Ports and Fresh Produce Logistics | Ep. 157

South Africa produces world-class fresh fruit, but getting that fruit to international markets requires a complex logistics network operating under immense pressure. In Episode 157 of the Lucentlands Podcast, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie speak with Delena Engelbrecht, CEO at GoReefers, about the evolution of South Africa’s fresh-produce logistics sector and the challenges facing exporters today. Delena shares how GoReefers began with three people in 2001, shortly after deregulation transformed the fruit industry. The company has since developed into an international logistics business handling more than 700,000 pallets annually. The conversation explores: •The logistical disruption that followed deregulation •How GoReefers grew by finding solutions during periods of change •Why fresh-produce logistics still depends heavily on people •The effect of port delays on growers, exporters and international customers •Why South Africa must improve the performance of its ports •The importance of protecting fruit throughout the supply chain •Leadership, workplace culture and empowering employees •Preparing employees for artificial intelligence and new technology •Opportunities for South Africa to become a larger contributor to the global food supply Delena explains that GoReefers approaches difficult decisions by asking one central question: What is best for the fruit? Her message to exporters is equally clear: “You pick, you pack and you sell — we will do the rest.” Connect with us: Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmedia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/ Podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/lucentlandspodcast Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: ⁠https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm\_source=lucentlands&utm\_medium=referral&utm\_campaign=LucentLandsPromo⁠Visit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/