Arvato SCM Solutions extends site network in the Netherlands

Continuing the execution of its internationalization strategy, Arvato SCM Solutions has commenced operations in a new warehouse in the Netherlands. The new 41,000-square-meter facility is located in Venlo and will be used by Arvato for handling comprehensive logistics and fulfilment activities.

The premises in Venlo will become part of a strategic site cluster operated by Arvato SCM Solutions in the Netherlands. It is a vital component for further growth in this important market. The logistics facility in the industrial estate Trade Port North offers ideal conditions: excellent infrastructure and quick links to the Dutch and German road networks make Venlo one of Europe’s top locations for logistics services. Another key attribute of this location is the city’s direct vicinity to domestic sea, inland waterway and railway terminals, as well as to the international airports of Maastricht, Düsseldorf, Amsterdam and Eindhoven.

The first key client in the warehouse is a leading player from the high-tech industry. The same client is already served from two other warehouses in the United States, located in Louisville, Kentucky, and Ontario, California. All three warehouses incorporate the same IT backbone and very similar operational concepts.

The new site in Venlo is positioned to provide just-in-time storage, packaging and shipping services, as well as more complex operations such as high-scale transformation, bundling, stock and returns management and further value-added services. In terms of security, the site meets customers’ requirements that exceed the standards of TAPA A certification. With this new site comes the announcement of more than 200 additional jobs. The new team members will be recruited gradually over the coming weeks. “We are planning to be fully operational by July, commencing with dispatch services as of today”, says Martijn Nielen, VP Netherlands at Arvato SCM Solutions. “The project and ramp-up phase through to full operation will be supported by 150 further supply chain experts from the international Arvato network“.

The site in Venlo will operate a highly automated picking and dispatch solution. The basis is a state-of-the-art conveyor system, supported by features such as carton erectors and sealers, and automated paperwork insertion – an operational investment that is essential to reach the dispatch capacity of an estimated 30 million items per year. The property also allows for further business growth: the warehouse offers another 10,000 square metres of space for additional clients.

“The opening of our new distribution center in Venlo pays into our strategy to expand the international activities”, says Andreas Barth, President Hightech & Entertainment – Arvato SCM Solutions. “The setup, though highly customized for the global needs of the enabling key client, follows our general philosophy to provide globally streamlined solutions, facilitating our clients’ ambitions for growth.”