20 September 2007
New services to leverage upon years of extensive experience in the Middle East and Asia

Dubai: After delivering "Satisfaction" to The Rolling Stones and countless organizers of concerts, exhibitions and other events for more than a decade, GAC has strengthened its niche position as Asia's leading events logistics specialist with the establishment of GAC Events Asia.

The new service builds on GAC's growing reputation as THE service provider to meet the complex and challenging demands of event promoters and organizers throughout Asia.

Since the mid-1990s, GAC has successfully managed the logistics for shows staged by Alicia Keys, Robbie Williams, Shakira, The Rolling Stones and Christina Aguilera, as well as World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) tours.

The company also boasts an enviable track record in the specialised sector of logistics for events, bands and show concerts in the Middle East, handling majority of the entertainment logistics business in Dubai. The most recent events being Cirque Du Soleil's month long performance for the Dubai Shopping Festival earlier this year and the famed Roger Waters as well as singing sensation Shakira concerts. GAC also handled logistics for the PINK concert that took place earlier this month in Dubai.

With an established track record that demonstrates GAC's flexibility in handling a diverse range of shipments and customer requirements, GAC was appointed the logistics partner for the 15th Asian Games held in Doha, December 2006. Other sporting events GAC has handled include the 2005 World Superbike Championship, 2004 Marlboro MotoGP in Qatar, as well as the UAE Desert Challenge for the sixth consecutive year.

From its regional base in Singapore, GAC Events Asia offers a complete portfolio of services from international air/sea freight, customs clearance, packing, onsite supervision and set-up, as well as contingency planning and preparedness.

Group Vice President for GAC Logistics, Bill Hill says the launch of GAC Events Asia is a timely move that capitalises on the region's booming economy and steady growth in the events sector across the board, from entertainment performances and sport tournaments to trade exhibitions and conferences. The complex and demanding nature of event logistics demands a combination of a strong network, contacts and experience.

"Precision planning and execution is essential to ensure that all cargo - from staging, sound systems to costumes and props - arrive safely and as scheduled. There is zero margin for error," he adds.

"GAC is the leading provider in music events logistics management of any scale and complexity in Asia. We have been a familiar name in the sector, particularly in handling 'live' performances, for over a decade. What's new now, with the launch of GAC Events Asia, is our ability to consolidate our expertise and skills, and market our services directly to the decision makers."

GAC Events Asia General Manager, Ronnie Soon, says the streamlined process offers customers significant benefits, including a single point of contact and access to the GAC global network. Customers will also be able to tap into GAC's global purchasing power for competitive rates and access space - even during peak times - and rely on the Group's innovative approach to moving items with unique requirements or product launches.

"We have moved everything from one-of-a-kind, fragile items such as Sesame Street's Big Bird and costly, highly-sensitive sound consoles to the charter of aircraft for several big names in pop and rock," he says. "With the launch of GAC Events Asia, we look forward to handling many more."

-Ends-

About GAC Group
The GAC Group (GAC) is the world's largest independent shipping, logistics and marine services provider, with over 260 offices worldwide.

Established in 1956, GAC's core business covers three key areas - shipping, logistics and marine services. The GAC reflects value for money, quality, continuity, innovation and global reach.

GAC employs more than 8,000 people worldwide. The GAC Group corporate head office is in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. More info on www.gacworld.com

About GAC Logistics
GAC Logistics, the freight forwarding and distribution division of the GAC Group, specialises in a comprehensive range of supply chain and logistics solutions. These include air and sea freight, warehousing and distribution, door-to-door transportation, project logistics, international moving and courier services.

GAC Logistics operates an integrated worldwide network, serving international manufacturers, distributors and retailers from the FMCG, textiles, pharmaceutical, automotive, electronics and oil & gas industries.

About GAC Events Asia
GAC Events Asia is set up with the specific purpose to provide specialised logistics solutions to the events industry throughout Asia. These include the transportation of complex and time-definite cargo, handling all necessary documentation, and coordination with local authorities and customs formalities.

© Press Release 2007