GAC Laser handles record citrus volumes

A record quantity of 2 800 000 cartons of Valencia oranges have just been handled and stored by GAC Laser’s Durban branch over an eight week period. The significance of this number, according to CEO Simon Hayes, was that the procedure complied with a new timing sequence, the result of a dispensation just introduced by the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB). “Prior to 2010 a strictly controlled cold chain was required for all fruit exports out of SA, adding significant cost to the logistics chain. “In order to reduce these costs, and allow SA citrus into the more lucrative European, Middle Eastern and Far Eastern markets at much more competitive prices, the PPECB now allows certain citrus produce, including Valencia oranges, to be handled and stored at ambient temperatures. This provided that the fruit is packed into reefer containers or vessels within 10 days of inspection at the farms or pack houses.” It presented GAC Laser with a new market opportunity, and the company entered the citrus export market this year. “We targeted this market for the first time this season, and secured 40 000-pallets (2 800 000-cartons) over an 11-week period,” Hayes added. Keeping a keen eye on the procedure, a PPECB officer is stationed at the premises to ensure that the 10-day protocol is not breached. “We believe that team planning and communicating effectively with the growers, transporters, vessel lines and local authorities is a must if you want to take advantage of this new and exciting logistics offering,” said Hayes.