Revolutionizing Cold Storage Performance with Precision Fire Protection
Protecting One of Georgia’s Most Advanced Temperature-Controlled Logistics Facilities

Banks Cold Storage set out to develop a next-generation cold storage facility in Commerce, Georgia that would deliver high-density storage, rapid freezing capability and flexible temperature zones for modern food supply chain demands. Designed as a third-party logistics (3PL) hub, the goal was to support manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers with fast throughput, scalable capacity and advanced refrigeration technology, all within a highly efficient vertical warehouse footprint.

With over 210,000 square feet, 65-foot clear heights, and approximately 30,000 pallet positions, the facility required a fire protection system capable of protecting narrow-aisle high-bay storage while performing reliably across environments ranging from 40°F down to -20°F.

Value Delivered

North American Fire Protection engineered and installed a robust fire sprinkler solution tailored to the unique challenges of high-density cold storage and freezer operations.

Our systems were designed to:

• Protect very narrow aisle (VNA) racking configurations and vertical storage layouts
• Perform consistently in freezer and refrigerated dock environments
• Support advanced freezing technologies and rapid product movement
• Maintain code compliance without disrupting operational efficiency

By aligning fire protection design with TI Cold’s innovative facility layout and Banks Cold Storage’s high-throughput operational goals, NAFPCO helped deliver a resilient, future-ready safety infrastructure supporting one of Northeast Georgia’s most advanced logistics assets.

Scope of Services

North American Fire Protection provided full fire sprinkler system design and installation for the facility, including:

• High-performance sprinkler systems for cold docks, processing areas and office spaces
• Dry pipe systems engineered for cold-temperature environments
• Wet pipe protection for material handling and battery charging zones
• Electric fire pump system supporting reliable water supply and pressure
• Corrosion-resistant materials tailored for refrigerated operating conditions

All systems were designed in accordance with applicable NFPA standards and optimized for cold storage performance and long-term reliability, as detailed in NAFPCO’s project proposal.

Background on Building Owner

Banks Cold Storage is a modern cold chain logistics provider focused on delivering high-performance refrigerated and frozen storage solutions for today’s fast-moving food supply networks. Operating as a third-party logistics (3PL) partner, the company enables customers to store, freeze, pick, pack and distribute products without the need to invest in their own cold storage infrastructure.

The Commerce, Georgia facility represents a major expansion of advanced cold storage capacity in the region, featuring:

• Eco-friendly low-charge ammonia refrigeration systems
• QFM In-Rack Freezing Systems™ capable of freezing pallets up to four times faster than traditional blast freezing
• High-density vertical storage maximizing throughput and energy efficiency

Strategically located near Atlanta’s major transportation corridors, the site strengthens food distribution infrastructure across Northeast Georgia while creating new jobs and supporting regional economic growth.

Project Impact at a Glance

210,000+ SF of temperature-controlled space
30,000 pallet positions of high-density storage
65-foot clear height vertical warehouse design
–20°F to 40°F multi-zone refrigeration capability
Next-generation freezing technology for rapid throughput