The REWE Group is transforming the site within existing premises into a sustainable and innovative logistics hub, incorporating state-of-the-art warehouse technologies. From there, the company will supply its BILLA, BILLA PLUS, BIPA, and ADEG stores, as well as cooperation partners such as gas station shops, with dry goods. “This project is a milestone for our entire company group. With the new logistics centre, we are creating the infrastructure needed for modern, efficient, and sustainable retailing”, explains Peter Maly, REWE Group Board Member for Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

“In Wiener Neudorf, we are building one of Europe’s most modern retail logistics platforms – a sustainable and resilient backbone for our supply chain,” emphasizes Marcel Haraszti, Executive Board Member of REWE International AG. “We are consolidating our goods flows, reducing transport volumes, increasing supply reliability, and creating new jobs for highly qualified employees in logistics, technology, and IT.”

Efficient module mix with high cost-efficiency

The facility will utilize WITRON’s OPM (Order Picking Machinery) and CPS (Car Picking System) solutions, enabling fully automated, semi-automated, and store-friendly stacking of cases onto pallets and roll containers. A unique feature of the CPS solution is that employees pick items in a path-optimized manner – guided by a pick-by-voice system – from a pick front stocked with layer trays, totes, and pallets. Replenishment is handled by stacker cranes.

Small-volume items will be picked directly from storage totes into shipping totes at eight ergonomically designed workstations using the DPS solution and guided by pick-by-light technology. Here too, the pick front is permanently and automatically replenished by stacker cranes. The individual logistics areas are connected via a conveyor system network. An intelligent consolidation strategy ensures optimal load carrier utilization for stores, resulting in significant transport cost savings.

In total, the entire material flow includes almost 550,000 storage locations for pallets, trays, and totes, more than 100 stacker cranes, and 18+ kilometers of conveyor system. All IT, control, and mechanical components are developed and manufactured in-house at WITRON’s headquarters in Parkstein.

“From the very beginning, our goal was to create a leading-edge logistics platform that combines efficiency, sustainability, and supply reliability. By consolidating logistics in Wiener Neudorf, we are also setting the highest standards in digitization and automation of retail logistics”, says Isabella Handler, Overall Project Manager at REWE International AG, emphasizing the importance of technological implementation.

Construction measures – high sustainability standards

The project is also designed with sustainability in mind. Built exclusively on previously developed land, the logistics centre will become the new core of REWE’s logistics operations in Austria and a flagship project for the company’s logistics strategy. Construction is set to begin in the second quarter of 2026, with operations scheduled to start in 2031. Where possible, the new WITRON technology will be integrated into existing buildings. Demolition work will begin in parallel to pave the way for new buildings – all without additional land.

“In Wiener Neudorf, we are building the infrastructure of tomorrow – fully integrated in our nationwide network in Austria. REWE Group’s key objectives are to strengthen supply reliability and reduce CO2 emissions along the entire supply chain”, explains Christian Hörner, Managing Director of Warehousing & Transport at REWE International AG. The logistics centre in Wiener Neudorf marks a major step toward achieving these goals and will serve as a model for REWE Group’s international retail logistics operations.”

A long-standing partnership

“We are proud to be implementing this project together with REWE – a clear sign that the chemistry between our two companies is just right”, says Markus Lang, Project Manager at WITRON. “REWE and WITRON have enjoyed a successful project partnership since 2012. Currently, WITRON is supporting REWE Germany as an implementation partner in a major re-organization initiative at the Neu-Isenburg site, where a semi-automated Case Picking System with aisle-bound picking vehicles is being replaced by the fully automated OPM system featuring 22 COM machines. The REWE site in Henstedt-Ulzburg has also been equipped with WITRON technology and is considered a benchmark in REWE’s German logistics network.”

similar news

Witron to Build Automated Logistics Centre for German Retailer REWE

The post Re-organization Initiative for REWE Dry Goods appeared first on Logistics Business.

PepsiCo is one of the world’s leading food and beverage manufacturers. Every day, millions of people across the UK enjoy PepsiCo’s snacks, oats and carbonated soft drinks. The company’s portfolio encompasses world famous brands such as Pepsi MAX, Doritos, 7UP Zero Sugar, and Quaker Oats, alongside its much-loved, local and regional brands, including Walkers, Wotsits, Monster Munch, and Pipers.

