Global Cold Chain Logistics Market: Global Industry Analysis and Forecast (2025-2032)

The Global Cold Chain Logistics Market size was valued at USD 357.25 Bn. in 2024, and the total Global Cold Chain Logistics Market revenue is expected to grow by 16.35% from 2024 to 2032, reaching nearly USD 1199.78 Bn. in 2032
Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Overview
The Cold Chain Logistics sector has been evolving rapidly to address the rising need for fresh, high-quality, and diverse food, beverage, and pharmaceutical products. The growing demand for natural ingredients, clean-label offerings, and exotic flavours has increased the sector’s responsibility to maintain temperature-sensitive goods from production to consumption. Perishable categories, such as organic foods, specialty dairy, and niche pharmaceutical products, have required strict temperature control throughout the supply chain. The surge in ethnic cuisine, globalized food choices, and the boom in plant-based and alternative proteins have created a need for flexible cold chain solutions that preserve flavour, texture, and shelf life. Technological advancements, including IoT-enabled temperature sensors, automated warehouses, and energy-efficient refrigeration systems, have been reducing product spoilage caused by thermal history variations.

The rise of e-commerce grocery delivery and direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical models has driven investments in last-mile cold chain projects. Regionally, North America and Europe have remained the largest markets, supported by strict food safety regulations and consumer expectations for premium quality. The Asia-Pacific region has been the fastest-growing Cold Chain Logistics Market, boosted by urbanization, expanding middle-class populations, and a shift towards Western-style diets. Sustainability has gained prominence, with green refrigerants, solar-powered cold storage, and reusable packaging options becoming key focus areas. As the food and pharmaceutical industries have expanded globally, leveraging international trade channels, the demand for reliable and advanced cold chain technologies has been accelerating. The sector has positioned itself as a critical enabler of global supply chains, ensuring products retain their integrity and safety from origin to end-user.To know about the Research Methodology :- Request Free Sample Report
Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Dynamics
Rising Demand for Perishable Goods to Drive the Cold Chain Logistics Market

Consumers expect uninterrupted access to fresh and safe products year-round, which places immense pressure on supply chains to maintain optimal temperature control from origin to delivery. This demand necessitates advanced cold storage facilities, refrigerated transportation, and real-time temperature monitoring technologies to ensure product quality and safety this factor significantly drives the Cold Chain Logistics Market For example, temperature-sensitive items such as vaccines, seafood, and fresh fruits require precise handling to prevent spoilage and preserve their nutritional and sensory attributes.

Companies are investing in sophisticated refrigerated warehouses, automated storage systems, and fleets of temperature-controlled vehicles. This infrastructure expansion enhances the efficiency and reliability of perishable goods transportation across domestic and international markets. The improved cold chain logistics reduce food waste by minimizing spoilage, contributing to more sustainable operations and lowering environmental impact. In addition, rising public health concerns have led to stricter regulatory requirements for temperature tracking and compliance, increasing transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain. These factors drive continuous growth and innovation in the cold chain logistics sector, supporting the global availability of fresh, safe perishable products.

Temperature Maintenance and Consistency Limits the Cold Chain Logistics Market Growth

Maintaining precise and consistent temperatures across the cold chain remains a critical restraint limiting the growth of the Cold Chain Logistics Market. Perishable goods, including fresh produce, dairy, seafood, and pharmaceuticals, are highly sensitive to even minor temperature fluctuations. Any deviation from required storage or transit temperatures can lead to spoilage, reduced shelf life, and loss of product quality, directly impacting revenue and consumer trust. For instance, seafood exports such as salmon and shrimp from Norway or Vietnam rely on strict temperature control during long-distance transport. Any lapse compromise freshness, taste, and safety, resulting in financial losses and product recalls. Similarly, Pfizer’s COVID-19 mRNA vaccine demands ultra-low storage (-70°C); distribution in regions lacking sufficient ultra-cold storage infrastructure led to delays and wastage, highlighting the logistical challenges. In India, fruits like strawberries and mangoes often face temperature inconsistencies during transit from farms to urban centers, causing spoilage and limiting Cold Chain Logistics Market reach. The Frozen and ready-to-eat foods require strict -18°C maintenance. Ensuring constant temperature necessitates advanced monitoring systems and refrigerated fleets, significantly increasing operational costs. These challenges restrain cold chain expansion, particularly in emerging Cold Chain Logistics Market Growth.

