AIT has been a key innovator in cold chain and food logistics for more than two decades with operations anchored by a dedicated Chicago-based facility and staff. The acquisition of WorldFresh expands AIT's robust cold chain capabilities by adding specialized operational knowledge as well as a world-class 13,800 square foot temperature-controlled facility on the west coast of the United States with distinct zones to hold frozen, refrigerated and fresh foods.
WorldFresh founder Doug Kinney has assumed the role of station manager with the completion of the acquisition. He continues to lead the team of highly-skilled subject matter experts from WorldFresh as they integrate with AIT and leverage their unique operational knowledge of cold chain commodities such as fresh produce and proteins.
"We are incredibly delighted to welcome Doug and the entire WorldFresh group as our newest AIT teammates," said Vaughn Moore, President and CEO of AIT Worldwide Logistics. "Their specialized knowledge and location on the west coast are an excellent enhancement to our well-established cold chain expertise. This acquisition propels AIT's cold chain operations to a new level of world-class service."
Moore also said, "AIT will continue evaluating other cold chain forwarders around the world for potential acquisition. Firms that handle distinct commodities with diverse service portfolios are the best fit for our cold chain business model. We are also pursuing firms with a broader logistics scope to support the company's long-term strategic growth plan."
Keith Tholan, AIT's Chief Operations Officer said, "The strategic acquisition of WorldFresh Express instantly gives a boost to AIT's existing cold chain infrastructure and intellectual capital. Customers who rely on our know-how for temperature-controlled storage, packaging, fulfillment and delivery will benefit from a wider range of options and more efficient solutions as a result of this addition to our organization. AIT has been delivering unique cold chain solutions for 22 years and we are glad to be diversifying our products with the WorldFresh team's expertise in produce and proteins."
"WorldFresh is excited about becoming a part of AIT Worldwide Logistics' thriving cold chain division," said Kinney. "AIT's resources and reputation in the cold chain industry are a boon for our team's operations and we look forward to enhancing the organization's commercial supply chain business with our assets and expertise."
