Thessaloniki Port Authority (TPA) is improving its reefer container handling capabilities by incorporating RTE's GRASP automated reefer monitoring platform.

This system, coupled with WRAD II Bluetooth® wireless devices, is revolutionizing the port's reefer operations, ensuring even more efficient and effective reefer container handling.

Integrating the technology into the port's 400 reefer container points is an initiative to transform the port into a 'smart port'. It contributes to ThPA S.A.'s mission to provide connectivity that facilitates business growth.

WRAD II is one of several RTE reefer monitoring systems connected to the GRASP software platform. It gives terminal management real-time access to reefer data via multiple user interfaces.

"Our first terminal project in Greece is an exciting opportunity for us and we are grateful for ThPA S.A.'s confidence. With the flexibility of our many offerings, we can provide the port with a unique, tailor-made solution that seamlessly fits into their existing layout and infrastructure," said Carlos Yassir, Head of Sales at RTE.

By implementing RTE's reefer monitoring solution into its operational process, ThPA S.A. ensures automatic monitoring of the reefers in its terminal while delivering value-added results to its partners.

The benefits include accurate data management, historical records and real-time alerts on changes in reefer status.

"ThPA S.A. selected GRASP coupled with the WRAD II solution for its powerful functionality, proven reliability and ease of integration. This initiative aims to further enhance operational efficiency, cargo integrity and occupational safety by providing innovative solutions to partners, meeting the growing global demand and exploiting potential business opportunities related to the cold chain logistics market," emphasized Spyros Nikolaou, ICT and Digital Transformation Director of ThPA S.A.

Thessaloniki Port Authority (ThPA) was privatized in March 2018. It was operated by South Europe Gateway Thessaloniki (SEGT) Ltd, a consortium, in turn, then owned by Germany's Deutsche Invest Equity Partners (DIEP) 47%; France's CMA CGM (Terminal Link) 33% and Savvidis Group (Cyprus-registered Belterra Investments) 20%. Terminal Link is 49% owned by China Merchants Port Holding, controlled by the Chinese state.

In February 2021, a Russian billionaire of Greek origin, born in Georgia Savvidis, acquired the 47% stake in the port owned by DIEP. According to local media, Savidis, "the Russian tsar of Thessaloniki"," now controls 67% of Greece's second largest port.