FedEx Express has announced a new state-of-the-art, energy-efficient distribution centre in Antwerpin order to increase capacity in response to customer demand in the region.
Located in Wilrijk, Antwerp, the new 2,500 sqm facility is fully equipped for loading andunloading 30 delivery vans simultaneously, representing a 25% increase in capacity.
Managing Director of Operations of FedEx Express Benelux, Patrick Stienlet, said: “The newdistribution facility significantly expands the current capacity of the centre by almost one third,allowing us to drive greater service efficiency to meet future demand and accommodate extrapersonnel.”
The centre was developed with a range of energy saving measures including an innovativeair-water heat pump provides a reduction of energy consumption by more than 40% and CO2 emissionsby 60%. It also features a sophisticated ventilation and building automation system, allowing eachroom to be lighted and heated separately.
In total, 1,235 low-energy light bulbs are used throughout the facility; water is recycledfor washing vehicles and the location was strategically selected to cut down on driving time byproviding immediate access to highways and public transportation. The new distribution centre wasdeveloped in partnership with a company specialised in environment-friendly industrialconstruction, Gacssolutions nv/ Invictus nv.
“At FedEx we are committed to doing what we can to ensure our business practices are asenvironmentally responsible as possible”, said Robert W. Elliott, President of FedEx ExpressEurope, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent and Africa. “We are proud of the leadership rolewe have played in the industry in developing technological solutions for attaining greatersustainability in our operations. This station represents another step toward that commitment.”
