Cold chain clean technology provider Purfresh has moved to bring in two seasoned ocean transportation and horticultural experts, in a bid to focus on strategic initiatives that support the rapid adoption of the group's solutions.

The group has appointed John Harnett as a senior director at Purfresh Transport, while also hiring Dr Malcolm Dodd as manager of its Purfresh Africa arm.

'As more and more fresh produce is being moved in ocean-going reefer containers, and with consumers demanding fresh fruit and vegetables year-round, the appointment of John and Malcolm will play pivotal roles in our ability to meet the growing global demand for our Purfresh transport solution,' said David Bouchard, general manager, post-harvest and transport solutions at Purfresh.

'Both John and Malcolm bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to theteam, and will be invaluable as we continue to open new markets and capitalise on new avenues of growth,' he added. John Harnett Purfresh square

Boasting over 20 years experience in the ocean transportation industry, Mr Harnett joins from CMA CGM and will focus on strategic initiatives and lead business development activities for the Purfresh Transport product line.

'The ocean transport industry is always looking to leverage new technologies for protecting and preserving perishables, while providing enhanced load protection monitoring services for containers around the world,' said Mr Harnett. 'The application science and real-time monitoring services available with the Purfresh Transport solution are the key elements for continued success – I look forward to leveraging Purfresh's worldwide recognised brand to form new strategic partnerships and expand our global presence.'

Dr Dodd, who has held positions at the Post Harvest Innovation Programme in South Africa and the Perishable Products Export Control Board, will be responsible for Purfresh Transport market and business development activities throughout Africa and is a member of the Purfresh Transport Advisory Board.Malcolm Dodd Purfresh square

'Purfresh has a strong reputation in the industry for its scientific excellence in reducing decay and extending shelf-life of fresh produce shipped around the world,' he said. 'Africa represents a fast-growing market for sustainable and organic solutions for food and agriculture, and the company is poised to gain significant market share in the region with its Purfresh Transport solution.'