Qantas Freight has selected express/courier handler CFL to provide services at Heathrow Airport.
The partnership covers both import and export express/courier shipments and will help the handler create ties with regions outside of the European Union.
CFL pointed out that last year it signed deals with Thai Airways and Etihad Cargo to expand its reach in Asia and the Middle East.
The company also pointed out that in 2021, the UK and Australia signed a Free Trade Agreement that removes most tariffs on goods from the UK, while e-commerce demand in Australia is expected to continue to grow.
Matt Rye, managing director at CFL, said: “The UK economy is built upon small businesses, and deals like this open up global markets for them.
“Our role is to make such access faster, more reliable, and more competitive.”
CFL is the only express courier handler based at the airport.
Rye added: “Our strategy of building links outside the EU has been significantly boosted; we now handle express imports and exports for many airlines worldwide.
“We have actively pursued a strategy of building relationships with key airline partners in important economic regions, and this deal represents a significant step towards fulfilling that strategy.
“For overseas businesses, relying on British components or finished goods, speed and reliability are critical. Deals like this create a network that UK businesses can exploit, giving them wider choice and greater certainty over service consistency.”
CFL is owned by industry companies including FedEx, DHL, UPS and Virgin and operates the UK’s only dedicated multi-user express handling facility.