Refrigerated logistics in France: Challenges and comparison in fresh logistics and cold logistics with other European countries

Challenges of refrigerated logistics in France

France, as a central logistics center in Europe with a significant influence on global trade, is a key player in the cold chain logistics network. Refrigerated logistics plays a crucial role in global trade and is essential for the transport of temperature-sensitive goods such as food and medicine. This report examines the challenges of refrigerated logistics in France and compares French refrigerated logistics infrastructure and performance with other European countries.

Economic and external challenges

Rising fuel costs

The ever-increasing cost of fuel poses a major challenge for refrigerated logistics as it increases transportation costs and affects profitability.

COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the refrigerated logistics industry. The pandemic has led to supply chain disruptions, staff shortages and increased demand for online deliveries, posing major challenges for refrigerated logistics companies.

Logistical challenges

Growing demand for temperature-controlled products

The market for temperature-controlled products is growing rapidly, resulting in increased demand for refrigerated transport and storage solutions. This increasing demand requires investment in new infrastructure and technologies to expand capacity and increase efficiency.

Ensuring product quality

Maintaining the cold chain is crucial to ensure the quality and safety of temperature-sensitive goods. Any deviation from the prescribed temperatures can result in product loss and financial damage.

Challenges in handling, packaging and storage

Proper handling, packaging and storage of temperature-sensitive goods is crucial to maintaining the cold chain. Errors in these areas can lead to temperature fluctuations and product loss.

Industry-specific challenges

Pharmaceutical refrigerated logistics

The transport of pharmaceuticals requires particularly strict temperature control. Different medications and vaccines have different temperature requirements, e.g. B. mRNA vaccines must be stored at -94°F (-70°C). The market for pharmaceutical refrigerated logistics products in France is estimated at 690 million euros, with two thirds of this amount spent on storage and one third on transport.

sustainability

Environmental Impact

The refrigerated logistics industry is under pressure to reduce its environmental impact. Reducing emissions, optimizing transport routes and using energy-efficient technologies are important challenges for the industry.

Refrigerated logistics infrastructure in France

France has a well-developed transport infrastructure, which makes it an important player in the European logistics network. The refrigerated logistics infrastructure includes:

Cold storage

France has numerous cold storage facilities strategically located throughout the country. These warehouses offer a wide range of services including storage, freezing, picking and packing.

Transport capacities

French logistics companies have a large fleet of refrigerated vehicles, including trucks, trailers and containers suitable for transporting temperature-sensitive goods.

technology

The use of modern technologies such as telematics, GPS tracking and temperature monitoring systems plays an important role in French refrigerated logistics. These technologies enable efficient route planning, cold chain monitoring and delivery process optimization.

Hydrogen powered solutions

France is investing in the development of hydrogen transport corridors to promote the use of hydrogen in refrigerated logistics. Hydrogen-powered electric vehicles could play an important role in refrigerated transport in the future and help reduce emissions.

Industry-specific applications

Refrigerated logistics plays an important role in various industries, e.g. B. in the wine industry. France is known for its wines, and refrigerated logistics are crucial to maintaining the quality of wines during transport and storage.

Logistics plan 2025

The French government has launched the “Logistics Plan for 2025” to optimize supply chain management and improve the intermodality of the transport network through infrastructure improvements. This plan aims to strengthen the efficiency and competitiveness of the logistics sector, including refrigerated logistics.

Port infrastructure

France has seven major ports, including the important seaports of Marseille and Le Havre, which play an important role in international trade. The ports of HAROPA (Le Havre, Rouen, Paris), Marseille and Dunkerque are important hubs for refrigerated logistics and provide access to international shipping routes.

Automation in cold storage

The increasing use of automation technologies in cold storage, such as B. Cloud technology, robotics, conveyor belts and automated loading systems help increase efficiency and reduce costs.

Market size and growth

The French refrigerated logistics market is valued at $11.57 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.38% to $18.11 billion by 2029.

Comparison of refrigerated logistics in France with other European countries

France has a strong position in refrigerated logistics compared to other European countries such as Germany, Spain and Italy. The European refrigerated logistics market is estimated at $105.5 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.1% to $356.7 billion by 2033.

Fresh logistics performance in France

France is an important player in European fresh produce logistics. The performance of French fresh logistics is characterized by the following points:

• Short delivery times: The well-developed infrastructure and efficient logistics processes enable short delivery times for fresh products.
• High product quality: Compliance with the cold chain and the use of modern technologies help maintain product quality.
• Sustainable practices: More and more companies in French fresh logistics are relying on sustainable practices, such as: B. the use of electric vehicles and reducing food waste.

