DIARIO DEL PUERTO COLD CHAIN LOGISTICS - FRUIT LOGISTICA 2022 18 Logistics operators and cold storage facilities RAÚL TÁRREGA Cold storage facilities and logistics platforms play one of the most important roles in the temperature-controlled product distribution chain, as these are the points where goods are handled and prepared for delivery to the end consumer. Although the overall figures point to a relatively positive situation, the reality is that the disproportionate growth in energy costs is putting a huge strain on many specialised operators. According to the Spanish Cold Storage, Logistics and Distribution Association (ALDEFE), in many cases, energy payments already account for over 50% of many companies’ total costs. According to Marcos Badenes, the Association’s General Secretary, the current sensation is bittersweet: there have certainly been difficulties, although operations have also been very stable, both in terms of occupancy and tonnage handled, which led to a slight increase in turnover over the course of the year. A brief overview of the figures shows that last year the existing occupancy capacity stood at 82.25%, a figure which in many facilities was higher than the previous year and which ”is a clear indicator of WHEN ENERGY COSTS PUT EVERYTHING ON ICE Although it seems difficult to cope with a context where costs leave little room for profits, the truth is that the current situation of logistics cold chain firms is one of stability, not growth. The relatively positive figures of 2021 have been overshadowed by high energy costs, which have turned the situation for operators ”into an absolute tragedy, according to ALDEFE’s General Secretary, Marcos Badenes
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