Beyond the cupboard staples and snack-time favourites, PepsiCo is a business committed to driving positive action for the planet and people, through its PepsiCo Positive (pep+) agenda. Launched in 2021, pep+ is PepsiCo’s end-to-end sustainability and business strategy. It’s a framework that drives action across agriculture, supply chains, product portfolios, and communities. To support this vision, PepsiCo has selected XPO Logistics as a key partner to advance its decarbonisation strategy in the UK.

Under the new partnership, XPO Logistics will deploy state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz eActros electric vehicles, converting more than 1 million road kilometres annually from diesel to battery electric. This transition represents a reduction of over 1,200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year from PepsiCo’s transport operations — a critical step on the road to net zero emissions by 2050.

But sustainability is about more than just trucks. At the heart of the initiative is XPO Logistics’ proprietary CO₂ Reporting Dashboard, a cutting-edge tool powered by AI-driven scenario modelling, live data analytics, and proactive planning insights. This system enables PepsiCo to track, verify, and optimise carbon reduction strategies in real-time, while improving logistics efficiency and service to customers.

Dan Myers, Managing Director – UK and Ireland, XPO Logistics, said: “Sustainability is in our DNA. We are proud to partner with PepsiCo on this journey, combining investment in electric mobility with advanced technology and operational excellence. Our shared ambition goes beyond compliance — it’s about transformation. I believe this is just the beginning of what we can achieve together.”

This collaboration forms a key part of PepsiCo’s broader decarbonisation journey, demonstrating how purposeful partnerships can accelerate climate action and improve value chain resilience. With shared values, shared investment, and a shared vision, PepsiCo and XPO Logistics are delivering a positive impact for consumers, the supply chain, and the planet.

Heiko Selzam, Managing Director, Daimler Truck UK, said: “We are very proud to strengthen our partnership further with XPO Logistics with this order of our award-winning eActros 600s for the PepsiCo partnership. This commitment underscores the recognition of both companies of the critical role these vehicles will play in achieving their sustainability goals. Following extensive collaboration, this order firmly establishes the eActros 600 as a leading solution in the electric truck market. We are looking forward to seeing these trucks operational from 1 August.”

Andrew Smethurst, UK Logistics Director, PepsiCo, said, “XPO Logistics has shown itself to be the ideal partner to help advance our PepsiCo Positive ambition. From their industry-leading sustainability credentials to a strong safety culture and transparent operational model, their team has consistently delivered innovation and value. This new partnership will play a vital role in further reducing our logistics emissions as we move iconic products like Walkers crisps and Doritos to our customers across the UK.”

XPO Logistics is a leading innovative supply chain company in Europe, offering end-to-end logistics solutions that combine full-truckload, less-than-truckload, pallet distribution, last-mile delivery, global freight forwarding, and warehousing services. The company tailors its solutions to the specific needs of its customers in a wide range of industrial and consumer sectors.

Similar News

Tesco Announces Logistics Centre at London Gateway

The post XPO and PepsiCo Announce UK Transport Partnership appeared first on Logistics Business.

Strategic Growth and Operational Efficiency

Built for strategic growth, the new facility in Vianen features a warehouse space of 5,865 m² and 816 m² of office space. It offers extensive operational benefits compared to the previous location. It includes ten dock doors for trailers – one equipped with a scissor lift and nine with loose load capabilities. A new sorting machine significantly increases efficiency, with a maximum sorting capacity of 3,600 parcels per hour. Thanks to 48 direct loading positions for vans at the conveyor belt, parcel processing is now faster and ergonomically improved.

Advanced Technology

The facility is equipped with new technologies, including parcel X-ray, a customs cage, and a designated aviation security area for processing secure air freight. Additionally, the site features a caster deck to efficiently unload unit load devices from trailers. These improvements enable faster parcel handling and delivery, while the advanced sorting system automatically detects whether shipments have been cleared by customs. Moreover, the planning department is located on-site, allowing for optimal freight scheduling.

