London-headquartered forwarder International Cargo Logistics (ICL) has expanded its temperature-controlled airfreight capabilities as part of an enhanced collaboration with fellow UK firm FreshLinc.
The two companies, who already work together on seafreight container transport, will now collaborate on final-mile delivery for UK airfreight.
The FreshLinc cold chain storage facility in Spalding, Lincolnshire will double up to serve as a control point for customs checks and clearances, further streamlining operations.
“This strengthened collaboration with FreshLinc comes at an exciting time for ICL, following closely on the heels of the opening of our new Rotterdam office last month,” said Nick Finbow, perishables sales director, ICL.
“This aligns with our ongoing growth plans, improving our ability to deliver high-quality logistics services from our Heathrow site for our clients in the perishables sector.
“Further improvements to our cold chain solutions will come later this year, as our Heathrow site undergoes renovations, with expansion and upgrades to our temperature-controlled facility.”
Founded in 1996, FreshLinc provides storage and logistical solutions across the UK and Europe from a network of distribution depots.
“The combination of ICL’s expertise with FreshLinc’s nationwide coverage will provide an efficient and reliable route to market,” said Lee Juniper, chief executive, FreshLinc.
“We currently have established two control points in Spalding, one specialising in temperature-controlled goods.
“FreshLinc’s facilities give our joint customers, such as ICL, the opportunity to clear products closer to the point of discharge, saving valuable time and allowing for fresher product entering the food chain.”
Heathrow Airport-based ICL recently opened a new office in Rotterdam as part of an expansion plan to develop perishables operations in Europe.