Cold chain logistics development will feature cold storage warehouses, terminal facilities and dedicated energy infrastructure
The Port of Rotterdam Authority has revealed that it is developing 38ha of logistics infrastructure in Europoort for the storage and transhipment of chilled and frozen agrifood products.
The project, in conjunction with Necron Group and PTP Group, will see the introduction of a new quay wall, warehouses and terminal facilities, and will be powered by its own energy supply.
It forms part of the ongoing development of the Rotterdam Food Hub as a logistics hub for the agri-food sector, the Port Authority noted.
To this end, it is constructing a quay wall over 500 metres long, while a breakwater is being constructed to protect the moorings from waves coming in from the sea and from passing ships.
Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of Port of Rotterdam Authority, said the project highlighted the importance of the Rotterdam Food Hub.
“At this strategic location, we bring together logistics, warehousing and infrastructure, enabling our customers to handle their freight more quickly, sustainably and efficiently,” he explained.
“With this development, we are taking an important step towards further strengthening our position as Europe’s leading agrifood port.”
The plan comprises four plots. Necron Group is constructing two cold storage and freezer warehouses – Necron Food Park I & II – in phases on two plots, with a total surface area of approximately 145,000m2.
The facilities are designed for coldstore operators and are aimed at meeting the growing demand for efficient and scalable cold chain solutions in Europe.
Part of the plan involves the construction of an energy hub by Necron Group on the third plot, in the southern part of the Rotterdam Food Hub.
This supplies the terminal and coldstores with power from the outset, enabling them to be put into operation immediately.
“With this development, we are creating logistics real-estate for the storage and transhipment of chilled products, combined with our own energy supply,” said Gerard van Liempt, CEO of Necron Group.
”Drawing on our experience with food and cold chain projects, we can immediately facilitate large-scale and efficient operations at this site.”
Logistics provider PTP Group is developing the associated 73,000m2 terminal on the fourth plot along the Calandkanaal.
This terminal will have three berths for deep-sea and inland shipping vessels, along with a waiting area and the necessary logistical and infrastructural facilities to ensure the efficient, water-based handling of cargo flows.
Among other things, the terminal is designed to serve the coldstores and handle additional cargo, and enhance multimodal access to the area.
“With this terminal, we are strengthening our position as a port and logistics service provider in Europe,” added Guillermo Misiano, chief executive of PTP Group.
”We are creating a direct link between the quay, storage and transport. This enables greater use of maritime and inland shipping transport and reduces processing times for agrifood flows.”
