Cargotec's Kalmar division has won four business awards in recognition of the organisational excellence of Kalmar Asia Pacific Region.

Kalmar Asia Pacific was named Grand Winner 2008 at the Asia Pacific Business Excellence Standard (APBEST) awards. This was the first time the company has participated in these awards.

The company was also named Best Logistics Company in the Asia Pacific, while Ken Loh, president of Kalmar Asia Pacific Region, was named APBEST Strategist of the Year and Eugene Che, senior TQM manager, was named APBEST KPI Achievement Driver of the Year.

Loh says Kalmar stood out as a clear winner for best business practice because of its holistic approach to business. "Although the examination process takes about a year, culminating in interviews with senior managers from Kalmar Asia Pacific Region, these awards actually acknowledge that we have worked for many years to ensure that we apply only the very best business practices."

The judges' commendations recognised Loh's business strategy reflected the dynamics and culture of the Asia Pacific business environment. Che's contribution was commended for achieving change management in different and diverse Asian cultures.

Kalmar's integrated logistics concept and global supply chains were recognised as a good example of a company embracing globalisation.

APBEST evaluates companies on their performance in leadership, customer focus, people management, process management, social responsibility and overall business results.