Cold storage construction involves the development of warehouses that store perishable goods such as food, medicines, and artwork under specific temperature ranges to maintain their shelf-life, quality, and integrity. Freezing these sensitive goods helps slow down their physical and chemical changes which preserves their purity without hampering their biological decay.
This type of construction is broadly classified into two categories based on the maintained temperatures of cold storage service which include refrigerated and frozen storage. Refrigerated warehouses usually maintain temperatures between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius and help prevent cold loss. They are mainly used for storing fresh products such as dairy products, vegetables, medicines, and other sensitive items.
On the other hand, frozen warehouses operate in sub-zero temperatures, commonly between –18 25 degrees Celsius. Such facilities are broadly designed to store foods including seafood, meats, and desserts to prevent bacterial growth and maintain product integrity.
Why is cold storage essential for modern industries?
Over the past few years, the cold storage construction market has gained huge popularity across leading industries due to the increasing global population, changing consumer preferences, and rising investments by industry leaders for better food storage solutions. According to Allied Market Research, the industry is projected to rise at a CAGR of 10.6% from 2022 to 2031.
Several industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and chemical products, highly rely on these facilities to maintain the quality and safety of their products. For instance, in the food and beverage sector, the rising demand for fresh and frozen foods has increased the demand for cold storage infrastructure to maintain the product’s freshness and prevent spoilage.
Similarly, in the pharmaceutical industry, the growing efficacy of temperature-sensitive drugs and vaccines has increased the dependence on cold storage facilities. In addition, in the tech industry, certain components require cold storage to ensure proper functioning, thereby driving the demand for this type of infrastructure.
Furthermore, rapid globalization and advancements in transport logistics have smoothly facilitated the movement of products from one place to another significantly. This has further accelerated the demand for cold storage units to ensure that products reach safely to consumers in optimum condition, maintaining the required temperature, regardless of distance.
Automated guided vehicles and robotics in boosting cold storage efficiency
In recent times, . A These vehicles are equipped with sensors and navigation systems that enable them to move goods from one place to another inside a warehouse. AGVs have helped chilled warehouses gain greater efficiency by automating accurate order fulfillment and reducing reliance on manual labor.
Another recent development in cold storage construction is the rise of automated storage or retrieval systems. These systems are made up of automated devices that quickly store and take items out of the warehouse from certain areas. Mostly, large inventories use As/Rs systems to manage the flow of work inside the facility efficiently. They also help reduce errors and boost speed by automating the storage and retrieval procedures.
Furthermore, the rise of robotic technologies has benefited refrigerated warehouses in innovative ways. Modern robots carry out a wide range of activities such as packing and picking, quality control, and inventory tracking with the help of sensors and visual systems. Also, businesses in this domain have also started implementing advanced communication systems to enhance visibility to manage shipments more efficiently. In cold storage warehouses, control tower systems offer real-time visibility of shipment delivery, empowering organizations to act quickly and wisely.
AC Logistics’s pioneering step to boost cold storage facility development
In August 2024, AC Logistics Holdings Corp., a leading developer and operator of industrial parks announced its plans to expand its cold storage facilities to support several businesses globally. Jose Rene D. Almendras, AC Logistics President and Chief Executive Officer, said that the company has planned to open a new facility in Cagayan de Oro in collaboration with GMAC Logitech Refrigeration Corp. With this initiative, AC Logistics envisioned benefitting farmers, minimizing agricultural spoilage rates, and enhancing the delivery of various products including pharmaceutical items.
Cryopak acquires Garden State to gain a global position as a top-class gel-peck manufacturer
In July 2024, Cryopak, a prominent name in the design and development of cold chain packaging and temperature monitoring devices joined hands with Garden State Cold Storage, a US-based provider of cold storage and transportation services. This acquisition has made Cryopak manufacture both gel-pecks and execute freezing operations at the same location. The company has also planned to boost its service levels and shorten lead times. Recently, the enterprise has also acquired Icy Cools, a retail Gel-Pack manufacturer, to expand its portfolio of more than 20 freezing products, enhancing its retail product line.
Moreover, the organization’s facility at Atalanta has made an investment toward integrating spiral freezing capabilities to enhance its Gel-Pack products and service businesses. Through this initiative, the company has planned to become the first gel-pack manufacturer to significantly decrease frozen product lead times from several weeks to a few hours by incorporating advanced freezing technology.
Final words
The continuous technological advancements in cold storage construction have benefited leading industries by gaining a competitive edge. Moreover, the increasing demand for temperature-controlled packaging and suppliers to reduce emerging environmental concerns is expected to boost the growth of the industry in the coming years.
Author’s Bio
Although belonging to an engineering stream, Rosy had a knack for writing throughout her student life. Her keen interest in creative compositions drove her to take up content writing professionally after graduation. For the last few years, she has been delivering impactful content, engaging and delighting readers, along with grabbing their attention.
✍ **𝑨𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒓: Rosy Behera