Digital Transformation & IoT Adoption Creates Lucrative Growth Opportunities to The Market

The Real-time monitoring of temperature and environmental conditions across the supply chain ensures perishable goods maintain quality, safety, and compliance. For example, Pfizer’s vaccine distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic leveraged IoT sensors and GPS trackers to maintain ultra-low temperatures, sending instant alerts for deviations and ensuring safe delivery of life-saving doses globally. Companies such as Nestlé are embedding IoT sensors in dairy supply chains, monitoring temperature, humidity, and vibrations to reduce spoilage by up to 30% and improve traceability. Maersk is piloting AI-driven refrigerated containers capable of autonomously adjusting temperatures based on cargo type, route analytics, and weather, minimizing manual intervention and enhancing operational efficiency.

IoT-driven dynamic routing optimizes last-mile delivery, reducing waste and ensuring perishable items reach their destinations in optimal condition. Combining IoT data with blockchain enhances compliance and transparency, providing tamper-proof records for regulators and clients. Smart sensors in produce logistics extend shelf life and improve food safety. The digital transformation reduces costs, enhances reliability, and enables predictive, scalable operations, driving substantial market growth in Cold Chain Logistics Market globally.

Logistics Suppliers and their supply capacity

There are some top cold chain logistics suppliers; Liaoning Province's cold chain logistics providers are mostly centered in the cities of Dalian and Shenyang. There aren't many third-party suppliers of integrated cold chain logistics who offer integrated services; rather, the majority of them are companies that can only offer one type of cold chain logistics market service, such as storage or transportation. The primary cold chain logistics providers in Liaoning Province are split into three groups based on the service offerings they provide, and Table 5 below provides information on their in-house cold chain logistics infrastructure and cold chain logistics market supply capacity. Cold storage resources and services are mostly provided by cold chain logistics vendors based on warehousing services. Distribution-based cold chain logistics providers have refrigerated trucks and primarily offer chilled transport services. Also, providers of integrated cold chain logistics services have access to greater cold storage space and, more crucially, offer integrated cold chain logistics market services. More details are covered in the report. Wide Applications of Flavour Systems Across Industries in the Global Cold Chain Logistics Market.

Regional Cold Chain Logistics Supplier Categories and Service Offerings



Cold chain logistics supplier category
Enterprise name
Service capability


Cold chain logistics suppliers based on warehousing services
Shenyang Non-staple Food Group
Cold storage services


Zhang Shi Logistics Park


Shenyang Chengda Refrigeration Co., Ltd.


Dalian Mingfeng Taida Logistics Co., Ltd


Cold chain logistics suppliers based on the distribution
Dalian city logistics co-distribution center
Refrigerated distribution in Dalian


Zhongying Beixing Cold Chain Logistics Co., Ltd.
Refrigerated and frozen goods freight in Northeast China


Integrated cold chain logistics service suppliers
Yurun Group
Mainly meet the needs of their own enterprises for cold chain logistics


Zhangzi Island Group


Dalian Gang Yidu Cold Chain Co., Ltd
Mainly provide the high value fresh agricultural product integrated cold chain logistics services



Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Segment Analysis
Based on Type, the Cold Chain Logistics Market is segmented into Refrigerated transport and refrigerated warehousing. Refrigerated warehousing held the largest market share in 2024. The growing need for long-term storage of temperature-sensitive products across food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries. The rapid expansion of global trade in perishable goods, coupled with the rise of e-commerce grocery delivery services, has intensified demand for large-scale, technologically advanced storage facilities. Modern refrigerated warehouses are equipped with automated storage and retrieval systems, energy-efficient refrigeration, and IoT-based temperature monitoring to maintain consistent product quality and comply with stringent safety regulations.

The increase in processed and frozen food consumption, particularly in urban centers, has necessitated greater storage capacity to manage fluctuating supply and demand cycles. Pharmaceutical cold chains, especially for vaccines, biologics, and temperature-sensitive drugs, further contribute to the segment’s dominance. Strategic investments in warehouse expansion, government-backed infrastructure programs, and mergers and acquisitions among leading players have reinforced refrigerated warehousing’s position as the most significant segment in 2024.

Based on the Application, the Cold Chain Logistics Market is segmented into Dairy & frozen desserts, Fish, meat, and seafood products, Bakery & confectionery products, Fruits & vegetables, and Others. Agricultural products like fruits and vegetables, and dairy products are expected to dominate the market in 2024. Fresh agricultural products (FAPs) including vegetables, fruits, meat, poultry, eggs, fish, flowers, and dairy require strict temperature control during storage and transportation to preserve freshness and reduce spoilage.

