Latest news with #coldchain
Zawya
29-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa: Frigair 2025, Hervac systems fundamental component of supply chain industries
Heating, energy, refrigeration, ventilation and air conditioning systems (Hervac) are a fundamental component of the wholesale, distribution, logistics and supply chain industries. When storing and transporting food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and chemicals it is essential to maintain specific temperatures to prevent financial losses associated with product spoilage and safety risks. Hervac systems ensure cold chain integrity from warehouse to customer, especially in food and beverage distribution, vaccine and pharmaceutical supply chains. Even outside the cold chain, climate control protects goods like electronics, paper, textiles and certain chemicals from humidity and temperature changes, and help keep workers comfortable. The South African Institute of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Sairac) will host Frigair 2025 from 4 to 6 June 2025 at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand. The event will profile approximately 150 leading Hervac companies that play a vital role in the supply chain sector, showcasing the latest products, technologies and developments in integrated Hervac systems for warehousing, distribution and logistics. For instance, Barpro Storage SA will launch several practical, innovation-driven products at Frigair 2025, designed specifically for the cold storage and warehousing industries. The company will display the new Forklift Brush Attachment, I-Smelt solution, DELF freezer wear, Wooden Bumpers, Pallet Support Beams, and Rack Safety Inspection tools. These offerings are designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and extend equipment lifespan. Danfoss will present a lineup of innovative HVAC and refrigeration solutions emphasising the company's commitment to accelerating the green transition across the cold chain and building environments. Visitors to the Danfoss stand will see the debut of the NeoCharge, designed to significantly reduce energy consumption in refrigerated warehouses and storage facilities, NeoCharge represents a major step forward in energy efficiency for large-scale cooling applications. For the food service market, Danfoss will highlight a wide range of solutions approved for low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) and natural refrigerant applications. These include cold room optimisation tools such as Optyma Control, and VLT Refrigeration Drive FC 103, IoT (Internet of Things) and connectivity innovations that offer improved performance monitoring and control. Eazy Costing, a leading provider of cloud-based solutions for inventory, cost management, and field service operations, will showcase its easy-to-use cost management software for the Hervac industry. The company's team will be on hand to demonstrate how the Eazy Costing software simplifies stock tracking, streamlines job costing, and empowers field teams with real-time data helping businesses improve profitability and customer service. Logistics Systems Engineering (LSE) is excited to launch the GEN 9 Pallet Shuttle, and the Mobile Racking System at Frigair 2025. Designed for high-density storage and cold chain efficiency, LSE's GEN 9 Pallet Shuttle enhances throughput, reduces labour costs, and improves energy usage. Both new products are engineered for high-density, energy-efficient storage making them perfect for cold chain environments. Sairac free-to-attend workshop programme Frigair 2025 will also include the Sairac workshop programme where leading industry experts will share the latest innovations, industry trends, international best practices and legislative standards. In this regard workshop attendees will have the opportunity to hear from Costing Estimator and President of the South African Institute of Refrigeration and Airconditioning, Robert Fox, on Energy Efficiency in Insulated Structures. The talk will focus on energy efficiency in insulated structures, such as cold stores, and modelling the performance of the insulation with increasing ambient temperatures. Other interesting supply chain related workshops include that of general manager of Energy Partners Refrigeration, Dawie Kriel, who will share case studies and success stories on Cooling as a Service (CaaS), a case study on how CaaS can optimise uptime and efficiency of refrigeration systems through the use of data. Executive head of Business Development at Energy Partners, Samual Jacobs, will also present on Business resilience: Aligning risk and expertise in the cold chain through servitisation. Hervac systems are increasingly incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar-thermal, geothermal and solar-powered electric AC units to power or supplement and optimise power usage and lower dependency on fossil fuels. The sector is also making strides towards phasing out refrigerants with high global warming potential and shifting towards natural refrigerants that have lower environmental impact. Many traditional refrigerants deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming. Ongoing research into more environmentally friendly refrigerants will be an important area of development going forward. Europe is already phasing out refrigerant R32 and using R290 and R1234ze which are more eco-friendly refrigerants. Known for its exceptionally low environmental impact, despite its flammability R290 is ozone friendly with a global warming potential of 3 and ozone depletion potential of 0. Local exhibitor AERSA will exhibit its PRG0332XHDEJ02 unit model at Frigair, which features R290 as its refrigerant as a greener refrigerant option. The unit delivers a powerful 70kW of both cooling and heating capacity and can generate hot water temperatures up to 75°C, offering a robust solution for large-scale, eco-friendly heating and cooling needs. Staycold International, based in the Free State, will also exhibit new technology advancements manufactured with R290 gas at Frigair 2025. Staycold's hydrocarbon freezer technology will be on display with a new single door full height freezer. This is an extension to their range, utilising hydrocarbon R290 gas, a natural refrigerant with a low GWP index. All Staycold's new coolers are manufactured with R290 gas and are expanding its use into their freezer range that meet the performance requirements of their units. Frigair 2025 is the ideal environment to discover the latest innovations, advanced technologies and future- ready solutions for all those looking for the best in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and energy products and services.
