Australia Cold Storage Market Growth Analysis - Forecast Trends, Market Size, Share and Outlook (2025-2034)

Key Market Trends and Insights:

• The Australian Capital Territory cold storage market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.9% over the forecast period.
• The Western Australia cold storage market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.0% during the forecast period.
• By temperature range, the deep-frozen category is projected to grow at a CAGR of 19.4% over the forecast period.
• By application, the pharmaceutical category is projected to grow at a CAGR of 19.8% over the forecast period.

Market Size and Forecast:

• Market Size in 2024: AUD 2.67 billion
• Projected Market Size in 2034: AUD 14.83 billion
• CAGR from 2025 to 2034: 18.70%
• Dominant Regional Market: New South Wales

The market is experiencing robust growth, primarily driven by the surge in perishable goods consumption and rising demand from the food and pharmaceutical sectors. For example, government initiatives such as the Delivering Ag2030 plan aim to boost Australia's food production to AUD 100 billion by 2030 , highlighting the strategic importance of cold storage in supporting this growth. Programs such as the National Food Plan  and the Cold Food Code initiative further support infrastructure expansion, incentivizing private players to invest in state-of-the-art facilities, boosting growth in the Australia cold storage market.

In addition, the growth of e-commerce and online grocery retail has reshaped logistics requirements, with retailers increasingly relying on cold storage hubs to maintain product quality during last-mile delivery. Notably, advanced technologies, such as automated racking, energy-efficient refrigeration, and IoT-enabled monitoring systems, are being widely adopted to enhance operational efficiency and reduce energy consumption, further transforming the Australia cold storage market dynamics.

Moreover, pharmaceutical and biotech sectors are driving investments in specialized temperature-controlled storage for vaccines, biologics, and lab materials. These developments highlight opportunities for cold storage providers by catering to the food sector while expanding into healthcare and life sciences logistics, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining cold chain integrity across the supply network.

Recent Developments

September 2025

In order to meet the increasing demand for premium fresh exports to and from Australia, TS Lines (TSL) announced a major expansion of its reefer container fleet and services. The expansion of TSL’s reefer container fleet directly boosts Australia’s cold storage market by ensuring reliable temperature-controlled logistics for premium fresh exports, reinforcing the country’s competitiveness in global agri-food trade.

July 2025

A significant update to its Cold Chain solution was announced by Geotab, a world leader in connected vehicle and asset solutions. The new hardware and improved software features give companies more visibility, control, and assurance of compliance for temperature-sensitive shipments. This Australia cold storage market development enhances compliance and real-time monitoring, giving Australian cold storage providers advanced tools to secure perishable shipments and strengthen service reliability across domestic and export markets.

December 2024

Perth Markets Group Limited (PMGL) announced the completion of its newest multi-tenant cold chain warehouse. The new facility, called S2, is well situated at PMGL's prestigious 51ha Canning Vale location and demonstrates the company's continuous dedication to building infrastructure that supports the fresh produce sector in Western Australia.

September 2024

Merck, a prominent science and technology company, announced plans to switch its Life Science business in Australia from using expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation for cold-chain shipments to wool-pack insulation, encouraging broader Australia cold storage market adoption of eco-friendly materials in pharmaceutical and life sciences cold logistics.

Key Drivers and Trends

Increasing Demand for Perishable Food Storage

Australia’s expanding perishable goods market, including fresh produce, seafood, and dairy, is pushing demand for cold storage infrastructure. Retailers, wholesalers, and exporters rely on temperature-controlled facilities to maintain freshness, extend shelf life, and meet regulatory standards. Government initiatives such as the National Food Plan encourage investment in cold storage to reduce post-harvest losses, boosting the Australia cold storage market growth. For example, in May 2023, the Australian government committed AUD 5.4 million to improve price and market transparency in PAG industries.  Innovative developments like modular cold rooms, automated storage retrieval systems, and renewable-powered refrigeration allow B2B stakeholders to enhance operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.

Growth of E-Commerce and Online Grocery Retail

The rise of online grocery platforms is reshaping the market trends. As per the Australia cold storage market analysis, in relation to total population figures, per person generates USD 3400 in 2025 within the food retail sector. Companies increasingly require strategically located, technology-enabled facilities to ensure timely delivery of perishable and frozen products. Automated inventory systems, real-time temperature monitoring, and integrated logistics software support efficient last-mile distribution. Cold storage providers are investing in AI-based demand forecasting and smart racking solutions, optimizing storage capacity and minimizing waste.

