Top 18 Cold Storage Investors in Europe
Top 18 Cold Storage Investors in Europe
The cold storage industry in Europe plays a crucial role in preserving perishable goods such as food and pharmaceuticals. Companies operating in this space range from specialized cold storage providers to logistics giants and tech-focused firms that enhance supply chain efficiency. They offer temperature-controlled warehousing, transport solutions, and inventory management systems tailored for sensitive products. Innovations such as smart refrigeration and energy-efficient systems are driving growth, with sustainability becoming a key focus. The trend towards e-commerce also fuels demand for cold chains, as consumers increasingly seek fresh and frozen items through online delivery platforms.
This list highlights 18 prominent investors in the European cold storage market, including corporate entities and private equity firms. They operate from cities like Copenhagen, Luxembourg, and Paris, representing diverse company sizes, from small venture investments to large corporate giants. Established between 1854 and 2021, these investors collectively engaged in numerous deals in 2024, reflecting their commitment to the evolving cold storage landscape and its role in logistics and sustainability.
Top 18 Cold Storage Investors in Europe
1. EQT Group
- Website: eqtgroup.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 1994
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 30
- LinkedIn: eqt-partners
EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant strides in the cold storage industry, with key transactions including the acquisition of Constellation Cold Logistics, which is set to enhance their portfolio in cold storage operations. Additionally, their acquisition of Envirotainer for over $2.9 billion underscores their focus on temperature-sensitive logistics, further solidifying their position in the cold storage market. These strategic investments reflect EQT's commitment to expanding its influence in the cold storage sector while maintaining a diverse investment strategy.
2. A.P. Moller - Maersk
- Website: maersk.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Copenhagen, Denmark
- Founded year: 1904
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 4
- LinkedIn: maersk-group
A.P. Møller – Mærsk A/S is a logistics company based in Copenhagen, Denmark, specializing in shipping and logistics services. Founded in 1904, the company operates globally, providing comprehensive solutions for shipping, port operations, supply chain management, and warehousing. In recent years, Maersk has made significant investments to enhance its logistics capabilities, including the acquisition of Performance Team for $545 million, which expanded its North American warehouse network to 46 locations, crucial for managing temperature-sensitive goods. Additionally, the acquisition of Pilot Freight Services for approximately $1.7 billion further strengthens Maersk's logistics offerings in both B2C and B2B sectors. These strategic moves indicate Maersk's commitment to improving its logistics services, including cold storage solutions, making it a notable player in the cold storage investment landscape.
3. Cvc
- Website: cvc.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Luxembourg
- Founded year: 2005
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 16
- LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners
CVC Capital Partners is a prominent investment firm based in Luxembourg, specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure. Founded in 2005, CVC manages approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. The firm focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Notably, CVC has been involved in several significant transactions, including the acquisition of Scan Global Logistics in February 2023, which enhances their portfolio in the logistics sector, potentially linking to cold storage operations. Additionally, their acquisition of Hermes in January 2020 and the investment in CLH Group in 2017 further demonstrate their active role in sectors that may intersect with cold storage needs, although they do not exclusively focus on this niche.
4. Ardian
- Website: ardian.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 1996
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 21
- LinkedIn: ardian
Ardian is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1996, based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions, Ardian provides tailored investment strategies to institutional investors, family offices, and pension funds. With a global presence and a commitment to sustainable finance, Ardian aims to create lasting value for its clients. Notably, Ardian has made significant investments in the cold storage context, including a majority stake acquisition in Syclef, a manufacturer of refrigeration systems, which is crucial for cold storage operations. Additionally, their investment in LBC Tank Terminals, which focuses on bulk liquid storage, further highlights their engagement in sectors that support cold storage logistics. These transactions reflect Ardian's strategic interest in the cold storage industry, alongside their broader investment portfolio.
