Abstract: Method for storing, preserving and transporting concentrates of human platelets under blood bank conditions prior to transfusion by compressing plastic walled platelet bags with the use of a grid to permit gas circulation to the bag with the bag positioned for storage in a desired position. A grid aids in storing and preserving platelets and has a rigid body with a substantial open area configured to substantially compress a side of a plastic walled platelet bag to form a substantially uniform layer of fluid in the bag to maximize gas transfer capacity and permit long storage life at atmospheric conditions without the need for conventional agitation of the bag.