Great White Fleet Corporation (GWF), an ocean carrier specializing in temperature-controlled logistics, has announced a commercial expansion across its Pan-American and European trade networks. The expansion includes the deployment of its 14th active vessel, 2,000 refrigerated containers, and new multimodal routes ahead of the Q4 2026 peak season.

The Chiquita Enterprise is scheduled to enter service in late 2026. To support the expanded fleet, GWF will add 2,000 refrigerated containers to its rotation by December 2026. The units are equipped with Carrier Transicold's OptimaLine™ technology, which uses atmosphere control to extend the shelf life of commodities including avocados, berries, citrus, grapes, and other produce during long-distance transit.

GWF is launching three transit corridors in October 2026. A new direct train route will connect the U.S. Midwest via the central rail hub of Harvey, Illinois, to Gulfport, Mississippi, for export into Central America. A direct ocean route from Peru to Philadelphia will serve seasonal produce shipments into the U.S. Northeast. A new ocean service will also connect Guayaquil, Ecuador, directly with U.S. and European ports.

"Deploying the Chiquita Enterprise and injecting 2,000 high-spec reefers into our network directly addresses the industry's demand for reliable, high-precision cold chain capacity," said Stefano di Paolo, President of Great White Fleet. "We are protecting our clients' margins by preserving product quality across longer distances. Our aim, after all, is to be First in Fresh!"

"These new ocean and rail connections greatly expand service offerings and improve destination flexibility," added Simon Cole, Director at GWF. "By linking Chicago directly to Gulfport, and opening faster lanes out of Peru and Ecuador, we are giving global shippers the agility they need in a dynamic supply chain environment."

As part of its fleet renewal strategy, GWF has conducted trials with marine biofuels, deployed energy-efficient refrigeration units, and used shore-power capabilities to reduce hoteling emissions at berth. The company also refers to ISO and SA8000 social accountability certifications and funding for infrastructure and education in its primary port communities.

GWF will present the expanded service network and container technologies at Fruit Attraction 2026 in Madrid, Spain, from October 6 to 8 in Hall 10, Stand B-14 at IFEMA Madrid.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com