Rhenus opens Heathrow produce hub

German-owned global forwarder Rhenus has opened a temperature-controlled perishable handling facility at London-Heathrow, making it one of the few freight forwarders able to store and build ULDs within a chilled environment at the airport.

It offers 2,195sq m of floor space and a two-layer racking configuration that provides space for 1,209 cubic metres of produce, at 0 to 8°C.

Rhenus is also augmenting its screening capabilities in line with Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority requirements. Dual view X-ray and an electromagnetic inspection scanner will allow screening of up to 30 pallets per hour.

The forwarder can also provide customs and health clearance, certificates of conformity or origin, and Chamber of Commerce legalisation of phytosanitary certificates. Value-added services include pick and pack services within a cool chain environment.

Following similar launches in Norway and the Netherlands, the forwarder inaugurated a Rhenus Fresh team in the UK in 2023, headed by George Mead (pictured), who said: “This investment expands our unique selling proposition, appealing to a wider range of customers seeking temperature control for various products, such as flowers, meat, dairy, fruits, vegetables and fish. Additionally, we are equipped to transport items with a slightly prolonged shelf life, requiring storage and subsequent export, including segmented ocean shipments.”

Managing director of Rhenus Air and Ocean, Steven Aitken, added: “Alongside our cutting-edge security protocols, this strategic initiative solidifies our position as a top-tier provider in temperature-controlled logistics.”