Logistics services provider Eurofrigo has started constructing a new cold storage facility at Maasvlakte at the Port of Rotterdam to provide an ultra-modern veterinary inspection point and improve the flow of goods.
In a statement, the Port said the new cold store will be Eurofrigo’s sixth site in the Netherlands and is expected to be completed by the middle of 2021.
Additionally, it said the plans are a sign that Eurofrigo is fully committed to value-added services (VAS). The cold store will be a state-of-the-art building with cells made up of separate, individually adjustable temperature sones and a veterinary inspection point.
The veterinary inspection point will meet the latest requirements to ensure a faster and more effective flow of goods, which has become even more important since Brexit, the Port said.
Jeroen Tempels, CEO of Eurofrigo, said, “We took the decision to expand our capacity in inspection points and storage because we want to work in a more customer-oriented way and provide greater flexibility with regard to inspections.
“In terms of the number of inspection points. we have been the market leader for 27 years, and we have been working closely with the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) for a very long time.
“Our new, modern inspection point will help us create an even stronger position in the market.”
Eurofrigo’s new site at Distripark Maasvlakte means further expansion for one of the agrofood hotspots in the Port of Rotterdam.
An expansion that is in line with the growth of this market. Agrofood, which includes veterinary products such as fish and meat, has been showing strong growth for some years.
The sector has a sizeable 40% share of the total European flow of goods. This growth is expected to continue in the coming years.
Emile Hoogsteden, Commercial Director at the Port of Rotterdam Authority, commented, “We aim to accommodate the continuing growth in the agrofood segment. The expansion of Eurofrigo and the unique value-added services that the organisation offers will also help bolster Rotterdam’s position as an agrofood port.”
