As imported produce continues flowing through East Coast ports, Manfredi Cold Storage is expanding its facilities and investing in new technology to support growing customer programs while maintaining the cold chain that fresh produce depends on.

The company, which operates refrigerated facilities in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, has experienced a much smoother 2026 than the previous year, when labor disruptions and trade uncertainty complicated operations throughout the supply chain.

“Last season saw several unique situations that fortunately have not carried into 2026,” said Rob Wharry, director of operations for Manfredi Cold Storage. “Port strikes and tariff threats led to port congestion, staggering inventories and soft markets. This year, even though volumes may have been off because of continued tariffs, the markets have been strong, leading to good product movement.”

That positive trend has continued through the second and into the third quarter, allowing imported produce to move more efficiently despite ongoing tariff concerns.

Manfredi’s fleet also has a daily presence at all piers along the Delaware River.

One of the biggest changes the company has noticed this year has been in imported berry programs.

“The only notable shift we’ve seen is the year-over-year extension in the length of the berry season from South America,” Wharry said.

At the same time, Peru continues strengthening its position as an important supplier across multiple commodity categories.

“Peru continues to increase its footprint across a range of commodities and throughout the season,” Wharry said.

While market conditions may fluctuate, Wharry noted maintaining product quality remains constant.

“The cold chain is critical in maintaining peak condition of the fruit as it moves through the supply chain,” he said. “Importers can maximize shelf life by partnering with facilities with precise temperature controls.”

Behind the scenes, Manfredi Cold Storage has continued making significant investments to accommodate customer growth.

The company recently completed a 2,000-pallet expansion at its Pennsylvania facility, adding two new storage rooms to support growing programs. Construction planning is also underway for an additional 8,000 pallet positions at the company's New Jersey operation.

“Much of our recent construction has been to support our current customers and accommodate their growing programs,” said Jaclyn Manfredi.

Additional improvements are also taking shape at the Pennsylvania facility, where a new employee and driver cafeteria recently opened, while a dedicated driver lounge is nearing completion.

The company is also evaluating expanded ripening capabilities at both its Pennsylvania and New Jersey facilities as demand continues increasing for value-added cold chain services.

Technology represents another major investment area. Manfredi noted the company is undertaking a complete rewrite of its proprietary warehouse inventory management system to provide greater visibility for both employees and customers.

“The update will feature more detailed levels of tracking product and data for both warehouse teams and customers,” Manfredi said. “Currently customers access through terminal servers, but the new system will allow our customers access to real-time online inventory from any PC.”

Those technology investments complement the company’s continued focus on operational efficiency.

According to Wharry, controlling costs has become increasingly important as labor, transportation and energy expenses continue rising throughout the cold storage industry.

“Efficiency in everything from space utilization, equipment modernization, maximizing equipment use and extensive planning are extremely critical in being able to maintain a cost-effective operation,” Wharry said.

As produce imports continue evolving and customer expectations increase, Manfredi Cold Storage believes its investments in additional capacity, modern technology and enhanced customer service will position the company for continued growth while helping importers, distributors and receivers move fresh produce efficiently from port to market.