The consumption of perishables has remained largely unaffected by the economic downturn. Latest forecasts show that the global reefer container trades are potentially going to outperform dry freight container traffic and are expected to remain this way through to 2015. This shows in the rapid development of members in the PLA. With nearly 80 member offices in over 28 countries and with continued interest of this specialty group, proves that the perishable logistics business is growing and companies are realizing the potential of entering this specialist arena.

As part of the continuing development of the Perishable Network we are increasing advertising and awareness campaigns to promote the alliance with project owners and shippers. In addition we are seeking out suitable opportunities and venues to exhibit the PLA to the correct target audience. We are now considering a number of options for Europe and Asia that we feel expect to attract target visitors that are using this platform to build strategic relationships with partners.

Prior to committing to any date or locations, we would like to hear ideas from you in regard to exhibitions and events that you feel will expose members of the PLA. Your opinions are valuable to us in making such decisions that will help enhance your business.

Please contact me directly with your point of view. roverton@wcafamily.com

Breaking Out………. Perishable Networking

In January 2010 - the WCA will be conducting the 12th WCA conference and the 2nd WCA Family Worldwide Conference - during this event we will be holding the first ever Specialty Network breakout meetings for perishable goods. We have already received huge interest in this event and expectation is high. This is a perfect opportunity for you to showcase your business with like minded professionals of the same field. This is another great example of how popular we are becoming in this specialist field and now events like this are set to continue into the future.

Please follow the link below to see details;

http://www.wcafamily.com/meeting/wca2010/info/eng/pla_agenda.asp

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New Members

The PLA continues to grow and we would like to welcome our latest members to the group;

FMI Ouest, - France

http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=57962

Crescent Line, Inc - USA

http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=58445

Dynamic Shipping Agencies (Pvt.) Ltd. - Pakistan

http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=54330

Tiba International S.A - Spain

http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=37861

BEL International Logistics Limited - Hong Kong

http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=57225

Headway Logistics - Vietnam

http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=64098

ILX Forwarding S.L. (International Logistics Solutions) - Spain

http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=59649

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Member of the Month

Last month’s member of the month was ABC European Air and Sea Cargo Distribution. With Over 50 offices in 17 countries, ABC’s network is ideally positioned for the handling of Perishable goods, including foodstuff and pharmaceuticals as well as certain high tech products that are usually both fragile and of high value. They are able to offer secure and attractive temperature controlled transports and sustain the standards set by the Perishable Logistics Alliance (PLA). ABC’s focus is especially in Central and Eastern Europe / CEE. Being one of the first forwarders to enter into Eastern Europe.

Please see ABC’s profile listing and full contact details, by following the link; http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/members.asp?cid=20692

Please also see an example of ABC’s perishable capabilities by reading their very informative case study on recent projects handled.

ABC’s article entitled “Chocolate for China, pharmaceuticals for the United States and India, what’s next?” can be found on the new PLA ‘Member’s Articles” section on the following link; http://www.perishablelogisticsalliance.com/eng/mem_articles/ABC.asp

We invite you as members to also take advantage of communicating your company news to the PLA. In doing so we encourage you to send in your case studies, updates, market requirements, advise us on which global markets you are seeking partners etc. So we can communicate to all members through our broadcasts and online web news updates. Share your perishable business with the World!

This Month’s ‘Member of the Month’ will be announced shortly…….

Please do not hesitate to contact the Specialty Network team with any questions that you may have at info@perishablelogisticsalliance.com or apple@wcafamily.com; roverton@wcafamily.com