Lifting Standards of Reliability at APM Terminals Buenaventura

At APM Terminals Buenaventura, the dedication to reliability and efficiency for our customers has led to remarkable achievements in asset management and operational processes. With a focus on reducing interruptions and maximizing throughput, the team has achieved significant milestones in its transformation journey.

These improvements include a huge reduction in the mean time between failures (43.5%) between 2023 and 2024. This reliability win ensures smoother operations with fewer disruptions.

In addition, the team increased asset utilization by more than a quarter (25.5%) during the same period, enabling the terminal to handle more volume and reduce idle time.

Thirdly, quayside operational availability was impacted, up by 2.6%, which boosts our ability to serve vessels and enhance our overall productivity.

Building Strong Partnerships

If you're wondering how they did it, it boils down to our people. With renewed emphasis on collaboration, asset management forged strong relationships with in-house functions such as operations as well as unions to put the focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Having an open flow of communication through monthly meetings with key stakeholders and partners has meant that the whole team stays aligned on the most important goal – improving operational conditions for our customers.

Embracing Kaizen

As a company that has adopted the widespread implementation of a culture of continuous improvement, we have taken up Kaizen initiatives, leading to a 15% improvement in revenue per handling movement and just under 50% of increase in preventative maintenance.

A Personal Perspective

Reflecting on this transformation journey, it’s clear that understanding of cultural differences and building credibility with the team were key challenges. By listening to our employees and drawing on best practices from other APM Terminals locations means we have been able to tailor our approach for maximum impact.

“The most satisfying part of this project has been witnessing the transformation in the team's mindset and seeing the positive feedback from customers,” shares our Maintenance Manager, Fabio Fantoni Ferrera. “We’re not just moving containers; we’re moving a country forward.”

Looking Ahead

As we continue to innovate and enhance our operations, we’re also setting our sights on future growth opportunities.

APM Terminals Buenaventura adopted our group values, driving a cultural shift in asset management that improved processes, built stronger team collaboration, and boosted the morale of our colleagues. As a result, we have enhanced productivity, enabling us to deliver premium service to our customers.