Groundforce is the 17th ground handling organization to become a member of Cargo 2000. The company enjoys a 69% market share of the Portuguese market and employs 2,700 staff at five airports. It serves major airlines including TAP Air Portugal, SATA International, Air France, KLM and Austrian Airlines.
In 2008, Groundforce handled nearly 123,000 tons of export and import cargo.
Fernando Melo, CEO of Groundforce, said: 'Cargo 2000 is a certification process that officially measures best practice and provides the indicators that are necessary for continuous improvement. Our customers already recognize our experience and the quality we deliver and now by joining Cargo 2000, we are further demonstrating our commitment to the complete fulfillment of all the industry standard requirements and procedures.
'Following the Continuous Improvement Process embraced by Groundforce Portugal, that includes Certification for ISO 9001/2000, OSHAS 18001, ISAGO IATA, ISO 14000, SA 8000 and Investors in People, Cargo 2000 will be an important complement and contribution to the path of excellence we are pursuing.'
In addition to Groundforce, Cargo 2000's ground handling members are Asia Airfreight Terminals, Atlas Air Cargo Terminals, Australian Air Express, Aviapartner, Cargo Center, Cargologic, Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals, HAWK Cargo Services, International Cargo Centre Shenzhen, Kenya Airways' GHA division, National Aviation Services, SATS, Servisair UK, Swissport, TAT Tianjin AirCargo Terminal and Worldwide Flight Services.
Lothar Moehle, Regional Director EMEA for Cargo 2000, said: 'With 28 of the world's leading airlines already members of Cargo 2000 as well as so many global forwarding and logistics organizations, it is clear that ground handlers want to also show their commitment to improving air cargo quality. They are a vital part of the supply chain. Given its strong position in the Portuguese market, Groundforce is an excellent addition to our membership.'
