🧊 EQT to acquire Constellation Cold Logistics

Welcome back to CubeCold News where we cover the latest developments in the cold chain industry and temperature-controlled logistics.

In today’s edition:

• EQT to acquire Constellation Cold Logistics

• Skycell raises $116M to build temperature-controlled containers for pharma goods transport

• Shipping Line enters refrigerated trade with PrimeLINE units

• Primafrio inaugurates its first logistics center in France

• Global Cold Chain Alliance signs Antwerp Declaration

News

EQT to acquire Constellation Cold Logistics Arcus Infrastructure Partners has exited its investment in Constellation Cold Logistics by selling the cold storage provider to EQT Infrastructure VI fund.

• Constellation Cold Logistics, established in 2020 by Arcus, has grown to become one of the largest cold storage operators in Europe, with 26 facilities across seven countries and a workforce of 700 employees.

• The transaction is set to close in October 2024, pending customary conditions and regulatory approvals.

• Carlos Rodriguez, CEO of Constellation, expressed gratitude towards Arcus for its support over the past four years and highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability and customer service.

• He also welcomed the expertise and resources that EQT brings, which will help Constellation in further expanding its market presence and executing its strategic growth plans​​​ (link)

Skycell raises $116M to build temperature-controlled containers for pharma goods transport SkyCell, a company specializing in temperature-controlled containers for the transport of pharmaceutical goods, has raised $116M in a recent funding round.

• This investment will support SkyCell's mission to enhance the efficiency and reliability of global pharmaceutical supply chains by developing advanced containers that ensure the safe transit of temperature-sensitive medications.

• SkyCell's innovative containers utilize smart technology to monitor and maintain optimal temperatures, significantly reducing the risk of product spoilage.

• This advancement is crucial for the pharmaceutical industry, which relies on precise temperature control to preserve the efficacy of drugs and vaccines during transportation.

• The raised funds will also facilitate further research and development, allowing SkyCell to introduce new products that meet the growing demand for robust cold chain solutions in the healthcare sector. (link)

Shipping Line enters refrigerated trade with PrimeLINE units Emirates Shipping Line (ESL) has entered the refrigerated container market by acquiring 300 Carrier Transicold PrimeLINE refrigeration units.

• The PrimeLINE units, known for their energy efficiency and tight temperature control, will enable ESL to offer customers reliable and efficient cold chain solutions for transporting temperature-sensitive goods.

• The refrigeration units will be deployed on ESL routes, connecting the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa to the rest of the world.

• Carrier Transicold has been chosen by ESL for its proven technology and global support network.

• This move marks a significant milestone for ESL as it diversifies its services and strengthens its position in the competitive container shipping industry. (link)

Primafrio inaugurates its first logistics center in France The Spanish logistics group Primafrio has inaugurated its first logistics center in France, located in Belfort, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region.

• The new facility spans a total surface area of 77,000 m², with the first phase comprising a 9,500 m² central hall for refrigerated cross-docking services and 84 loading bays.

• The second phase will involve constructing another warehouse with the same features, effectively doubling the logistics capacity.

• This new platform strengthens Primafrio's ability to meet the growing demand for logistics solutions, primarily focusing on France, Germany, Switzerland, and the Eastern European market.

• The Belfort facility joins Primafrio's seven existing facilities on the Iberian peninsula and 45 logistics centers across the continent.

• Primafrio's cold goods distribution volume exceeds 5,000,000 tons per year, with products from Spain reaching 27 European countries through its fleet of 2,800 trucks. (link)

Global Cold Chain Alliance signs Antwerp Declaration The Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) has signed the Antwerp Declaration in support of the European Industrial Deal, advocating for greater investment in cold chain infrastructure across Europe.

• By signing the declaration on June 25, 2024, the GCCA called for public and private investment in energy resilience.

• The GCCA represents temperature-controlled warehouse members with a total capacity of over 25 million cubic meters, refrigerated transportation companies, controlled-environment building companies, and a wide range of cold chain equipment suppliers and vendors across 22 European countries.

• The organization is working to ensure that the cold chain industry has a voice in decision-making within the European Parliament, Commission, and other institutions.

• This move by the GCCA highlights the importance of the cold chain industry in Europe and the need for greater support and investment to strengthen the sector. (link)

Other headlines

Americold sees recent partnerships as key to efficient global food supply chain.

Erb Group celebrates 65 years in cold chain transportation.

“Move to -15°C Coalition” has more than doubled its membership since its launch at COP28 global climate conference last year.

AR Racking has partnered with Emergent Cold LatAm to complete a major cold storage project in Talcahuano, Chile.

The Cold Chain Association of the Philippines expects continued growth in the country's cold storage capacity, with government aiming for a 30% increase.

India's cold chain industry remains in a nascent stage due to inadequate infrastructure, high costs, and lack of skilled workforce.

That’s it for today!

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