Food logistics on the menu at London Gateway

Global delicacies handled by the branch include baklava from Turkey, olives from Egypt, tea from Sri Lanka, as well as Italian favourites ranging from pasta to sundried tomatoes.

“Whilst we support all key sectors, food logistics is becoming increasingly important for us,” explained branch manager Steve Day.

“Due to Transmec’s Italian roots, we’ve served importers of Mediterranean food for a long time, but more recently, we’re handling items brought in via London Gateway port, which is right on our doorstep.”

Key to the surge has been the Gemini Partnership between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, which is using London Gateway rather than Felixstowe.

“We’ve helped a number of importers to manage the switch to London Gateway, enabling them to benefit from our proximity to the port,” Steve added.

“They’re impressed by our warehouse and what we can offer them, ranging from cost-effective shunting, container unloading, storage, pick and pack, and nationwide distribution, including final mile deliveries to Central London.

“We supply directly to food retailers, restaurants and distribution centres. Our responsibilities include ensuring that Sri Lankan tea is supplied to Harrods!”

The 155,000 sq ft warehouse provides ambient and chilled storage. Transmec’s solutions also include customs clearance and customs warehousing, which means duty and VAT don’t have to be paid until goods leave the warehouse. Its sea freight team can also arrange transport from across the globe.