Governor of Virginia, US, Glenn Youngkin announced that FreezPak Logistics, a provider of full-service cold and dry storage services, is investing US$77.5 million to construct a 23,000m² cold storage facility in the City of Suffolk to serve the Mid-Atlantic region via the Virginia port.
According to a statement, Virginia competed with Georgia and North Carolina for this project, which is expected to create 80 new jobs.
“FreezPak’s decision to locate in the City of Suffolk demonstrates that Virginia is a supply chain destination, and its new facility will allow it to serve the entire Mid-Atlantic region,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “All of FreezPak’s products will go through The Port of Virginia, a logistical advantage that will increase efficiency and increase its direct access to markets. This is a win for FreezPak, The Port of Virginia, and the Commonwealth.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick commented, “FreezPak’s decision to locate in the Commonwealth is a recognition of Virginia’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and the immediate access The Port of Virginia provides the company to reach its core customers.”
Established in 2001 as a family business by two young brothers first inspired by their father, FreezPak Logistics offers frozen, cooler, and dry storage combined with industry-leading third-party logistics services to ensure the availability of the nation’s food supply.
Dave Saoud, co-founder and CEO of FreezPak Logistics, highlighted the role of Governor Youngkin in his company's decision.
This cold storage facility will be located in the Northgate Commerce Park and will align with Suffolk's significant food and beverage manufacturing sector, according to Suffolk Mayor Michael Duman.
Stephen A. Edwards, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority, stated, “Development of nearly a quarter of a million square feet of cold storage capacity in our market will help The Port of Virginia expand its cold and refrigerated cargo business and is another signal to the industry that there is real value in developing in and around this port, which is America’s most modern gateway.”
