Streamlining logistics operations from point A to point B presents the primary challenge for manufacturing and logistics firms. Therefore, securing a distribution center in a prime location is paramount.
Panattoni, a leading logistics real estate developer, is erecting a new BREEAM-Excellent distribution center at Almelo's XL Business Park. Jan Geerdink, Director of XL Business Park, elaborates on why this locale is ideal for businesses. Additionally, we spoke with Annemarie Terpstra – Withag, Commercial Director of Combi Terminal Twente (CTT).
The container terminal at the XL Businesspark not only benefits the environment and reduces CO2 emissions but also delivers cost savings for your business. Annemarie Terpstra – Withag Commercieel Director of Combi Terminal Twente (CTT)
On Europe's Major Arteries of Transport
Regardless of the mode of transportation, access to the XL Business Park is assured. This accessibility ranks high on the priority list for logistics companies, ensuring easy reachability for staff, suppliers, and markets. "The XL Business Park lies on one of Europe's primary routes, the North Sea Baltic Corridor," notes Jan. This strategic positioning facilitates travel in all directions via nearby arteries A35 and A1, leading through Germany to the Baltic States and Scandinavia. Moreover, Twente is easily reachable by container ship.
Embracing Sustainable Transport
At the container terminal on XL Business Park's waterfront in Almelo, goods arrive from distant places via waterways. This eco-conscious choice allows companies like Timberland, Vtech, and Kees Smit Garden Furniture to universally transport their products by water.
Annemarie elaborates on the sustainability aspect: "A single ship can carry approximately 80 to 100 containers, translating to reduced CO2 emissions and alleviating traffic congestion on Dutch highways. Surprisingly, containers from Rotterdam reach the Almelo terminal within 24 hours," Annemarie remarks. At CTT Almelo, containers are handled by employees. "Containers are offloaded from the ship onto the quay, where distribution centers arrange for their pickup. Thanks to the short distance from the terminal to distribution centers at XL Business Park, terminal tractors efficiently transport containers back and forth. The containers are then reconnected for loading and unloading by the distribution center's personnel."
Jan adds, "We've doubled our container handling capacity at CTT Almelo, upgrading from one canal and quay to two locks and expanded the Twente Canal. The canal now boasts a turning basin."
Annemarie further notes, "This expansion allows larger ships carrying three layers of containers to pass under bridges, enabling two ships to sail side by side. In essence, we can now accommodate larger vessels and handle more containers."
Efficient Customs Operations
A unique feature of the Almelo container terminal is its customs facilities. Typically, containers undergo customs clearance and import duty payment in Rotterdam before being transported inland. However, CTT Almelo operates differently.
Annemarie elucidates, "We have an enterport: containers not yet cleared by customs can be stored in our terminal until clearance, obviating the necessity for import via Rotterdam." This approach offers a logistical advantage. Annemarie continues, "For streamlined operations, containers must enter the terminal every fifteen minutes. Staffing levels are adjusted accordingly. Transporting containers from Rotterdam by truck inevitably leads to delays and idle staff. Thanks to our rapid terminal-to-yard transit, such issues are rare."
A Wealth of Talent Pool
People are the backbone of any enterprise. One reason why XL Business Park Almelo is a prime location is its proximity to a sizable population. With 640,000 residents nearby, the balance between employment demand and supply is favorable. Jan remarks, "This is evident in our current companies, where most employees hail from the fourteen Twente municipalities. They commute by car, public transport, and, frequently, by bicycle. After all, the verdant landscape is perfect for cycling."
To learn more about this project and rental opportunities, visit https://panattonieurope.com/nl-nl/vind-panden/panattoni-park-twente.
