IFCO, a global leader in reusable packaging solutions for fresh food and drink, has launched its new digital hub in Barcelona. This strategic establishment enhances IFCO’s capability to provide real-time tracking and data-driven insights to clients worldwide, thereby promoting transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in supply chain management.
Situated in Tech Barcelona’s Pier01, the new hub is central to IFCO’s dedication to digital innovation, emphasizing the establishment of a Center of Excellence in data analytics and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. By incorporating cutting-edge technologies into its reusable packaging containers (RPCs), IFCO facilitates 24/7 location and status updates, empowering clients to optimize crate usage, minimize environmental impact, and streamline logistics operations.
The initiatives introduced by the hub include:
- Optimizing Transportation and Cleaning: Projects aim to enhance the efficiency of transporting and washing RPCs. Utilizing IoT technology, the movement and usage of crates are tracked, leading to improved cycle efficiency.
- Advanced Monitoring Features: Temperature-tracking sensors ensure compliance and traceability for perishable food items, thereby guaranteeing the quality of temperature-sensitive goods.
- AI-Driven Insights: AI-powered analytics empower businesses to optimize supply chain performance, decrease losses, enhance efficiency, and achieve operational goals.
- Sustainability Focus: Enhanced tracking capabilities aid clients in meeting their sustainability objectives by reducing food waste and maximizing the reuse of food and drink packaging.
“Opening our new hub in Barcelona is a strategic investment that underscores IFCO’s commitment to delivering exceptional value to our customers. By partnering with Tech Barcelona, we’re tapping into one of Europe’s leading tech innovation hubs, empowering us to further our mission of sustainable solutions on a global scale,” said Mike Pooley, IFCO CEO.
“IFCO’s new digital hub marks a pivotal advancement in our digital journey, enhancing our technological capabilities to drive meaningful improvements in our services. Building this expertise in-house enables us to innovate continuously, while Tech Barcelona’s dynamic ecosystem aligns perfectly with our vision of a tech-driven future for sustainable supply chain solutions,” explained Dr. Sebastian Grams, IFCO CDO.
The new office, located at Pier01 in Tech Barcelona, sits at the heart of Barcelona’s burgeoning tech environment. This talent-rich hub is committed to fostering a robust in-house team comprised of data engineers, data scientists, analysts, and software developers. Currently, the Barcelona office employs 15 individuals and is poised to expand to approximately 50 within the next year. This strategy ensures valuable knowledge remains within the company, reinforcing IFCO’s position as a technological leader in the circular economy.
Miquel Martí, CEO of Tech Barcelona, stated, “The opening of IFCO’s new digital hub at Pier01 reinforces Barcelona’s role as a leader in circular economy technology. Tech Barcelona will remain a gateway for international companies seeking to make a global impact from our city.”