Technological Advancements in Cold Storage Equipment

Adoption of energy-efficient refrigeration, IoT-enabled sensors, and automated racking systems is another major trend in the Australia cold storage market. Companies can monitor temperatures, humidity, and equipment performance remotely, reducing spoilage risks and operational costs. For example, Dematic, in June 2024, launched a cutting-edge automation solution for the Australian meat industry, boosting efficiency and safety in cold storage environment.  Innovations like phase-change materials and solar-assisted cooling improve sustainability while complying with government energy-efficiency mandates.

Expansion in Pharmaceutical and Biotech Cold Chain Logistics

The growing biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors in Australia demand specialized cold storage for vaccines, biologics, and lab materials. Compliance with regulatory standards, including TGA and WHO guidelines, is critical. Temperature-controlled storage ensures product efficacy, safety, and traceability. Companies are investing in ultra-low temperature freezers, remote monitoring systems, and validated storage protocols. Government grants supporting medical cold chain infrastructure further incentivize expansion. For example, the government announced the '2024 Clinical Trial Enabling Infrastructure' grant opportunity in January 2025 , indirectly impacting the Australia cold storage market growth.

Rising Focus on Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Environmental regulations and corporate sustainability goals are driving adoption of energy-efficient cold storage solutions. Innovations include ammonia-based refrigeration, CO₂ cooling, and solar-powered systems. Automated controls and IoT monitoring optimize energy usage and reduce carbon footprint. Partnerships between technology providers and storage operators are enabling retrofitting of existing facilities with sustainable solutions.

Australia Cold Storage Market Share

By type, facilities/services account for the largest share of the market due to infrastructure demand

Facilities and services dominate the market, encompassing temperature-controlled warehouses, logistics hubs, and managed cold storage solutions. Industrial and commercial clients, including food processors, retailers, and pharmaceutical manufacturers, rely on these facilities for perishable goods storage, compliance with safety standards, and scalable capacity. For instance, in 2017, the Australian Food & Grocery Council (AFGC) developed the Australian Cold Chain Guidelines, in partnership with industry stakeholders.

Equipment emerges to be the fastest-growing category, boosting the Australia cold storage market value. Growth in this category is driven by adoption of advanced refrigeration units, automated storage systems, IoT sensors, and energy-efficient cooling technologies. B2B clients, including warehouse operators, food manufacturers, and pharmaceutical distributors, prioritize equipment that ensures precise temperature control, operational efficiency, and scalability. Technological innovations, such as smart sensors, predictive maintenance, and solar-assisted refrigeration, reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

Chilled (0°C to 15°C) temperature range accounts for the largest share of the market due to food storage needs

Chilled temperature is widely applied for maintaining quality standards for fresh produce, dairy, meat, and beverages. Retailers, wholesalers, and food processors utilize chilled facilities to extend product shelf life, maintain quality, and comply with safety regulations. Technological innovations such as automated racking, humidity-controlled zones, and IoT-enabled monitoring enhance operational efficiency and minimize spoilage, accelerating the Australia cold storage market opportunities.

Frozen storage (-18°C to -25°C) observes application growth, fueled by increased frozen food consumption, seafood exports, and ready-to-eat meal demand. Advanced refrigeration systems, smart temperature monitoring, and automated retrieval solutions enable efficient operations. Government initiatives promoting export-ready frozen food infrastructure, coupled with sustainability-focused equipment innovations, support Australia cold storage market expansion.

By application, food & beverages occupy a significant market share owing to perishable storage needs

Food and beverage applications, encompassing storage for fresh produce, dairy, meat, seafood, and beverages. Retailers, wholesalers, and food processors rely on temperature-controlled facilities to maintain freshness, extend shelf life, and comply with national food safety regulations, boosting demand in the Australia cold storage market. Innovative solutions like automated racking, humidity-controlled zones, and IoT-enabled temperature monitoring enhance operational efficiency and reduce spoilage.

Pharmaceutical applications are rapidly expanding their shares in the market owing to the expansion of biologics, vaccines, and temperature-sensitive medical products. Cold storage facilities ensure compliance with TGA guidelines, maintain product efficacy, and support supply chain traceability. Innovative developments include ultra-low temperature freezers, IoT-enabled monitoring, and automated retrieval systems for precise temperature management, transforming the Australia cold storage market dynamics. B2B operators collaborate with hospitals, research labs, and pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide specialized storage and distribution services.

