DHL Supply Chain, a third-party logistics provider, has partnered with RLCold to develop an expansive, modern cold storage network across North America. The agreement leverages DHL's operational expertise and customer insight with RLCold's strengths in design, project management, and construction. The collaboration plans to develop approximately 465,000 square meters of temperature-controlled cold storage and implement multi-temperature distribution centers.
The partnership targets evolving demographics and the rising demand for online food shopping through a multi-point cold storage network. DHL's information technology platforms and operational solutions will offer comprehensive supply chain monitoring, support food safety initiatives, and allow customers to scale operations based on seasonal demand and distribution channels.
 |
Logistics employees work in a temperature-controlled cold storage facility serving the food and beverage supply chain. *Photo: DHL Supply Chain* |
The first locations are slated to begin the design and pre-development phase in 2026. Handover will occur in stages, aligning with customer commitments and regional demand.
Dennis Lutwen, President of Consumer at DHL Supply Chain North America, stated that in many major US markets, the average age of existing cold storage facilities is approximately 31 years. This highlights a critical need for modern, automation-ready, and strategically located facilities.
According to Lutwen, the project's goal is not only to expand capacity but also to address bottlenecks in the current cold chain infrastructure, bringing smart, technology-driven facilities into operation in areas with the highest demand.
DHL Supply Chain is the third-party contract logistics division of the DHL Group (Germany), providing supply chain management solutions for various industries in North America and globally.
RLCold is a US-based company specializing in the development, design, and construction of cold storage facilities and cold chain infrastructure for the food, beverage, and agricultural sectors.
*By Hai My (Source: FleetOwner)*
