Swissport has inaugurated its first dedicated perishables center in the United Kingdom, with Scan Global Logistics as its inaugural customer.

The fresh cargo center, Swissport's fifth cargo facility at Heathrow Airport (LHR), commenced operations in November 2024. Under a three-year partnership agreement, Swissport and Scan Global Logistics will provide exporters with stable operational capabilities, strictly controlled handling processes, and faster customs clearance for time- and temperature-sensitive goods such as seafood, especially salmon, fresh agricultural products, and other critical perishables.

The center's temperature-controlled handling areas are designed to meet the logistics requirements for fresh seafood, with a maximum processing capacity of 30,000 tonnes of perishables annually.

The facility also integrates a dedicated border inspection post (BIP), enabling inspections and customs clearance for imported goods directly on the airside. This capability shortens release times, reduces storage duration, and preserves the quality of time- and temperature-sensitive shipments.

Swissport's cargo facility at Heathrow Airport, including the new perishables center. *Photo: Stuart Bailey*

“The launch of our first dedicated fresh cargo center in the United Kingdom, alongside our partnership with Scan Global Logistics, marks a significant milestone for Swissport,” stated Joe Bellfield, Swissport's Managing Director for Cargo UK&I.

He added that Heathrow is a crucial gateway for global seafood flows, where perishable shipments demand absolute precision. Implementing proven cold chain processes, specialized infrastructure, and a well-trained team at Heathrow will enhance the reliability and predictability that exporters require.

Steen Søgaard, Scan Global Logistics' Regional Managing Director for Northern Europe, noted that producers of temperature-sensitive goods rely heavily on stable capacity and controlled handling processes, especially as volumes continue to increase. “This model provides a solid foundation for daily operations and long-term growth. Swissport's global cold chain experience and operational scale make them the ideal partner for the UK market.”

As part of its next investment, Swissport will install an EMIS machine in Q1 this year. This automated screening solution allows for the inspection of densely packed palletized seafood shipments without disassembly. Processing complete units in a single pass reduces handling steps, shortens turnaround times, and creates a more stable and consistent flow.

For exporters, this translates to faster processing times, improved schedule reliability, and better product quality preservation during peak periods, while fully complying with EU security requirements.

“This technology enables fresh cargo to move through Heathrow more efficiently and predictably,” said Colin Wells, Scan Global Logistics' Global Head of Perishables. “It improves handling times, maintains the highest standards of quality and freshness, and creates a unique, highly reliable solution amid significant market demand.”

Heathrow plays a central role in the global seafood supply chain, with approximately 200,000 tonnes of salmon transiting through the airport annually, including produce from Scotland. As direct shipping capacity from origin points becomes increasingly limited, specialized hub models with stable throughput are becoming essential for exporters in Norway, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and the United Kingdom.

Farmed Atlantic salmon remains one of the fastest-growing protein groups globally. Europe and the Americas each consume about 35%-40% of global production. Industry analyses, including those by Kontali, forecast a production increase of 15%-25% during the 2025-2030 period, which will drive traffic through major hub airports and increase demand for robust temperature-controlled handling solutions.

Swissport is a leading global provider of airport ground services and cargo handling, operating at over 300 airports in 45 countries. It offers comprehensive solutions for passengers, cargo, and supply chain services, with strengths in large-scale operations and specialized cold chain management.

By Gia Han (According to AirCargo News)