Hapag-Lloyd buys 7,700 new reefer containers

The German ocean carrier is expecting to bring all of the refrigerated (reefer) units into service during October and November, a company spokesperson told American Shipper.    Germany’s largest ocean carrier, Hapag-Lloyd, purchased 7,700 new reefer containers, consisting of 7,000 40-foot and 700 20-foot units, the company said Friday.
   One thousand of the new containers will be equipped with “Controlled Atmosphere” technology, which slows down the ripening process of various kinds of fruits and vegetables.
   Hapag-Lloyd has significantly grown in the reefer market after its merger with United Arab Shipping Co. back in May, Hapag-Lloyd Chief Operating Officer Anthony Firmin said.
   “The reefer units will be operated on all trades. The initial supply is dominantly considered for the upcoming peak season in South America’s west coast,” a Hapag-Lloyd spokesperson told American Shipper. “Productions have just started. We expect to bring all units into service during October and November.”