🧊 Innovative solutions for the evolving cold chain

Welcome back to CubeCold News where we cover the latest developments in the cold chain industry and temperature-controlled logistics.

In today’s edition:

• Everidge addresses the need for more refrigerated storage

• Aeropowder introduces feather-based insulation packs for cold chain shipping

• Smart Sense by Digi unveils real-time tracking of moving assets throughout the supply chain

• ZIM joins “Move to -15” coalition

• Tesco urges government to deliver a clear plan for UK agriculture as it launches low carbon concept farms

News

Addressing the need for more refrigerated storage Everidge introduces its ICS walk-in cold storage solution to address the growing demand for refrigerated storage space in the food service industry.

• The units are designed for outdoor installation with thru-the-wall access, allowing businesses to maximize indoor space for seating and kitchen operations.

• Factory-assembled and tested, these walk-ins can be installed and operational within 2-4 hours.

• The units feature durable construction with a standing seam metal roof, 4K exterior finishes, and Sanisteel floors with anti-bacterial properties.

• They come equipped with advanced technology including the SmartRite Monitoring System for real-time mobile notifications and automated HACCP reporting.

• Additionally, the UV Pro by Aerapy disinfection system uses light and photocatalytic oxidation technology to neutralize pathogens and reduce spoilage.

• These versatile units serve various applications from restaurants to healthcare facilities, offering solutions from ambient storage to drive-thru compartments. (link)

Aeropowder introduces feather-based insulation packs for cold chain shipping Aeropowder, a UK-based startup, has launched an innovative thermal packaging solution made from surplus feathers designed for the life sciences industry and cold chain logistics.

• PluumoPlus can maintain an internal temperature of 2-8°C for over 72 hours, even in challenging conditions.

• Co-founder Dr. Ryan Robinson developed the technology during his PhD at Imperial College London, aiming to repurpose the estimated 3 million tons of waste feathers generated annually in Europe.

• Aeropowder's solution addresses the growing need for sustainable packaging in the pharmaceutical and life science sectors, offering a circular economy approach to combat environmental challenges. (link)

SmartSense by Digi solves supply chain challenges with VOYAGE™ solution SmartSense by Digi has launched VOYAGE, a new IoT solution for real-time tracking and monitoring of moving assets throughout the supply chain.

• The system's core component is the T1 sensor, a compact, GPS-enabled device with global cellular connectivity, designed for accurate temperature monitoring and sustainable operation.

• The solution aims to ensure the safety and quality of various products, including medicines, vaccines, food, and high-value retail goods during transit.

• Key features include buttonless activation technology and flexible interval configuration, addressing common tracking challenges such as limited battery life and connectivity issues.

• The platform supports various applications, from coordinating healthcare product deliveries to preventing retail theft and reducing food spoilage. (link)

ZIM joins “Move to -15” coalition ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., a global leader in refrigerated container shipping, has joined the "Move to -15" coalition.

• This cross-industry alliance aims to reduce emissions in the cold chain sector by raising the standard temperature of frozen cargo from -18°C to -15°C.

• This change could prevent approximately 17.7 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually.

• ZIM's participation aligns with its commitment to environmental sustainability and its vision for eco-friendly shipping.

• The company operates advanced reefer containers and provides the ZIMonitor service for real-time cold chain monitoring. (link)

Tesco urges government to deliver a clear plan for UK agriculture as it launches low carbon concept farms Tesco is urging the UK government to provide a clear plan for sustainable agriculture while launching two low carbon concept farms in partnership with suppliers Branston and ABP.

• This initiative comes after research conducted with Harper Adams University revealed that 74% of surveyed farmers are concerned about climate change impacts, with 67% already experiencing effects.

• However, 76% struggle to implement environmental measures due to high costs and policy uncertainty.

• The concept farms will trial new technologies including low carbon fertilizers, alternative fuels, advanced cold storage, and carbon removal techniques.

• They will also focus on soil health, grazing management, and biodiversity improvements to demonstrate practical routes to net zero farming.

• Tesco's Chief Commercial Officer, Ashwin Prasad, emphasized the need for government support through a long-term food security strategy and improved funding for innovation. (link)

Other headlines

DHL Supply Chain acquires Inmar Supply Chain Solutions, becoming North America's largest reverse logistics provider.

Lufthansa Cargo will showcase its specialized perishable transport solutions and "Sustainable Choice" SAF initiative at Fruit Logistica 2025 in Berlin on 5-7 February 2025.

Americold Realty Trust (NYSE: COLD) will release its Q4 and full-year 2024 financial results on February 20, 2025, followed by a conference call at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

DFDS launches new weekly freight service between Vilagarcía (Spain) and Rotterdam (Netherlands) offering an efficient alternative to road shipping starting May 2025.

The Global Cold Chain Alliance announces new board leadership for 2025, with Tim Ludwig, Richard Patenaude, Ken Whah, and Sam Tippmann heading the Warehouse, Transportation, Foundation, and Building Association boards respectively.

Pharma.Aero expands its global healthcare supply chain network by adding six new members: CEVA Logistics, Skandi Network, SCL Cold Chain, Shipex NV as logistics partners, and Pharming Group and ARTBIO as Life Science Manufacturers Advisory Platform members.

TEF Transport's assets, including 30+ tractor units, 60+ trailers, and 75,000 sq ft warehouse facility, will be auctioned by BPI Asset Advisory following the company's entry into administration in December 2024.

Recent advancements in ice box technology and ultra-low freezers are revolutionizing healthcare logistics for temperature-sensitive vaccines and biologics transportation.

That’s it for today!

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