APL Logistics Launches a New Distribution and Fulfilment Centre in Amsterdam
APL Logistics, a global leader in supply chain logistics and a member of the Kintetsu World Express (KWE) Group, has officially inaugurated a cutting-edge distribution and fulfilment centre at the Port of Amsterdam, further solidifying its commitment to expanding its European operations. This strategic move comes as a response to the growing demands of its clientele, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing development within the European market.
Meeting Customer Needs
The new facility at the Port of Amsterdam is designed to offer increased capability and efficiency tailored to the demands expressed by customers in Europe. According to Thad Bedard, President of APL Logistics, this centre provides the necessary infrastructure that partners can depend on in today's complex global marketplace.
"This centre is a direct reflection of what our customers in Europe have asked for – greater capability, closer integration and a partner they can rely on for the long term," he articulated, emphasizing the importance of establishing a robust presence in the Netherlands, a pivotal location for its European operations.
Infrastructure and Services
The Amsterdam hub spans 10,200 square meters and is equipped with 13 loading docks, significantly enhancing the company’s logistics footprint in the region. Positioned excellently for multimodal connectivity, the facility allows APL Logistics to serve its customers efficiently through barge, rail, road, and air transport – boosting accessibility to the broader Western European market. Its proximity to the Port of Rotterdam, Europe's busiest port by volume, further optimizes shipping routes and continental freight flows.
This dedicated hub integrates order management, fulfilment, and distribution services under one roof, allowing APL Logistics to operate seamlessly across both its own facilities and those of reliable third-party operators, which is integral to providing customized logistics solutions. This flexibility also supports operations across various sectors, including retail, consumer goods, industrial, and automotive industries, proving to be a significant asset for business operations in EMEA.
Innovative Technology Supporting Efficiency
Emphasizing innovation, the Amsterdam centre features an array of technological advancements, including autonomous mobile robots and a fully automated conveyor system. These technologies ensure efficient order fulfilment operations and enhance accuracy – responding to the increasing pressure on logistics companies to meet delivery deadlines without compromising service quality. The integration of this facility into APL Logistics' global technology network provides customers with real-time purchase-order-level visibility from the point of origin to delivery.
“For our customers across Europe, the logistics landscape poses real challenges such as unpredictable routing, new regulatory environments, and the relentless pursuit of enhanced speed paired with reduced costs and emissions,” commented Kim Overman, Regional Vice President for EMEA at APL Logistics. "The Amsterdam hub will act as a critical platform to navigate these challenges, combining exceptional multimodal connectivity with our advanced digital tools and experienced account teams."
Future Developments
The opening of the Amsterdam distribution and fulfilment centre is not just an isolated development but part of APL Logistics' broader strategy to invest further in Europe throughout 2026 and beyond. By leveraging its expertise and enhancing its physical infrastructure, APL Logistics aims to meet the evolving needs of its clients, ensuring their competitiveness in the global field.
As the landscape of logistics continues to evolve, APL Logistics remains committed to providing tailored and innovative solutions that address the dynamic challenges faced by businesses today. The new Amsterdam centre is a testament to this commitment, showcasing how strategic investments can lead to enhanced performance in the logistics sector.
For more information about APL Logistics and their services, visit
APL Logistics.