It’s not an unknown problem: the temperature fluctuations in refrigerated containers during transport. The temperature, which mostly causes major differences in the containers around the equator, causes financial damage to refrigerated products such as fresh fruit. For a long time, a solution to this problem has been looked for. One of the solutions is supplied by Dutch company OTFLOW, founded by Otto de Groot and Ronald Hagenstein. They’re continuing to build on the scientific research of Dr Leo Lukasse MSc, of the University of Wageningen (WUR).
Marc Reym, Otto de Groot and Ronald Hagenstein from Otflow
Otflow introduced a pad that was specifically developed to ensure an optimal air flow in refrigerated containers. The result of the good air flow is that temperatures are more balanced throughout the container. This reduces the damage to fresh fruit in the container and ensures the product is fresher upon arrival. The solution of Otflow was the result of extensive testing conducted in cooperation with Wageningen Food & Biobased Research. This test consisted of transporting a shipment of grapes with a number of samples from South Africa to the Netherlands. The temperature in the refrigerated containers was carefully monitored. The positive result of these studies has given Otflow a strong start for the product’s introduction on the market late in 2017.
Ronald says the company hasn’t stood still in the meantime. They’re dedicated to continuing to develop the product supplied by Otflow. For example, they’re constantly working on optimising the product. They’re currently waiting for the results of customers who are putting the product to the test. With the new information from the temperature data of the transport, Otflow is capable of further optimising its products for customers.
11 meters long Otflow pad
Besides, Otflow also continues to be dedicated to its customer service and communication. Ronald has been very dedicated to this right from the start: explanations about the product are given with the help of professional 3D animations, for example, and every day, people are working on increasing brand awareness both online and offline.
Otflow is an international player. They have customers not just in the Netherlands, but also in South Africa, New Zealand, India, Chile and Spain. It wants to continue increasing its position in South America with a new cooperation with Agunsa in Peru. Otflow had a sales-round planned in Peru in April. They introduced their solutions to regulate temperatures in containers during this time.
Originally, Otflow’s solution was mostly focused on the transport of fresh fruit between continents, although they’ve also discovered new markets. For example, it has potential in the transport of flowers and bulbs, and it’s dedicated to exploring any new market for their products as well.
More information
Ronald Hagenstein
OTFLOW BV
Stephensonweg 18
3225 LW Hellevoetsluis
T: 06 53234536
www.otflow.business.site
ronald@OTFLOW.com