A substantial upgrade in reefer points at the Port of Greenock will enhance cargo storage and distribution capacity for Scottish exporters, according to Peel Ports.

It has increased the reefer point infrastructure from 32 to 220 following a £750,000 investment, solidifying the port’s position as a leading hub for refrigerated and frozen cargo on the west coast.

Peel Ports said the upgrade significantly increased the ease of access to global markets for food and drink manufacturers, with commodities like seed potatoes, meats, fish, fruit and vegetables and dairy products directly benefiting.

The expansion should also provide benefits to pharmaceuticals manufacturers, the agriculture industry and other enterprises dealing with temperature-sensitive goods.

Peel Ports added that the expansion also eliminated the need for diesel generators, helping exporters to reduce the carbon emissions produced by their operations.

Jim McSporran, port director at Peel Ports Clydeport, said: “This significant investment into the Port of Greenock’s reefer points infrastructure underscores our commitment to providing world-class facilities to support the needs of our customers in Scotland.

“We are excited about the opportunities this investment brings for businesses involved in exporting perishable goods, especially at a time when demand for temperature-sensitive goods is growing. We look forward to playing an even bigger role in Scotland’s export success.”

Craig Scrimgeour, Scotland director at Drac Logistics, which supports the import and export of perishable foods across the world, said: “We’re really pleased to hear about this reefer investment at the Port of Greenock ahead of the imminent arrival of its two new ship-to-shore cranes later this year.

“This will significantly increase our ability to store and transfer our cargo, as well as our access to global markets.

“It’s really positive news for import and export companies across the country and we believe it will support and attract new services into Scotland’s only deep water container port.”