As we navigate an ever-evolving landscape in logistics and refrigerated food storage in Latin America, 2024 brings a series of trends and transformations. Follow some of the critical changes that are shaping our industry, from the integration of sophisticated solutions in key markets such as Brazil and Mexico, to the adoption of automation and sustainability.
We’re on the brink of a revolution, not only adapting to change, but also actively shaping the future of logistics and refrigerated food storage in Latin America, with innovation, efficiency and a deep commitment to environmental responsibility.
Normalization of stocks and the return to pre-pandemic levels
Companies in the food sector are close to finding their balance when it comes to stock levels. The uncertainty we saw during the pandemic is disappearing. Businesses are moving towards stability, which is returning stocks to a state of consistency.
This change is crucial. We’re not just talking about having enough stock on hand. It’s about predictability and reliability in the supply chain. Companies can plan better, forecast more accurately, and avoid the panic of stock surplus or shortage.
We’re entering an era in which ups and downs in stock levels are becoming a thing of the past. It’s about maintaining stable and manageable stock levels that are in line with the market’s real needs. On the one hand, we can see a lower occupancy in some facilities, higher turnover and a return of stock levels to a more normal level. For us, in cold chain logistics, this translates into smarter allocation of resources, better use of space and happier customers.
Sustainability: an integral approach
Discussions about sustainability in the cold chain are changing significantly, going beyond energy efficiency to embrace broader criteria. In the context of COP28, what is shaping our industry is the adjustment of refrigerated storage temperatures, from -18°C to -15°C. This change, although it may seem small, can lead to significant energy savings and still ensure that products remain perfectly frozen.
The urgency of reducing gases that destroy the ozone layer is also growing. Increasingly, companies are being driven, sometimes by customer demand, to replace older refrigeration systems based on more environmentally friendly options, such as CO2 and ammonia.
In addition, we’re focused on reducing water consumption. All efforts to conserve this vital resource reflect our commitment to sustainability. In certain of Emergent Cold LatAm buildings, we are investing in an advanced refrigeration system that doesn’t use water in the condensers and, at the same time, is energy efficient.
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