2nd Annual Cold Chain Logistics Summit
The 2nd Annual Cold Chain Logistics Summit will take place on 27–28 May 2026 at the Blaauwberg Beach Hotel in Cape Town. Hosted by Empire Conferencing and Training, the event brings together industry leaders across the temperature-controlled supply chain to explore cold storage innovation, transport efficiency, digital traceability, sustainability, and infrastructure development.
Event Overview
The 2nd Annual Cold Chain Logistics Summit is a dynamic two‑day industry event focused on advancing the future of temperature‑controlled supply chains in Africa and globally. Hosted by Empire Conferencing and Training, it takes place on 27–28 May 2026 at the Blaauwberg Beach Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa.
Summit Objectives
The summit is designed to:
• Showcase cutting‑edge innovations in cold storage design, digitalisation, and decarbonisation technologies. 
• Address cold chain access challenges, especially for low‑resource and rural communities.
• Explore data‑driven strategies for enhancing traceability, efficiency and reducing food waste.
• Discuss sustainable infrastructure solutions, including solar‑powered cold chain systems.
• Highlight investment opportunities and policy frameworks for resilient logistics.
• Celebrate the rise of female leadership in the cold chain sector.
Who Should Attend
The summit attracts a broad audience including:
• Food & beverage producers
• Logistics and supply chain professionals
• Cold chain technology, equipment & infrastructure providers
• Government and regulatory representatives
• Academics, consultants & industry leaders
Key Themes
The programme will explore topics such as:
• Innovation and sustainability in cold storage
• Bridging cold chain access gaps
• Traceability and transparency via data
• Energy‑efficient solutions and decarbonisation
• Collaborations across agriculture, technology, and logistics
• Women shaping the future of cold chains
Networking & Impact
Beyond insights and case studies, the summit provides key networking opportunities to forge partnerships, discuss challenges and co‑create strategic solutions critical for Africa’s growing cold chain demands
Featured Speakers & Sessions at the 2nd Annual Cold Chain Logistics Summit (Cape Town)
The summit will showcase a strong lineup of industry experts and thought leaders tackling key issues in cold chain logistics, infrastructure, sustainability, and technology. Confirmed speakers and sessions include:
• Mr Thabile Nkunjane – Senior Economist, NAMC — Global cold chain trends and future outlook.
• Mr Fred Albrecht – CEO, Logistics Systems Engineering — Designing smarter cold chain warehouses to boost efficiency and safety.
• Mr Anyababa Ikem – Africa Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM) — Green finance for sustainable cold chain technologies.
• Mr Kavir Sewlall – Danfoss SA — Building energy‑efficient cold chain infrastructure for Africa.
• Mr Andrew Brink – Gas At Site — Controlled atmosphere systems to extend post‑harvest life.
• Mr Sean Hay, Mr Martin Bailey & Mr Alan Richards – Panel on Technology Transforming Cold Chain Operations (IoT, AI, blockchain and automation).
• Ms Lutendo Ndhlovu & Mr Grant Laidlaw – Breaking the Ice: Rise of Female Powerhouses in the Cold Chain.
• Mr Parton Khumalo – PPECB — Revolutionising citrus transport and cold chain efficiency.
Time: 09:00 - 16:00
Venue: Blaauwberg Beach Hotel, Cape Town
Cost: R7490 Ex Vat