Since inception in 2003, Star South has grown from South African wholesaler in the fruit market to a business that today covers retail, wholesale, and processing sectors across the globe. They serve a diverse range of international clients and boast an extensive portfolio of fresh produce. And this means that clients have access to a year-round supply of quality fruit, with shipments tailored to individual needs in both quality and quantity – and it’s all made possible by a continually optimised global supply chain.
But, as Founder Jaco Rheeder explains, Star South is more than just a supply chain. “We see our supply chain as more of a life-cycle,” he says. “It’s about creating connections – connecting good people with good prices and good, wholesome produce.”
Partnerships are paramount
This is why their relationships are everything. Over the years, Star South has established a solid, reliable distribution network of the most committed partners globally. And the strength of these connections is paramount with Star South International’s focus on cross trades.
Distinct from Star South Fruits, Star South International nevertheless partners with the former in a mutualistic alliance that ultimately benefits everyone, clients included. Star South Fruits is based in South Africa, a wonderfully diverse country in terms of climate and growing regions, which means that Star South International has access to many local farmers and growers – and a vast range of quality produce for export.
Star South International itself is based in Ridderkerk in the Netherlands – a prime strategic position for managing the complexities of cross trades. Rob Zevenbergen, Managing Director of the company, explains: “Cross trades – or triangle shipments – are truly beneficial for clients because they help them access new markets, lower costs and streamline operations so that they can get on with their business while trusting the experts to handle all the intricate logistics involved.”
In addition, Star South International is strategically irreplaceable in executing the administration and financing of their transactions, as Hans Stouten illustrates: "Our establishment in the Netherlands grants us access to the most sophisticated and efficient financial and insurance markets, benefiting our entire network of growers, customers and other service providers in terms of cost effectiveness."
Navigating the network
Star South works hard behind the scenes – carefully planning and aligning logistics to ensure success – but cultivating strong relationships within their network is perhaps the most important undertaking: as the farmer and retailer trust that the produce will complete the journey from the farm to table in perfect condition, so Star South must trust that their partners in logistics and distribution will play their vital part in this living enterprise.
For more information:
Karin Bouwman
Star South
Tel: +31 (0) 85 020 0809
karin@star-south.com
www.star-south.com