Comparison of fresh produce logistics in France with other European countries

Compared to other European countries, France does well in fresh food logistics. The demand for local products and the increasing importance of discounters are influencing the development of the industry. Around 88 million tonnes of food are wasted in the European Union every year, with around 13% of these losses occurring in the supply chain. Efficient cold chain management plays an important role in reducing food waste and its environmental impact. Smaller regional players in the fresh food market often have higher margins compared to larger companies, but are also exposed to greater fluctuations.

Trends and developments in refrigerated logistics in France and Europe

The refrigerated logistics industry in France and Europe is characterized by various trends and developments:

technology

automation

The use of automation technologies in cold storage facilities is increasing. Robots, conveyor belts and automated storage systems increase efficiency and reduce costs.

digitalization

Digitalization is playing an increasingly important role in refrigerated logistics. The use of blockchain technology, cloud computing and data analytics improves supply chain transparency, traceability and efficiency. Blockchain technology, for example, enables secure and transparent documentation of temperature data along the entire cold chain.

sustainability

Environmentally friendly technologies

Sustainability is an important trend in refrigerated logistics. Companies invest in environmentally friendly technologies, such as: E.g. electric vehicles and alternative coolants to reduce their CO2 emissions. The EU-wide emissions trading system and the cap and trade model, where an actor's emissions must match its permits, will transform the industry. The EU's Fit for 55 package calls for a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.

More trends

E-commerce

The growing e-commerce sector is driving the demand for refrigerated logistics solutions. The increasing number of online orders requires fast and efficient delivery of temperature-sensitive goods.

QR code menus and online ordering

The use of QR code menus and online ordering is increasing in the restaurant industry. These technologies enable contactless ordering and real-time menu updates, improving both customer experience and operational efficiency.

Demand for temperature-controlled products

Refrigerated logistics in France is facing various challenges, including rising fuel costs, the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing demand for temperature-controlled products. However, France has a well-developed refrigerated logistics infrastructure and compares favorably with other European countries. The industry is characterized by trends such as automation, digitalization and sustainability that will shape the future of refrigerated logistics in France and Europe.

Increasing e-commerce and increasing demand for fresh and high quality food offer opportunities for the French refrigerated logistics industry. At the same time, companies must overcome the challenges associated with sustainability and rising costs. The French government supports the development of the industry through initiatives such as the “Logistics Plan for 2025”, which aims to modernize and increase the efficiency of the logistics sector. Overall, the outlook for the French refrigerated logistics industry is positive, provided companies can adapt to changing market conditions and new technologies.

Refrigerated logistics, also known as cold chain logistics, plays a central role in the modern economy. It ensures that temperature-sensitive products, especially food and pharmaceuticals, maintain their quality and safety throughout the entire transport process from production to the end user. Given the increasing globalization of markets and the increasing demand for fresh and high-quality products, the efficiency and reliability of refrigerated logistics is becoming increasingly important. The European refrigerated logistics market, a dynamic and high-growth segment, is estimated to be worth $105.5 billion in 2024. Experts predict impressive annual growth of 14.1% on average, which would result in an estimated market size of $356.7 billion in 2033. These figures underline the immense importance and future potential of this industry.

France occupies an important position within this important European market. Compared to other large economic nations such as Germany, Spain and Italy, France is characterized by specific strengths and weaknesses in its refrigerated logistics. In order to get a comprehensive picture, it is essential to take a closer look at the general conditions and characteristics of the individual countries.

France: strengths and challenges in detail

France benefits from a well-developed transport infrastructure, which forms a backbone for efficient refrigerated logistics. A dense network of highways, a well-functioning rail network and important seaports and airports enable the smooth transport of refrigerated goods within the country and to international destinations. This infrastructure is critical to maintaining cold chain integrity and minimizing delivery times.

Another advantage of France is its strategic location in the heart of Europe. This position allows it to serve important trade routes and act as a transit country for the movement of goods between Northern and Southern Europe and Eastern and Western Europe. Proximity to important sales markets and production centers is a decisive factor for competitiveness in refrigerated logistics.

The large number of cold storage facilities in France is another plus point. These facilities, located throughout the country, provide the necessary capacity for interim storage and transshipment of refrigerated products. Modern cold storage facilities are equipped with advanced technology to ensure precise temperature control and efficient warehouse management.

France's strong presence in the food and pharmaceutical sectors has a positive impact on refrigerated logistics. Both industries rely heavily on functioning cold chains, which has led to specialized logistics services and infrastructure. France is a major producer and exporter of agricultural products and has a growing pharmaceutical industry, further driving demand for reliable refrigerated logistics solutions.

