Pros
Americold has invested heavily in new systems during the last few years. The transition has been difficult and expensive. In the long run, Americold will have a well integrated and competitive operation. There are some good learning opportunities for many people along the way.
Cons
A private equity company named Yucaipa calls the shots and Yucaipa is run by billionaire Ron Burkle. The strategy a few years ago was to invest, grow, and go public. The Versacold acquisition added a lot of debt and antiquated systems. The investment was made but the growth didn't follow, in part because of the economy. Going public turned out not to be an option. The management team that initiated and was executing the strategy has been fired or has quit and been replaced by a team that is charged with a strategy of cutting cost, leveraging the company with debt, and returning more profit to Yucaipa. This is why there have been layoffs the last couple of years and a difficult work environment for those that remain. Yucaipa certainly has a right to recoup their investment, but this will be difficult for the employees and customers to handle over the next few years.