Which Cold Chain Companies Are Leading the Industry in 2025?
Updated: November 2025
Reading time: ~15 minutes
Cold chain companies are the unsung heroes behind the safe delivery of vaccines, biologics, fresh food and other temperature sensitive goods. With global demand for perishable products soaring, the cold chain logistics market is projected to grow from about USD 384 billion in 2024 to USD 1.54 trillion by 2035, representing a robust 13.4% CAGR.
In 2024, the refrigerated warehousing and storage market alone was valued at USD 162.77 billion and is forecast to reach USD 370.33 billion by 2034, growing at 8.5% annually. North America currently holds around 37.7% market share (≈USD 61.36 billion), but Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region with double digit CAGRs.
Given this momentum, businesses need to understand who the leading players are, the technologies they employ and how they address sustainability and regulatory pressures. This article introduces top cold chain companies, examines market dynamics and offers guidance on choosing a provider.
What are cold chain companies and why are they critical? We’ll discuss the market’s size, growth drivers and applications across industries such as food and pharmaceuticals.
Who are the top cold chain companies in 2025? Profiles of leading players—Americold Logistics, Lineage Logistics, DHL, UPS, FedEx, NewCold and others—highlighting their innovations, global reach and sustainability efforts.
How are advanced technologies and sustainability shaping the industry? Explore IoT enabled monitoring, automation, AI driven analytics, renewable energy and packaging innovations that companies deploy to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
What regulations and quality standards should you know? An overview of Good Distribution Practice (GDP), DSCSA 2025 milestones and FSMA 204 requirements ensures compliance isn’t overlooked.
Which trends will define the cold chain landscape in 2025 and beyond? Insights into growing outsourcing, e commerce, blockchain, predictive analytics and resilience strategies.
Why Do Cold Chain Companies Matter?
Ensuring product safety and public health. Cold chain companies control temperature and humidity throughout storage and transport to prevent spoilage, ensuring medicines retain potency and food stays fresh. With as much as 30% of global food wasted due to poor temperature control, reliable cold chain services reduce waste and improve food security.
Fueling market growth. Demand for perishable foods, vaccines, biologics and frozen desserts is surging. The global cold chain logistics market accounted for USD 250 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 500 billion by 2033, at an 8.5% CAGR. Meanwhile, the cold chain logistics sector is forecast to expand 13.4% annually between 2025 and 2035, reaching USD 1.54 trillion by 2035. These figures highlight both the scale and growth potential of cold chain operations.
Supporting diverse industries. Cold chain companies serve the food and beverage sector, which accounted for about 45% of the market in 2023. Healthcare and pharmaceuticals made up 35%, reflecting demand for biologics, vaccines and temperature sensitive therapeutics. Other clients include floriculture, cosmetics and chemicals. Reliable cold chain services minimise product loss, ensure regulatory compliance and protect brand reputation.
Market Dynamics and Drivers
| Driver | Evidence and Data | Practical Benefit |
| Growing consumption of perishable goods | Rising demand for fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats and ready to eat meals is driving cold chain expansion. | Ensures year round availability of fresh produce and reduces food waste. |
| E commerce and online grocery | The surge in online grocery shopping requires robust cold chain networks to deliver perishable items quickly and safely. | Enables convenient home delivery of fresh and frozen products. |
| Pharmaceutical and biologics boom | Biopharmaceutical demand and vaccine production fuel the need for ultra cold storage and transport. | Ensures safe distribution of vaccines and biologics, which may require temperatures as low as −80 °C. |
| Technological advancements | IoT devices, blockchain and advanced packaging improve transparency and efficiency. | Real time monitoring and predictive analytics reduce spoilage and improve decision making. |
| Sustainability pressures | Companies are adopting renewable energy, energy efficient warehouses and low GWP refrigerants to meet ESG goals. | Reduces operational costs and carbon footprint while appealing to eco conscious customers. |
| Regulatory requirements | Stricter food safety and pharmaceutical guidelines (GDP, DSCSA 2025, FSMA 204) compel companies to invest in robust monitoring and documentation. | Ensures compliance, avoids penalties and builds trust with regulators and customers. |
Key Market Segments
Different segments of the cold chain market are growing at different rates:
Type – Frozen logistics dominated 2024 with 78.07% market share (≈USD 127.08 billion), and is predicted to remain the fastest growing segment through 2029. Chilled logistics serves ready to eat and fresh produce.
Transport mode – Road transport captured about 50% of the market in 2023, followed by sea (35%) and air (15%). Road transport is the fastest growing due to e commerce and domestic shipping demand.