Arabian Business
20-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
AD Ports Group's Noatum Logistics opens first robot-assisted cold chain warehouse in Lisbon
Noatum Logistics, part of the AD Ports Group, has opened its first robotically assisted refrigerated warehouse in the Portuguese capital. The robot-assisted cold chain warehouse is to serve AD Ports Group's growing West Mediterranean logistics business. The launch is part of Noatum Logistics' rollout of cold chain hubs to meet evolving market demand in Portugal and the strategically important West Mediterranean region. The new facility will leverage strong customer demand and Lisbon's multimodal connectivity, the company said. AD Ports Group rebranded its global logistics business as Noatum Logistics, following its 2024 integration of Noatum, a Barcelona-based European logistics, maritime and ports company. Through Noatum Logistics, the Group now operates an international network of over 90 logistics offices in 26 countries and has further representation in all global markets through an agent network in 158 countries. The 12,000 sqm purpose-built facility draws on robotic stacking technology and offers an expanded suite of integrated end-to-end solutions tailored to the needs of cold chain industries, including food and beverage, FMCG, healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Ahmed Abdelrahman AlMahmoud, the UAE Ambassador to Portugal, said the launch of Noatum Logistics' warehousing hub in Lisbon reflects the strengthening ties between the UAE and Portugal, which are rooted in a common vision for a brighter future. Samir Chaturvedi, Chief Executive Officer, Noatum Logistics, AD Ports Group, said the opening of the reefer facility in Portugal, a first for Noatum Logistics worldwide, is part of the company's global value proposition to provide customers best-in-class logistics solutions, backed by operational excellence, innovation and sustainable practices. Strategically located within Lisbon's North Logistics Platform, the new facility offers multimodal connectivity thanks to its proximity to the city's international port, airport, and key road networks.
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Africa's future in food security relies on cooling infrastructure
Strengthening the continent's fragile cold chain infrastructure — not more international aid — holds the key to protecting harvests, securing supply chains, and feeding vulnerable communities. The issue of food security was in the spotlight recently as Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen delivered a stark warning at the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit in Paris. In response to the sudden drop in global humanitarian aid, he urged: 'We need to become far more resilient.' In 2024, the US committed $577m through USAID programme, Feed the Future, to promote food security and agricultural growth in sub-Saharan Africa. However, Trump's sudden freeze on foreign aid has put these efforts at risk, raising concerns about worsening food insecurity across the region. While South Africa is not directly dependent on foreign food aid – receiving less than 0.3% of GDP in the form of aid – it is not insulated from the consequences. Rising hunger in neighbouring countries, compounded by infrastructure challenges and climate shocks, is already contributing to migration, stock and crop theft, and broader regional instability. Africa's cold chain infrastructure Yet one critical issue remains largely overlooked: the fragility of Africa's cold chain infrastructure. In sub-Saharan Africa, 37% of food is wasted before it even reaches the market. These losses are not just economic setbacks; they directly impact food availability and affordability, hitting vulnerable communities the hardest. In addition to cutting back on food aid, the US government has also dismantled Power Africa, an initiative designed to expand electricity access for households, farms, health providers, and businesses. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), 57% of household in Africa do not have access to power. Considering the direct link between energy access and food security – particularly for cold storage, irrigation, and food processing – the loss of this support will have far-reaching consequences for the continent's already strained food supply chain. The role of industrial cooling in building resilience Addressing Africa's cold chain gaps won't solve food insecurity overnight, but it is a critical enabler. This is especially true in sectors like agriculture, food processing, and retail, where temperature control determines whether food gets to market or goes to waste. Cold chain infrastructure is also key to regional trade. As foreign aid declines, the ability to store and transport food reliably within Africa will help ensure that regional surpluses are directed to the areas of greatest need. This will not only prevent food shortages but also limit mass migration and avoid resource-driven conflict. Cooling-as-a-Service (CaaS) is emerging as a game-changing solution, enabling manufacturers and farmers to access cleaner, more efficient cooling systems without the high upfront costs. Long-term partnerships between service providers and food producers are reducing the financial burden on businesses while ensuring uptime, technical optimisation, and efficient energy use. These models are de-risking operations and making it possible to strengthen local food systems, especially in underserved areas. CaaS is currently being adopted throughout the continent, mushrooming in countries like Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda and South Africa as an effective mechanism to provide access to efficient cooling at scale. Rethinking food security through infrastructure If the N4G summit made one thing clear, it's that in this new era, resilience must come from within, and infrastructure is a vital part of the food security equation. Strengthening Africa's cold chain will require collaboration across governments, the private sector, and development partners. It will require smart investment, innovation, and a shift in thinking about how we enable producers to access the infrastructure they need to grow, store, and distribute food safely and efficiently. Food security is not just about how much we grow, It's about how well we protect and distribute what we produce.
