#Japan #logistics #MonotaRO #Mito

MonotaRO's New Mitō Distribution Center

On May 8, 2025, MonotaRO, a prominent online retailer of industrial supplies based in Osaka, held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Mitō Distribution Center. This facility, located in Mitō City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is strategically designed to enhance the company’s shipping and inventory capabilities, with operations expected to commence in May 2028.

Future-Ready Logistics Hub

The initiative is part of MonotaRO's efforts to bolster its logistics infrastructure. By introducing state-of-the-art equipment and optimizing the workflow, the new center aims to achieve three times the productivity compared to the existing Kasama Distribution Center, significantly enhancing the speed and efficiency of order fulfillment.

The Mitō Distribution Center is built with disaster preparedness in mind, utilizing a seismic isolation structure for the first time in the company's properties. Additionally, it incorporates solar power technology, emphasizing MonotaRO's commitment to sustainability and resilience.

Center Features:

• - Seismic Isolation Structure: Enhancing safety during disasters.
• - Solar Power Utilization: Eco-friendly energy source to power operations.
• - Increased Productivity: Targeting 300,000 shipments per day, up from 100,000.

Center Specifications

The Mitō Distribution Center is a four-story building covering approximately 98,000 square meters with a total floor area of 74,000 square meters. The construction will adhere to a reinforced concrete and partial steel structure, featuring:

• - Location: 780-2 Maruyama, Shimono-cho, Mitō City, Ibaraki Prefecture
• - Groundbreaking Date: May 9, 2025
• - Completion Date: Scheduled for May 2027
• - Operational Start: Expected in May 2028
• - Stock Holding Capacity: Approximately 500,000 items
• - Main Equipment: Automated storage systems, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), automatic packing machines

MonotaRO Overview

Founded with the vision to revolutionize procurement networks, MonotaRO provides an extensive range of industrial supplies, with approximately 24.2 million indirect materials in its inventory as of March 2025. This includes everything from cutting tools and abrasives to automotive products and office supplies.

With a user base exceeding 10.4 million and a consolidated sales revenue of 288.1 billion yen projected for the fiscal year ending December 2024, MonotaRO has established itself as a vital partner across various sectors, including automotive, construction, hospitality, healthcare, and education.

The company promises swift delivery services, boasting same-day shipping for in-stock items ordered by 5 PM on weekdays (3 PM for select products and delivery locations). This capability enhances customers’ operational efficiency while supporting their businesses’ productivity goals.

As MonotaRO continues to invest in logistics and infrastructure, the new Mitō Distribution Center signifies a pivotal move towards expanding its market presence and meeting the evolving needs of its customers in an increasingly competitive landscape.