
Study Period | 2020 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 5.40 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 6.49 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 3.73 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Cold Chain Logistics Australia Market Analysis
The Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market size is estimated at USD 5.40 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 6.49 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 3.73% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The Australian cold chain logistics industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by technological advancement and infrastructure development. According to recent industry data, 37% of Australian businesses reported supply chain disruptions in February 2022, with the most prevalent challenges being domestic and international delivery delays (88%), supply constraints (80%), and price increases (75%). Major industry players are responding to these challenges by investing in automated warehousing solutions and advanced temperature monitoring systems, with companies like NewCold and Lineage Logistics leading the way in implementing state-of-the-art automation technologies across their facilities.
The market is witnessing substantial infrastructure expansion and modernization efforts to address capacity constraints. In 2023, several key industry players announced major facility expansions, including NewCold's USD 160 million investment in its Melbourne facility, expanding from 115,000 to 225,000 pallet positions. This trend towards larger, more efficient facilities is particularly significant given that Australia currently has less cold storage market capacity per urban resident compared to international benchmarks, with only 0.085 cubic meters per urban resident versus the world average of 0.2 cubic meters.
Food waste management has emerged as a critical focus area for the cold chain industry, with Australia currently losing approximately 7.6 million tonnes of food annually, resulting in a USD 37 billion economic impact. This challenge is particularly pressing given projections indicating a 50% increase in food demand over the next decade. The industry is responding through investments in advanced cold chain technologies, improved temperature monitoring systems, and the implementation of blockchain solutions for better traceability and reduced wastage.
The e-commerce revolution is reshaping cold chain logistics operations, with retailers and wholesalers increasingly adopting direct-to-consumer delivery models for temperature-sensitive products. This shift has prompted logistics companies in Australia to develop specialized last-mile delivery solutions and invest in temperature-controlled fulfillment centers. Industry standardization remains a challenge, particularly in areas such as truck widths and pallet sizes, where Australia's use of 2.5-meter pallets differs from the global standard of 2.6 meters, impacting operational efficiency and international trade compatibility.
Cold Chain Logistics Australia Market Trends
Demand for Red Meat Driving the Market
The robust demand for red meat in Australia continues to be a significant driver for cold chain logistics market growth. The industry has shown remarkable resilience, with total beef production reaching 1.97 million tonnes in 2022, marking a 4.5% increase over the previous year. Despite lower slaughter numbers, production efficiency has improved significantly, with average carcass weights being 10.8 kg heavier in Q1 2022 compared to 2021, demonstrating the industry's ability to maintain productivity through optimized feedlot systems and improved processing methods.
The export market dynamics further underscore the importance of cold chain logistics in supporting the meat industry. Australia exported 437,000 tonnes of fresh and frozen beef in the first six months of 2022, highlighting the critical role of temperature-controlled logistics in maintaining product quality across the supply chain. The industry's focus on Southeast Asian markets has intensified due to proximity advantages, emphasizing the need for efficient cold chain infrastructure to support these trade relationships. This regional trade focus has led to increased investments in cold storage logistics facilities and refrigerated transportation systems to maintain product integrity during shorter transport routes.
Food Loss and Quality Concerns
Food loss and quality concerns have emerged as crucial drivers for cold chain solutions adoption in Australia. According to the National Food Waste Baseline, Australia wastes approximately 7.3 million tons of food annually, equivalent to about 300 kg per person, creating an urgent need for improved cold chain solutions. The impact is particularly significant in specific product categories, with Australia losing 25% (1,930,000 metric tons) of its annual fruit and vegetable production and 3.5% of meat production (155,000 metric tons), highlighting the critical role of temperature-controlled logistics in reducing these losses.
The Australian Government's increased focus on food waste reduction has led to significant investments in research and development through organizations like AgriFutures Australia and the Food and Agribusiness Growth Centre. These initiatives are driving innovations in cold chain logistics, particularly in developing higher-value products from retrieved food waste and advancing digital technologies for better temperature monitoring and control. The establishment of Stop Food Waste Australia, with its ambitious goal to halve food waste by 2030, has created additional momentum for cold chain logistics improvements, emphasizing the need for more efficient and reliable temperature-controlled storage and transportation solutions.
Growing Biopharma in the Country
The expansion of Australia's biotechnology sector has become a significant driver for specialized cold chain transport services. The industry's focus on medical biotechnology, particularly in treating and identifying human diseases, has led to increased development of biopharmaceuticals, biologicals, and biosimilars. This growth is supported by substantial government funding, including USD 25 million from the Medical Research Future Fund for clinical trials and an additional USD 66 million for vaccine development and antiviral therapies, creating increased demand for temperature-controlled logistics solutions.
