Bollore Logistics has set-up a health crisis unit made up pharma and life science experts in the company to ensure continuity of support for the transport of much-needed health and medical supplies in times of pandemic.

The unit will pilot an epidemic response plan providing graduated solutions and making decisions very quickly in the event of an increase in the epidemic and new government directives.

In a statement, the French freight forwarder said an alternative transport plan based on charters and freighters solutions is being implemented to ensure continuity of service.

The company is also utilising full charters, part charters and block space capacities on east and westbound freighter flights — piloted on a daily basis to adapt needs to capacities, maximizing operations through its air cargo hubs.

Bolloré said it is working with major companies in both the healthcare sector and non-governmental organisations to ensure by urgency the end-to-end transport of pharmaceuticals, masks, medical equipment and life-saving products.

"Several charters are being implemented with tested and secure solutions, via Bolloré Logistics hubs under GDP, GMP and CEIV certification, from Miami for Latin America, Singapore for Asia, Canada and Chicago for North America, Roissy Charles de Gaulle, Liege and Luxembourg for Europe and Africa," the company said.

In addition, a new multimodal service has opened between production sites in the USA and Europe to Asia.

Bolloré said products are first shipped by air to be consolidated in the Singapore hub, a new cross-docking center recently created for this specific purpose.

Products are then shipped by sea freight from Singapore to the South East Asia markets in temperature-controlled containers.