cost savings and operational efficiencies but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future."
Beyond its environmental benefits, JAS ECONTAINER offers a competitive edge in the market. Sinka notes that the product bridges the gap between traditional LCL and FCL offerings, providing cost-effective solutions for shipments ranging from 20 to 50 CBM.
"Traditionally, LCL shipments face competitiveness challenges beyond a certain volume threshold," Sinka observes. "JAS ECONTAINER's pricing methodology ensures cost-effectiveness even for larger shipments, making it a preferred choice for shippers seeking optimal value and sustainability."
As businesses worldwide prioritize sustainability and operational efficiency, JAS ECONTAINER emerges as a catalyst for positive change. Its flat-rate pricing model, strategic consolidation strategies, and eco-friendly initiatives not only drive cost savings but also empower shippers to make environmentally conscious choices.
"In a world where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand, JAS ECONTAINER offers a compelling solution," Sinka concludes. "We invite businesses to join us in embracing a greener future—one shipment at a time."
JAS Middle East recently broke ground on an innovative 'Build to Suit' Logistics Hub in Dubai South.
This state-of-the-art facility will boast a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and environmental consciousness, aligning with JAS’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. Spanning a land plot of 212,160 square feet and a built-up area of 127,300 square feet, the ESG-compliant hub will be designed to tailor to specific logistic needs and prioritize eco-friendly practices.
In addition to its functional aspects, the property will incorporate other sustainability measures such as the installation of solar panels on its roof—allowing JAS Middle East to achieve ESG credentials. These panels will not only offset monthly utility costs but will help JAS Middle East increase its independence from the national grid (DEWA).
The office space within the hub, spanning 13,347 square feet over two floors, will offer modern amenities such as meeting rooms, open-plan working areas, and recreational spaces, ensuring a conducive environment for employees and clients.
“This project represents a significant milestone for JAS Middle East and its esteemed customers,” says Erwin Wittemaier, Area VP for the Middle East, “This strategic investment underscores our commitment to our customers and the UAE market. We look forward to deploying new technology to provide best-in-class logistics solutions.”
With the exciting groundbreaking of the Dubai Logistics Hub, JAS Middle East not only strengthens its position in the logistics sector but also sets a standard for sustainable infrastructure development in the region.
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