Shortage of Technicians and Drivers is Likely to Affect the Demand for Refrigerated Vehicles Due to the change in consumption patterns, larger amounts of food items are being transported across North America. The shortage of technicians at the body builders level impacts the repair and maintenance of refrigerated vehicles, while a dearth of drivers can hit the mobilization of goods. This shortage of skilled workers can directly affect the productivity and profitability of the refrigerated transportation market. The ever-increasing age of the equipment also adds to the demand for technicians and mechanics. The North American refrigerated transportation market requires young technicians who can serve in this sector for a long time. This Frost and Sullivan research service provides insights into the North American markets for refrigerated transportation, taking an in-depth look into the market segments - refrigerated transportation systems and refrigerated transportation body builders. The study includes detailed discussion of market drivers and restraints, industry challenges and strategic recommendations, and revenue forecasts, and data on unit shipments. Rise in Consumer Spending has Driven the Growth of Refrigerated Vehicle "Following the strong recovery of the North American economy after the 9/11 downturn, the refrigerated transportation market has reaped rich benefits," notes the analyst. "Across the region, the increase in consumption of food items and beverages has triggered the growth of this market with the average consumer spending increasing by almost 2.3 percent in 2004." The growth in gross domestic product has resulted in people spending more on consumables and beverages. The growing number of retail stores is also a clear indicator of the increase in consumer spending. The transportation of goods from warehouses to retail stores, home deliveries, transportation of medicines, dairy products, and transportation of cut flowers across the country are all done by refrigerated vehicles. The improving economic conditions and drastic change in consumption pattern has in turn propelled the growth of the refrigerated transportation market. Inflow of Orders in the Refrigerated Transportation Market is Likely to Cause Consolidated Growth The robust growth seen in the refrigerated transportation market has increased the financial levels of the participants. Constant inflow of refrigerated vehicle orders from the fleet owners and transportation companies has had a positive impact on the body builders segment, which is witnessing fresh investments in the new manufacturing and improved production facilities. "Heightened consumer awareness about food safety is highlighting the importance of refrigerated transportation and market participants are stepping up efforts to improve the efficiency of the vehicles and the refrigeration systems," explains the analyst. "For instance, fleets are incorporating monitoring devices on refrigerated vehicles to check the quality of the food items at various time spans." Overall, the refrigerated transportation market is expected to see a joint growth rate among its market segments in the future.
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