DHL Supply Chain has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with RLCold to develop over five million square feet of advanced cold-chain infrastructure for the food and beverage sector across key North American markets.
The partnership will combine DHL Supply Chain’s logistics operations and customer insights with RLCold’s cold storage design and construction capabilities. Together, they aim to accelerate the development of turnkey, food-grade, temperature-controlled distribution centers across the region.
The planned facilities will feature multi-temperature zones and docks, humidity management, air quality control systems, and high-density racking. Designs will also include airtight construction, advanced refrigeration controls, and sustainable energy systems to reduce operational costs and carbon emissions. All facilities will align with U.S. FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) standards.
“In top U.S. markets, the average age of cold-storage warehouses is about 31 years, making the need for modern, automation-ready facilities in the right locations a priority for food & beverage brands,” said Dennis Lutwen, President, Consumer, DHL Supply Chain North America.
The collaboration will support a range of cold-chain solutions, including dedicated and multi-tenant warehouses, allowing for seasonal and channel-based scalability. DHL’s IT platforms will offer end-to-end visibility and support compliance with food-safety and traceability requirements.
“Food and beverage tenants are demanding modern buildings that deliver higher throughput, tighter temperature control and lower energy intensity,” said Josh Lewis, President, RLCold. “Together with DHL Supply Chain, we can deliver purpose built, operationally optimized and flexible warehouses faster and at scale across North America.”
Initial sites are expected to move into design and pre-development phases during 2026, with deliveries phased based on customer demand and location needs.