The sector's evolution has been marked by significant investments in research and development, with an additional USD 22.3 million being made available through the Biomedical Translation Bridge Program. This funding surge has created new requirements for sophisticated cold chain logistics to handle sensitive biological materials and pharmaceutical products. The industry's focus on developing new biopharmaceuticals and their inclusion in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme has further amplified the need for reliable temperature-controlled storage and transportation systems, driving innovations in cold chain technology and infrastructure development.
Segment Analysis: By Service
Storage Segment in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The storage segment dominates the Australia cold chain logistics market, commanding approximately 65% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the robust cold storage logistics sector in Australia, which comprises over 5,200 cold storage and warehousing businesses employing around 17,831 people. The segment's strength is further reinforced by the rising e-commerce sector, which has necessitated the adoption of advanced technologies like robotics and automation to enhance supply chain efficiency. Major companies like Lineage Logistics, NewCold, and Americold have made substantial investments in expanding their storage facilities across key Australian locations, particularly in response to the growing demand for temperature-controlled warehousing solutions from the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Transportation Segment in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The transportation segment is projected to experience the fastest growth in the Australia cold chain logistics market from 2024-2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 4%. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for temperature-controlled transportation services across road, rail, and air modes. The segment's expansion is supported by significant investments in refrigerated vehicle fleets and cold chain infrastructure by major logistics providers. Companies are increasingly adopting advanced tracking technologies and temperature monitoring systems to ensure product integrity throughout the transportation process. The growth is further bolstered by the rising demand for pharmaceutical and food product transportation, particularly in the wake of expanding e-commerce and online grocery delivery services across Australia.
Remaining Segments in Service Segmentation
The value-added services segment plays a crucial role in the Australian cold logistics market by offering specialized services such as blast freezing, labeling, and inventory management. This segment is particularly important for pharmaceutical companies and food manufacturers requiring customized solutions for their temperature-sensitive products. The segment's significance is growing as businesses increasingly seek comprehensive end-to-end cold chain solutions that go beyond basic storage and transportation services. These value-added services help companies optimize their supply chains, reduce waste, and maintain product quality throughout the distribution process, making them an integral part of the modern cold chain logistics ecosystem in Australia.
Segment Analysis: By Temperature Type
Chilled Segment in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The chilled segment continues to dominate the Australian cold chain logistics market, commanding approximately 64% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the growing demand for fresh produce, dairy products, and temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical items requiring precise temperature control between 2°C and 8°C. The segment's prominence is further strengthened by Australia's robust agricultural sector, particularly in fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, along with the expanding pharmaceutical cold chain requirements. The increasing consumer preference for fresh over frozen products, coupled with the rising demand for ready-to-eat meals and fresh convenience foods, has sustained the segment's market leadership. Additionally, the growing focus on maintaining product quality and reducing food waste through efficient cold chain management has contributed to the segment's continued dominance in the market.
Frozen Segment in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The frozen segment is experiencing the highest growth rate in the Australian cold chain logistics market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 5% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for frozen food products, particularly in the meat and seafood sectors. The segment's expansion is supported by technological advancements in freezing techniques and storage facilities, enabling better preservation of food quality and longer shelf life. The rise of e-commerce and online grocery shopping has also contributed significantly to the growth of frozen food logistics, as consumers increasingly opt for convenient frozen food options. Furthermore, the expansion of frozen food processing facilities and the growing export market for Australian frozen meat and seafood products are creating additional opportunities for growth in this segment.
Segment Analysis: By Application
Meats, Fish, and Poultry Segment in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The Meats, Fish, and Poultry segment dominates the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market, commanding approximately 23% of the total market share in 2024. This segment's prominence is driven by Australia's position as one of the world's largest meat exporters, particularly in beef and sheep meat. The country's robust livestock industry, with the national flock and herd in a strong rebuild phase, continues to fuel demand for cold storage logistics services. The segment's strength is further reinforced by Australia's stringent food safety regulations and quality control measures, particularly in meat processing and distribution. Advanced cold chain infrastructure, including temperature-controlled warehouses and transportation systems, supports the segment's growth, ensuring product integrity from farm to consumer.