"Temperature Requirements and Logistics Specifications for Perishable Cold Chain Products"



Category
Temperature Range (˚C)
Key Logistics Requirements
Facility Needs


Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
-1 to 5
Post-harvest selection, pre-cooling, temp-controlled transport & warehousing
Pre-cooling room, cold storage, refrigerated transport


Cold-Sensitive F&V
8 to 12
Pre-cooling, temp-controlled transport & warehousing
Pre-cooling room, temp-controlled storage & transport


Aquatic Products
0
Cooling, sterilization, filling, temp-controlled transport & warehousing
Pre-cooling room, cold storage, refrigerated transport


Eggs
0
Cooling, temp-controlled transport & warehousing
Pre-cooling room, cold storage, refrigerated transport


Milk
2 to 6
Continuous refrigeration from farm to retail
Cold storage, refrigerated transport


Chilled Fresh Meat
0 to -5
Cooling after slaughter, temp-controlled transport & warehousing
Cold storage, refrigerated transport



Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Regional Insights
The Asia-Pacific region dominated the Cold Chain Logistics Market in 2024, driven by strong government funding to develop advanced cold chain infrastructure. Growing demand for processed foods, frozen dairy, and meat products has significantly boosted market expansion, with Japan, South Korea, China, and India witnessing the highest growth. These countries are expected to maintain the largest market share, supported by the increasing number of pharmaceutical companies and rising foreign direct investments (FDI).

China, in particular, is accelerating its cold chain development through its first five-year plan, launched on December 12 by the General Office of the State Council. The plan aims to establish a nationwide cold chain logistics network by 2025, linking production and sales points, covering urban and rural regions, and integrating domestic and international markets. Key measures include constructing 100 national cold-chain depots near major agricultural production and distribution hubs and improving last-mile facilities for farmers and consumers. In 2024, China’s fresh food retail sales are projected to reach USD 846.8 billion, up 8% from 2020, continuing its double-digit growth trajectory, fueled by rising demand for high-quality agricultural products, frozen foods, and pharmaceuticals.



Government/Region
Initiative
Funding
Focus Area


U.S. (FDA & USDA)
National Cold Chain Expansion Program
USD 150 Mn.
Modernizing refrigerated transport for pharmaceuticals & fresh produce


EU (Horizon Europe)
Green Cold Chain Initiative
USD 200 Mn.
Solar-powered refrigeration & CO₂-neutral logistics


Japan (MAFF)
Premium Agri-Cold Chain Project
USD 90 Mn.
Precision chilling tech for seafood & high-value fruits


India (MoFPI)
Kisan SAMPADA Yojana
USD 120 Mn.
Rural cold storage units & last-mile delivery for perishables


China (MIIT & MOA)
Smart Cold Chain 2025 Plan
USD 300 Mn.
AI-driven temperature monitoring & automated warehousing



The green growth of the energy-intensive cold chain industry is essential to achieving national targets for peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality before 2060. China will create a network of cold-chain logistics corridors to connect its major urban centres and agricultural-producing regions and to strengthen the function of its major distribution and logistics hubs. In a news briefing earlier this month, Zhang Jiangbo, the deputy director-general of the economic and trade department at the National Development and Reform Commission, noted that China's cold-chain network is currently confronted with a number of difficulties, including the absence of significant logistics hubs and an undeveloped national network. As both urban and rural populations' level of life has increased, so has the need for fresh food. "The public wants to eat food that is both healthy and safe in addition to excellent meals. For this reason, cold-chain logistics has gained more and more attention." and drives the cold-chain logistics market. The report covers details of each country with top manufacturing key players and their investments in the cold chain logistics market.

Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Competitive Landscape

The Cold Chain Logistics Market remains highly competitive, with a few dominant players leveraging vast infrastructure and advanced technologies. Americold Logistics leads globally with over 250 temperature-controlled warehouses totaling 1.5 billion cubic feet, strengthened by acquisitions such as Cloverleaf Cold Storage and AI-driven warehouse automation. Lineage Logistics, the second-largest provider, has expanded aggressively through acquisitions such as Preferred Freezer Services and implemented innovations such as machine learning-based inventory management and robotic palletizing. Nichirei Corporation holds a strong presence in Asia-Pacific, specializing in seafood freezing technologies, while AGRO Merchants Group excels in GDP-compliant pharmaceutical logistics. Burris Logistics focuses on tailored retail and foodservice solutions with real-time tracking. Together, Americold, Lineage, and new entrant Manna control nearly 30% of global cold storage capacity, reflecting significant consolidation. Smaller regional players compete in niche services like last-mile or ultra-frozen deliveries but face capital and R&D constraints, potentially widening the gap with market leaders as automation and sustainability advance.

Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Recent Development

In June 2023, Lineage, Inc. (US) finalized the partial closure of its joint venture with SK Logistics, a Vietnam-based cold-storage warehouse operator. As part of the deal, Lineage acquired SK Logistics’ two cold storage facilities, covering nearly 400,000 square feet. This moves boosts Lineage’s operational capacity in northern Vietnam while integrating assets and supply chain solutions across both northern and southern regions of the country.