Ownership – Public refrigerated warehouses hold 39% market share, but private facilities are projected to grow faster at a 9.17% CAGR.
Applications – Fruits and vegetables are currently the largest application, yet meat storage is forecast to expand the fastest through 2029.
Who Are the Leading Cold Chain Companies in 2025?
This section profiles major cold chain players, highlighting their strengths, innovations and sustainability commitments. The companies listed operate across multiple continents and provide a mix of warehousing, transportation, monitoring and packaging solutions.
Americold Logistics: Global Leader in Temperature Controlled Warehousing
Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
What makes Americold stand out?
Americold operates large temperature controlled warehouses linked to innovative transport networks across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and South America. The company uses warehouse automation, energy efficient systems and creative logistics methods to enhance reliability and sustainability. Americold’s environmental strategy includes investing more than $3.6 million in sustainability projects and adopting LED lighting and solar energy, with a goal of installing 150,000 MWh of solar capacity by 2030. Americold produced 24,159 MWh of renewable energy in 2024 and enrolled 213 facilities in the GCCA Energy Excellence programme.
Practical benefits for you: If you need a logistics partner with a vast footprint and proven ESG commitments, Americold offers reliable storage and transport with 24/7 monitoring. Its energy efficient facilities can reduce your indirect emissions.
Lineage Logistics: Innovator With AI Driven Operations
Headquarters: Novi, Michigan, USA
Lineage Logistics operates in over 20 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. The company leverages artificial intelligence, automation and IoT to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Lineage’s commitment to renewable energy is evident: it has approximately 108 MW of on site solar capacity and was recognised as the fifth largest corporate user of solar in the U.S.. The company aims to reach net zero emissions by 2040.
Lineage’s approach to real time monitoring and predictive analytics not only ensures compliance with temperature requirements but also reduces spoilage and optimizes routes. Its recognition as the Temperature Controlled Storage Operator of the Year 2025 demonstrates industry leadership and customer service excellence.
DHL International GmbH: Global Logistics Giant With Specialized Cold Chain Solutions
Headquarters: Bonn, Germany
DHL operates in over 220 countries and territories, making it the most global logistics company. Through its Temperature Management Solutions, DHL provides temperature controlled air and ocean freight, real time monitoring and regulatory compliance for pharmaceuticals, healthcare and perishable foods. DHL’s massive infrastructure and investment in advanced monitoring technologies allow it to maintain product integrity across international supply chains.
Why consider DHL? Its combination of global reach, industry specific expertise and dedicated cold chain services makes it an ideal partner for companies seeking consistent performance across continents.
United Parcel Service (UPS): Integrating Cold Chain Within a Vast Logistics Network
Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
UPS provides specialized healthcare cold chain logistics through UPS Healthcare, offering temperature controlled packaging, air and ground transportation and real time monitoring. Operating in over 220 countries and territories, UPS ensures regulatory compliance and safe delivery of biologics, vaccines and other sensitive cargo. By leveraging its global network and innovations such as smart sensor tags, UPS can integrate cold chain needs with broader logistics services.
FedEx Corporation: Combining Express Expertise With Healthcare Focus
Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
FedEx operates one of the world’s largest air and ground networks, covering more than 220 countries and territories. Through FedEx Cold Chain and FedEx Healthcare Priority, the company offers temperature controlled packaging, innovative monitoring technology and compliance management for pharmaceuticals, biologics and perishables. FedEx’s AI driven optimization and strong regulatory frameworks ensure rapid delivery while meeting stringent quality standards.
NewCold: Automated Warehousing Pioneer
Headquarters: Breda, Netherlands (global company)
NewCold operates some of the world’s most advanced automated cold storage warehouses. In September 2025, it opened a 95,000 pallet fully automated facility in Nowy Modlin, Poland that expanded its Polish capacity to 207,200 pallet positions. This €112 million investment uses proprietary software integrated with customer ERP systems for full visibility and traceability. NewCold’s model combines intelligent automation, optimized transport integration and sustainable design to deliver efficiency. Across three continents, it operates 26 energy efficient warehouses with a combined capacity of over 2 million pallets.
In the U.S., NewCold opened a $300 million facility in Lebanon, Indiana in 2023. The warehouse uses four patented technologies, runs 24/7 and is nearly 50% more energy efficient than traditional warehouses. Phase one has 100,700 pallet positions, with plans to double capacity to over 200,000 pallets. The site is grid independent, using power generated from renewables, underlining NewCold’s commitment to sustainability.
