CHEP partners with HGA in a new food security project

Brambles is the world-leading provider of supply chain logistics based on the provision of reusable pallets, crates and containers and it operates in more than 60 countries around the world primarily through the CHEP brand. CHEP South Africa’s forestry and milling division owns 18 pine timber farms in the Harry Gwala District Municipality and Weatherboard (Pty) Ltd owns a sawmill and pallet manufacturing plant near Creighton which employs around 380 people. With one of Brambles’ sustainability goals being to better the communities within which they work through improved food security, the company approached HGA in early 2021 wanting to achieve this for their staff residing on the 18 properties, some of which are located in remote parts of the district a long way from retailers.

The project will be launched on CHEP’S property, Runnymede which is located in the Swartberg area. There are eight permanent staff living on the property which increases to 13 seasonally. HGA has done multiple site visits thus far to establish what will be the most effective means of producing vegetables. The main challenges to overcome here are the bitterly cold winters with regular frost and snow; the strong likelihood of hailstorms in summer and some pressure from roaming Eland and the resident livestock. Soil samples are currently being processed to guide the land preparation and fencing of the plot is soon to take place with the intention of cultivation beginning in September. We look forward to a productive partnership with CHEP and improving the lives of their staff and their families through improved food security.