With an A-level energy label and FedEx’s broader goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040, the facility has been designed with sustainability in mind. It includes fourteen charging stations for electric vehicles and four charging points for the general public. The site is also equipped with LED lighting and automated lighting sensors to minimize energy consumption. FedEx has scheduled an initial three electric vehicles for deployment in 2025, as part of the company’s phased approach to electrification.

An Improved Working Environment

Beyond operational efficiency and sustainability, FedEx is also investing in a comfortable and safe working environment. In addition to ergonomic workstations, modern office facilities, and a customer desk for enhanced service and direct shipments, the Vianen facility incorporates advanced safety measures. These include a security cage and weekly training sessions to ensure a secure workplace.

“Our new facility in Vianen plays a crucial role in optimising our first- and last-mile operations, enabling us to serve our customers even better,” said Ron Willemsen, managing director ground operations, Benelux at FedEx. “We are proud of the sustainable and innovative solutions this location offers. The opening of the new facility in Vianen highlights our commitment to customer focus, efficiency, and environmentally friendly logistics. We continue to invest in solutions to strengthen our position as a leading logistics service provider.”

similar news

FedEx Logistics Moves into new Singapore Office

The post New Facility in Vianen for FedEx appeared first on Logistics Business.

The post Tesco Announces Logistics Centre at London Gateway appeared first on Logistics Business.

The 360,926 sq ft Mountpark Bristol 360 will serve as the retailer’s fifth regional distribution centre. Set to be operational by autumn 2026, the facility will enhance delivery efficiency to approximately 50 existing Waitrose stores across the south west, while also offering the capacity to support future store openings.

The facility has been rated BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and holds an EPC A+ certification. Its roof is equipped with 1,200 solar panels, generating 625 kVA of power, supported by 118 kW of Tesla battery storage.  Designed with sustainability and employee wellbeing in mind, Mountpark Bristol 360 includes features such as a roof terrace, landscaped gardens, and extensive ribbon glazing to maximise natural light to the warehouse marshalling areas.

Once operational, Waitrose expects the site to help it cut supply chain emissions by 2,225 tonnes of CO₂ per year, contributing to its goal of becoming fossil fuel free by 2030 and net zero carbon by 2035.

Bart Holt-Smith, Director, Capital Markets and Development for Mountpark said: “Waitrose’s selection of Bristol 360 is a strong endorsement of our ability to deliver buildings that meet the evolving needs of modern logistics from commercial performance to environmental responsibility. We’re proud to be working with a brand of Waitrose’s calibre and delighted that our shared commitment to sustainability and quality aligns so closely. We look forward to welcoming this iconic British retailer and supporting its continued success in the region.”

Strategically located with direct access to the M49, M4, M5 and key regional freight corridors, Mountpark Bristol 360 will play a central role in servicing Waitrose’s future ambitions. The retailer is working on plans to open new convenience and full-line stores throughout the UK.  Last month, it announced that a shop will be built at Brabazon in north Bristol, which is expected to open in 2027, and later this year a new convenience store will open in The Arches, Bristol.

Alison Maffin, Waitrose’s Supply Chain Director, said; “This multi-million-pound investment is an important step in modernising our supply chain and setting us up to build the capacity needed for our growth plans. It will also enable us to better serve our customers in the region, more efficiently supply our existing shops and reduce our operating costs and carbon emissions. The modern and sustainable features of Mountpark Bristol 360 make it an excellent fit for our business.”

Mountpark Bristol 360 is part of Mountpark’s expanding UK portfolio of Grade A logistics developments and is located at Central Park, Avonmouth, one of the South West’s most strategically significant distribution hubs. The forthcoming M49 Junction 1 will further enhance connectivity, providing Bristol 360 with improved access to the UK’s motorway and freight networks, and reinforcing its long-term value as a distribution base.

Read Similar…

Build-to-Suit Warehouse Headquarters

The post Waitrose Sign Multi-Million-Pound Distribution Centre Deal appeared first on Logistics Business.

Developed in partnership with Prologis UK, the project will consolidate Palletways’ operations, create space for future growth, and raise the bar for sustainable logistics buildings in the UK. The new site, located a short distance from the company’s current site at Fradley Park, will look to consolidate their operations in the area. Around 250 existing jobs will be secured for the Lichfield area, with the new facility set to create clear opportunities for further employment growth in the years ahead.

