Bleckmann and MG Real Estate are constructing a brand new carbon-neutral distribution center in Kruisem

As a growing logistics specialist, Bleckmann is constantly looking for more capacity in different regions to accommodate the growth of the company, its current customers and expansion by new customers.

Bleckmann already has a logistics site in Kruisem and, together with MG Real Estate, is now building a new distribution center just a stone's throw away. The fact that Bleckmann has again chosen Kruisem is no coincidence. The new logistics site in Kruisem has a strategic location along the traffic axis between Antwerp and Kortrijk. It thus offers an easy connection to North Sea Port, the port of Antwerp and France. The expansion at this central location is of great importance for Bleckmann, which can serve its European customers and their end customers from here flexibly and 24/7.

Reinardt van Oel, Chief Operations Officer Belgium & UK at Bleckmann: "We are very pleased with this new development in the Kruisem region. Previously completed campus sites in Grobbendonk and Ghent have accelerated the growth of Bleckmann and our customers. It's great to be able to serve the customers from the region even better on this strategically favorable location with our highly experienced team and give them the space to realize their ambitious growth targets."

With the installation of a massive 15-meter-high support beam, partners Bleckmann and MG Real Estate marked the start of the long-term collaboration this afternoon. Bleckmann's new site in Kruisem, MG Crosswoods, will be a modern and spacious distribution center that will also include offices and relaxation areas for employees. The building is expected to be delivered in the first half of 2023.

Thanks to the use of solar panels, heat pumps, smart LED lighting and a gasless installation, MG Crosswood will be completely carbon-neutral. Electric charging stations for cars and bicycles will also ensure that alternative means of transport have their place on the site.

Ignace Tytgat, CEO of MG Real Estate: "MG Crosswoods will be a state-of-the-art distribution center that, in addition to modern and sustainable technologies, can also be adapted to the needs of the user. For example, the building can grow with its user thanks to built-in mezzanines. In this way, the total floor area of 36,000 square meters can be expanded to 80,000 square meters without having an impact on the environment."

Mark Van Onna, General Manager Real Estate at Bleckmann: "In partnership with MG Real Estate, we are able to further flesh out the sustainable growth and expansion of our business in this region that is extremely important to Bleckmann."

It is clear that Bleckmann and MG Real Estate, two strong European players, have found each other completely in this new project.

In addition to warehouse space, MG Crosswoods will also provide offices and recreational areas on the site as well as plenty of green space. This is necessary at a time when a real 'war for talent' is going on. This new fulfillment center will create additional employment in the region.

Moreover, thanks to its flexible organization and because Bleckmann has multiple distribution centers in the region, Bleckmann is creating a campus model that will make it even better able to respond to changing market demands.

In addition, Bleckmann will invest in automation focused on the future. As a logistics expert with an eye for innovation, Bleckmann is constantly looking for smart technologies to serve its customers even more efficiently.