🇩🇪 Otto's European Expansion
Germany's Otto Group has opened a high-tech logistics center in Ilowa, Poland, boosting its European presence. Launched on October 26, 2024, this facility was completed in 2.5 years and marks a significant investment—estimated in the mid-three-digit million USD range. "The European market is a cornerstone of our success," stated Prof. Dr. Michael Otto, Otto Group’s Chairman. The center adds to Otto's European logistics ecosystem alongside sites in Germany, supporting 80% of the company's revenue generated within Europe.
🇵🇱 A Job Creator and Regional Asset
The Ilowa facility is operated by Hermes Fulfilment, Otto's logistics subsidiary, and creates 1,900 new jobs. Polish Deputy PM Krzysztof Gawkowski attended the launch, welcoming Otto’s commitment. "Otto Group's investment brings cutting-edge technologies and attractive jobs," he noted. With a footprint of 268,000 square meters, equivalent to 16 soccer fields, this center is among Europe’s largest logistics sites, reinforcing Poland's growing role in international logistics.
🤖 Next-Level Tech for Next-Day Delivery
The Ilowa hub stands out with advanced logistics tech, including a high-speed pouch sorter that moves up to 18,000 items hourly, aiming for next-day delivery on 60% of orders. Kevin Kufs, CEO of Hermes Fulfilment, emphasized, "The speed and precision here will transform our customers' shopping experience." With automated facilities, Hermes aims to streamline the supply chain, enhance customer satisfaction, and boost Otto's competitive edge in e-commerce.
🌍 Strategic Importance and Future Outlook
Otto’s Ilowa site strengthens its European network, supplying Germany, France, Austria, the Netherlands, and Poland. With the capacity to process up to 110M shipments yearly, the center will meet high e-commerce demands. During the opening, logistics experts discussed tech innovations shaping the future. Otto executives believe this strategic hub will drive further growth, with full operations expected next year. The opening signifies Otto’s vision for a united, tech-driven Europe in the logistics sector.
Will Otto’s tech-driven hub reshape European logistics?
