RIL retail air-cargo plan taking off
24 Dec 2007
New Delhi: Mukesh Ambani is pressing on with plans to fortify his logistics and supply chain for the distribution and retail of fresh produce.
According to reports, Ambani will be buying around 50-70 cargo planes to supply fresh farm produce from production sites to his neighbourhood retail outlets.
Reliance Industries has an aviation wing by the name of Reliance Aviation, which will in all likelihood manage the cargo airline business as well. According to media reports, operations are expected to commence around mid – 2009.
Airlifting of fresh fruits, vegetables, exotic flowers and other perishables from Rural Business Hubs (RBHs), would be done by around 30-40 tonne cargo planes. They would haul produce across several states in the country, to retail outlets.
According to sources, RIL has commenced negotiations with state governments seeking permission and land for construction of small airstrips where these cargo liners could land. Reliance is also reportedly restructuring its retail business by splitting it into around 25 individual companies that shall double up as profit centres. Reports indicate that Reliance Retail will act as a holding company for all verticals, including sourcing and supply chain management.