Nichirei Logistics Group: Asia Pacific Specialist
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Nichirei operates cold storage facilities and transportation services across Japan, China and Europe. While detailed data is limited, the company is known for deploying advanced warehousing technology and energy efficient systems to support seafood, meat and frozen foods. As part of the Nichirei Group’s decarbonization strategy, the logistics division is switching to renewable electricity and low CO₂ refrigerants, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The company’s global network, especially in Asia Pacific, positions it as a key player in serving rapidly growing markets.
Burris Logistics and Agro Merchants: Family Owned Service Excellence
Burris Logistics – A U.S. family owned company offering tailored cold storage and distribution services for grocery retail, food service and e commerce. Burris differentiates itself through personalised customer service, customizable warehouse solutions and investments in technology to enhance warehouse efficiency and traceability.
Agro Merchants Group – Now part of Americold, Agro Merchants operates an international network focusing on meat, fish and dairy. It provides comprehensive cold chain solutions—from storage and transportation to specialized handling—emphasising quality and innovation.
Wabash National Corporation: Sustainable Refrigerated Trailers
Wabash, a North American trailer manufacturer, isn’t a warehouse operator but supplies the industry with EcoNex™ composite trailers that are lighter and more thermally efficient than conventional units. The company partners with universities and government agencies to develop solar integrated trailers and energy efficient refrigeration units, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Wabash’s innovations align with the push for sustainable transport equipment.
Penske Logistics: 3PL Expertise and Sustainability
Penske Logistics offers supply chain management, transportation and warehousing services. In refrigerated warehousing and storage, Penske holds a notable market share, ranking among the top players alongside Lineage and Americold. Penske invests in data driven route optimization, electric vehicle pilots and renewable energy to reduce emissions.
How Are Advanced Technologies Transforming Cold Chain Companies?
Leading companies are leveraging technology to improve visibility, reduce costs and meet sustainability goals. Here are some key innovations:
Real Time Monitoring and IoT
IoT sensors and wireless data loggers track temperature, humidity and location in real time, enabling immediate intervention when deviations occur. Smart reefers with remote control features and data platforms allow operators to adjust conditions and receive alerts. Real time visibility not only reduces product loss but also improves regulatory compliance and customer confidence.
Case example: UPS uses smart sensor tags and AI driven analytics to monitor packages and optimize routes, ensuring vaccines remain within the required temperature range.
Artificial Intelligence and Predictive Analytics
AI analyzes historical and real time data to forecast demand, optimize warehouse operations and predict maintenance needs. Lineage Logistics uses AI to reduce energy consumption by optimizing cooling cycles and to forecast product movement, thereby improving labor planning. Predictive analytics also helps anticipate weather related disruptions and reroute shipments accordingly.
Automation and Robotics
Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) stack and retrieve pallets without human intervention. NewCold’s facilities are prime examples, with high bay automated warehouses that operate 24/7 and achieve 50% energy savings compared to traditional warehouses. Robotics also reduces labor costs and improves safety by minimizing manual handling in sub zero environments.
Blockchain and Traceability
Blockchain technology provides an immutable record of temperature data and custody transfers. By integrating blockchain with IoT sensors, companies can offer verifiable proof that products remained within required parameters, simplifying audits and reducing disputes. DHL and FedEx are experimenting with blockchain pilot projects to enhance cross border traceability and streamline documentation.
Sustainable Energy and Refrigerants
Cold chain operations consume large amounts of electricity. Companies are reducing energy use by installing solar panels, LED lighting and energy efficient refrigeration systems. Americold plans to install 150,000 MWh of solar capacity by 2030. Lineage has 108 MW of solar already in place, while NewCold’s new facilities are grid independent and power themselves using renewables. Many firms are also adopting low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants and upgrading insulation to reduce leakage.
Advanced Packaging Solutions
Emerging packaging innovations complement the infrastructure. Phase change materials (PCMs) absorb and release heat to maintain stable temperatures; vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) minimize thermal conduction; and smart packaging integrates temperature sensors and RFID tags for real time tracking. These solutions reduce reliance on dry ice and improve thermal efficiency, enabling longer transit times with fewer temperature excursions.
What Regulations Shape Cold Chain Operations?
Cold chain companies operate under stringent regulations to ensure product safety and quality. Key frameworks include:
Good Distribution Practice (GDP)
GDP guidelines outline systems for quality management, equipment qualification, temperature mapping, documentation and staff training. Many countries align GDP with WHO and EU guidelines. Compliance demonstrates that companies maintain proper storage and transport conditions for pharmaceuticals and vaccines.
Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) Deadlines in 2025
The U.S. DSCSA mandates serialization and electronic tracking of prescription drugs. By November 27 2025, dispensers must only accept products with a Product Identifier and must verify and document traceability back to the manufacturer. Wholesalers must verify saleable returns by August 27 2025, and manufacturers must provide transaction data by May 27 2025. Cold chain companies servicing pharmaceuticals must ensure their systems can capture, store and transmit this data.
Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) 204 Rule
FSMA 204 expands traceability requirements for high risk foods. Companies must track Key Data Elements—like location, time and temperature—for each step in the supply chain and maintain records that can be provided within 24 hours of request. Failure to comply can result in product recalls and penalties.
Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and ISO Standards
HACCP requires companies to identify critical control points where temperature deviations could compromise food safety. ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 standards provide frameworks for quality and food safety management systems. Many cold chain companies implement these standards alongside national regulations.
Why it matters to you: Working with providers that comply with GDP, DSCSA and FSMA requirements reduces risk of regulatory violations and ensures your products are safe to sell. Always verify that your partner has validated processes, regularly calibrated sensors and documented corrective actions.
How Do Top Companies Manage Risk and Build Resilience?
Supply chain disruptions—from extreme weather to power outages—can derail temperature control. Leading cold chain companies employ comprehensive risk management strategies:
| Risk Factor | Mitigation Strategies | Example |
| Temperature excursions | Continuous monitoring with IoT sensors; real time alerts; automated corrective actions (e.g., adjusting refrigeration setpoints or rerouting shipments); using PCMs and advanced insulation to maintain temperatures during delays. | UPS and FedEx use AI enabled sensors to spot and correct deviations before product integrity is compromised. |
| Power outages and equipment failure | Grid independent facilities with solar panels and backup generators; redundant refrigeration units; regular maintenance and predictive diagnostics. | NewCold’s Lebanon warehouse runs on self generated renewable power and is designed for 24/7 operations. |
| Human error | Comprehensive training on handling procedures, packaging requirements and emergency protocols; clear SOPs; digital checklists. | Americold invests heavily in staff training and has over 200 facilities enrolled in the GCCA Energy Excellence program. |
| Regulatory compliance | Robust documentation and audit trails; digital platforms to capture temperature data and chain of custody records; regular audits. | DHL and UPS integrate blockchain and RFID systems to simplify audits and prove compliance. |
| External factors (e.g., weather, geopolitical events) | Diversification of suppliers and transport routes; dynamic route planning; scenario modelling; insurance coverage. | Companies use AI and predictive analytics to reroute shipments around weather disruptions and optimize inventory levels. |
Case Study: Reducing Emissions Through Sustainable Practices
Americold Logistics installed energy efficient lighting and refrigeration across its facilities, with over 64% of its global portfolio using energy efficient lighting. In 2024 alone, Americold invested more than $18 million in 25 sustainability projects, generating 22 million kWh in annual energy savings. By enrolling 213 facilities in the GCCA’s Energy Excellence program and earning 26 Energy Star certifications, Americold has significantly reduced its carbon footprint and enhanced operational efficiency.
What 2025 Trends Will Shape the Cold Chain Industry?
Trend Overview
The cold chain sector is evolving rapidly. Here are key trends to watch in 2025:
IoT and real time visibility – Wider adoption of IoT sensors, data loggers and cloud platforms provides continuous visibility and predictive insights.
AI and predictive analytics – AI models forecast demand, optimize routes and anticipate maintenance needs, reducing costs and improving reliability.
Blockchain for traceability – Immutable ledgers ensure tamper proof records and streamline audits, boosting trust for high value cargo.
Sustainability and energy efficiency – Companies implement solar panels, LED lighting, EcoNex trailers and low GWP refrigerants, aligning with net zero goals.
Advanced packaging – Phase change materials, vacuum insulation panels and smart packaging prolong temperature control and reduce waste.
Automation and robotics – High bay automated warehouses and robotic order picking improve throughput and energy efficiency.
E commerce and last mile delivery – Growing online grocery shopping drives demand for refrigerated delivery vans and micro fulfillment centers.
Resilience and risk mitigation – Companies adopt redundancy, multi sourcing and scenario planning to address climate related disruptions and geopolitical risks.
Outsourcing to 3PLs – Businesses outsource cold chain logistics to specialized third party providers to reduce capital investment and leverage expertise.
Regulatory tightening – DSCSA deadlines, FSMA 204 and carbon disclosure regulations require enhanced documentation, digital tracing and greenhouse gas reporting.
