Sonoco ThermoSafe and Asiana Cargo Sign Global Master Lease Agreement

Rhea-AI Summary

Sonoco ThermoSafe, a unit of Sonoco (NYSE: SON), has partnered with Asiana Airlines to lease the Pegasus ULD® temperature-controlled shipping container. This innovative container, the first FAA and EASA-approved passive bulk ULD for pharmaceuticals, will enhance shipping efficiency and reduce costs for pharmaceutical freight forwarders. The Pegasus ULD® features a lightweight, damage-resistant design and real-time telemetry for monitoring temperature and environmental conditions. This collaboration aims to strengthen cold chain logistics, particularly in Incheon, South Korea.

Positive

• New partnership with Asiana Airlines enhances logistics capabilities.
• Pegasus ULD® offers a cost-effective solution for pharmaceutical shipping.
• Collaboration introduces advanced monitoring technology for temperature-sensitive products.

Negative

• None.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill., Dec. 13, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sonoco ThermoSafe, a unit of Sonoco (NYSE: SON) and the leading global provider of temperature assurance packaging, and Asiana Airlines Inc., a South Korean airline headquartered in Seoul, are pleased to announce a global partnership agreement for leasing the new Pegasus ULD® temperature-controlled bulk shipping container. The agreement enables pharmaceutical freight forwarders access to Pegasus ULD® containers directly from Asiana Airlines.

Sonoco ThermoSafe’s Pegasus ULD® is the world’s first FAA and EASA-approved passive bulk temperature-controlled ULD container for pharmaceutical use, which enables it to speed through international air freight handling and customs processes at the lowest possible cost. With a focus on sustainability, the Pegasus is engineered with composite materials, offering a lighter solution that is also substantially more damage-resistant than traditional metal containers. Additionally, the Pegasus ULD® contains a fully integrated, FAA-approved telemetry system providing real-time, cloud-based data on payload and ambient temperature and key environmental factors, precisely synchronized with GPS location.

Bourji Mourad, who heads Logistics & Partner Management for Sonoco ThermoSafe’s Bulk Rental group, said, “Partnering with Asiana Cargo and the inclusion of Pegasus ULD to their “Cool+” specialised cold chain service is very much welcomed. The next steps will be systems training, particularly ‘ThermoSafe Connect’, our online tool for container ordering, and other admin functions.” Mourad further confirmed, “Incheon in South Korea is a new addition to Sonoco ThermoSafe’s global network, where Unilode manages the ground handling operations, including storage, servicing, preconditioning to the right temperature, as well as container repair, which is beneficial to all stakeholders.”

About Asiana Airlines
Established in 1988 with the management ideology, 'maximum safety and customer satisfaction through service', Asiana Airlines had developed into a truly global airline. As a "Star Alliance" member, Asiana Airlines, providing the safest, fastest flight to desired destination on time. Asiana airlines acquired IATA CEIV Pharma certification with complete cold chain management. "Cool+" is a specialized cold chain service which delivers cargo in the shortest span of time possible while maintaining the ideal temperature.

About Sonoco ThermoSafe
Sonoco ThermoSafe, a unit of Sonoco (NYSE: SON), is the leading global provider of temperature assurance packaging for the safe and efficient transport of pharmaceuticals, biologics, vaccines and other temperature-sensitive products. Sonoco ThermoSafe shipping solutions mitigate risk for customers and ensure product efficacy throughout the extremes of a supply chain. With operations in the Americas, Europe and Asia, Sonoco ThermoSafe has a vast product offering featuring industry-leading technology that encompasses refrigerated, frozen or controlled room temperature applications. In addition, Sonoco ThermoSafe's ISC Labs^® deliver individualized design and testing services and innovative packaging solutions along with qualification and validation services to meet all regulatory requirements. More information can be found at www.thermosafe.com.

FAQ

What is the Pegasus ULD® by Sonoco ThermoSafe?

The Pegasus ULD® is the world's first FAA and EASA-approved passive bulk temperature-controlled container designed for pharmaceutical use.

When was the partnership between Sonoco ThermoSafe and Asiana Airlines announced?

The partnership was announced on December 13, 2021.

How does the Pegasus ULD® improve pharmaceutical shipping?

It speeds up handling and customs processes while ensuring low-cost transport of temperature-sensitive products.

Where is the new focus for Sonoco ThermoSafe's logistics network?

Incheon, South Korea, has been added to Sonoco ThermoSafe’s global logistics network.