DHL Global Forwarding has broken ground on a new 4,880 sq m facility at Brisbane Airport that is due to open in early 2023.
A$17m is being invested over ten years for the Australian facility, which according to DHL, will house the largest international cold chain services in Brisbane to meet the fast-growing demand for perishables.
The new facility will also support the growth of general cargo in Queensland.
George Lawson, managing director, DHL Global Forwarding Australia, said: “The expansion of our facilities at Brisbane airport reflects the tremendous growth in exports, especially perishable food. Brisbane’s economy is predicted to surge by 2031 and with this new facility, we are ready to support our customer’s growth.”
Strategically located at Brisbane airport, the facility offers airside access, the first and only freight forwarder to have such access, and is close to the Port of Brisbane.
The new facility has a five green star rating according to the Green Building Council of Australia, featuring solar panels, reusable batteries to power most of the warehouse operations, rainwater harvesting and EV charging stations. Plans are also in the works to introduce carbon offsetting and insetting for a carbon neutral supply chain for customers.
“A lot of thought went into the design of the new operation. It will assist our customer’s trade efficiently. It is also a sustainable facility to help our customers achieve a greener supply chain,” Lawson added.
The forwarder’s airfreight business saw revenues increase by 55.% year on year to €2.9bn.