Latest Developments at a Glance
September 2025 – NewCold’s automated warehouse in Poland opens, adding 95,000 pallet positions and achieving significant energy savings.
2024 – Americold invests $18 million in sustainability projects, producing 22 million kWh of renewable energy and enrolling 213 facilities in the GCCA energy program.
2024 – Lineage’s solar capacity reaches 108 MW, ranking it fifth among U.S. corporate solar users.
December 2023 – NewCold opens a $300 million facility in Lebanon, Indiana, boasting 100,700 pallet positions, 50% energy savings and four proprietary patents.
2024–2025 – North America dominates refrigerated warehousing with a 37.7% share while Asia Pacific experiences the fastest growth.
These developments underscore the industry’s focus on automation, renewable energy and expansion into emerging markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when choosing a cold chain company?
Focus on expertise in your product category, geographical coverage, technology adoption (IoT, automation), sustainability commitments, regulatory compliance (GDP, DSCSA, FSMA), customer service and cost. Companies with proven track records in your industry and investments in renewable energy and monitoring technology provide greater reliability.
How do cold chain companies reduce carbon emissions?
They install solar panels and energy efficient refrigeration, adopt low GWP refrigerants, upgrade insulation, use LED lighting, deploy eco friendly trailers (e.g., Wabash EcoNex) and optimize routes to reduce fuel consumption. Many set science based targets and invest in renewable energy projects.
Why are automated warehouses becoming popular?
Automation improves space utilization, reduces labor costs, operates 24/7 and decreases energy consumption. NewCold’s warehouses use automated storage and retrieval systems that make them approximately 50% more energy efficient than traditional warehouses.
What are PCMs and VIPs in cold chain packaging?
Phase change materials (PCMs) absorb and release heat at specific temperatures, maintaining stable conditions during transit. Vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) use evacuated gas to dramatically slow heat transfer. Combined, they reduce the need for dry ice and enable longer shipping durations with lower weight.
How is DSCSA compliance different from GDP?
DSCSA focuses on serialization and electronic tracking for U.S. prescription drugs, requiring detailed transaction data and verification by 2025. GDP is a broader set of guidelines ensuring quality management and temperature control during distribution. Both require robust documentation and traceability but have different scopes.
Summary and Recommendations
The cold chain logistics sector is expanding rapidly due to increased demand for perishable foods and pharmaceuticals, greater e commerce adoption and technological advancements. Major players like Americold, Lineage, DHL, UPS, FedEx and NewCold are investing heavily in automation, AI, IoT monitoring and renewable energy, positioning themselves as leaders in both efficiency and sustainability. North America dominates current market share, but Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region.
Sustainability is no longer optional—companies that implement energy efficient systems, renewable power and low GWP refrigerants gain a competitive edge. Regulatory frameworks such as GDP, DSCSA and FSMA 204 require robust documentation and traceability, pushing providers to adopt digital solutions. The rise of automated warehouses and eco friendly transport equipment underscores the industry’s commitment to innovation and resilience.
When choosing a cold chain partner, prioritize providers with a global network, strong compliance programs, transparent monitoring capabilities and clear sustainability plans. Doing so ensures product integrity, reduces risk and helps your business meet both customer expectations and regulatory mandates.
Actionable Next Steps
Assess your needs. Identify the temperature range, product sensitivity and geographical coverage required for your supply chain.
Evaluate providers. Compare the top companies profiled here based on technology adoption, network size, sustainability initiatives and compliance with GDP and DSCSA.
Implement monitoring. Integrate IoT sensors and data platforms to achieve real time visibility across your supply chain.
Invest in sustainable packaging. Adopt PCMs, VIPs and recyclable materials to extend shelf life and minimize environmental impact.
Stay informed. Monitor regulatory changes (e.g., DSCSA 2025 deadlines) and industry trends to maintain compliance and competitive advantage.
About Tempk
Tempk is a leading provider of cold chain solutions, offering temperature controlled warehousing, logistics and digital monitoring services. We specialize in serving pharmaceuticals, food and biotech companies, ensuring product integrity through validated systems and real time visibility. Our energy efficient facilities leverage renewable power and low GWP refrigerants to reduce emissions. With a dedicated team of experts and cutting edge technology, Tempk helps clients navigate regulatory requirements and optimize their cold chain performance.
Ready to optimize your cold chain? Contact Tempk’s experts for a tailored consultation and discover how our solutions can safeguard your products and support your sustainability goals.
