Panalpina is expanding and investing in Kenya by doubling its cold storage space at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The facilities have been expanded by 1,500 square metres and features dedicated loading bays for skidded or palletised cargo, and separate cold rooms, which is unique to the airport.
Panalpina started operations in Nairobi in 2015 with a team of five people, which grew to 200 with the acquisition of Airflo and later to 350 with Air Connection.
Kenya Civil Aviation Authority director general, Captain Gilbert Kibe says the Kenyan government “remains committed to ensure that [Kenya has an] integrated and interconnected world-class transport infrastructure that facilitates sector growth and accelerates national economic development.”
Panalpina president and chief executive officer, Stefan Karlen says: “This facility will provide many business opportunities for our customers to pursue in [Kenya], the region and the world, and that is what we are looking to achieve – solutions that foster growth for our customers, Panalpina and the communities where we operate.”
Panalpina aims to grow its business in Kenya from 65,000 tonnes of flowers, fruit and vegetables to more than 80,000 tonnes in 2020.
Perishables have been growing in other African countries with the acquisition of Skyservices in South Africa, and FX Logistics of Zimbabwe becoming a member of the Panalpina Perishables Network.
