|
|
|
|
09 6月 2005
 |
Perishable transport: Does it really require freighter traffic?Tomatoes from Spain, tomatoes from the Netherlands, or homegrown tomatoes fresh from the garden - European customers know the differences in price, quality and taste. But are customers that aware when it comes to tropical fruit? Maybe, but they are certainly not aware of the extensive worldwide logistics behind the cross-seasonal delivery of fresh food to their markets twelve months a year. There is no question on our globe about the fact that South feeds North with regard to many perishables. The strong correlation between per capita income and total perishable imports of a country is proven in developed countries. The availability of fresh flowers, exotic fruit and special kinds of meat, fish or seafood has become common place and customers have quickly got entirely used to this fact. Even highly seasonal products are available all year round. Associated customer expectations are now firmly in place and are likely to stay, very much to the approval of airlines and specialist forwarders. Consumers expect the highest quality, i.e. long remaining shelf-life of ideally ripened products, immaculate physical condition and excellent taste, no matter what season of the year. What is the outlook for a growing perishable market for the top retailers? Are there alternatives to the way things are done today? |