Logistics Cold Chain

Developing a Cold Chain Logistics Framework for Oman’s Food and Pharmaceutical Hubs

Logistics Cold Chain
Client
A leading logistics operator in Oman engaged Eurogroup Consulting to develop a national cold chain logistics framework to support the growing food and pharmaceutical industries. The objective was to enhance temperature-controlled transport and storage capabilities across the supply chain, ensuring product safety, regulatory compliance, and competitiveness in regional and export markets.
Issues
With Oman’s rapid industrial diversification and increasing food import and pharmaceutical manufacturing volumes, demand for reliable cold chain infrastructure was outpacing capacity. Existing storage facilities were concentrated near Muscat and Sohar, leaving inland and southern regions under-served. Gaps in temperature monitoring, fragmented last-mile delivery networks, and lack of standardized cold chain management practices created inefficiencies and product risks. The client needed an integrated strategy to expand cold chain coverage and improve end-to-end visibility across logistics operations.
Solution
Eurogroup Consulting designed a Cold Chain Logistics Framework that optimized infrastructure deployment, operational processes, and digital tracking systems. The strategy emphasized network expansion, process standardization, and smart technologies to maintain temperature integrity from port to consumer. The plan also supported Oman’s Vision 2040 goal of becoming a regional logistics hub by enhancing the country’s competitiveness in food and pharma distribution.
Approach

We began with a comprehensive supply chain diagnostic, mapping cold storage assets, transportation routes, and temperature-controlled capacity across key logistics zones. Data collection and site audits were conducted in coordination with port authorities, warehouse operators, and logistics providers. Based on these findings, we developed a phased action plan that included:

  • Upgrading cold storage capacity at strategic hubs such as Sohar, Muscat, and Salalah
  • Designing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for temperature monitoring and risk mitigation
  • Introducing IoT-enabled sensors for real-time tracking of temperature and humidity during transit
  • Establishing cross-docking facilities to improve turnaround times for perishable goods
  • Training logistics staff and drivers on cold chain handling and emergency protocols
  • Proposing public-private partnership (PPP) models to attract investment in new refrigerated warehouses and fleets
Recommendations:
We recommended creating a National Cold Chain Coordination Platform to align stakeholders, standardize quality requirements, and share performance data across the logistics ecosystem. Additionally, we advised integrating renewable-powered cold storage solutions in remote areas to improve energy efficiency and sustainability.
Engagement ROI

The framework enabled the client to increase cold storage utilization by 30% and reduce spoilage rates by 25% across key distribution routes. Enhanced visibility through digital monitoring improved compliance with international standards, strengthening Oman’s reputation as a trusted regional logistics center for food and pharmaceutical products.

Eurogroup Consulting’s strategic expertise helped modernize Oman’s cold chain infrastructure, supporting the country’s Vision 2040 ambition to become a smart, sustainable, and globally connected logistics hub.