Opening of the New Logistics Site in Bottrop: Yusen Logistics (Deutschland) GmbH Sets New Standards in Modern and Sustainable Logistics

Covering an area of just over 100,000 square meters and offering a total storage capacity of up to 50,000 pallet spaces, including a 3,700-square-meter mezzanine, the new center stands as a prime example of modern logistics. The site consists of two distribution units (DC1 and DC2) with a total of 88 loading docks, 25 truck parking spaces, and 164 car parking spaces. The collaboration between Yusen Logistics and Prologis was characterized by exceptional efficiency and sustainability, setting new benchmarks in the industry.

The location stands out particularly in terms of sustainability: Prologis revitalized the former steel industry site and integrated CO₂-reduced building materials, Cradle-to-Cradle-certified components, and a photovoltaic system with a capacity of 3.6 MWp for the site. The sustainable building and the resulting optimization of distribution processes and transport routes will enable Yusen Logistics to save more than 7,000 tons of CO₂ annually. In addition, the building was designed with a strong focus on employee well-being and integrates numerous measures based on the Well Standards - an internationally recognized certification system for health-promoting work environments.

“This center symbolizes the successful integration of Japanese values, such as quality and innovation, with European work culture. It is a place where collaboration and diversity thrive,” stated Toshikazu (Bob) Shiota, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Yusen Logistics (Deutschland) GmbH.

Forward Looking Logistics for Mitsubishi Electric

The new center serves exclusively as the central warehouse for Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V., one of Yusen Logistics’ longest standing and largest clients. With 75 daily incoming and outgoing shipments, the center optimizes the entire supply chain, reduces environmental impact, and enables swift product turnover. The high-quality standards and client-specific services make Bottrop a benchmark project for similar initiatives worldwide. “With this logistics center, we demonstrate how modern supply chains can create real value through efficiency and sustainability. It is not just an investment in our infrastructure but also in the development of our partnerships, with an eye on the challenges and opportunities of a globally connected world,” said Bruno Jacques, Managing Director of Yusen Logistics (Deutschland) GmbH and Yusen Logistics (Benelux) B.V.

A Strong Team for a Strong Future

The logistics center creates jobs for 150 to 200 employees, integrating both existing professionals from the Duisburg region and new talent. Ergonomic workstations, heated warehouses, and green facades contribute to a pleasant working environment. Additionally, the site offers modern offices, comfortable break rooms, and excellent access to shopping and dining options, including a snack bar located directly on the premises.

Strategic Importance for Yusen Logistics

The new site underscores Yusen Logistics’ global growth strategy and marks a significant step in the expansion of its European network. With Bottrop, Yusen Logistics increases its warehouse space in Germany by 57,000 square meters to a total of approximately 217,500 square meters – a 30% growth compared to previous figures. Hiroki Harada, Chairman and Representative Director of Yusen Logistics Co., Ltd., emphasized: “This logistics center embodies our vision of providing globally integrated and sustainable logistics solutions. It demonstrates how we deliver outstanding services to our clients worldwide through local expertise and global standards. Bottrop represents another step in our strategy to expand our presence in Europe while contributing to a greener future.”

A Cultural Highlight for the Opening

The opening ceremony reflected Yusen Logistics’ core values of innovation, connectivity, and cultural diversity. The Japanese Sake Barrel Breaking Ceremony “kagami-biraki”, accompanied by an impressive performance by a Japanese drumming group, underscored the close connection between the company’s Japanese roots and European work culture. The symbolic ribbon-cutting marked the official launch of the new logistics center, ushering in a new era for logistics in Bottrop.

State Secretary Paul Frederik Höller from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Action and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia also acknowledged the project with the words: "The logistics industry keeps North Rhine-Westphalia moving. With state-of-the-art logistics hubs, we are making transport and storage more efficient and sustainable. This secures our leading position as a top logistics location. In Bottrop, Prologis and Yusen Logistics have succeeded in creating an innovative logistics center for heat pumps on a revitalized industrial site. This is good news for the entire region and shows: NRW offers attractive conditions and space for future-oriented investments. The commitment of Mitsubishi Electric also demonstrates that our state remains a top location for Japanese companies."