CEVA Logistics, a global supply chain management company, has announced the award of additional business with Ford Motor Company. CEVA will provide a range of logistics functions for Ford’s Assembly Plant in Louisville, Ky.

The new CEVA operation – which kicks off in early 2012 – will include the deconsolidation of inbound sea containers, small lot logistics, returnable container management, and transportation to and from the plant. Ford’s Louisville plant will be responsible for manufacturing the new Escape vehicle, which will be coming to Kentucky from its previous home in Kansas City, Mo. CEVA will be investing in new facilities in Louisville, as well as adding jobs to the Louisville area in support of Ford.

“For more than 20 years, Ford has been one of CEVA’s most important partners, and we couldn’t be happier to see our relationship continue to expand,” said Matt Ryan, Americas President for CEVA. “As the U.S. automotive sector builds momentum through innovative, stylish models like the Escape, CEVA and Ford are working together to improve operational efficiencies that deliver superior vehicle quality, as well as bottom line results.”

“We are pleased to be able to grow with Ford in Louisville and support the new Escape. Our services globally with Ford are geared to provide the right solution and designed to manage last miles of the supply chain to the final production” said Kerry Zielinski, CEVA’s Vice President Business Development and Global Key Account Leader for Ford. “CEVA’s team has a strong reputation within Ford for operational excellence and smooth launches. I’m confident that Ford will be proud of the selection of CEVA to serve this new operation.”