Associated Press
14-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Paris Terminal Deploys Reefer Runner 5G to Advance Sustainable River Logistics and Cold Chain Visibility
PARIS, FRANCE, May 14, 2025 / / -- Paris Terminal, a leading inland port operator in the Île-de-France region, has partnered with Identec Solutions to implement the Reefer Runner 5G monitoring system at its Gennevilliers terminal. This strategic move aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of refrigerated container (reefer) logistics, particularly along the Seine River, aligning with broader goals of promoting sustainable multimodal transport. Enhancing Cold Chain Monitoring in Gennevilliers The implementation of Reefer Runner 5G at Paris Terminal's Gennevilliers site marks a major milestone in the digitisation of reefer operations in inland ports. Gennevilliers, as the largest multimodal terminal in the Île-de-France region, is already a vital node for distributing goods throughout the Paris metropolitan area. With the growing demand for temperature-controlled cargo—such as food products, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive goods—Paris Terminal is positioning itself as a key player in the cold chain logistics sector. Juan Manuel Suarez, CEO of Paris Terminal, stated: 'Implementing the Reefer Runner 5G solution at our Gennevilliers terminal marks a significant step forward in our digital transformation and sustainability journey. This partnership with Identec Solutions enables us to guarantee 24/7 visibility and safety for our reefer cargo, which is essential for our customers and for the growth of river logistics. By making inland waterway transport more efficient and reliable, we're strengthening our commitment to the Seine Axis and contributing to a greener, smarter future for freight in the Paris region.' Importantly, Reefer Runner 5G deployment at Gennevilliers will follow a phased and scalable approach. As demand for reefer logistics grows—both in terminal operations and river barge based transport along the Seine—the system will be expanded to cover additional units, routes, and monitoring points. This ensures the technology evolves in parallel with Paris Terminal's cold chain ambitions, offering tailored digital oversight whether for a single container or hundreds across different transit modes. By combining cutting-edge monitoring with flexible scalability, Paris Terminal is able to enhance both the quality and the reliability of its reefer services. This strategic capability not only strengthens the appeal of river transport but also positions Gennevilliers as a smart logistics hub capable of supporting diverse customer needs. Supporting Sustainable River Transport Initiatives Paris Terminal's adoption of advanced monitoring solutions aligns with HAROPA PORT's initiatives to revitalise river transport along the Seine. By improving the reliability and transparency of inland waterway logistics, the partnership contributes to reducing road congestion and lowering carbon emissions, supporting France's environmental objectives. Mark Buzinkay, Head of Marketing at Identec Solutions, commented: 'Partnering with Paris Terminal is a strategic milestone for us at Identec Solutions. We're proud to demonstrate the full capabilities of our Reefer Runner 5G solution in such a forward-thinking and multimodal environment. This deployment not only ensures reliable, real-time reefer monitoring for Gennevilliers but also highlights how smart technology can support the growth of sustainable inland transport. We're excited about this collaboration and look forward to engaging with other container terminal operators and shipping companies across France to explore how we can help them achieve similar efficiencies and transparency in their cold chain operations.' About Paris Terminal Paris Terminal operates a network of seven multimodal logistics terminals in the Île-de-France region, serving as a key inland logistics hub for the greater Paris area. Among these, two terminals are specifically equipped to handle containerised and refrigerated (reefer) cargo. Their operations cover a wide range of logistics services, including the handling and storage of full and empty containers—hazardous and reefer containers included—as well as customs clearance and intermodal transfers. They also provide weighing services, last-mile delivery options, and solutions tailored for urban logistics. In addition, the company offers on-site storage, river shuttle services to ease congestion on the roads, and the handling of project cargo, including oversized and complex shipments. Their expertise extends to container-related services such as installing insulation kits, fumigating agricultural goods, heat treatment for wooden materials, and thorough cleaning, ventilation, and repair of import containers. Paris Terminal places a strong emphasis on sustainability, actively promoting multimodal transport as an environmentally responsible alternative to road freight. Their approach supports both energy efficiency and ecological responsibility, reinforcing their commitment to greener logistics throughout the Paris region. More details on their services and individual terminal capabilities can be found on their official website: About Reefer Runner 5G Reefer Runner 5G is a simple, out-of-the-box monitoring and management system for vessels, trains, and trucks based on the latest mobile phone standards. Built to integrate into a fleet or hinterland terminal's IT landscape, Reefer Runner 5G will become a core part of operations. It doesn't get any simpler: No training or installation is required, plug & play with all of the reefers, and it is adaptable to individual expansion plans. Reefer Runner 5G automates reefer monitoring throughout a supply