Processed Food Products Segment in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The Processed Food Products segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the Australian cold chain logistics market for the period 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing consumer demand for convenience foods and ready-to-eat meals, coupled with the rising adoption of e-commerce in food retail. The segment's expansion is supported by significant investments in automated cold storage facilities and advanced temperature-controlled distribution networks. Major food manufacturers and processors are increasingly establishing operations along Australia's eastern seaboard, particularly in urban centers of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, creating additional demand for cold storage australia services. The segment's growth is further accelerated by the integration of smart technologies in cold chain operations and the increasing focus on reducing food waste through efficient storage and distribution systems.
Remaining Segments in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market by Application
The other significant segments in the market include Horticulture, Dairy Products, and Pharma, Life Sciences, and Chemicals, each playing a vital role in shaping the cold chain logistics landscape. The Horticulture segment benefits from Australia's diverse agricultural production and growing fresh produce exports to Asian markets. The Dairy Products segment is supported by Australia's strong dairy industry and increasing demand for temperature-sensitive dairy products. The Pharma, Life Sciences, and Chemicals segment is gaining importance due to the growing healthcare sector and stringent requirements for pharmaceutical storage and distribution. These segments collectively contribute to the market's diversity and demonstrate the versatility of refrigerated logistics services in Australia, serving various industries with specific temperature-controlled requirements.
Cold Chain Logistics Australia Industry Overview
Top Companies in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The cold chain logistics companies landscape in Australia is characterized by continuous innovation and strategic expansion by major players like Americold Logistics, Lineage Logistics, Kerry Logistics, and NewCold Advanced Cold Logistics. Companies are increasingly focusing on technological advancement through automated warehousing solutions, real-time temperature monitoring systems, and AI-driven route optimization. The industry has witnessed significant investment in facility modernization, with companies expanding their cold storage capacities and implementing sustainable practices like electric vehicle fleets. Strategic partnerships with retailers, food manufacturers, and pharmaceutical companies have become crucial for maintaining a competitive advantage. Market leaders are emphasizing end-to-end supply chain solutions, incorporating value-added services such as inventory management, cross-docking facilities, and specialized handling capabilities for temperature-sensitive products.
Consolidation Reshaping Cold Chain Logistics Market
The Australian cold chain logistics companies market exhibits a fragmented structure with a mix of global giants and local specialists. While traditionally dominated by family-owned businesses like Lago, Swire, Oxford, and Montague, the sector has undergone significant consolidation over recent years. Global players have actively pursued acquisitions to establish and expand their presence, with companies like Lineage Logistics and Americold emerging as dominant forces through strategic takeovers. The market has witnessed a transformation from localized operations to sophisticated nationwide networks, with international players bringing advanced technologies and operational expertise.
The industry has experienced a wave of mergers and acquisitions, particularly driven by the need for scale and technological advancement. Major transactions include Lineage Logistics' acquisition of Emergent Cold and subsequent purchases of regional players, demonstrating the trend toward market consolidation. The sector has evolved from traditional cold storage logistics companies to integrated logistics solution providers, with companies investing in comprehensive service offerings including transportation, warehousing, and value-added services. This transformation has raised entry barriers while creating opportunities for strategic partnerships and joint ventures among existing players.
Innovation and Integration Drive Market Success
Success in the Australian cold chain logistics market increasingly depends on technological capabilities and service integration. Incumbent players must focus on expanding their digital infrastructure, implementing automated solutions, and developing sustainable practices to maintain their market position. Companies need to strengthen their last-mile delivery capabilities, particularly in response to growing e-commerce demands and changing consumer preferences. Building strategic partnerships with key clients across food retail, pharmaceutical, and export sectors while investing in specialized handling capabilities for different temperature-sensitive products has become crucial for market leadership.
Market contenders can gain ground by focusing on niche segments and regional markets while leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency. The industry faces moderate substitution risk, primarily from alternative preservation methods and emerging storage technologies. Regulatory compliance, particularly regarding food safety and environmental standards, continues to shape market dynamics and investment decisions. Success factors include developing robust quality management systems, maintaining strong relationships with regulatory bodies, and investing in environmentally sustainable solutions. Companies must also consider the concentration of major retail and pharmaceutical clients while developing their market strategies and service offerings.
Cold Chain Logistics Australia Market Leaders
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Americold Logistics
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Karras Cold Logistics
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Global Cold Chain Solutions (GCCS)
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Auscold Logistics PTY Ltd.
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ChillFreeze Logistics & Storage
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Cold Chain Logistics Australia Market News
- July 2022: NewCold, a pioneering Netherlands-based cold chain logistics company, announced a new customer and an additional USD 160 million investment in its Victorian state-of-the-art facility, bringing its total investment in Victoria to USD 460 million. NewCold's Melbourne 2 facility will more than double in size, providing customers with a powerhouse of advanced features and a seamless experience. The site will grow from 115,000 to 225,000 pallet positions at 43 meters in height, an increase of 110,000 pallets.
