52
Around 75% of fruits exported by Brazil are destined for countries in the European Union, according to the Export Panel of Brazilian Association of Exporters of Fruit and Derivatives (Abrafrutas). Additionally, the recent opening of the Chinese market to Brazilian grapes has brought a new perspective on Asian market consumption. Keeping an eye on these strategic markets, Termotécnica will participate in Fruit Logistica, the world’s leading fresh produce event, which takes place from February 5 to 7 in Berlin, Germany.
A leader in EPS packaging solutions – better known as Styrofoam* – in Latin America, Termotécnica will showcase its FarmFresh line (DaColheita brand for Brazilian market), developed to optimize fruit storage and transport over long distances. “By extending shelf-life, maintaining a stable temperature and being extremely light, our packaging also contributes to sustainability aspects such as reducing losses and waste in the distribution chain and lowering CO2 emissions into the atmosphere, as well as being 100% recyclable”, states Termotécnica’s Managing Director, Nivaldo Fernandes de Oliveira. In addition to representing Termotécnica at Abrafrutas, the executive is also a member of the Board of IFPA Brasil (International Fresh Produce Association), an entity that integrates the chain of producers and distributors of flowers and fresh products in several countries.
During the three-day event, at the Brazil Pavilion organized by Abrafrutas, visitors will be able to learn about the company’s innovative conservers. This packaging helps reduce the loss of vitamins and moisture from fresh produce, extending their shelf life. Fruits and vegetables stored in these solutions lose less water, reach the ideal temperature more quickly and maintain their freshness longer. In addition, the conservers’ structure reduces the risk of damage during transport, absorbing impacts and reducing losses in the cargo. Furthermore, EPS is lighter than cardboard, which allows for significant reductions in shipping costs.
According to Termotécnica’s Agribusiness Manager, Mirella Oliveira, the event is a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships with current customers and attract new partners. “We’ll demonstrate the benefits of our post-harvest conservation solutions, which maintain the perishable products’ freshness and quality throughout the entire distribution chain, from the field to the consumer’s table”, she emphasizes.
In Fruit Logistica, Termotécnica will highlight the differentials of FarmFresh conservers that add value at all stages of the agribusiness chain. From packaging fresh produce to storage, transport and retail display, the solutions stand out for their efficiency, cost-benefit and sustainability.
Since 2007, Termotécnica has been recognized in Brazil and around the world for its contribution towards giving new life to post-consumer EPS packaging. During this period, the company collected and recycled approximately 48 million kilos of EPS from post-consumer packaging – equivalent to an area greater than 10 Maracanã soccer stadiums. Since it began working with fruit exporters, Termotécnica has been part of the Global Packaging Alliance, a global partnership for packaging recycling.
Fruit Logistica will bring together 3,300 exhibitors, over 72,000 visitors and will be the stage for the main trends and innovations in marketing fruits and vegetables. For Brazilian exporters, it’s an opportunity to diversify their offerings and win over new market niches. It’s worth remembering that the European Union (composed of 27 countries) is the largest global fruit importer, with investments of 20.6 billion euros in imports from countries outside the bloc in 2022 alone, according to data from EUROSTAT.
With promising prospects for the coming years, the sector will be driven by promotional initiatives, raising companies’ export-oriented culture and logistical improvements in Brazil, including new freight options and greater transport efficiency.