With only DHL serving the region in the 1980s, Fadi Ghandour was struck with an idea. Why not fill an obvious void with a local delivery arm for international courier companies. Now the premier Middle Eastern courier service, Aramex’s longevity and stamina have baffled its detractors.
Synonymous with first class service and a fastidious approach to logistics, Ghandour’s company also possesses a boast-worthy business model. It was the first Arab company to meet the necessary requirements to successfully go public on the Nasdaq stock exchange in 1997 and then again in June 2005 on the DFM, the Dubai stock exchange. On average Aramex earns XXX in annual income. Within the next few years, it is hoping to achieve an 18 per cent growth in revenue and 20 per cent increase in profitability.
For the next three years its projections are ambitious with an eye to becoming the fifth global logistics and express transportation service provider through acquisitions and quality service. Its current purchase of Twoway Vanguard has opened up markets in the UK, Ireland and Holland to add to its heavy presence in the Middle East and South East Asia. But with sustainability comes responsibility and Aramex also does that well. It has committed to fully eliminating leaded gas consumption and to begin using hybrid cars by 2009.
With over a-quarter-of-a-century of success, it’s easy to look back and be awed by how much Aramex has accomplished with its wide-ranging products from worldwide delivery and freight forwarding to custom and brokerage and Shop&Ship service allowing non-residents to have a mailing address in the US or UK. Most compelling, though, is its stubborn determination and, to all intents and purposes, its success in staying ahead of the game.
Company Aramex
Founded in Amman, Jordan
Profits
Why First Nasdaq-listed Arab company, far-reaching network, expansive services, 6,000-strong workforce
