INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
FEATURE storage remains a common offering among public cold stores , Cold Feet stands out by providing specialised services such as fine picking and pallet consolidation . Their ability to actively mix and consolidate different pallets caters to clients with specific requirements for airfreight and distribution .
With a keen eye on growth , they continue to expand their client base while maintaining a high level of service excellence . Nonetheless , one of Cold Feet ' s key differentiators is its commitment to maintaining a smaller personalised operation . Unlike larger storage facilities , which can sometimes face logistical challenges and delays , Cold Feet operates with an average of 10 clients at a time . “ This approach allows us to offer personalised service and ensure efficient handling of goods , minimising wait times and maximising client satisfaction .”
" When it comes to competitors , we ' re operating in a space dominated by big corporate players like Vector Logistics , CCH Logistics , Chilleweni , Imperial and RCL . Our focus lies in maintaining the integrity of temperature-sensitive goods , be it chilled or frozen . We handle everything from standard refrigeration to specialised requirements , such as transporting ice cream that demands precise temperature control ."
Cold Feet highlights the shift towards more energy-efficient systems . " Invertertype systems are gaining traction for their superior energy efficiency compared to traditional compressors . Moreover , there ’ s a noticeable trend towards utilising environmentally friendly refrigerants like Freon , signaling a shift away from older technologies like liquid ammonia ."
" These days , refrigerant technicians are in high demand . The technical expertise required is immense , and the barriers to entry are significant , particularly for small players in the market ."
The two partners built the business from scratch with their own funding – which was substantial . Thomson notes that obtaining funding remains a formidable obstacle for many aspiring businesses , especially given the stringent requirements imposed by financial institutions .
Furthermore , navigating regulatory frameworks also poses a significant
challenge for Cold Feet . " Compliance with regulations such as PPCP ( Perishable Produce Controllable Protocol ) and others is imperative . These regulations govern various aspects of our operations , from handling perishable goods to exporting meat products ."
Then there are everyday challenges ranging from staffing issues to unreliable electricity supply . " Staffing and electricity supply are perennial challenges . Loadshedding and cable theft exacerbate our reliance on diesel generators , driving up operational costs ."
As Cold Feet charts its course for the future , the company envisions significant growth opportunities within the African continent . With a focus on food distribution from South Africa into southern Africa , Cold Feet anticipates a surge in demand driven by population growth and increased market sophistication .
" In the next 10 – 15 years , we foresee a substantial expansion in food distribution across the region . South Africa ' s strategic positioning as a key supplier to southern Africa positions us well to capitalise on this growth ."
Highlighting the potential in sectors such as mining and industry , Thomson emphasises the untapped opportunities awaiting investigation . " Countries like the Congo offer immense potential for growth , particularly in sectors like mine services where demand for goods and services is high ," noted the spokesperson .
While acknowledging improvements on the South African side of borders , particularly with electronic systems streamlining processes , Thomson says that challenges persist on the other side of these borders , as well as in the broader African landscape . " Border inefficiencies remain a concern , with issues ranging from lengthy queues to bureaucratic hurdles . Truckers often find themselves entangled in administrative delays , hindering smooth operations ."
REFERENCES
1 . FTI : https :// www . freightnews . co . za / article / port-maputo-gains-new-coldstorage-facilities
2 . CT Technologies : https :// www . cttechnologies . dk / building-cold-chainin-africa /
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