Imperial Cold Logistics has invested in a new, state-of-the-art cold storage warehouse that will enable improved service levels and turnaround times, as well as supporting clients’ growth strategies by meeting the demand for chilled, frozen and super frozen storage space.

The new 25 500m² warehouse was developed at a cost of R160-million. The project was an expansive and retrofit of an existing ambient warehouse, says Imperial Logistics chief business development officer, Cobus Rossouw.

Situated in Linbro Park, Johannesburg, it is now one of the largest cold storage facilities in Africa, housing 37 000 pallets, operating 24/7 and offering flexible chambers that can be used for chilled, frozen and super frozen products.

“We offer both bulk (long term) and secondary (short term) storage. This means that we are delivering a one-stop service to our clients, enabling them to optimise their service to customers,” he says.

Expanding on the warehouse design, Rossouw says that it has six high-density storage areas, two standard racking chambers ranging from -20°C to -30°C and receiving and dispatch areas at either +2°C or -8°C.

“Excellent usage of space and high pallet density has been achieved through the use of mobile and static racking systems. The optimisation of space is crucial due to the high cost of refrigeration storage.”

The facility has successfully completed the Food Safety Audit (FSA) with a score of more than 93%.

“This international accreditation affirms the excellence of our food supply chain capabilities. Sustainability is also key feature of this warehouse, and the facility incorporates numerous green initiatives, including water harvesting from condensation, rain-water harvesting and a water-treatment plant.

“In addition, the warehouse includes a low-cost and highly efficient ammonia-refrigeration plant that capitalises on ammonia’s benefits as a natural, green refrigerant gas,” Rossouw says.

Low-energy, high-efficiency light fittings and occupation-activated lighting also form part of the facility’s green design. 

Another significant feature of the warehouse is its high-tech security system, which includes full CCTV camera surveillance throughout the facility, monitored by dedicated personnel. 

This new warehouse is enabling Imperial to drive the competitiveness of client McCain, with whom a new contract encompasses the warehousing and distribution of some 190 000 tonnes of frozen vegetables annually.

 “Other Imperial clients benefiting from the new facility include poultry producer Astral; frozen dough manufacturer Goosebumps; Iqlaas Foods, which is the home of frozen foods brands Penny Wise, Pastry Pride, McBean and Florida; and Lancewood cheeses. We are delighted to be able to strengthen and expand our partnerships with our clients with the addition of this world class cold storage solution to our service offering,” Rossouw concludes.