As government agencies scramble to replace logistics contracts, they can look to experts (companies) in the community, including highly qualified small businesses, to relieve some pressure.
Small businesses hold an immense competitive advantage for state and federal government contracts. Often, tech and supply chain small business owners begin their businesses to advance capabilities in their fields. They optimize the integration of technologies, people, and processes to provide their customers with the service wanted, not just what a company offers.
One such small business founded in 2000 is ImEx Cargo, a global logistics and air transport service provider. ImEx Cargo fought its way through tremendous negative Covid impacts and was just beginning to recover as a contractor for the largest Russian cargo freighter airline.
AirBridgeCargo has operated the world’s largest cargo planes, including the now destroyed Antonov AN-225. Using the airline’s regularly scheduled service, ImEx helps businesses and agency organizations transport products, including pharmaceuticals, PPE, vitamins, equipment, machinery, aircraft parts, and livestock to specific global destinations.
Last week, due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, ImEx Cargo had to return all shipments that had used these Russian transports that were sitting in various customs areas ready for export. ImEx customers are now unable to invoice for those products. Shippers, end customers, and ImEx are now suffering due to the necessary sanctions on Russia due to the war.
Government agencies, such as Governor Baker’s executive order 597, are replacing Russian company contracts. They should formally consider looking to the affected businesses during the process, especially since Massachusetts women-owned and minority-owned companies are ready to take up the challenges and meet the requirements for global supply chains and humanitarian needs.
Michelle DeFronzo, CEO of ImEx Cargo, is willing to talk with reporters interested in the effects of Putin’s war on U.S. small businesses. She can also speak with interested reporters on the state of the global supply chain from a logistics angle.
Michelle can be reached at:
michelle@imexcargo.com | 617-515-1215 | www.ImExCargo.com
