Cold Chain Logistics Market Analysis

Type Segment Analysis

The refrigerated warehouse segment is expected to capture a share of 65.5% through 2035, forming the core of the cold chain logistics sector. These warehouses are necessary for the secure storage of a vast array of temperature-sensitive products, ranging from fresh fruits to pharmaceuticals. Increased demand for chilled and frozen foods, along with the complexities of modern global supply chains, are fueling major investments in the expansion and upgrade of refrigerated storage facilities. Sophisticated automation and energy-saving designs are emerging as major differentiators within this space. In March 2025, Lineage Logistics finalized the takeover of Bellingham Cold Storage in Washington State, acquiring three new facilities and expanding its seafood, meat, and processed food storage capacity. This deal is a part of the general trend of consolidation and capacity-building in the cold storage warehousing industry.  

Application Segment Analysis

The dairy and frozen desserts segment is anticipated to hold a revenue share of 38% by 2035, based on robust consumer demand and the highly perishable nature of the product. The requirement for uniform temperature along the supply chain is paramount in maintaining dairy and frozen dessert product quality and safety. The segment's growth also finds support with rising demand for premium and artisanal products, which tend to require stricter temperature control.  The intricacy of the segment calls for high-tech logistics and relentless quality control. For example, Americold Logistics acquired Safeway Freezers in Vineland, NJ, for $24 million in March 2025. It augmented its dairy, frozen dessert, bakery, and pharmaceutical storage capacity on the US East Coast, reflecting continued investment in infrastructure to serve this important application segment.

Process Segment Analysis

The pre-cooling facilities segment is estimated to hold a 36% market share through 2035, serving a vital function of increasing the shelf life of perishables. Pre-cooling refers to the quick elimination of heat from recently harvested crops prior to storage or transportation. It is a necessary process to reduce the respiration rate and enzymatic breakdown of fruits and vegetables, hence maintaining their quality and freshness. The increasing need for fresh, high-quality produce and the expansion of international trade are creating demand for sophisticated pre-cooling technologies. Johnson Controls, a global leader in building technologies, presented its latest pre-cooling innovations at ACREX 2025, featuring AI-driven smart controls tailored for agricultural cold storage. This development highlights the critical role of AI and smart controls in enhancing energy efficiency and product quality in pre-cooling operations, making it a key growth enabler for the segment.

Our in-depth analysis of the cold chain logistics market includes the following segments: