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The recently established GAC Energy and Marine Services LLC (GEMS), a subsidiary of GAC Shipping (USA) Inc., has appointed Carlos Arrieta as its new President to drive the growth of its integrated logistics services for the oil, gas, marine and mining sectors.

Located in the new Central Green development close to Houston International Airport, the GEMS facility provides 65,000 square feet of covered warehousing space and 40,000 square feet of open air storage.

"Our current service portfolio is tailored to meet the demands of our customers, but eventually I want to develop more offerings for the industries we serve," Arrieta said.

Arrieta's immediate priorities include further expanding its team of professionals and implementing a strategic marketing plan that covers business development; market analysis and research. He will also look at expanding the product portfolio further to better penetrate the energy sector in the region.

Bob Bandos, CEO of GAC USA said, "GEMS is very fortunate to have someone with the level of expertise that Carlos possesses in the energy sector, and this coupled with the strong commitment he has towards customer satisfaction is a winning combination. We have no doubt that our team of experts under the leadership of Carlos will excel in meeting our customer's diverse logistics requirements."

Experience & expertise

Arrieta has over 30 years of worldwide shipping experience. Having both B.S. in Medical Technology and M.S. in Cancer Research, Arrieta chose to divert his career to the transportation industry in 1975.

He has an extensive and knowledgeable background, including positions as Air Freight Manager, Vice-President of Sales and International Sales Director with reputable transportation firms. His success in the air freight field enabled him to develop long-term relationships with Amoco and many other companies servicing the petroleum and natural gas arena.

Prior to joining GAC, he was the International Director of Energy. His role consisted of developing oil, gas, and mining clients worldwide.

GEMS

GAC Energy & Marine Services LLC (GEMS) was launched by GAC in May 2010.

Speaking at the launch of GEMS, GAC Group Vice President for the Americas Lars Heisselberg said "Houston is undoubtedly the oil and gas hub of the U.S, a strong foothold in this dynamic market was a 'must' to complete GAC's global energy logistics network, which until now covered North Europe, West Africa, the Middle East and Asia. In addition to completing that global picture, our new energy set-up in Houston is ideally positioned to handle emerging project opportunities in South America."

GAC added that the launch of GEMS added a further boost to GAC's suite of services in the Americas - ship & hub agency, and the supply of bunker fuels.