BLG begins parts handling at Düsseldorf logistics centre

[Updated 6th May] Germany’s BLG Logistics has begun parts handling operations at its new facility at the port of Düsseldorf. The company is currently using 10,000 sq.m of a 32,000 sq.m building to provide logistics services and sub-assembly for Daimler. Its services there include vehicle marshalling, loading and unloading of trailers, cross-docking and repacking processes, and handling of empty containers.

The facility is located directly opposite Düsseldorf port’s container terminal. It was built by property developer Panattoni Europe with investment in the first phase of construction standing at €22m ($25m).

The beginning of operations follows the completion in early April of the first of two construction phases, which will eventually see a total of 60,000 sq.m of logistics space being used by BLG over a property covering 117,000 sq.m. The investment for the second phase is €25m and that is expected to be finished in the second quarter of 2017. The facility is being leased from estate investment manager AEW Europe on a 10-year agreement.

“We’re pleased that our new site is now in operation. After the one-year planning and construction phase, we’re right on schedule with the commencement of business,” said Frank Sturm, managing director at BLG Industrielogistik.

The next stage of development will be to expand the initial building by 10,000 sq.m.

“The development of the second construction phase is proceeding smoothly and on schedule,” commented Fred-Markus Bohne, managing partner of Panattoni Europe. “We’re very pleased to have a high quality property like this in such a fantastic location as the port of Düsseldorf in our logistics portfolio.”

Along with Panattoni Europe and AEW Europe, the project received support from real estate specialist Logivest.