Growing demand for immune-boosting fresh produce as the world battled the Covid-19 pandemic last year saw MSC’s refrigerated shipments reach a record high.
The transport of 1.9 million reefers topped its previous record of 1.8 million in 2019, according to a statement released today.
Global demand for fresh fruit has grown by as much as 40% over the last decade, says Giuseppe Prudente, MSC global chief logistics officer.
“This was further intensified in 2020 by a greater demand for immune-boosting foods rich in vitamin C, such as fresh fruit, as part of a growing trend in personal health and nutrition amid the Covid-19 pandemic.”
In order to meet the increased demand, adds Prudente, we have been expanding our reefer fleet for temperature-sensitive cargo, notably by adding 15 000 Star Cool units in 2020.
“In addition, thanks to improved design and larger size, our Gülsün Class container ships are able to carry over 2 000 additional reefer containers than the previous generation. The increased capacity has helped service the high volumes of trade activity between Europe and Asia, boosting the trade of food, drinks, pharmaceuticals and other chilled and frozen products.”
The growing demand has also opened up new market possibilities, Prudente adds. “ MSC made the first-ever shipment of Chilean clementines to Hong Kong, connecting Asia and Latin America via its INCA Service. Shortly after, we successfully delivered the first-ever shipment of avocados from Colombia to China, a journey made possible through our advanced reefer technology.”
