BARCELONA, SPAIN - IFCO, a global leader in reusable packaging solutions for fresh food, has opened its new digital hub in Barcelona. This new entity strengthens IFCO’s ability to deliver real-time tracking and data-driven insights to its customers around the world, advancing transparency, efficiency, and sustainability across the supply chain.

“Opening our new hub in Barcelona is a strategic investment that underscores IFCO's commitment to delivering exceptional value to our customers,” said Mike Pooley, Chief Executive Officer, IFCO. “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.”

The Barcelona hub, located in Tech Barcelona’s Pier01, is central to IFCO’s commitment to digital innovation, focused on establishing a Center of Excellence in data analytics and Internet of Things (IoT) technology.

By integrating advanced technologies into its reusable packaging containers (RPCs), IFCO provides 24/7 location and status updates, enabling customers to optimize crate utilization, reduce environmental impact, and streamline logistics, explained a press release.

“IFCOs 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, Chief Data Officer, IFCO.

Here is a breakdown of the hub’s initiatives:

• Optimizing Transportation and Cleaning: Projects aim to streamline the transportation and washing of RPCs. IoT technology tracks crate movement and usage, improving cycle efficiency
• Advanced Monitoring Features: Temperature-tracking sensors offer compliance and traceability for perishable food, ensuring quality for temperature-sensitive goods
• AI-Driven Insights: AI-powered analytics help businesses optimize supply chain performance, reduce losses, improve efficiency, and meet operational goals
• Sustainability Focus: Enhanced tracking capabilities support customers' sustainability objectives by reducing food waste and maximizing packaging reuse

“The opening of IFCO’s new digital hub at Pier01 reinforces Barcelona’s role as a leader in circular economy technology,” shared Miquel Martí, Chief Executive Officer, Tech Barcelona. “Tech Barcelona will remain a gateway for international companies seeking to make a global impact from our city.”

The new office is located at Pier01 in Tech Barcelona, the heart of Barcelona's thriving tech ecosystem. Offering a talent-rich environment, the digital hub is building a strong in-house team of data engineers, data scientists, analysts, and software developers. Currently staffed by 15 employees, the Barcelona office is on track to expand to around 50 over the next year. This approach retains valuable knowledge within the company, reinforcing IFCO’s role as a tech leader in the circular economy.

What will be next for IFCO? ANUK will be here to report.