PWC Logistics extends its supply chain network through partnership with WJ Towell & Co.

The joint venture will be called PWC Logistics Oman and ownership will be shared equally.

The agreement includes construction of a 20,000 square meters, state-of-the-art warehouse facility in Muscat at a cost of KD 6.5 million (US$ 22 million) and smaller, local storage facilities in Salalah, Sohar and Nizwa. The Muscat facility will be completed during the first quarter of 2005. Over 100 people will be hired and trained locally to operate the facilities.

PWC Logistics Oman will offer a complete range of product storage and handling services. Storage services will include open-area, ambient, air-conditioned, chilled and frozen, and handling services will include third-party logistics, overland transportation and freight forwarding. Customers will have secure, on-line access to real-time inventory information as well as product movement history.

Essa Al-Saleh, Managing Director, Corporate Development at PWC Logistics, commented: "This joint venture brings us one step closer to achieving our vision of a truly seamless distribution network throughout the Middle East." He continued, "We look forward to working with the employees at WJ Towell and share their desire to provide superior customer service."