ProLogis open retail distribution center in Slovakia

The company’s new, 24,000 square-meter distribution center in Nove Mesto nad Vahom, Slovakia, was completed in approximately 10 months, enabling C&A to relocate its operations. The strategic location enables C&A Eastern Europe to provide optimal and efficient warehousing and distribution for 120 stores across Slovakia as well as to neighboring countries, including the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland, the statement said.

“With this investment, C&A has reached another milestone in its expansion,” said Christian Dreyer of C&A. “By autumn 2008, our logistics requirements for Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland that are currently handled in Austria will be centralized and managed out of our new distribution center in Nove Mesto. This will result in the creation of 300 new jobs by summer 2009, which will support further development of the Nove Mesto region.”

Approximately one million hanging articles of clothing and 5,000 palettes can be stored at C&A’s new distribution facility. Four conveyors and 400 automatic drop-off stations will ensure rapid merchandise turnover; each conveyor belt has a capacity of 2,800 boxes per hour.

One of the key players in C&A’s logistics operations is the Jöbstl group, one of the leading textile logistics companies in Europe. Their extensive experience, combined with specialized systems supporting the logistics processes, will guarantee efficient and effective warehouse management.

“Jöbstl Group’s clearly focused strategic goal is to further its expansion into Eastern and Southeastern Europe,” said Hermann Jöbstl, shareholder of Jöbstl Group. “We recently entered the Hungarian market and are pleased to now be operating a new logistic-centre in Novè Mesto, Slovakia. This is a logical move for our group, and one that allows us to continue to meet the evolving needs of our key clients”, Stephan Jöbstl, CEO of Jöbstl Group adds.

ProLogis Park Nove Mesto has been developed by ProLogis, the world’s largest owner, manager and developer of industrial space. When fully delivered, the park will comprise seven buildings totaling over 100,000 square-meter of industrial space.

“We continue to see a growing demand for build-to-suit development in the Central & Eastern Europe region,” said Jakub Pelikan, ProLogis Vice President and Market Officer for Czech Republic and Slovakia. “In a competitive market, our attention to customer service and focus on building valuable relationships are the keys to our success.” (press release)