The new logistics building, which provides large refrigerated storage spaces and offers direct airside access, accommodates three logistics companies: Kuehne+Nagel (15,000 square metres), Worldwide Flight Services (25,000 square metres) and Expeditors (15,000 square metres).
Sustainability has been a key feature of construction, which started in May 2019. Part of the roof surface is laid out as a green roof while the entire surface is designed to be fitted out with solar panels in the future. Rainwater pits were constructed for the reuse of rainwater, the buildings were equipped with LED lights and heat pumps, and charging stations for electric vehicles were installed in the area.
Kuehne+Nagel is expanding its activities at Brussels airport also for the handling of temperature-controlled perishables (storage and transportation of flowers, vegetables and fruit). The new infrastructure includes over 30,000 square metres of refrigerated storage space, making it especially suitable for the handling of pharmaceuticals.
Expeditors is heavily expanding its healthcare logistics in Europe and has chosen for Brussels airport to become its pharmaceutical gateway to connect its European network with the rest of the world. This new Expeditors facility is already playing a key role in the shipment of COVID-19 vaccines and related medical supplies.
Over the last several years, Brussels airport has invested a total of €100m in the construction of ultra-modern logistics buildings to strengthen. With over one hundred logistics companies set up at Brussels airport, it is the second most important logistics hub in Belgium for international trade in Europe.
The airport transported almost 650,000 tonnes of cargo in 2020, specialising in in the shipment of perishables, pharmaceuticals and e-commerce.