RLS Logistics and its RLS Partners affiliate plan to develop an 83,000-square-foot temperature-controlled facility in central Massachusetts.

The cold chain solutions provider said the site, slated to open in late 2021, will join its Partnering Regional Operator (PRO) network of family-operated cold chain experts. The facility will provide food distributors, processors and importers in the New England region with “much-needed” cold storage capacity and access to RLS’ established temperature-controlled LTL consolidation programs throughout the region.

“There’s a tremendous opportunity in New England,” said Bryan Hedge, who is working with RLS to develop the project. “We’re developing a new facility in a market where we think it’s needed and where there hasn’t been a new offering in years.”

The facility will put 18,000 temperature-controlled pallet positions near key interstate highways, which will position the facility in the middle of the New England region, as well as RLS Logistics’ transportation network. The location is well-situated for manufacturers, producers or distributors who deploy inventory in the New England market and need a forward distribution center close to their customer base, RLS said.

“It’s probably the most complete temperature-controlled supply chain solution available in this market today,” Hedge said. “What it means for customers in the New England region is one solution for their cold chain needs. They can take advantage not only of our cold storage and value-added services, but also RLS Logistics’ consolidation programs and transportation expertise.”

For CPG manufacturers in New England, RLS will provide new technological advantages that improve efficiency. It will feature a state-of-the-art mobile racking system that creates 40-45% more pallet positions than standard double-deep racking scenarios, the company said. The facility also will use an environmentally friendly refrigeration system that consumes less electricity than standard ammonia-based systems.

“Both are advances we’ve proven in RLS’ Delanco NJ facility, and we’re excited to bring them to the New England area,” said Ken Johnson, chief operating officer of RLS Warehousing Group.

Regional operations will be led by Hedge, who boasts “decades” of cold chain experience, RLS said.

“RLS is excited to not only have a presence in New England but also to have someone of Bryan’s caliber associated with our business,” said John Gaudet, vice president of business development for RLS Logistics.

“Our values align perfectly, so you couldn’t ask for a better situation.”

Added Hedge: “I know a lot of these customers in this market, and it’s a tremendous opportunity for them. The synergies are there: The state-of-the-art building, the location, the technology stack, and the transportation offerings, including the Walmart consolidation program. It’s just the complete solution.”

RLS said customers also will benefit from “world-class” food safety processes. The company has received food safety certification through the British Retail Consortium Global Standard (BRCGS), garnering the highest AA rating at all of its cold storage facilities and its distribution network.

“The food safety program that we have in place is top-notch—in most cases, it’s a lot better than what a manufacturer can do on their own,” Gaudet concluded. “Taking that risk away from clients and protecting their brand is crucial. And we already have those systems and standards established.”