HPL Sea Freight managing director Dave McLean told freshinfo he was 'delighted' with the award that was presented for service excellence.

The company won special mention for the customer-focused service it provides for South African fruit exporters against the background of a deregulated industry. 'In two years, a skilled company has been established providing a level of service to South African exporters and the European importers,' said BIFA's spokesperson.

'South Africa accounts for about 50 per cent of our business,' said McLean, 'but we also handle produce for our clients wherever in the world it is sent from. HPL has 33 offices in 17 different countries and we network with each other. We provide a one-stop shop for growers and importers alike.'