- March 2022: Global Cold Chain Solutions introduced new Rotational Moulded Shippers. The vacuum-insulated panel (VIP) insulation is extremely effective, resulting in a shipper that can maintain temperatures for up to eight days. RotoMoulded Shippers are currently available in two sizes: 24L and 48L, with internal payload capacities of 8L and 15L, respectively. The shippers can maintain temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C for up to 201 hours, which is more than double the time of competitor models.
Cold Chain Logistics Australia Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
- 2.1 Analysis Method
- 2.2 Research Phases
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS AND DYNAMICS
- 4.1 Current Market Scenario
- 4.2 Market Overview
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4.3 Market Dynamics
- 4.3.1 Drivers
- 4.3.2 Restraints
- 4.3.3 Opportunities
- 4.4 Value Chain / Supply Chain Analysis
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4.5 Industry Attaractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.5.1 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.5.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
- 4.5.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.5.4 Threat of Substitute Products
- 4.5.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
- 4.6 Technological Trends and Automation
- 4.7 Government Regulations and Initiatives
- 4.8 Industry Value Chain/Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.9 Spotlight on Ambient/Temperature-controlled Storage
- 4.10 Impact of Emission Standards and Regulations on Cold Chain Industry
- 4.11 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION
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5.1 By Services
- 5.1.1 Storage
- 5.1.2 Transportation
- 5.1.3 Value-added Services (Blast Freezing, Labeling, Inventory Management, etc.)
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5.2 By Temperature Type
- 5.2.1 Chilled
- 5.2.2 Frozen
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5.3 By Application
- 5.3.1 Fruits & Vegetables
- 5.3.2 Dairy Products
- 5.3.3 Meat and Seafood
- 5.3.4 Processed Food
- 5.3.5 Pharmaceuticals (Include Biopharma)
- 5.3.6 Bakery and Confectionery
- 5.3.7 Other Applications
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Market Concentration Overview
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6.2 Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Americold Logistics
- 6.2.2 Karras Cold Logistics
- 6.2.3 NewCold Advanced Cold Logistics
- 6.2.4 Global Cold Chain Solutions
- 6.2.5 Lineage Logistics (includes Emergent Cold Chain and Swire Cold Storage)
- 6.2.6 MFR Cool Logistics
- 6.2.7 AGRO Merchants Group, LLC
- 6.2.8 PakCan
- 6.2.9 Kerry Logistics
- 6.2.10 Auscold Logistics PTY Ltd.
- 6.2.11 AustraCold*
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. FUTURE OF AUSTRALIA COLD CHAIN LOGISTICS MARKET
8. APPENDIX
Cold Chain Logistics Australia Industry Segmentation
A cold chain is a temperature-controlled supply chain. Cold chain logistics is the technology and process that allows the safe transport of temperature-sensitive goods and products along the supply chain. A complete background analysis of the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market, including the assessment of the economy and contribution of sectors in the economy, market overview, market size estimation for key segments, and emerging trends in the market segments, market dynamics, and geographical trends, and COVID-19 impact is included in the report.
The Australia cold chain logistics market is segmented by service (storage, transportation, and value-added services), temperature type (chilled and frozen), and application (fruits and vegetables, dairy products, meat and seafood, processed food, pharmaceuticals (include biopharma), bakery and confectionery, and other applications). The report offers market sizes and forecasts in values (USD billion) for all the above segments.
By Services | Storage |
Transportation | |
Value-added Services (Blast Freezing, Labeling, Inventory Management, etc.) | |
By Temperature Type | Chilled |
Frozen | |
By Application | Fruits & Vegetables |
Dairy Products | |
Meat and Seafood | |
Processed Food | |
Pharmaceuticals (Include Biopharma) | |
Bakery and Confectionery | |
Other Applications |
Cold Chain Logistics Australia Market Research FAQs
How big is the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market?
The Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market size is expected to reach USD 5.40 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 3.73% to reach USD 6.49 billion by 2030.
What is the current Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market size?
In 2025, the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market size is expected to reach USD 5.40 billion.
Who are the key players in Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market?
Americold Logistics, Karras Cold Logistics, Global Cold Chain Solutions (GCCS), Auscold Logistics PTY Ltd. and ChillFreeze Logistics & Storage are the major companies operating in the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market.
What years does this Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market size was estimated at USD 5.20 billion. The report covers the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market historical market size for years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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Australia Cold Chain Logistics Market Research
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