Freight to Plate: A taste for the exotic
Fresh always sells
Despite these logistical headaches, many shippers and forwarders are optimistic about the air cargo future for perishable food.
“We don’t foresee any revolutionary, new, up-and-coming commodities on the horizon, but the blueberry is certainly a fruit that we expect to [see in] increasing volumes in coming years,” Fellmann said. “Many perishable items are moving in large volumes and, in general, the industry sees softer margins in comparison to general cargo.” The main drivers, he added, will be continued population growth, genetic engineering of plants to increase crop yields per hectare and the growth of the worldwide middle class.
James Wilkinson, perishables sales director for Yusen Logistics’ International Division, said the most lucrative commodities his company handles are chilled and frozen beef, pork and prepared meats. “Over the next 15 to 20 years, I believe there will be a shift towards Africa, as the population is growing very quickly and there will be a greater demand for grains, processed foods, fresh meats and produce on that continent,” he said. South America and South Asia should also be growth markets, he added.
Then there are the various political factors that can have a significant impact on food shipments, such as the U.S. West Coast port crisis from earlier this year. Wilkinson recalled a situation where Yusen had to scramble to move 50 ocean containers of chilled meat that had to be rerouted by air. “It was a lot of work, but it enabled us to ensure that our clients received their perishables on time and intact,” he said.
Helms cites a few other possible developments that could affect the perishables market, such as the ban on European temperature-controlled shipments into Russia, the volatile EU bailout situation in Greece and the recent warming of relations between Cuba and the U.S. “That will be big, when Americans will buy real Cuban food,” he said. “It’s about more than just cigars.”
The appetite for international delicacies will likely never be sated, which is a good thing for airfreight. “There is a never-ending demand for the freshest produce and meat available, especially among certain commodities, such as fresh fish, sushi, cherries and high-end prime cuts,” Wilkinson added. “Airfreight will always have a place in the perishable food supply chain.”
FOOD HOME | Carrying live cargo
