Last week, KPAC’s Richard Burke participated as a speaker at the Cold Chain Institute, an industry training program organized by the Global Cold Chain Alliance.
The institute brings together cold storage operators, logistics professionals, and supply chain leaders from across the temperature-controlled industry for a multi-day program focused on operational best practices, leadership development, and the future of the cold chain.
During the session, Burke shared operational perspectives drawn from decades of experience in port-driven cold storage operations.
Burke’s presentation focused on the operational differences that can emerge when managing cold storage facilities located near major port gateways.
Port-adjacent warehouses operate in highly dynamic logistics environments. Facilities must coordinate container arrivals, drayage schedules, labor availability, and temperature-controlled cargo handling while maintaining strict product integrity and throughput efficiency.
For operators serving importers, exporters, and regional food distribution networks, these operational factors can shape everything from facility design to workforce management and daily operating procedures.
In addition to discussing operational considerations, Burke also addressed broader trends affecting the cold storage sector today.
The cold chain continues to evolve as global food trade expands, supply chains adapt to shifting trade flows, and importers look for more efficient ways to move temperature-sensitive products through major logistics gateways.
Facilities located near port complexes play a critical role in supporting these supply chains by enabling faster container handling, reducing transit time between ship and storage, and supporting regional distribution networks.
Programs like the Cold Chain Institute provide an opportunity for operators to exchange real-world experiences and strengthen the industry’s collective understanding of cold storage logistics.
Participants in the program represent a wide range of roles across temperature-controlled logistics, from warehouse operations and transportation to supply chain strategy and infrastructure development.
By bringing together these perspectives, the institute helps foster collaboration and knowledge sharing that ultimately strengthens the broader cold chain industry.
As the industry continues to evolve, the exchange of operational experience remains one of the most valuable tools for improving cold chain efficiency and resilience.
KPAC’s participation in the Cold Chain Institute reflects the company’s continued engagement with industry organizations and its commitment to supporting the development of best practices across the cold storage sector.
The Port of Long Beach will receive nearly $70 million in federal Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund funding to support major infrastructure projects, including dredging, wharf repairs, seismic upgrades, and navigation improvements.
The Port of Los Angeles has received a record $70 million in federal funding for harbor maintenance, seismic upgrades, wharf repairs, and other infrastructure improvements.
Rising fuel costs and ongoing conflict in the Middle East may not disrupt U.S. supply chains immediately, but they are already increasing transportation costs. Here's what importers, food companies, and logistics providers should know about cold storage and refrigerated warehousing near the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
Whether you’re moving refrigerated or frozen goods through the Port of Long Beach or distributing across Southern California, our team is ready to support your cold storage and cold-chain logistics needs.
