‘Fresh’ logistics company Trans.L Systems has announced that a prominent international logistics service provider has engaged the company to support its clients in integrating the latest technology in handling of Reusable Plastic Crates (RPC) into their produce operations across the US.
RPCs are used primarily to transport fresh produce from suppliers to leading grocery retailers and Trans.L provides automation equipment and systems for RPC handling.
“Since we extended our presence in the US fresh food logistics sector in October 2008, we’ve put our first significant machine on the ground with a Florida grower-shipper and appointed our first service rep in Miami,” said Trans.L Systems CEO, Ian Neeland.
“Several leading supermarket chains have discussed the potential we can deliver through our returnable supply chain project design and management services,” said Neeland.
“We’re confident we can help unlock significant benefits — assessing the potential of converting supply chains from fibre board to reusable packaging and implementing operating procedures and best fit technology solutions.”
He said the company was in discussion with RPC wash plant operators in South America who were seeking to use Trans.L’s automation equipment.
Neeland pointed out that each RPC had to be washed following use and therefore the potential for automating the handling of RPCs in wash plants is far reaching.
Solid enquiry had also been received from large scale primary producers in Europe, US, and South America who wish to establish returnable supply chains between their processing operations and suppliers, and their customers in other continents — referred to as a ‘closed loop’ system.
“We were the only Australian exhibitor amongst 800 trade show participants at the PMA Fresh Summit in Florida which was attended by 17,000 people over three days,” said Neeland.
“Our services attracted strong attention about how we can design supply chains around reusable packaging and provide automation equipment to reduce cost and increase safety in handling RPCs. Our visiting program with a range of parties is now underway so ‘watch this space’.”