The perishables and reefer market came under the spotlight at the Fruit Logistica 2023 event that took place earlier this month in Berlin. Large traders, importers and shipping companies gathered to showcase their products and services and discuss the market’s situation and outlook.

While the industry is witnessing fewer bottlenecks, more container availability and less congestion at ports, exporters are faced with price hikes and lower demands. Consumers no longer spend as much on pricey fruits and vegetables, while farmers need to spend more on fertilizers and energy.

German newspaper DVZ highlighted in a report that large traders and importers are feeling the effects of inflation. Many of them expect seasonal cargo to dwindle this year, says DVZ. Analysts also expect global reefer volumes of the year 2022 to be lower than that of 2021, where volumes reached about 129 million tonnes.

However, despite the economic situation, logistics specialists see positive signs for 2023. Frank Ganse, global head of reefer logistics at Kuehne+Nagel, believes that the reefer business is becoming more attractive to carriers who are showing more willingness to work with shipping companies in the transport of perishables.

Another positive look comes from a research claiming there is growing demands for fresh produce in Europe. According to a December 2022 study by the Centre for the Promotion of Imports (CBI), the consumption of fruits (like blueberries and avocadoes) and niche products (like exotic roots and tubers) will continue to grow in the European market.

European companies, in fact, plan to expand the transport of fresh fruits and vegetables in the continent as of autumn this year. During its participation in Fruit Logistica 2023, a Dutch company announced its plans to create a permanent rail service to transport fresh food from Spain to Northern Europe.

Participants at the trade fair, which took place from 8 to 10 February, further discussed the need for maintaining quality control over all shipments given the delicate nature of the goods. Multiple sessions also explored the use of technology and innovation to improve the entire fruit and vegetable supply chain.