FAST Logistics pitches shared logistics services to MSMEs at DTI session in Cagayan de Oro

FAST Logistics Group presented its logistics services for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at a learning session organised by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Misamis Oriental in Cagayan de Oro City, according to Mindanao Times.

The Enhanced Business Learning Sessions were run through the Cagayan de Oro Negosyo Center. They gathered emerging food and beverage and handicraft businesses to discuss operational efficiency, product development, quality management and business growth.

Melvin Mendoza, FAST's business development manager for Mindanao, said MSMEs can hand off transport, warehousing and distribution to a logistics partner and concentrate on improving and growing their products. He said Filipino entrepreneurs should be able to scale up "without having to build and manage an entire logistics infrastructure on their own."

Mendoza also explained how businesses can mix trucking, roll-on/roll-off shipping, sea freight and air freight to move goods across Mindanao and other parts of the country. The company described services aimed at smaller firms. These include shared logistics that consolidate small shipments, flexible warehousing, forward stocking that keeps inventory closer to key markets, and support for trade fairs.

Other topics at the sessions included product design and packaging, technology upgrading, food safety and good manufacturing practices, green production, and one-on-one operations management coaching.

According to the report, FAST's participation is part of an ongoing partnership with DTI Misamis Oriental. The company held a roadshow and roundtable with local MSMEs in January. It then signed a memorandum of agreement in May covering trade fair assistance and forward stocking. FAST has also opened a new warehouse in Opol, Misamis Oriental, to serve businesses in Cagayan de Oro and nearby areas of Northern Mindanao.