Africa Business Communities

[Startup Interview] Andrew Diack: Founder, Cyber Logistics, South Africa

Andrew Diack is founder of Cyber Logistics Ltd., Greenstone, Gauteng, South Africa, founded in January 2014. Africa Business Communities speaks with him.

What is Cyber Logistics?

I started Cyber Logistics little over a year ago. We have developed a software product designed to utilize surplus capacity in the freight transportation sector. The product was launched with road freight in mind, but can be enhanced to include all modes of transport.

Would you tell us about this software you have developed?

It is called the Cyber Logistics Collaboration Management System. It is a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution that enables companies to improve their logistics management via a network of vetted companies.

It is a holistic process that brings together supply chain partners and service providers to drive inefficiencies out of the transport planning and execution process. The objective is to improve the operating performance of all parties by eliminating transport inefficiencies through collaboration.

Who are your clients?

3PLs’, manufacturers, retailers, miners, farming, importers/exporters.

What is your business background pre-Cyber Logistics?

I spent 20 years in the corporate world both locally and in Europe designing and developing software solutions. I started Cyber Logistics because I got tired of the corporate world and wanted to put my skill levels to better use. I identified a need in the market that would benefit not only the participants, but also the economy and environment.

Who (co-)owns Cyber Logistics and how is it financed?

Cyber Logistics is 100% mine and completely financed by me.

How would you describe the Startup Environment in South Africa in terms of support that is given by the government, banks and investors?

Very poor. All those entities – banks, investors, venture capitalists, government – pay little to no attention to startups. In South Africa, one must rely on one´s own finances and creativity to get a business off the ground.

How effective is crowd funding as a tool for startups in South Africa?

Well, I searched on the internet for crowd funding in South Africa and could not locate any resource. That says more than enough.

What can Cyber Logistics do that other companies cannot?

I have done my homework. From due diligence, there isn’t a product like this on the market, both nationally and internationally, so I think we´re on the right track here.

What will Cyber Logistics deliver in 2015?

A product that is innovative and ready to be launched to market.

What are your ambitions in terms of (international) markets, growth?

As we utilize mapping technologies, the product can go anywhere in the world. The first goal is to expand into Africa and then different modes of transport. The speed of our growth to some extent depends on finance, but that is not a deterrent. We are confident we will see an interesting next few years.

What would you like people and companies that read this interview to do?

Realize the potential of the product to make a sustainable difference not only to their organizations, but also to the economy and environment.

www.cyberlogistics.co.za
www.linkedin.com/in/andrewdiack


Africa Business Communities is conducting a series of interviews with startup businesses in Africa. Are you a startup in Africa and interested in an interview? Please send an e-mail to andrea@africabusinesscommunities.com

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