The expansion adds 2,750 kW of refrigeration capacity and 75,000 pallet spaces, enhancing cold logistics with energy efficiency.
The company specializing in cold chain logistics, NewCold, has completed the second phase of expanding its high-bay automated refrigerated warehouse in Corby (Northamptonshire), thanks to close collaboration with Star Refrigeration. This phase has doubled the facility’s refrigerated storage capacity, reaching a total of 150,000 pallets, with constant preservation temperatures of -22°C.
The project involved adding 2,000 kW in the high-bay area and 750 kW in the low-bay section, solidifying NewCold’s position as one of Europe’s leading operators in automated storage solutions for perishable products. The facility operates 24/7 with a robotic system of cranes and conveyor belts designed to maintain operational accuracy and efficiency.
Ammonia-based refrigeration technology
Star Refrigeration’s solution is based on ammonia refrigeration systems, a technology known for its high energy performance and lower environmental impact. With nearly three decades of experience designing, installing, and maintaining such systems, the Scottish company has optimized the existing setup while adding new refrigeration capacity without disrupting the warehouse’s daily operations at any point.
A key factor in the project’s success was the off-site prefabrication of ammonia piping and drainage, enabling efficient integration into the warehouse’s complex metal structure, reducing installation times, and eliminating occupational hazards associated with working at heights.
Technical collaboration and long-term vision
Richard Russell, CEO of NewCold UK, positively assessed the outcome:
“The Corby expansion was essential for us to keep growing at the pace our customers require. Star Refrigeration has delivered a top-tier technical solution, prioritizing safety and operational efficiency. Their ability to integrate has been decisive.”
The collaboration focused not only on increasing refrigeration capacity but also on optimizing system design and improving maintenance access, with a clear emphasis on long-term reliability.
Moving toward a third expansion phase
The third phase of the project has already begun, including the construction of a new independent ammonia pumping system for another refrigerated warehouse being built on the same site. Based in Derby, Star Refrigeration will continue to provide preventive maintenance and technical support to the Corby facilities through a team of 16 ammonia-specialized engineers.
With this expansion, NewCold not only strengthens its operational capacity but also advances toward more efficient, automated, and sustainable cold logistics, capable of meeting the growing demand for large-scale refrigerated products across the UK and Europe.