Australia Cold Storage Market Regional Analysis

New South Wales registers the largest share of the market due to concentrated industrial hubs

New South Wales, hosting major industrial hubs, logistics centers, and export-oriented food processing facilities, emerges to be the dominant regional cold storage market in Australia. The state’s dense urban population, port access, and high perishable goods consumption create strong demand for temperature-controlled storage. B2B operators benefit from established infrastructure, proximity to key supply chains, and regulatory support for safe food and pharmaceutical storage. Public-private initiatives aimed at modernizing food and cold chain infrastructure further support market growth.

Victoria is the fastest-growing regional market, driven by expanding cold storage infrastructure, export-oriented food production, and growing demand from pharmaceutical and biotech sectors. Major logistics hubs, increasing urbanization, and government incentives for modern cold chain facilities support rapid growth. The region boasts rising export volumes, perishable food consumption, and public-private partnerships, making it a key growth hub for cold storage providers looking to serve both domestic and international supply chains efficiently.

Competitive Landscape

Leading Australia cold storage market players are focusing on technological advancements, sustainable operations, and integrated logistics services. Companies are prioritizing energy-efficient refrigeration systems, automated racking, and IoT-enabled monitoring to optimize warehouse performance while reducing operational costs. Opportunities lie in serving growing sectors like pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, and export-oriented agribusinesses. 

Public-private partnerships and government incentives for modern cold chain infrastructure are enabling expansion, while innovations like modular cold storage and AI-powered demand forecasting offer differentiation. Australia cold storage companies that invest in scalable, flexible facilities and integrate last-mile logistics are capturing significant market share. Additionally, the increasing adoption of environmentally friendly refrigerants and renewable energy sources provides both operational cost savings and compliance advantages, positioning players for long-term growth in a market increasingly defined by sustainability and efficiency.

Key Players

Americold Logistics, Inc.

Established in 1903 and headquartered in Atlanta, United States, Americold provides temperature-controlled warehousing, transportation, and supply chain solutions. In Australia, the company operates modern facilities supporting food, beverage, and pharmaceutical logistics with IoT-enabled monitoring and energy-efficient systems, ensuring reliability, compliance, and optimized perishable goods distribution.

AP Moeller - Maersk A/S

Founded in 1904 and headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, Maersk offers integrated cold chain logistics services in Australia. The company leverages refrigerated shipping, advanced storage facilities, and smart inventory management to support perishable exports and domestic supply chains efficiently, enhancing traceability and reducing spoilage.

Melbourne Cold Storage

Founded in 1903 and based in Melbourne, Australia, the company specializes in temperature-controlled storage and distribution for fresh produce, meat, and dairy. Melbourne Cold Storage focuses on automation, energy-efficient refrigeration, and tailored B2B logistics solutions to meet client-specific cold chain needs.

MFRH Cool Logistics Pty Ltd.

Established in 2013 and headquartered in New South Wales, Australia, MFRH Cool Logistics offers full-service cold chain solutions, including storage, transport, and handling for pharmaceuticals and food products. The company integrates modular cold storage, real-time monitoring, and sustainable practices for high operational efficiency.

Other key players in the market are Laverton Cold Storage, APF Cold Storage & Logistics, Lineage, Inc., ACIT Group Pty Ltd., Chill Pty Ltd. and stow International NV, among others.

Key Highlights of the Australia Cold Storage Market Report:

•  Coverage of technology-driven advances, including AI-enabled monitoring, automated pallet systems, and blockchain-backed traceability in cold chains.
•  Detailed mapping of strategic infrastructure projects, such as multi-tenant warehouses and port-adjacent cold hubs.
•  Analysis of government initiatives, including energy-efficiency programs and food export expansion schemes.
•  Financial insights into mergers, acquisitions, and private equity participation shaping the competitive landscape.
•  Identification of sector-specific demand shifts in pharmaceuticals, fresh produce, seafood, and specialty beverages.

Why Rely on Expert Market Research?

•  Dedicated research teams with proven expertise in cold chain logistics and perishable commodities.
•  Tailored forecasts and scenario-based modeling to help companies anticipate risks and opportunities.
•  Exclusive access to regional datasets and policy frameworks influencing cold storage investments in Australia.
•  Use of innovative data visualization and simulation tools for clearer, actionable insights.
•  Practical, decision-ready recommendations for stakeholders, from warehouse operators to export-driven agribusinesses.

Call to Action

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