Pepco is preparing to open a new distribution center in Barniewice near Gdańsk, adding an initial 35 000 square metres of logistics capacity to its European network. Over the coming months, more than 250 additional people are expected to be hired to operate the centre. The facility is designed to support the retailer’s continued store expansion, strengthen supply chain efficiency in Poland, and improve service across Northern and Central Europe.
The investment marks the sixth distribution center in Pepco’s network and represents a further step in building a more scalable and resilient logistics footprint in Europe. Barniewice was selected for its access to the ports of Gdańsk and Gdynia, and enhanced road links, creating a strong base for domestic, and intermodal flows.
The Gdańsk DC will support hundreds of stores in Poland, increase the share of direct-to-store deliveries, and help streamline transport routes and lead times. Designed as a next-generation logistics site, it will support the company’s drive for standardized processes using the latest Blue Yonder warehouse management system giving a firm foundation for future developments. In line with the long term strategic supply chain transformation plan, this facility will be operated by Pepco itself to enable its “blueprint 2.0” future warehouse design, working in partnership with DHL Supply Chain who operate the rest of Pepco distribution centre network.
The project is firmly on track and covers all key areas – from construction and fit-out, through IT systems, to recruitment and operational preparation. Pepco will take over the facility in early July to commence fit out and continue onboarding of core colleagues alongside specialists in systems, stock control and planning. Recruitment for a team of over additional 250 people will begin shortly, including several dozen specialists in areas such as operations, logistics, HR, health and safety, and IT, as well as warehouse employees. Inbound operations will start in August, and the first shipments to stores will begin in September.
“The Gdańsk distribution center will strengthen our logistics capacity in a strategically important part of Europe and support the next phase of Pepco’s growth. It expands our ability to serve stores efficiently, improves the resilience and scalability of our network, and gives us a strong platform for future development. The Tri-City area offers the connectivity we need to optimise inbound flows and support a more efficient supply chain across the region.” said Javier Rubio Fueyo, Pepco Global Sourcing and Supply Chain Director.
“Efficiently functioning logistics has become one of the key factors determining the pace of development of retail networks. Infrastructure is essential that not only meets the current scale of operations, but also provides space for further growth and adaptation to changing market needs. The facility we are delivering for Pepco in Barniewice has been designed with precisely this perspective in mind – as a modern distribution centre supporting operational efficiency, sustainable development, and the tenant’s long-term business strategy. We are pleased to be part of the next stage of Pepco’s development and to jointly deliver a project of such significance for the company’s European logistics network,” commented Marzena Taube, Leasing & Development Director, North-West Region at 7R.
The new facility is located in Barniewice, 2.5 km from the S6 highway and 18 km from the container terminal in Gdańsk in close proximity to the ports in Gdańsk and Gdynia. The warehouse has been developed in partnership with leading Polish warehouse developer, 7R. When fully completed and operational the site will provide over 51,000 sq m of space, complemented by office and staff facilities. The facility incorporates solutions supporting sustainable development goals, including photovoltaic panels, LED lighting with a DALI control system, and electric vehicle charging stations. The project has been designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent certification.