AIIM boosts export infrastructure with construction completion of new cold storage facility

African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM), a division of Old Mutual Alternative Investments, has made a significant move to bolster South Africa’s cold chain infrastructure through the commissioning of CCH Greenbushes, a commercial cold storage facility which has been built in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.

“This project is a pivotal addition to our portfolio,” said Anyababa Ikem, Investment Principal at AIIM. “By increasing the Eastern Cape’s cold storage capacity, we are not only supporting the increased export of South Africa’s citrus and other fruits but we are also enhancing the efficiency of the import supply chain for frozen meat. This facility will serve as a critical node in our broader strategy to strengthen the cold chain across the region.”

This development is poised to enhance the country’s export capabilities, particularly in the high-value citrus and fruit sectors, while also reinforcing South Africa’s competitive position in global markets.

The construction finance was channelled through AIIM’s African Infrastructure Investment Fund 4 (AIIF4) and the IDEAS Managed Fund, which together have over ZAR34 billion in infrastructure assets under management. The CCH Greenbushes project, which marks the first greenfield development under AIIM’s CCH cold chain logistics platform, is strategically located to leverage its proximity to the port city’s robust shipping infrastructure.

AIIM, the majority shareholder in the CCH platform which controls CCH Greenbushes, believes the investment underscores its commitment to expanding its footprint in infrastructure supporting South Africa’s agricultural export sector. The cold storage facility, with a 7,000-pallet capacity, is designed for mixed-use applications, catering to fruit exports, frozen imports, and general bulk storage. This multi-purpose approach ensures that the facility can adapt to various market needs, thereby maximising its utilisation and profitability.

“CCH Greenbushes is more than just a storage facility; it’s a strategic asset that will drive economic growth in the Eastern Cape,” Ikem added.

The CCH Greenbushes project is expected to generate approximately 100 new jobs, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy

“Our investment here aligns with AIIM’s broader mandate to create sustainable infrastructure that supports long-term economic development. The planned inclusion of renewable energy options like rooftop solar panels or wheeled power further demonstrates our commitment to ESG principles,” said Ikem.

The project also addresses a critical bottleneck in the region’s supply chain. The Eastern Cape, known for its citrus production, has long required additional cold storage capacity to meet current and projected export volumes. With this new facility, AIIM aims to mitigate these challenges, ensuring that South African produce remains competitive on the global stage.

AIIM’s involvement goes beyond the capital injection; with the firm bringing its extensive logistical expertise to bear on the project, enhancing operational efficiency through advanced systems, infrastructure upgrades, and workforce development.

“Our focus is on creating value throughout our holding period,” noted Anyababa. “This means not only ensuring that the facility operates at peak efficiency but also that it contributes positively to the community and the environment. Adopting an eco-friendly CO2 refrigeration and the harvesting of rainwater are examples of how we integrate sustainable practices into our operations.”

The CCH Greenbushes facility represents a significant milestone for AIIM’s cold chain platform, CCH, which continues to explore further acquisitions and greenfield developments across the continent. AIIM is well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for cold storage solutions, driven by the expansion of agricultural exports and the increasing importance of food security.

The CCH Greenbushes project also includes a diverse group of minority shareholders and strategic partners who play a crucial role in the facility's operations and development. SGH Holdings Proprietary Limited and WLD Investments Proprietary Limited hold minority interests in CCH Greenbushes. Additionally, Bauta Logistics and international co-investors like Dutch development finance institution FMO and AIIM’s cold storage logistics senior advisor Curt Mastbergen are key partners in the broader CCH platform.

Looking ahead, AIIM plans to expand its cold chain logistics platform through additional investments, focusing on both brownfield and greenfield opportunities. “We see substantial growth potential in this sector, particularly as global supply chains become more complex and demand for high-quality, perishable goods increases,” concluded Ikem.