chain, providing access to reefer data in real-time, anywhere, anytime. It offers worldwide coverage through state-of-the-art 5G connectivity, ensuring real-time monitoring and alarms for all brands and types. The system allows immediate power-on/off detection with accurate reporting of total connection time and maintains a digital archive with all relevant information for claim handling. For more information, visit: About Identec Solutions Identec Solutions is a global provider of wireless solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and security in industrial operations. Specialising in real-time location and monitoring systems, the company serves various sectors, including marine and ports, oil and gas, mining, and manufacturing. Identec Solutions' technologies enable clients to optimise their operations by providing critical data and insights, enhancing decision-making processes. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Identec Solutions continues to develop cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of industries worldwide. Their products are designed to be robust, scalable, and easy to integrate, ensuring seamless adoption and long-term value for clients. For more information, visit: Mark Buzinkay Identec Solutions +43 557787387 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn YouTube X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
CNA
13-05-2025
- Business
- CNA
Cool solutions to support growing local businesses
When premium baby food provider Baby Led Weaning (BLW) With Ease first started delivering its frozen meals, it relied on freelance drivers with personal vehicles – a solution that made it difficult to keep food safely frozen during transit. As customer demand grew, so did the challenge of managing thawing risks, limited delivery windows and rising operational costs. 'When drivers were not available, we had to do the deliveries ourselves,' shared Ms Robyn Tan, owner of BLW With Ease. 'The logistical challenges made it difficult to scale the business.' While searching online for an alternative, she came across Ninja Cold, a chilled and frozen delivery service by courier and logistics provider Ninja Van. Reassured by Ninja Van's capabilities, she switched to Ninja Cold – and saw her volume of orders grow by over 200 per cent. Cold chain businesses often struggle with product spoilage, wastage and the high fixed overheads tied to traditional logistics, noted Mr Keith Lee, Ninja Van's head of business development. Ninja Cold addresses these pain points by equipping its fleet with temperature-controlled assets that maintain consistent chilled and frozen conditions throughout the delivery journey. Through shared deliveries and intelligent route planning, the service helps preserve product quality, in turn driving cost efficiency. Adopting an agile, innovative model, Ninja Cold uses smaller vans to offer a flexible and cost-effective way for local businesses to reliably deliver frozen goods. This enables them to meet the rising demand for products such as ready-to-eat meals and healthy pet food options, Mr Lee added. Omakase Pet is another local business leveraging Ninja Cold's solutions. Known for its freshly prepared pet meals, the company immediately freezes its products and stores them at -18 degrees Celsius or below to maintain optimal nutrient content, quality and safety. While it has worked with other third-party cold chain logistics providers, owners Travis and Suzanne Chia shared that Ninja Cold stood out for its robust infrastructure, reliable technology and flexibility in handling Omakase Pet's logistical needs. This adaptability is underpinned by Ninja Van's extensive delivery network, developed over the last decade. Mr Lee explained that Ninja Cold uses a mix of vehicles and cooling solutions tailored to each stage of the delivery journey, ensuring an unbroken cold chain from end to end. 'With our hub-and-spoke model and a fleet of over 800 drivers making deliveries across the island daily, our network allows businesses to scale without worrying about fulfilment delays,' Mr Lee said. 'The same red vans you see on the roads are equipped with our insulated boxes, enabling drivers to deliver both ambient and cold parcels in a single trip.' Mr Chia added that Omakase Pet customers appreciate the punctual deliveries by Ninja Cold, noting that orders consistently arrive frozen – preserving the freshness the brand is known for. As sustainability becomes a growing priority for businesses and their customers, packaging waste from temperature-sensitive goods remains a key challenge, often resulting in higher costs that affect the bottom line. Ninja Cold addresses this by using passive cooling solutions alongside ambient delivery vehicles – including electric vehicles – wherever possible. This approach not only helps lower carbon emissions but also reduces the need for excessive packaging materials such as plastic insulation and single-use gel packs. Business owners gain peace of mind with real-time tracking via the intuitive Ninja Dashboard, allowing them to keep customers updated with timely delivery information. Ms Tan highlighted the ease of booking Ninja Cold's services, praising the team's reliability in collecting orders within the agreed time slot. 'This gives me the freedom to leave work on time and pick up my child after school,' she said. 'With Ninja Cold, I know the food will reach my customers safely and punctually.' Omakase Pet is now exploring deeper integration with Ninja Cold, including automating administrative tasks and expanding logistical support for its growing business-to-business operations. 'With fewer delivery issues to troubleshoot, we're now able to focus more on growing the business and enhancing customer satisfaction,' said Ms Chia.