In December 2022, A.P. Moller – Maersk (Denmark) unveiled its advanced integrated cold chain facility at the Ruakura Superhub in Hamilton, New Zealand. Positioned within the nation’s Golden Triangle, the site strengthens Hamilton’s role as a strategic freight and logistics hub, enhancing connectivity for domestic and international cold chain operations.

Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Trends

• Technological Integration for Real-Time Monitoring
The adoption of IoT sensors, AI analytics, and cloud-based platforms is transforming cold chain operations. These technologies enable real-time temperature, humidity, and location tracking, ensuring product quality and compliance with regulatory standards. Advanced monitoring reduces spoilage risk, optimizes inventory management, and enhances customer trust. Companies leveraging these solutions are gaining a competitive edge by delivering more reliable and transparent cold chain services.

• Sustainability Initiatives in Cold Chain Operations
The rising environmental concerns, cold chain providers are investing in eco-friendly refrigeration systems, renewable energy integration, and optimized transportation routes to reduce carbon emissions. Innovations such as solar-powered cold storage units and energy-efficient cooling systems are becoming mainstream. Sustainability-focused strategies not only meet regulatory requirements but also attract environmentally conscious clients, creating new market opportunities while lowering long-term operational costs.
Cold Chain Logistics Market Scope: Inquire before buying



Cold Chain Logistics Market


Report Coverage
Details


Base Year:
2024
Forecast Period:
2025-2032


Historical Data:
2019 to 2024
Market Size in 2024:
USD 357.25 Bn.


Forecast Period 2025 to 2032 CAGR:
16.35%
Market Size in 2032:
USD 1199.78 Bn.


 Segments Covered:
by Type
Refrigerated Warehouses
Refrigerated Transportation
Road
Sea
Rail
Air


by Technology
Blast Freezing
Vapor Compression
Programmable Logic Controller


by Temperature
Frozen
Chilled


by Application
Fruits & Vegetables
Bakery & Confectionary
Dairy & Frozen Desserts
Meat, Fish, & Sea Food
Drugs & Pharmaceuticals
Others



Global Cold Chain Logistics Market by Region
North America (United States, Canada, and Mexico)
Europe (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Austria, and the Rest of Europe)
Asia Pacific (China, South Korea, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, ASEAN, Rest of Asia Pacific)
Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC, Nigeria, Rest of ME&A)
South America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America)
Global Cold Chain Logistics Market Key Players
North America:
1. Americold Logistics, Inc. (Atlanta, Georgia, USA)
2. Lineage, Inc. (Novi, Michigan, USA)
3. Burris Logistics (Milford, Delaware, USA)
4. United States Cold Storage (Voorhees, New Jersey, USA)
5. Tippmann Group (Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA)
6. Conestoga Cold Storage (Kitchener, Ontario, Canada)
7. Trenton Cold Storage (Trenton, Ontario, Canada)
8. Canadian Dry Storage Ltd. (Canada)
9. Congebec (Quebec City, Canada)

Europe:
10. A.P. Moller – Maersk (Copenhagen, Denmark)
11. NewCold (Breda, Netherlands)
12. Seafrigo Group (Le Havre, France)
13. Blue Water Shipping (Esbjerg, Denmark)
14. Constellation Cold Logistics S.à r.l (London, UK)

Asia-Pacific:
15.Nichirei Corporation (Tokyo, Japan)
16.Coldman Logistics Pvt. Ltd. (Bengaluru, India)
17.Ruiyun Cold Chain (China)

Others
18. Antarrtica Cold Storage
19. APF Cold Storage & Logistics
20. JS Davidson
21. ColdRush Logistics
Frequently Asked Questions
1] What segments are covered in the Global Cold Chain Logistics Market report?
Ans. The segments covered in the Cold Chain Logistics Market report are based on Product Type, Temperature, Technology, Application and Region.

2] Which region is expected to hold the highest share in the Global Cold Chain Logistics Market?
Ans. The Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the highest share of the Cold Chain Logistics Market.

3] What is the market size of the Global Cold Chain Logistics Market by 2032?
Ans. The market size of the Cold Chain Logistics Market by 2032 is expected to reach US$ 1199.78 Bn.

4] What is the forecast period for the Global Cold Chain Logistics Market?
Ans. The forecast period for the Cold Chain Logistics Market is 2025-2032

5] What was the market size of the Global Cold Chain Logistics Market in 2024?
Ans. The market size of the Cold Chain Logistics Market in 2024 was valued at US$ 357.25 Bn.