Site Focus: Rheine innovation at 40 meters high

When you stand at the base of NewCold Rheine’s 40-meter-high automated warehouse, you don’t just see a building—you feel the vastness of the cold chain humming quietly above you.

Rheine is one of the most advanced automated cold storage facilities in Europe. But what makes it truly special isn’t only its 120,000-pallet capacity or the fact that it operates in near darkness with minimal human intervention. It’s the story of how innovation, sustainability, and community come together under one roof.

A strategic hub in the heart of Europe

Located at a key intersection of European transport corridors, Rheine supports food producers and retailers across Germany and the wider region. The site delivers full end-to-end services, from inbound storage to automated order preparation and outbound distribution. Accuracy, speed, and reliability are built into every process.

“Rheine plays an essential role for our customers. Its technology, location, and team allow us to deliver consistently high performance across the entire supply chain,” says Anna Lewandowska, Country Manager Germany.

Automation as a core operational principle

Inside the warehouse, automated cranes and shuttle systems glide through a low-oxygen environment designed for safety and energy efficiency. Real-time data feeds every decision. Remote monitoring ensures transparency and uptime. For our team, automation isn’t about replacing people—it’s about empowering them to focus on higher-value work, improving safety, and delivering consistent performance for our customers.

Sustainability by design, not by obligation

What many visitors don’t realize is how deeply sustainability is woven into Rheine’s operations. High-density storage means less energy consumption per pallet. Advanced insulation and heat recovery systems reduce environmental impact. And the team proudly participates in local energy-saving initiatives—like adapting operations during winter power-restriction periods. It’s a shared commitment to doing what’s right for both planet and community.

Positive footprint in the community

The Rheine facility contributes to the local economy through high-quality job creation in logistics, maintenance, and technical roles. It also enhances the region’s reputation as a center for innovative, automated warehousing. With long-term investment in the community and a strong focus on sustainability, NewCold is supporting both economic growth and environmental responsibility in the region.