DUNCAN WATSON
LOGISTICS & DISTRIBUTION
Historically known as a ground handling giant rather than a global cargo player, Swissport has undergone a significant transformation in recent years.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical importance of air cargo in moving essential goods worldwide, bringing increased attention to this segment of Swissport’ s business.
“ Eyes have been drawn towards the cargo business more so than ever since the pandemic,” explains Duncan Watson, Commercial Director for Cargo at Swissport.
“ I think our results have delivered and woken everyone up to how important the air cargo element of the Swissport business is. It’ s getting a lot more focus and attention, which is great.”
This strategic shift has translated into tangible results for the company’ s UK and Ireland operations. Previously constrained by limited facility space, Swissport has secured backing for expansion to meet growing demand.
Duncan continues:“ After many discussions, we said,‘ if we can find new facilities, new sheds, new warehouses; if we can find room to grow, room to expand, then we think we’ ve got a big opportunity going forward’. And that’ s come to fruition because the company has backed the cargo division.”
Heathrow hub: a critical expansion London Heathrow Airport remains the UK’ s premier air cargo hub, handling approximately 48 % of all air cargo tonnage flowing through the country.
DUNCAN WATSON
TITLE: COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR CARGO
COMPANY: SWISSPORT INDUSTRY: AVIATION
Duncan Watson boasts a proven track record of achieving positive growth over the past three decades. He has amassed global experience, having worked in the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, Europe and his home country of the UK.
Swissport recently unveiled a brand-new air cargo facility – its fifth at Heathrow – aimed at enabling the safe passage and transfer of a range of goods, including those with a limited shelf life like flowers, food and pharmaceuticals.
“ At London Heathrow, we previously had four locations,” says Duncan.“ Having five gives us the ability to engage in some conversations with carriers that we couldn’ t speak with before we had that additional space.”
A key differentiator of the new facility, known as Building 588, is the inclusion of a border inspection post( BIP), essential for items requiring additional inspection, such as food and plants. This is particularly attractive to perishable goods handlers.
“ For those bringing foodstuffs and plants that need additional inspection at the BIP, that facility is there as well,”