Cork-based cold storage provider Colso acquired by pan-European firm

Founded in 1974, Colso is a family-run business based in Togher with partners including Dairygold, Ornua, AgraKepak and Glenmar 

With 24,000 pallets of storage capacity, the company is driven by both domestic and international customers and has become a supply chain partner to a number of Ireland's largest food producers. Picture Dan Linehan

Cork-based cold storage and logistics provider, Colso has been acquired by the pan-European Constellation Cold Logistics for an undisclosed amount.

Founded in 1974, Colso is a family-run business based in Togher with particular expertise in dairy and meat sectors across Munster. The company is led by Managing Director, Deirdre Collins and is owned by several other members of the Collins family.

With 24,000 pallets of storage capacity, the company is driven by both domestic and international customers and has become a supply chain partner to a number of Ireland's largest food producers such as Dairygold, Ornua, AgraKepak and Glenmar. 

The transaction will enable Constellation to enter the Irish market and strengthen its European presence, with Colso Coldstorage just one of two Irish acquisitions announced by the major company. 

In addition to the Cork business, Constellation has also announced the purchase of Dublin-based VF Coldstores, which was founded in 1988 and led by Managing Director, Vincent Flanagan. 

The acquirer of the two companies, Constellation was established in 2019 by majority shareholder Arcus Infrastructure Partners. Just last month, all subsidiaries re-branded to Constellation. 

Operating across seven European countries, the company has a 640,000 pallet capacity and employs around 700 people.

"I’m excited that Colso will become part of Constellation," said Managing Director, Deirdre Collins. "The transaction is testament to the hard work of our team who have made Colso a leader in our space."

"The other directors and I were attracted to Constellation’s entrepreneurial roots and family heritage, which is an ideal fit and best path for the next phase of our business."

Chief executive of Constellation, Carlos Rodriguez, said Colso will open up "strategic opportunities" for Constellation in Ireland, adding that it also strengthens its geographical position on the continent. 

"Colso’s commodity expertise and excellent customer base are of major importance to our company. As a major net exporter of several key food product categories, Ireland is of great relevance within the global cold chain. 

"Our plans include further growth via M&A and expansion projects to support customers’ international growth and streamline their route to market."