Despite these strengths, French refrigerated logistics also faces challenges. Rising fuel costs represent a significant burden as the transport of refrigerated goods often involves long distances and requires specialized, energy-intensive vehicles. The volatility of fuel prices can affect the predictability and profitability of logistics services.

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed immense challenges for refrigerated logistics in France, as in other countries. Supply chain disruptions, border closures and increased demand for refrigerated medical products (e.g. vaccines) have tested the flexibility and resilience of logistics companies. Even though the situation has now stabilized, the after-effects of the pandemic still have an impact and require constant adjustment of processes.

Germany: The logistics leader with high demands

Germany traditionally holds a leading position in European logistics, which is also reflected in refrigerated logistics. The country has excellent infrastructure, which is often considered a benchmark in Europe. A dense motorway network, modern rail connections and efficient inland waterways enable fast and reliable transport of refrigerated goods.

The high technology density in the German logistics industry is another competitive advantage. The use of automation technology, advanced tracking systems and data-supported optimization processes contributes to high efficiency and transparency in refrigerated logistics. German companies continually invest in innovative technologies to improve their services and stand out from the competition.

A strong focus on sustainability characterizes German refrigerated logistics. In view of growing environmental awareness and stricter legal requirements, German companies attach great importance to energy-efficient vehicles, alternative drive technologies and the reduction of CO2 emissions. Sustainable refrigerated logistics solutions are increasingly becoming a decisive competitive factor.

One of the weaknesses of German refrigerated logistics is the high labor costs. Germany is one of the countries with the highest labor costs in Europe, which can affect the prices of logistics services. Companies must therefore counteract this through high efficiency and the use of technology in order to remain competitive.

Spain: The Gateway to Southern Europe and Beyond

Spain's strategic location as a bridge between Europe, Africa and Latin America is a significant advantage for refrigerated logistics. The country serves as an important transshipment point for refrigerated goods, especially for trade with North Africa and Latin America. The proximity to these markets opens up interesting business opportunities for Spanish logistics companies.

As a large exporter of agricultural products, Spain has a well-developed refrigerated logistics infrastructure tailored to the needs of agriculture. The export of fresh fruit, vegetables and other temperature-sensitive foods requires efficient cold chains, in which significant investments have been made in recent years.

Despite these advantages, there are infrastructure challenges, particularly in the south of the country. While the infrastructure is well developed in the economically stronger regions, there is a need to catch up in other parts of Spain, which can affect the smooth transport of refrigerated goods.

Italy: Focus on food and bureaucratic hurdles

Italy is characterized by a strong focus on the food industry, which represents a significant part of the Italian economy. The production and export of high-quality food, including many temperature-sensitive products such as cheese, sausages and fresh products, require efficient refrigerated logistics.

A well-developed network of cold storage facilities exists in Italy, especially in regions heavily involved in food production. These warehouses provide the necessary infrastructure to ensure the quality and safety of products during storage.

One of the biggest weaknesses of Italian refrigerated logistics is the bureaucratic hurdles. Complex approval procedures and administrative requirements can affect the efficiency of logistics processes and lead to delays. Reducing these bureaucratic hurdles would be an important step towards strengthening competitiveness.

In addition, high transport costs put a strain on Italian refrigerated logistics. These costs can be caused by a variety of factors, including high tolls, fuel prices, and inefficiencies in the transportation network.

Common challenges and future prospects

In addition to the country-specific differences, all European countries face similar challenges in refrigerated logistics. The shortage of skilled workers is a widespread problem as qualified personnel are needed to operate and maintain refrigeration systems and transport refrigerated goods.

Digitalization offers significant potential for optimizing refrigeration logistics. Using sensors for temperature monitoring, cloud-based platforms for data analysis and artificial intelligence for route optimization can increase efficiency and improve transparency.

Sustainability will remain a central issue in the future. Reducing energy consumption, using alternative fuels and minimizing food waste are important goals for the industry.

Infrastructure, strategic location and strong presence

France has a strong base in European refrigerated logistics, based on a well-developed infrastructure, a strategic location and a strong presence in key industries. Germany impresses with its technological leadership and focus on sustainability, while Spain benefits from its geographical location and Italy has its strengths in the food industry. However, all countries face similar challenges that require innovative solutions and investments to further improve the efficiency and sustainability of refrigerated logistics. The growing need for safe and high quality temperature-sensitive products will further increase the importance of refrigerated logistics in the coming years and underline the need for continuous development and adaptation.

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