Logistics heavyweights expand cold storage capacity to handle surge in GLP-1 weight-loss drugs

Logistics companies are expanding cold storage capacity to accommodate the increasing demand for GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, which have surged in popularity among Americans.

According to Gallup, the percentage of Americans using these medications rose from 3% in 2024 to 11% in 2026.⁴

In response, UPS invested $48 million in temperature-controlled facilities in June 2026, while FedEx reported nearly $10 billion in healthcare transportation revenue for fiscal year 2026.¹²

FedEx has also launched a life sciences division to enhance its pharmaceutical logistics capabilities.

C.H. Robinson reported that its healthcare logistics revenue exceeded $1 billion over the past year, driven largely by the growth of GLP-1 drugs.³

Ronnie Davis from C.H. Robinson noted, 'You need to really have that end-to-end connectivity' to effectively service healthcare customers, emphasizing the need for a robust infrastructure.

The cold-chain biologics market is projected to reach $39.1 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual rate of 8.3%, according to Growth Market Reports.

The FDA has warned that improper handling during transit can compromise drug quality, advising patients against using GLP-1 drugs that arrive warm.

As logistics companies innovate, advancements in artificial intelligence are also converging with healthcare logistics, as noted by Hendrik Venter of DHL Supply Chain.