Dear Valued Customer:
The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve and reshape everyday life as the world implements new plans daily to combat and mitigate spread and protect at risk populations. As communicated on March 9th, Teknor Apex Company’s main priority remains the health and safety of our employees, customers, suppliers, and our communities. We have banned travel for all world regions and all employees until April 15th. We are enforcing business be conducted remotely, via teleconferences and webinars, and promoting social distancing to help contain the spread. This week we are implementing A & B work teams. The goal, reduce the density of office workers and put additional distance (social distancing) between our workers.
Logistics continues to be our primary concern and focus to ensure our customers’ business continuity. The equipment imbalance in ocean vessel sailings is being addressed, as two of the largest shippers step forward to correct, Maersk and MSC. It will still take several weeks to return to normal. To mitigate Teknor Apex is securing vessel space and containers 5-6 weeks in advance; as recommended by most freight forwarders. These measures have allowed us to cover all most all ocean going shipments. We do expect a few minor exceptions in the coming weeks as the industry moves towards stabilization; which could equate to extended delays due to lack of equipment and coverage.
For over the road, we are seeing challenges develop within the US; as drivers de-select certain routes to “hot zones” like the Pacific Northwest. At this time we are securing coverage with extra measures being taken and implemented. The recent “panic buying” in the US is also tipping the balance on capacity as many retailers try and restock emptied shelves. At this time we anticipate no lapse in coverage and continue to work with our logistics network to maintain coverage for our customers.
Our Supply Chain continues to monitor risks within our inbound supply and outbound order fulfilment. At this time, we maintain a continued confidence in our ability to produce our Customers’ demands. Our efforts of establishing alternate sources and forward planning are affording us to maintain a positive supply position that supports business continuity.
Please be assured that our teams around the world continue to monitor your demand pro-actively and Customers who are impacted by delays will be notified by Customer Service and or Sales with further details.
Sincerely,
Laura Smith
Director Customer Service & Logistics