5. Crédit Mutuel Equity
- Website: creditmutuel-equity.eu
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 1988
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 2
- LinkedIn: cm-cic-investissement
Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into their investment strategies. Notably, Crédit Mutuel Equity has been involved in significant transactions within the cold storage context, including their investment in Stef, a key player in the cold storage and logistics industry, where they raised an undisclosed amount in a post-IPO equity round in December 2015. Additionally, they have invested in Seafrigo, which also operates in the cold storage sector, further demonstrating their commitment to this industry. Their diverse portfolio and strategic investments position them as a relevant investor in the cold storage market.
6. Eurazeo
- Website: eurazeo.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 1969
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 40
- LinkedIn: eurazeo
Eurazeo is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1969. Specializing in private equity, private debt, and real assets, Eurazeo provides tailored investment strategies aimed at fostering growth and expansion across various sectors. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions that align with the cold storage industry, such as their investment in Celcius Logistics Solutions, which raised over $29 million in a Series B funding round in May 2025. This investment highlights Eurazeo's commitment to logistics solutions, which are essential for cold storage operations. Additionally, their participation in the funding of Samskip, a logistics company, further emphasizes their interest in sectors that support cold storage and supply chain efficiency. While Eurazeo operates across multiple industries, their strategic investments in logistics and related fields position them as a relevant player in the cold storage market.
7. Kima Ventures
- Website: kimaventures.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 50
- LinkedIn: kima-ventures
Kima Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups across various sectors, backing two startups per week with financial support and mentorship. Among their notable transactions, Kima Ventures has invested in Costockage, a company that has developed over a million cubic meters of collaborative storage spaces in France, indicating a clear interest in the storage and logistics sector. Additionally, they participated in the seed funding rounds for Stockoss, a startup expanding its logistics network, which further demonstrates their engagement in the logistics and storage industry. Overall, Kima Ventures is focused on helping startups navigate their initial challenges and achieve success, with a diverse portfolio that includes significant investments in the cold storage context.
8. Partners Group
- Website: partnersgroup.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
- Founded year: 1996
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 19
- LinkedIn: partners-group
Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability. Among their notable transactions, Partners Group invested $100 million in StoreLocal Group to accelerate its expansion, which includes increasing storage space and managing third-party properties. This investment highlights their engagement in the storage sector, which is relevant to cold storage. Additionally, their acquisition of Hofmann Menu Manufaktur, a provider of customized 'cook & freeze' products, further demonstrates their involvement in sectors that may intersect with cold storage needs.
9. Shell
- Website: shell.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1907
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 20
- LinkedIn: shell
Shell plc is a multinational oil and gas company based in London, England, that operates in the energy and chemicals sectors. Founded in 1907, Shell provides essential products such as fuels, lubricants, and chemical solutions to businesses and consumers globally. In recent years, Shell has expanded its investment portfolio to include innovative energy storage solutions, particularly those relevant to the cold storage industry. Notably, Shell Ventures led a €20M Series B funding round for Kraftblock, a startup focused on energy storage for energy-intensive industries, including cold storage. Additionally, Shell has invested in Axiom Exergy, which raised $7.6M in Series A funding to scale its thermal energy storage solution specifically for grocery stores and cold storage facilities. These investments highlight Shell's commitment to advancing technologies that improve energy efficiency and sustainability in the cold storage sector.
10. Bunzl UK and Ireland
- Website: bunzl.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1854
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 5
- LinkedIn: bunzl
Bunzl UK and Ireland is a corporate investor based in London, England, and is part of Bunzl Public Limited Company, a distribution and outsourcing company founded in 1854. Bunzl provides essential items necessary for businesses to operate across various industries, including food service, grocery, and healthcare. The company has a strong focus on tailored solutions and reliable sourcing and delivery of products. Notably, Bunzl has made several acquisitions that are relevant to the cold storage context, including FoodHandler, which specializes in food packaging, and Packaging Film Sales (PFS), which also focuses on food packaging products. These acquisitions highlight Bunzl's commitment to serving the food industry, which often relies on cold storage solutions to maintain product quality and safety. Overall, Bunzl's extensive distribution network and strategic acquisitions position it as a significant player in the supply chain that supports cold storage operations.
11. Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLP
- Website: arcusip.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 3
- LinkedIn: arcus-infrastructure-partners-llp
Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLP is a private equity investment management firm based in London, England, specializing in infrastructure fund management. Founded in 2009, the firm focuses on the European mid-market and manages assets across diverse sectors, including Digital, Transport, Energy, and Logistics & Industrials. Arcus has a notable track record in the cold storage industry, highlighted by their acquisition of Coolworld Rentals in August 2023, which enhances their portfolio in cold storage solutions. Additionally, their earlier investment in Constellation Cold Logistics in January 2019 showcases their commitment to the cold logistics sector. With a client base that includes institutional investors and businesses, Arcus aims to enhance infrastructure investments through expert management and strategic support.
12. Dhl
- Website: dhl.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
- Founded year: 1969
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 1
- LinkedIn: dhl
DHL is a global logistics company founded in 1969, headquartered in Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With over 10,000 employees, DHL specializes in comprehensive transportation and delivery services, offering solutions such as courier services, air and ocean freight, and supply chain management across various industries. Notably, DHL Supply Chain has made significant acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in temperature-controlled logistics. In 2017, DHL Supply Chain acquired Polar Transportes, a Brazilian road carrier specializing in temperature-controlled transportation for the Life Sciences and Healthcare sector. This acquisition aimed to strengthen DHL's offerings in Brazil's growing market for temperature-sensitive logistics. Additionally, in 2011, DHL acquired Eurodifarm, a specialist in pharmaceutical logistics in Italy, further solidifying its presence in the cold storage sector. These strategic moves highlight DHL's commitment to expanding its logistics capabilities in handling temperature-sensitive goods, particularly in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.
13. DST Global
- Website: dst-global.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 24
- LinkedIn: dst_2
DST Global is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2009 by Yuri Milner, specializing in internet investments. The firm has a reputation for identifying and investing in some of the fastest-growing and most valuable internet companies globally. In recent years, DST Global has participated in several significant funding rounds for Flexport, a San Francisco-based freight company that plays a crucial role in logistics and supply chain management. Notably, DST Global was involved in Flexport's Series E funding round, where the company raised $935 million in February 2022, as well as earlier rounds including a $1 billion Series D round in February 2019. These investments highlight DST Global's interest in enhancing technology capabilities and strategic market expansions within the logistics sector, which is closely tied to cold storage operations.
14. Mutares Benelux
- Website: mutares.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
- Founded year: 2021
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 16
- LinkedIn: mutares-benelux
Mutares Benelux is a private equity firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2021. It specializes in acquiring and managing companies in transition, providing operational support and consulting services to enhance profitability and growth across various sectors, including automotive, technology, and retail. Notably, Mutares has made significant strides in the cold storage industry, exemplified by its acquisition of Frigoscandia Distribution, a prominent Nordic provider of logistics solutions for fresh, chilled, and frozen foods, which is projected to generate nearly EUR 300 million in revenue. This strategic acquisition highlights Mutares' commitment to expanding its portfolio in the cold storage sector. Additionally, Mutares has been involved in other acquisitions, such as GDL and Alcura, further showcasing its active investment strategy across diverse industries while maintaining a focus on operational improvement and turnaround management.
15. InnoEnergy
- Website: innoenergy.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 52
- LinkedIn: innoenergy
EIT InnoEnergy is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2010, based in Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands, dedicated to accelerating sustainable energy innovations. It serves as a marketplace for energy solutions, offering training programs and support for innovators and corporates in the energy sector. InnoEnergy collaborates with various stakeholders to tackle challenges related to energy transition and sustainability. Notably, InnoEnergy has been involved in several transactions that highlight its commitment to energy storage solutions, including a recent investment in AquaBattery, which raised €6 million to develop a sustainable energy storage solution based on salt water. This investment is particularly relevant to the cold storage industry, as it emphasizes the importance of energy storage technologies in managing energy resources effectively. Additionally, InnoEnergy has participated in funding rounds for other technology companies, such as DCbrain, which, while not directly related to cold storage, showcases their broader interest in innovative energy solutions.
