Dubai, June 29, 2010: Marking another successful step in the ongoing development of Dubai World Central (DWC) as the premier regional hub for international logistics service providers, Hellman Calipar Healthcare Logistics today announced the launch of its unique healthcare logistics facility based at DWC.

Hellman Calipar, a strategic joint venture between Hellman Worldwide Logistics of Germany and Calipar Integrated Logistics of India, offers a unique concept of healthcare logistics services aimed at maintaining product integrity throughout the supply chain.

Hellman Calipar, which brings together two leading international logistics brands, will offer its range of specialised pharmaceutical and healthcare products across the region through its logistics centre located at DWC. The company's presence at DWC corresponds to its need for a fast-cycle logistics environment and access to high-speed, global connectivity, Hellman Calipar's co-owner said.

Logistics is regarded as a crucial part of the pharmaceutical industry since the activities are highly time-sensitive. In addition, pharma products need temperature-controlled storage and distribution. The industry has given importance to logistics by focusing on supply chain and logistics level activities, such as delivering the product to the end-customer at the right time, right place, in a secure mode and at a competitive operational cost. Therefore, the establishment of Hellmann Calipar at DWC is an ideal option for the company.

"Pharmaceutical and healthcare logistics, as a concept, deals with susceptible and time-sensitive products that need to be carried through the supply chain in a controlled manner," Jost Hellman, Co-owner, Hellman Calipar, explained. "As such, it needs to be supported by a highly efficient logistics environment that allows fast-cycle transit, high-quality technological infrastructure and global connectivity through a fast, multimodal transportation network.

"Due to this unique characteristic, there are very few logistics hubs that can fully serve the requirements of healthcare logistics, and we are glad to have found the ideal home in Dubai World Central."

"Healthcare and pharmaceuticals are specialised verticals that require comprehensive and high-tech logistics infrastructure," said Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation. "Already, healthcare and associated industries in the region are estimated to be worth nearly US$100 billion, underlining their importance to the economy.

"Given the high population growth rates, lower infant mortality rates and increased life expectancy across the region, the need for high-quality healthcare services is likely to grow rapidly in the future. At Dubai World Central, our value proposition has always been centred around our ability to meet such unique and specific needs for speed and connectivity."

"The concept of a fast-cycle logistics environment, with global connectivity and multimodal transport, is ideally suited for companies that require such advanced and high-speed settings," said Rashed Buqara'a, Chief Operating Officer, Dubai Aviation City Corporation.

"Additionally, the creation of the Dubai Logistics Corridor will shorten the transit time for companies based in Dubai World Central, by creating seamless connections between Jebel Ali Sea Port, JAFZA, DWC and Al Maktoum International, further validating the decision of companies such as Hellman Calipar to base their operations within this hub.

"We are confident that Hellman Calipar will immensely benefit from its presence in Dubai World Central," he said.

Hellman Calipar will provide its customers with end-to-end supply chain solutions, including supply chain design, research and development, manufacturing, transport and distribution. The company's healthcare logistics centre is strategically located within Dubai World Central and in close proximity to DWC-Al Maktoum International Airport.

The 140 sq. km. Dubai World Central is part of the Dubai Government's overall 2015 strategy to enhance the emirate's transport and logistics services and capitalise on its geographical location to make Dubai a regional hub for logistics. Over 30 leading international companies have already committed to establish a base in DWC, with growing interest from a number of multinational companies.