Lineage Logistics Completes Cold Storage Facility Expansion

Image courtesy of Lineage Logistics

Lineage Logistics has completed the final phase of its expansion efforts for a temperature-controlled storage facility in Manchester, U.K.

The company spent 12 months expanding Heywood Northern Superhub, which became operational in the summer. Lineage’s cold storage facility now spans 425,000 square feet and can accommodate a total of 78,000 pallets while maintaining a minus 30-degree temperature. Excluding the most recent expansion, Heywood Northern Superhub also saw previous phases of expansion that added 100,000 square feet and 28,000 pallets. The upgraded warehouse will be used for storage for major food manufacturing, service and retail brands.

READ ALSO/LISTEN: Recovery Gains Traction Across Global Markets

Following the latest expansion, the facility now consumes 75 percent less energy compared to the average energy consumption of other similar facilities in Europe. Lineage also prioritized food security with the expansion by focusing on temperature-controlled loading areas, insulation, fast-closing door seals and managing the construction work alongside the existing operational chamber.

Tim Moran, Lineage’s regional vice president in the U.K., said in prepared remarks that the temperature-controlled sector was highlighted in the economy in recent months. He added in his prepared statement that the company has seen the demand for these properties rise higher than pre-COVID-19 levels as the country starts to reopen.

Southern expansion near London

Alongside its northern facility, Lineage is also working on expanding its Southern Superhub that’s located approximately 70 miles from London. The southern location will total 92,000 pallets and be fully automated to similarly serve retail and food service tenants. With its two expansions, Lineage’s portfolio of automated warehouses in the U.K. will total six properties and 330,000 automated pallet positions.

Lineage has also been building out its portfolio in the U.S. recently. The company acquired Hanson Logistics and its seven distribution facilities in Michigan and Indiana for an undisclosed price in August. Lineage also raised $1.9 billion in equity commitments in March, marking the largest equity fund raise since its founding in 2008.