REFCOLD India 2023 proved to be an optimal spotlight for cold chain and food waste solution

The event’s grand inauguration was spearheaded by a rich array of dignitaries including Guest of Honour – Dr. R Velraj, Vice Chancellor, Anna University; Mr. Raja M Sriraam, Chairman, RECFOLD Chennai, ISHRAE; Mr. Yogesh Thakkar, National President, ISHRAE, Mr. Anoop Ballaney, National President Elect, ISHRAE and Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India.

The 6^th gala edition of REFCOLD India brought together top experts, businesses, and thought leaders who are driving the industry’s transformation with over 200 exhibitors, including an impressive lineup of industry giants such as BlueStar, Copeland, Rinac India, Tecumseh, Daikin, K-Flex, Yaskawa, and Danfoss, among others. The show anticipates more than 10,000 visitors, industry leaders, and professionals, for dynamic business opportunities, knowledge-sharing sessions, and networking.

Sharing his ideas on the way to sustainable refrigeration and cold chain solutions, Dr. R Velraj, Vice Chancellor, Anna University, said “Technology empowers us and represents the contribution of the engineer. 15% of agricultural production is wasted, while over 10% of marine products lose value owing to inadequate preservation. Sustainability in economic progress depends on inclusivity. The potential for yearly growth in the refrigeration and cold chain sector is 19%. Integration of cool energy storage with solar energy can reduce expenses. Multidisciplinary methods should be embraced by entrepreneurs. Agriculture, medicine, marine preservation, logistics, energy efficiency, and tiny refrigerated trucks are all integrated into sustainability. We can outperform the anticipated 18.4% increase if we take the appropriate approach. Events like RECFOLD India serve as a platform to showcase these cutting-edge facilities, playing a pivotal role in moulding the future of the refrigeration and cold chain industry.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Yogesh Thakkar, National President ISHRAE said, “The adoption of integrated cold chain solutions has the potential to significantly revolutionize the traditional perishables sector, bringing about substantial changes in the market landscape and overall growth. This is especially important in a country where agriculture employs 60% of the population. To harness the potential of integrated cold chain solutions, there is a need to optimise logistics, enhance value addition facilities, adopt green refrigeration practices, and adopt energy-efficient cooling systems and natural refrigerants ultimately improving efficiency across the supply chain. Similarly, the Indian organized food industry is a vast arena with significant potential. This underscores the substantial room for growth in the food delivery sector, which, when integrated with advanced refrigeration and cold chain solutions, can further enhance food quality, safety, and delivery efficiency.”

“The pandemic acted as a catalyst, propelling India’s online food delivery market to reach approximately $21 billion by 2026, with a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 30%”, he further added.

Commenting on the significance of REFCOLD India 2023, Mr Yogesh Mudras Managing Director, Informa Markets in India said “REFCOLD India provides a transformative journey that unlocks opportunities for fresh horizons and valuable collaborations. The expo offers a plethora of opportunities to connect with industry experts and learn about cutting-edge technologies. Furthermore, the government is also taking proactive steps to boost the refrigeration and cold chain industry by establishing extensive cold storage facilities nationwide. This initiative aims to minimize food wastage, encouraging eco-friendly refrigeration practices, while simultaneously stimulating economic growth. The added attractions including our content-rich conference that aligns with the theme of ‘Preserve through Innovation for a Better Future’ will gather experts, stalwarts, and key organizations and provide the momentum the market truly deserves!”

With the valuable support of MOFPI (Ministry of Food Processing Industries Government of India), other esteemed associations like IIR (International Institute of Refrigeration), NCCD (National Centre for Cold-chain Development), IDA (Indian Dairy Association), IIAR (International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration) and more, the event successfully bridged the gap between suppliers and buyers.