On 5 December 2024 , CCS Logistics opened its state-of-the-art cold storage facility in Greenbushes Industrial Estate , Port Elizabeth .
NEWS
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
CCS Logistics celebrates launch of new cold store in PE
By Eamonn Ryan
On 5 December 2024 , CCS Logistics opened its state-of-the-art cold storage facility in Greenbushes Industrial Estate , Port Elizabeth .
The event marks a significant milestone in the company ’ s growth and investment in South Africa and beyond – being its 14 th facility . It included an official ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Councillor of Agriculture and Economic Development at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan municipality , as well as speeches from key industry and local political leaders . It was attended by stakeholders , partners and employees , all celebrating the facility ' s role in expanding CCS Logistics ' cold chain capabilities .
Opening proceedings , Francois Roux , chief commercial officer of Commercial Cold Holdings ( CCH ), said : “ This new facility , which features cutting-edge technology such as a CO2 operating system , is designed to meet increasing demand for reliable , high-quality cold storage solutions . This facility will not only help preserve and store products but is also built with sustainability in mind , supporting CCS Logistics ’ broader goal of contributing to the cold chain industry while advancing food security and supply chain efficiency .”
Being a natural refrigerant , the use of CO2 means that citrus exporters may qualify under the EU ’ s stringent net-zero regulations for imports .
The development came in response to growing agricultural demands and logistical challenges in Port Elizabeth . The cold storage facility was developed to serve as a vital link for local fruit farmers and export businesses . The greenfield project , which began in 2020 and concluded in August 2024 , aims to enhance operational efficiency and provide sustainable refrigeration solutions for the region .
Port Elizabeth identified a significant need for an independent cold room to serve as a vital link for local fruit farmers throughout much of the year . This facility plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of wind conditions in the region and supports the growing volume of fruit exports . Additionally , from a frozen storage perspective , the cold room will benefit import-export customers by alleviating congestion at the Durban and Cape Town harbours .
The facility ' s requirements were based on projected and future off-take in the region . To effectively serve a larger market with a diverse range of services , the design specifications called for multiple rooms capable of operating at either cold temperatures ( around 0 ° C ) or freezer temperatures ( approximately -18 ° C ).
Roux highlighted the expansion of CCS Logistics across South Africa and Namibia , with an eye to future expansion across a host of other African countries in West and Southern Africa . CCS now operates over 260 000 temperature-controlled pallets in the region . “ The launch of the Greenbushes facility is part of the company ' s pan African business strategy , which aims to invest in local economies , create jobs and improve infrastructure . The Greenbushes facility alone has created 37 jobs , benefiting both the local community and the construction industry .”
Chief operating officer Scott Holmes reinforced the company ' s commitment to growing Africa ’ s infrastructure , increasing food security and supporting local economies . " We proudly employ 700 staff , creating nearly 40 new jobs at this facility alone . We are committed to investing in Africa ' s infrastructure and people to enhance food security and bring more produce to market . This facility represents an exciting opportunity for local economies and strengthens our partnerships with customers across the region ."
" The facility is a direct result of months of hard work , innovation and teamwork . It is designed not just to store products but to enhance the efficiency of supply chains and provide innovative solutions to the cold chain industry ."
In closing , Holmes reiterated the company ' s vision for the future : " Today ’ s launch is not just a celebration of our new facility but of the opportunities , growth and progress we can achieve together . Let us continue to work towards a resilient , innovative and sustainable future for the cold chain industry and the communities we serve ."
The event then featured a special ribbon-cutting ceremony , marking the official opening of the facility , followed by a tour for attendees . Guests were invited to explore the state-of-the-art storage spaces , engage with industry leaders and learn more about the facility ' s capabilities .
Francois Roux , chief commercial officer of Commercial Cold Holdings ( CCH ).
GREENBUSHES FACILITY :
• Storage capacity : 8 000 pallet positions across four chambers , offering 6 700 commercial pallet positions for the citrus season .
• Steri chambers : Eight chambers with a total capacity of 550 pallets for Steri treatment .
• Total throughput capacity : 125 000 pallets over the six-month citrus season .
• Additional features : Solar power supplementation , generators , and backup water supply to ensure uninterrupted operations . The facility is fully integrated with PPECB offices and runs Prophet for seamless integration and management . CLA
Image supplied by © Cold Link Africa
Image supplied by © Cold Link Africa
The official ribbon cutting ceremony . The building under construction .
Image supplied by CCS
Image supplied by CCS
Image supplied by CCS
Image supplied by CCS
The interior ahead of opening .
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Plant room being fitted with racks .
Racking being installed .
www . coldlinkafrica . co . za COLD LINK AFRICA • March / April 2025