Strategic partnership for next-generation cold chain
DHL Supply Chain has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with RLCold to develop more than 5 million square feet of cold storage facilities across North America.
RLCold is a real estate developer focused on temperature-controlled logistics for the food and beverage (F&B) sector.
The partnership targets multi-temperature distribution centers in key U.S. and Canadian markets.
Combining operations and real estate expertise
Under the agreement, DHL will provide operational know-how, customer demand insights, and IT systems.
RLCold will lead facility design, project management, and construction.
Together, the companies aim to deliver turnkey, food-grade cold storage facilities at scale.
Focus on modern, automated infrastructure
The new warehouses will feature:
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Multi-temperature zones and docks
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High-clearance, high-density racking
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Humidity and air quality control systems
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Advanced refrigeration technology
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Automation-ready layouts
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Sustainable energy solutions
All facilities will comply with U.S. FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) standards.
Addressing aging cold storage capacity
In the U.S., the average cold storage warehouse is around 31 years old.
DHL and RLCold aim to replace outdated assets with modern, technology-enabled facilities.
The goal is to improve throughput, energy efficiency, and food safety.
Supporting e-grocery and fresh food growth
Demand is rising due to:
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Growth in online grocery and meal-kit services
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Higher consumption of fresh and premium foods
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Increasing need for regional, near-consumer distribution
The partnership will offer both dedicated and multi-tenant facilities, allowing customers to scale by season and channel.
Timeline
Initial sites will enter design and pre-development in 2026.
Facilities will be delivered in phases, based on customer demand and regional needs.
Strategic impact
The DHL–RLCold partnership aims to:
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Modernize North America’s cold chain
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Enable faster and more reliable food distribution
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Reduce energy use and carbon footprint
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Support future FDA traceability requirements (FSMA 204) by 2028
The project positions DHL as a key enabler of next-generation cold logistics for the food and beverage industry.