Palletways has been based in Lichfield since 1994, when it first established its operations in the UK. What began as a single site has grown steadily over the past three decades into a network that now supports more than 140 independent members and handles close to 6 million pallets each year.

Rob Gittins, Managing Director of Palletways UK, said: “Our decision to remain in Lichfield reflects the strength of our connection to the area and the role it has played in our success over the past 30 years. This new facility represents the next step in that relationship — creating space for growth while keeping us firmly rooted in the place where we began.”

By consolidating operations into a single, purpose-built site, Palletways will reduce handling times, improve tracking accuracy, support earlier finish times and more reliable delivery windows. The additional space and flexibility will also allow the business to trial new technologies and streamline logistics processes — helping its independent members operate more efficiently and deliver stronger service to their own customers.

Gittins added: “It has been clear for some time that we are outgrowing our existing site at Fradley Park, which has served us so well for nearly 30 years. We began looking at how we could secure local jobs with minimum disruption, create opportunities for long-term growth, and further strengthen our commitment to sustainability. We’re very excited about these plans, developed in partnership with Prologis, which reinforce all of those objectives. Our new headquarters will allow us to build on our service levels, provide better facilities and training opportunities for our staff, and offer even greater support to our members.”

A key factor for Palletways in selecting Prologis as development partner was the company’s ability to deliver sustainable logistics buildings that meet both environmental and operational needs — a close fit with Palletways’ ambitions for its new headquarters. This, backed by Prologis’ robust balance sheet and access to capital means that the development could be delivered for Palletways with confidence, once planning approval is in place.

The 640,000 sq ft facility will be delivered by Prologis and target BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A+ standards, placing it among the top-performing industrial buildings for energy efficiency. Features will include a 600kWp+ rooftop solar PV array, smart metering, rainwater harvesting, and high-efficiency systems to reduce both emissions and running costs. The new HQ has been designed with employee wellbeing and community connectivity in mind. The building will feature warehouse skylights to maximise natural light, alongside secure cycle parking and EV charging to encourage more sustainable commuting. A dedicated amenity space for Palletways workers will include soft and hard landscaping, seating and a covered area. A new cycleway and footpath, winding through natural landscaping and featuring native species will improve local access between Fradley and Streethay, creating benefits beyond the building itself.

Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK, said: “This is a development that supports jobs, productivity and sustainability in equal measure. It reflects the ambitions of a long-standing logistics leader, while also contributing to a cleaner and more efficient built environment. It also aligns with the UK’s broader goals to modernise infrastructure, support regional growth and enable more sustainable ways of working. By investing in high-quality logistics facilities outside major city centres, projects like this help strengthen local economies and future-proof the country’s supply chain network.”

The proposals are currently subject to planning approval. A public consultation is now underway, with a planning application expected to be submitted to Lichfield District Council in summer 2025. Subject to approval, construction is expected to begin in 2026, with occupation targeted for 2027.

similar news

Tesco announces multi-million pound logistics centre at London Gateway

The post Build-to-Suit Warehouse Headquarters appeared first on Logistics Business.

The family-owned company, based in France and operating internationally, wants to consolidate the flows of its footwear activities for its various brands, including Gémo, Eram, Bocage and Mellow Yellow in its new facility covering more than 40,000 square metres in the Loire Valley region.

“Dematic has demonstrated its strong expertise when it comes to delivering solutions featuring AutoStore systems and has also clearly shown us the benefits from Dematic and its fellow KION Group brands,” explains Jean-Louis Borde, the director of logistics activities for Eram Group. In fact, a decisive factor in selecting Dematic’s solution over other proposals was the compact design of the AutoStore system to be integrated into the new centre. The solution offers more space for the same surface area and can be expanded in future if the need arises.

The Dematic solution features several advanced technologies with a compact and scalable design. The automation covers both picking and palletising processes and includes a large AutoStore system to enhance Eram’s Group order processing. The system contains 80,000 bins, 84 robots and 16 workstations for order processing. Additionally, a receiving conveyor with two unloaders will unload trucks or containers and a conveyor will sort packages for palletising.

