Focus on the importance of time in maritime transport at the Nord Ovest Academy event

A large number of participants attended the 2024 edition of the Nord Ovest Academy, which took place in Verona (Italy) in the last few days. Since the launch of the Nord Ovest Academy format, interest in the world of maritime transport of perishable products in reefer containers has gradually increased. This is now a customary moment that allows the exchange of know-how among operators in the sector.

"The importance of the event was already apparent from the number of participants," said Massimo Delpozzo of Northwest, "as the event addressed many issues related to the time factor as a determining element in the maritime transport of fruit and vegetables. We all know what has been happening in the Suez Canal for the past seven months: ships are being forced to circumnavigate Africa to avoid attacks by the Houthi paramilitary group."

"The situation in the Suez Canal is not yet resolved, and we need to be prepared for the upcoming trade and export season."

Many topics were covered in detail, including legal and shipping aspects, insurance aspects, and Cargo Claim. Finally, the technical part was addressed, covering all cell storage solutions, the use of active packaging, and also the technical aspects related to container transport of fruit with controlled and modified atmosphere.

To avoid over-generalization, the technical aspects were covered for each type of fruit (apples, kiwis, plums and table grapes), since not all references work in the same way.

"We clarified the main aspects to support the many exporters who were in great difficulty, preferring to await the end of the season in the hope that Suez could somehow reopen. Unfortunately, not only have these expectations been disappointed, but hope cannot be the ideal basis for doing business. That is why we have brought together top experts to look at every aspect of this issue in depth."

Delpozzo: "We were pleasantly surprised by the high level of participation, both in terms of numbers and debate. The room was packed, and it was fascinating because of the constant exchange of opinions. Certainly, at this time, these issues are particularly felt by exporters, who, understanding that we organize an event like this every year, urged us to gather around a table some experts who could deal with, clarify and possibly reassure about alternative forms or possible solutions to extend the shelf life of goods."

The goal was certainly achieved. "At the end of the event, the positivity and gratitude were palpable, because we brought solutions to light. Exporting fruit and vegetables cannot be a matter of hope, but must be based on effective logistical management, relying on prudent partners who know how to handle the product in the best possible way." We must not succumb to global dynamics, but logistics must be discussed and reshaped according to the new scenarios," concludes Delpozzo.