German logistics group trans-o-flex has invested €13 million in a new sorting centre in north-westGermany which will boost capacity in the company’s domestic and European distribution network.
The new sorting centre at Herford in eastern Westphalia, which entered service on August 30,has three times the capacity of the old centre on the site. Well located near the A2 motorway on a37,500 sqm piece of land, the sorting centre itself occupies 9,100 sqm and there are officesoccupying a further 1,200 sqm. The site provides employment for around 80 people.
“The new building represents several steps forward in the implementation of oursustainability strategy,” said Wolfgang Weber, Head of Operations. For example, 100% of theelectricity used in the centre comes from completely CO2-neutral hydroelectric sources, whileforklifts are powered by three phase AC motors, which need fewer charging phases and thereforeeconomise on electricity.
Wherever possible, trans-o-flex uses ecological building materials, so instead of steel theroof is constructed of wood. Special door seals ensure that less heat is lost in the winter months.A proportionately large grass area reduces the need for paving. Rainwater is pre-treated and thendrains into the groundwater, avoiding the need for it to pass through sewage systems.