A robot will open cartons while another robot loads totes into the system. For the order picking process, a packing station with a conveyor forwards orders to the dispatch area. Dematic Software manages all order fulfilment and picking operations to meet transportation and customer satisfaction requirements. It can seamlessly interface with the software currently installed and managed by the Eram Group.

The project is now underway and scheduled to be completed and ready for commissioning in Q4 2026. “We are very pleased to be working with the Eram Group, a major French family-run organisation and an iconic brand. This project marks the beginning of a promising partnership based on common values and a shared vision of excellence,” adds Alain Bussod, President of Dematic France.

similar news

AutoStore Joins Dematic’s Supply Chain Optimisation Portfolio

The post Eram to Automate New Distribution Centre appeared first on Logistics Business.

A report by STIQ recently confirmed a rule of thumb that automation needs to deliver return on investment (ROI) in three years or less for a business case to compete with manual flows. In the world of logistics, this is not unique to automated trailer loading systems (ATLS). However, ATLS are proving a good example of how access to automation is changing. Labour shortages, rising operational costs and high throughput demand are universal challenges regardless of size or sector – so while not every business is ready to invest in full automation, or has the business case to make it immediately viable, the majority are under pressure to do more, faster. A greater variety of solutions with different price points and capabilities is helping open up the benefits of automated pallet handling to a far wider range of companies – but they may not be aware.

Expanding the definition of ROI

The benefits of an automated trailer loading system are vast: reduced loading times lead to higher throughput and operational cost savings, in addition to improved safety, accuracy and consistency. However, many logistics operators are still early on in their automation journey. Labour shortages, safety concerns, and rising operational costs may be accelerating interest in automated solutions, but hesitancy remains due to cost, space constraints, and operational rigidity – all of which influence their viability for certain use cases. While the throughput of pallets is high, constrained warehouse footprints, semi-automated or manual upstream operations (such as delivering directly to a customer that uses a forklift truck to unload pallets), or a large distance between two facilities, can make full-scale automation – and the required modifications to existing infrastructure and trailer fleets – more difficult to justify.

It is also the case that ROI in automation isn’t the same for every use case and vertical. While throughput is a key factor, there are many other value drivers that need to be considered – particularly in specialised environments. In cold chain logistics, for example, reducing damage to trailers can be just as critical as speed. In sectors where contamination must be avoided, the quality control offered by automation becomes a central advantage. Safety is another major factor: dock areas are among the most hazardous in the warehouse, and reducing human intervention here can have a significant impact.

What’s needed is a middle ground: solutions that offer a range of costs and capabilities for more businesses to introduce automation into their pallet loading and unloading processes and receive a fast return on their investment.

Filling the market gap

There’s a clear gap in the market for compact, low-commitment automated trailer loading systems that can enable businesses to increase their daily loading capacity without requiring extensive modifications to existing site and fleet infrastructure. New developments are beginning to fill that gap.

Modular, bolt-on systems now exist that allow for a wide range of pallet types and complex load patterns (manual or automated), and integrate with all standard docks. These approaches reduce upfront cost while still improving efficiency, productivity, and safety. The new LoadMatic Lite from Actiw, a subsidiary of the Joloda Hydraroll Group, is capable of loading full, standard, non-modified trucks and trailers in just six minutes. Pallets are staged at the rear or side of the dock using forklifts, electric pallet stackers, or AGVs, queued, and then loaded in one shot with precision.

The price point typically comes in at one-third of the cost of traditional ATLS. Pilot simulations have demonstrated ROI in as little as 13 months – making automated trailer loading systems an increasingly accessible strategy, and allowing more businesses to transition to automation as they grow.

For many companies, trailer loading has remained unchanged for decades. But faced with workforce challenges, rising demand, and a general requirement to achieve more with less, automation is necessary for all businesses to help improve reliability, safety, and resilience. But, of course, only if it is financially viable. For most companies, this means an ROI in less than three years. A broader range of solutions and price points are now available so that growing businesses don’t need to dive straight into fully automated systems but can begin to reap the benefits and evolve their operations over time. In doing so, they build a more sustainable foundation for future automation and competitive advantage.

similar news

Loads of ATLS Solutions

The post Trailer Loading Automation Made Accessible appeared first on Logistics Business.

