Within Guatemala’s business landscape, the Puerta del Istmo Public Special Economic Development Zone (ZDEEP) in San Marcos stands out as a hub for logistics innovation and sustainable economic development. In this context, Cervecería AMBEV Guatemala has established a strategic presence there, leveraging the unique advantages of this location to optimize its operations.
Susana Rosales, Director of Supply Chain at Cervecería AMBEV Guatemala, explains how the strategic location of this ZDEEP enables them to use its infrastructure to optimize logistics operations, facilitating efficient nationwide distribution of two of their main products—Corona and Modelo beer—and ensuring product availability and cost control.
Logistics Strategy and Environmental Benefits
AMBEV Guatemala Brewery has prioritized logistics efficiency and sustainability in its operations within the Puerta del Istmo ZDEEP. Strategically located in Pajapita, San Marcos, the zone offers access to major transportation routes, facilitating the rapid and efficient distribution of its products nationwide. The reduction in transit times and logistics costs not only strengthens the company’s competitiveness but also minimizes its environmental impact by reducing emissions associated with the transport of goods.
The decision to operate within the ZDEEP is based not only on its strategic location but also on the tax and customs incentives that allow them to optimize costs and improve competitiveness. He adds that the ZDEEP’s facilities and infrastructure are designed to support highly efficient industrial and logistics operations. This includes access to essential services, advanced technology, and facilities for product storage and handling.
Infrastructure and Transfer Center: Pillars of Operational Efficiency
The use of the Transfer Center operated by ZDEEP Puerta del Istmo has been essential to the strategy of reducing import and distribution times.
This essential component optimizes logistics processes by efficiently consolidating shipments, reducing the number of shipments, and maximizing the capacity of transportation vehicles. Reduced wait times and flexibility in distribution ensure that the company can respond quickly to market demands, maintaining a steady flow of products and meeting delivery standards.
“”Efficiency in transfer processes translates into significant savings in operating costs. This allows us to reinvest in other strategic areas of the company, improving our competitiveness in the market.", said Susana Rosales.
Operating from this ZDEEP has not only strengthened its business operations but has also contributed significantly to local economic development.
“We create approximately 20 direct jobs and an estimated 50 indirect jobs, which positions us as a key player in creating job opportunities in the region.”, Rosales added.
Strategic Expansion
Looking ahead, Cervecería AMBEV Guatemala is considering expanding its operations into other ZDEPs in the country. According to the Supply Chain Director, this decision will depend on an assessment of key factors such as market demand and available infrastructure.
“This decision will depend on a careful assessment of actual market demand and growth, logistics optimization, tax benefits, the quality of the infrastructure, an ecosystem that fosters competitiveness, and our sustainability goals.”, Rosales said.
Another benefit the company has gained is the opportunity to share best practices in the area of compliance, strengthening compliance processes and training staff to avoid any practices that violate internal policies or applicable laws.
The presence of this major company in a Public Special Economic Development Zone (ZDEEP) illustrates how industries can thrive by taking advantage of the legal certainty, competitive and logistical advantages, and tax incentives offered.
“We are proud to expand our investment in Guatemala, creating jobs and strengthening our operations in the country’s rural areas.”, Susana Rosales pointed out.