New grower division serves perishable exports

A NEW transport and packaging service for perishable exports has begun operating in Gauteng. Pomona-based freight company Sarenta has set up a grower service division that provides boxes, plastic securing equipment and all other material needed to ensure that goods are safely packed for transportation. “Growers can drop off their perishables in whatever form they wish at our offices and we do the rest for them,” says general manager Richard Bosman. This includes the delivery to Johannesburg International Airport. Sarenta was established recently when the management of what was previously Cross Border Freight bought the company, which had specialised in a weekly trucking service to and from Harare. They saw the potential to expand into the growing airfreight market, both locally and internationally, and renamed it to reflect the wider service range. “We are handling perishables in all forms,” says Bosman. “This covers flowers, produce, meat and fish. Flowers fly out to all parts of the world, from the Far East to the US, while produce is mainly destined for Europe. “We also handle a constant supply of day-old chicks and hatching eggs for Nigeria and Cameroon.” Sarenta uses various airlines, but also takes on charters. One service, flying goods from Harare to Europe, has become a regular operation. Back at base, however, the eight-ton truck still serves the weekly route to Harare.