By analysing its own first-party customer service data, and highlighting commonalities and categories from 30,000+ tickets, over the last 12 months, the team was able to draw insights on how omnichannel brands can measure fulfilment and logistics performance via its customer service requirements.

Lee Thompson, CEO at fulfilmentcrowd, added: “eCommerce retailers should seek to implement global fulfilment that leverages technology for better visibility. Trusted by 250+ omnichannel brands, our platform is the backbone for resolving and preventing customer service pain points, empowering brands to scale, grow, and expand globally”.

Lee Thompson, FulfilmentCrowd

Unveiling some year-over-year trends in service-related fulfilment issues as the eCommerce landscape has grown, Chelsea Banister, Head of Customer Operations at fulfilmentcrowd, added: “Our data shows that the majority of conversations (78%) that we have with clients relate to order queries or issues. Other common categories raised included custom orders (9%), inventory transfers (4%), products (3%), and returns (2%). Conversations related to rework and task requests, charges and billing, setup and configuration, and API and integration made up less than 5% of conversations combined.

fulfilmentcrowd’s Chelsea Banister

“The data also revealed that, generally, ticket volume peaks in Q4 (October to December), likely reflecting peak eCommerce season challenges. Throughout the year, we tend to have the most customer service conversations with our Health and Beauty partners – in this sector, we are having regular conversations around how to best manage batch control for items that expire. Other common themes in our recent customer service conversations across all sectors include aspects related to US tariffs, our B2B capabilities, and AI.”

When issues arise, the team also suggests using data analytics to pinpoint recurring issues, consistently review your supply chain for weak spots, and conduct a post-mortem meeting with your team to discuss lessons learned.

Technology can also play a key role in this – Austin Waddecar, Chief Product Officer at fulfilmentcrowd, added: “In many cases, fulfilment chaos is the result of poor visibility. If you don’t know where your stock is or what stage an order is at, how can you fix a problem? Technology is your best friend here. Use it to your advantage. Investing in the right technology can save you time, money, and a whole lot of customer complaints – and that’s where we come in.

“A few examples of our tech solutions include real-time tracking, inventory management software, and shipping rules automation. With real-time tracking, you’ll also notice a huge decrease in customer service enquiries in terms of WISMO (where is my order) / WISMR (where is my return) if you offer a self-service solution. Your team will then have more time to spend on those complex issues that don’t always have an immediate fix.

“Inventory management software can help to reduce stockouts and overselling with better forecasting tools, and shipping rules automation can optimise your shipping rules to avoid delays and errors.”

similar news

Poor Lighting a Risk to Workplace Health, Warns Industry Specialist

The post Poor Visibility is Leading Cause of Fulfilment Chaos appeared first on Logistics Business.

The new logistics centre, located on a 274,000 m² plot, will feature two high-bay clad-rack warehouses with a total capacity of 182,500 pallet positions, operated by 20 stacker cranes. AR Racking will be responsible for the design, manufacturing, and installation of a tailor-made storage solution, optimized to ensure maximum capacity, operational efficiency, and long-term reliability.

In addition to the pallet warehouses, the site will include a shuttle-based automated warehouse with more than 200,000 bin locations, integrating advanced robotic technology for order picking and the automatic handling of trays and containers.

The centre will also host JYSK’s new headquarters for Spain and Portugal, creating approximately 250 new jobs and setting a benchmark in sustainability. The building will be LEED Gold certified and include solar panels to cover part of the facility’s energy demand.

The warehouse’s material flow system will be developed by technology provider KÖRBER, which will implement an automated system ensuring synchronized and traceable product flows throughout the logistics process.

“This project reinforces our expertise in large-scale automated logistics centres and consolidates AR Racking as a strategic partner in storage solutions for leading international companies,” said AR Racking’s commercial management team.

The facility is expected to be fully operational by 2028 and will play a key role in supporting JYSK’s growth in markets such as Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Until then, JYSK will continue operating from its leased logistics centre in Cheste, Valencia.

similar news

Retail Chain JYSK Commissions New WMS for Bulgaria DC

The post 182,000 Pallet Positions for new DC in Spain appeared first on Logistics Business.