The customs agency and logistics operator Partida, based in Algeciras, Cadiz, has just celebrated its 100th anniversary, and to commemorate the occasion, the company has organized some special activities to reflect on its history, achievements and commitment to its customers and partners.
"We have carried out a branding project, modernized our image, opened a new office in Algeciras where the staff feels more united, which encourages teamwork; we have invested heavily in IT tools, and in September we will celebrate this milestone with an event where we will bring together customers, authorities and staff," said Alvaro Partida, commercial director of Partida.
"Overall, our 100th anniversary celebration is a mix of recognition of our past accomplishments and gratitude to everyone who has been a part of our history and an enthusiastic look to the future," said Alvaro. "We are excited about what the next hundred years will bring and remain committed to providing quality services and innovative solutions to our customers."
Partida's major milestones
Some of the company's most notable milestones since its founding in 1923 have been the opening of a moving company and a customs agency in Tangier in 1948. In 1965, José Partida Toledo became established as Agentes de Aduanas (Customs Agents) in Algeciras. Already in 2001, Partida launched the first customs software: the Mannesmann Kienzle. In 2011, the company was awarded the AEO certificate. In 2018, Partida opened a delegation in the Port of Motril, Granada, to handle traffic with Morocco, and only two years later, the company became the first customs representative to obtain the Criminal Compliance certificate from Bureau Veritas. The investment group Everwood Capital bought Partida in December 2022.
"Each of these achievements has contributed to our reputation and success in the industry, and we are excited to continue building a bright future," said Alvaro. Partida's transformation over its 100-year history has been remarkable and reflects its ability to adapt to changes in the industry and in international trade, from its beginnings as a company focused on customs services, to its current position as an integral provider of logistics solutions and customs advisors-trainers.
"Over the years, Partida has obtained important certifications and gained recognition in the industry thanks to its quality and professionalism. It has also strengthened its reputation as a reliable leader in the field of customs and logistics management. Currently, thanks to the AEO certification, we have the capacity to operate in all customs locations in Spain. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and have a staff of 130 people distributed between the offices in Algeciras and Motril," said its commercial director.
The company has strategic alliances in place with key partners located in Morocco, Portugal, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, United Kingdom, Switzerland and Italy, among others. These have broadened its scope and given it the capacity to offer specialized services to its clients.
"In an increasingly globalized and technological environment, constant innovation in digital tools has helped us become a leading and modern organization. Our focus on quality, investment, in-house training innovation and adaptation to changing market needs has been key to continued success," said Alvaro.
What aspects could Algeciras improve as a port to further position itself?
According to Partida's commercial director, Algeciras still has aspects to improve as a port to be able to continue establishing itself in Europe.
"The most urgent would be the implementation of technological solutions and the automation of processes for para-customs procedures (Plant Health, Foreign Health and Soivre). It would also be vital to invest in PIF training, personnel and processes to speed up the physical inspections of goods."
"In short, the Port of Algeciras must continue asking the agencies and ministries for improvements, so that the situation we experienced during the first three months of the year, when there were huge delays in delivery dates, destruction of goods, complaints, claims... won't be repeated. We have to prevent Algeciras from becoming a problematic port, and allow it to work more efficiently to make the most of its strategic location, future demand and modern infrastructure."
Strong investment in technology and commitment to expansion for the coming years
"In the coming years, I see Partida investing in IT, implementing the latest technologies in customs management and logistics to improve the efficiency of its operations, speed things up at border points and offer more advanced tools to customers," said Álvaro Partida on how he sees the future of the company.
Besides, expansion is also on the agenda. "We want to open new branches in strategic national and international locations. We are finalizing the opening of an office in a location close to our customers and very relevant to the fruit and vegetable market," said Alvaro.
"We will continue to strengthen our customs advisory and training services. Going to our customers' homes to train them in foreign trade (incoterms, VAT and customs duties, invoicing, accounting, optimization of casuistry...) has been a success. Being able to 'speak the same language' is fundamental to continue being a reliable partner for our clients," he said.
"It is important for Partida to constantly assess market trends, client needs and emerging opportunities in order to adapt and evolve proactively. The company's renewed leadership is focused on optimizing internal resources, improving the customer experience and growing nationally," concluded Alvaro Partida.
For more information:
Álvaro Partida
PARTIDA – Logistics
T: +34 956 58 16 11
M: +34 652 09 44 32
[email protected]
www.partidalogistics.com