At the end of the first quarter of 2021, the landscape of the European cold chain is characterized by high storage occupation and low inventory turnover, mostly driven by the food service industry / catering which is still almost at a standstill. 

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the industry, while Brexit has disrupted trade flows and the labor market. At the same time, China has exported heavily to Europe in recent months and terminals across the continent report working at full capacity, there is no reduction in the flow before the summer. The ships and equipment for maritime transport are saturated, there is no additional capacity available on the market. As a result, the shipping costs are multiplied up to five times.

In most countries, the price of electricity has risen, as has the cost of insurance. Carbon footprint reduction and cybersecurity are other major challenges that third-party temperature-controlled logistics operators face across Europe. 

Meanwhile, the consolidation continues to progress, the most recent acquisitions being announced in Northern Europe, the UK and Italy. In addition, several new constructions have begun or are underway in various parts of Europe. There is a strong trend towards more sustainable buildings and greater use of automation.

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