Palletways: Despite global economic challenges, we were keen to invest in our Italian network
The Palletways Group has committed to invest in a new multi-million euro environmentally friendly hub in Italy as part of its strategy for further growth and expansion across Europe.
The bespoke facility in Sala Bolognese, which will include 30,000 m² of office and operational space, has been designed to speed up the network’s operations, relocating from its former headquartered operation in Calderara di Reno.
Space in the new facility has been designed to help the network process a higher capacity of domestic and international shipments from the Group’s networks in the UK, Benelux, Germany, Hungary and Iberia, and ship them faster. These improved transit times will result in a more efficient supply and lead to increased customer service and satisfaction.
The hub will be located near the A1, A13 and A14 and just a few kilometers from the major ring road for easy access to the north, centre and south of the country.
The BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) “Very Good” certified facility – a world-leading certification system for sustainable built environments – will feature more than 1,000 photovoltaic roof panels and numerous electric vehicle charging points. A host of technological measures will be in place to recycle and reuse rainwater, tree planning will increase and enhance biodiversity while a path connecting the hub to the train station in Sala Bolognese will make it easier for employees to cycle to work.
The hub is expected to launch in the next few months.
Luis Zubialde, CEO for the Palletways Group said: “The Palletways Group is constantly investing to innovate and ensure the highest quality standards for our members and their customers. Despite global economic challenges, we were keen to invest in our Italian network and the new hub will allow us to pursue our growth objectives, with an ever-increasing focus on the sustainability of our business. The Bologna hub will modernize the infrastructure of the Italian network and will become the strategic centre of the Italian networks’ operation for years to come.”
Rob Gittins, managing director for Palletways UK, added: “This investment will come as welcome news to our UK members that regularly ship to Italy. Operational enhancements will greatly improve transit times meaning consignments will reach their destination faster than ever. We’re excited with the prospect of being able to offer this improved service which will build on our reputation for delivering service excellence at every step.”
Plans for the launch of the new Bologna facility takes the number of hubs in Palletways’ Italian network to three with its Mesore facility in Milan covering northern Italy and Avellino which covers the south.
