With Valentine’s Day approaching, Challenge Group is intensifying efforts to meet the heightened demand for fresh flowers. Two months ago, the company launched weekly flight operations into Nairobi, deploying a Boeing 767-300BDSF freighter to enhance connectivity between this crucial market, Europe, and beyond. Since then, capacity has tripled, with select flights upgraded to a Boeing 747-400F freighter.
This expansion marks Nairobi as Challenge Group’s first African destination, addressing the airfreight capacity shortage across the continent. Through strategic partnerships and strong local alliances, Nairobi has emerged as a key logistics hub, facilitating access to other vital markets within Africa.
Over the past two weeks, Challenge Handling in Liège has processed more than 30 flights for various customers, transporting over 3,000 tonnes of fresh flowers. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to optimise efficiency, featuring a fast-track system that enables the simultaneous handling of two Boeing 747-400F freighters. Additionally, a dedicated cool area for post-flight processing, temperature regulation, and sorting, along with an expedited customs clearance process, further cements Liège Airport’s reputation as a premier gateway for perishable goods, ensuring swift distribution to European markets.
According to Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer of Challenge Group, the addition of Nairobi to the network underscores the company’s commitment to fulfilling customer needs and delivering customised logistics solutions. With nearly five decades of expertise in transporting perishable goods, the company plays a crucial role in global trade. Operations in Nairobi also contribute significantly to the local floriculture industry, strengthening the global supply chain.
He adds that the upcoming Air Cargo Africa conference and exhibition will provide an opportunity for Challenge Group’s sales team to engage with existing and potential customers. This platform will facilitate the reinforcement of business partnerships and the exploration of new opportunities for expanding operations across the continent.
Challenge Group continues to grow and remains dedicated to delivering innovative logistics solutions that support global trade and efficiently connect major markets.