16. Ldc
- Website: ldc.co.uk
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1981
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 15
- LinkedIn: ldc
Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, specializing in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Founded in 1981, LDC is part of Lloyds Banking Group and focuses on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. In recent years, LDC has been involved in several transactions that highlight their interest in logistics and supply chain management, which are integral to the cold storage industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of CitySprint, a logistics company, and a significant investment in ByBox, which provides logistics and supply chain technology solutions. Additionally, LDC's acquisition of The Pallet Network further emphasizes their engagement in the logistics sector, which often intersects with cold storage needs. These investments reflect LDC's commitment to supporting growth in sectors that are vital for efficient supply chain operations, including those that require cold storage capabilities.
17. Apax
- Website: apax.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1981
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 8
- LinkedIn: apax-partners
Apax Partners LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, specializing in managing investments across various sectors, including technology, internet/consumer, healthcare, and services. Founded in 1981, Apax collaborates with management teams of high-potential companies to drive growth and innovation. Notably, Apax has made significant investments in the cold storage context, including the acquisition of IFCO Systems NV, which focuses on reusable packaging solutions essential for cold storage logistics. Additionally, their acquisition of Tosca Services, a provider of supply chain solutions and reusable packaging, further emphasizes their commitment to enhancing supply chain efficiency, which is crucial for the cold storage industry. Apax's recent investment in Controlant, a digital pharmaceutical supply chain company, also highlights their focus on improving logistics and supply chain technology, which can be applicable to cold storage operations.
18. Accent Equity
- Website: accentequity.se
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 1994
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 4
- LinkedIn: accent-equity-partners-ab
Accent Equity is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in investments in private Nordic companies, focusing on enhancing the value of its portfolio through strategic management and investment. Accent Equity aims to create sustainable growth and superior returns for its clientele across various sectors. Notably, they have been involved in several acquisitions, including Tempcon Group, which is likely related to cold storage and temperature-controlled logistics, and Jetpak, a logistics company. Their diverse portfolio also includes companies like Tommy Nordbergh Åkeri, Nordic Shelter Solutions, and Troax AB, showcasing their broad investment strategy that spans multiple industries beyond just cold storage.
Cold Storage Insights: Key Investors in Europe
| Investor | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Deals 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EQT Group | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 1001-5000 | 1994 | 30 |
| A.P. Moller - Maersk | Copenhagen, Denmark | 10001+ | 1904 | 4 |
| Cvc | Luxembourg | 1001-5000 | 2005 | 16 |
| Ardian | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1001-5000 | 1996 | 21 |
| Crédit Mutuel Equity | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 51-200 | 1988 | 2 |
| Eurazeo | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 201-500 | 1969 | 40 |
| Kima Ventures | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1-10 | 2010 | 50 |
| Partners Group | Baar, Zug, Switzerland | 1001-5000 | 1996 | 19 |
| Shell | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 10001+ | 1907 | 20 |
| Bunzl UK and Ireland | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 1001-5000 | 1854 | 5 |
| Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLP | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2009 | 3 |
| Dhl | Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany | 10001+ | 1969 | 1 |
| DST Global | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 11-50 | 2009 | 24 |
| Mutares Benelux | Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands | 51-200 | 2021 | 16 |
| InnoEnergy | Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands | 201-500 | 2010 | 52 |
| Ldc | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 1981 | 15 |
| Apax | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 201-500 | 1981 | 8 |
| Accent Equity | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 11-50 | 1994 | 4 |
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