Cold Storage Trends in 2026: What They Mean for Racking and Steel King’s Solutions

Demand for Expanded Capacity Has Facilities Looking for High-Performance Cold Storage Solutions

The cold storage sector is experiencing a dynamic shift as 2026 unfolds. According to Refrigerated & Frozen Foods, global cold storage capacity continues to grow—reaching over 8 billion cubic feet of space operated by the Global Cold Chain Alliance’s top members, a 10% jump over last year. While new construction may slow compared to the rapid pace seen in recent years, investment in modernization, sustainability, and operational efficiency remains strong.

These market forces aren’t just industry buzz—they have real implications for warehouse design, racking systems, and material handling infrastructure. As demand for expanded cold storage capacity continues due to e-commerce growth and last-mile distribution needs, facilities are looking for high-performance cold storage solutions. Here’s how Steel King’s products and engineering approach align with what’s ahead.

Retrofitting and Modernization: Making Older Space Work Better

With roughly three-quarters of U.S. cold storage facilities over 25 years old, many operators are turning toward retrofits and upgrades to modernize their cold storage solutions rather than ground-up builds.

What this means for racking:

• Structural pallet rack systems that are rugged enough for freezer conditions become critical when refreshing existing facilities. Racking in cold storage facilities is prone to more damage and structural steel racking is more impact resistant than standard roll form.
• Retrofitting with high-density racking (like pallet flow, drive-in, semi-automated pallet shuttles, or double-deep systems) allows facilities to squeeze more capacity into the same building footprint—boosting productivity without costly expansion.

• Racking designed for cold storage automation environments, like Steel King’s SK ADVANTX Structural Bolted Racking are engineered to handle the unique operating realities in automated cold storage, offering the combination of durability and flexibility that helps lower long-term costs, reduce maintenance and optimize a facility for automated storage.

Increasing Storage Density to Meet Demand

The trend toward higher throughput and density is evident in both new and existing cold facilities. Operators aim to maximize cube utilization so that every square foot justifies the ongoing cost of refrigeration and energy.

How Steel King supports density goals:

• High-density pallet systems like pallet flow, push-back rack, and pallet shuttles allow multiple pallets deep storage without expanding aisle space, significantly increasing usable storage per footprint.
• These systems are particularly valuable in cold environments where tight aisles and limited maneuverability demand racking that can withstand higher impact and maintain structural integrity over time.

Cold storage solutions from Steel King help operators balance density with accessibility, ensuring that storage systems are robust, safe, and capable of supporting faster product flow.

Sustainability and Operational Efficiency

Cold storage isn’t just about space—it’s also about energy and cost efficiency. New facilities are incorporating greener refrigeration and smarter designs to reduce the operational costs and environmental impact of their cold storage solutions.

How racking plays a role:

• Dense, well-engineered racking reduces the volume of conditioned space per pallet stored, indirectly lowering energy costs by minimizing the air that must be kept cold.
• Durable Steel King racking systems help cut downtime and maintenance visits in demanding colder environments, keeping operators focused on throughput rather than repairs.

Supporting Automation and Advanced Handling

Facilities highlighted in Coming in Cold illustrate a shift toward technology and automation in cold storage solutions—from high-efficiency deep storage systems to automated picking and robotics.

Steel King’s contribution to automation readiness:

• Structural racking architectures like SK ADVANTX are designed to integrate seamlessly with Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) and other mechanized handling solutions, enabling future-proofing as labor-saving tech becomes mainstream.
• Safety products and guardrail products further protect infrastructure and personnel in automated environments, reducing damage and supporting continuous operation.

How Steel King Supports Cold Storage Solutions

As the cold storage industry evolves—with an emphasis on energy efficiency, expanded capacity, and modernized infrastructure—the right pallet storage systems are a core part of facility performance. Steel King’s portfolio is built to meet these exact needs:

• Durability where conditions are harsh
• Density where space is expensive
• Flexibility where workflows evolve
• Integration where automation grows

In a market where retrofit projects and modernization are expected to pick up pace, Steel King stands ready to partner with cold storage operators seeking smarter, stronger, future-ready material handling infrastructure.

Contact Steel King Industries with any questions, or if you’d like to get started you can find a partner to work with from our nationwide network of distributors.