Morrison, an infrastructure investment group, has launched Polaris, a new cold supply chain platform, following its acquisition of Singaporean cold storage operator SuperFreeze. This strategic move aims to expand cold logistics capabilities across the Asia-Pacific region.

The acquisition includes SuperFreeze Singapore, which serves clients in the food and beverage and pharmaceutical sectors. It encompasses the SuperFreeze Tuas (SFT) facility, an operational automated cold storage warehouse, along with a portfolio of advanced development projects throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

The establishment of Polaris comes at a time of sustained growth in demand for modern cold storage facilities in Singapore and the wider region. Singapore, a nation heavily reliant on imported food and pharmaceuticals, serves as a vital regional transit hub. This dual role drives long-term demand for robust cold logistics infrastructure. However, limited industrial land in the country contributes to a scarcity of high-standard, automated cold storage facilities.

Morrison views this transaction as a foundational step for expanding cold chain infrastructure across the APAC region. The company notes that demand for highly automated cold storage continues to exceed current supply, reinforcing the strategic importance of Polaris.

The automated cold storage system SuperFreeze Tuas in Singapore, featuring conveyor belts and high-rise racking, facilitates the storage and transit of temperature-sensitive food and pharmaceuticals. *Photo: SuperFreeze Tuas*

Rajiv Khakhar, Morrison's chief executive officer, emphasized the crucial role of cold storage logistics in fostering intra-APAC trade. He stated that these systems enable the efficient storage and transit of temperature-sensitive goods, ensuring a stable supply of food and pharmaceuticals in import-dependent economies.

Polaris will concentrate on expanding its network of advanced cold logistics facilities, integrating high-efficiency cooling technology and distributed energy systems. Troy Shortell, the platform's chief executive officer, highlighted that Morrison's global infrastructure capabilities and financial strength will strengthen its long-term commitment to building a sustainable cold chain. This initiative aims to improve access to food and pharmaceuticals, reduce waste, and mitigate environmental impact.

Morrison is a New Zealand-based infrastructure investment manager specializing in essential assets such as energy, transportation, and logistics infrastructure. The firm manages a large investment portfolio on behalf of pension funds and global institutional investors. Morrison's strategy involves long-term investments, prioritizing assets that generate stable cash flow and are resilient to economic fluctuations. In the Asia-Pacific region, the company is actively expanding its presence in sustainable infrastructure and supporting regional supply chains.

Nhu Y (According to Logistics Manager)