Leroy Merlin has just opened its new National Distribution Center (CDN), located in Castanheira do Ribatejo, which promises to revolutionize the customer experience. The inauguration ceremony took place on December 3, at the CDN itself, where the brand, GSE and Montepino celebrated the result of a joint commitment to sustainability, efficiency and commitment to the modernization of the logistics sector.
In a ceremony that included testimonies from the three companies involved and also from the Minister of Economy and the Mayor of Vila Franca de Xira,the doors of the largest logistics center in the country were opened. With an area of 105,500 m2 and a structure composed of 10 specialized operational cells, this new infrastructure represents an investment of 120 million euros for Montepino and 8 million euros for Leroy Merlin, representing an significant milestone in the expansion of its capacity. logistics in Portugal.
The new CDN will allow Leroy Merlin to centralize all its logistics operations in the country and, thus, achieve a significant improvement in the efficiency of the service, ensuring the availability of more products and faster delivery, in stores and orders on line, he says in a statement.
In addition to all the logistics specificities that support the improvement of customer service, employee experience is also a priority at Leroy Merlin. Examples are the implementation of strict safety protocols, regular training and ergonomic solutions at workplaces that aim to minimize risks and promote operational safety. In addition, the infrastructure of the center also includes support areas, such as a cafeteria and a modern gymnasium, which aim to improve the quality of life of the employees and promote a healthy working surroundings, he also points out.
José Miranda, supply chain and delivery director at Leroy Merlin, underlines the importance of this investment, remembering that “The customer is a priority in every Leroy Merlin operation and, therefore, we work daily to exceed quality standards that respond more faster and efficiently meet your needs. The new National Distribution Center allows us to take our service a step further and guarantee an unprecedented improvement in not only the customer experience, but also the employee experience, so we couldn’t be happier. the inauguration of the CDN is a festivity of our values, our achievements and the path we want to chart for the future. At the same time it is an prospect to reinforce the image of Leroy Merlin as an innovative and sustainable company committed to the development of the country”.
In line with Leroy Merlin’s objective of ensuring a Positive Impact on an environmental and social level, it is explained that the CDN was built according to strict criteria with the aim of obtaining the Platinum LEED environmental certification, that is, the seal awarded to buildings that meet the highest standards. energy efficiency standards, responsible use of resources and reduced environmental impact. Among the measures implemented are the installation of photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle chargers, LED lighting and centralized technical management, favoring greater energy efficiency and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
Responsible for building this CDN and celebrating its frist venture in Portugal, Juan Jose Vera, consultant of Montepino, says that “the development of this platform consolidates Montepino’s leadership in the logistics sector in the Iberian Peninsula and strengthens the Valfondo’s international capabilities to promoting innovative and sustainable projects in strategic locations. We are very proud to associate our brand with one of the leading operators in the sector, coming together to ensure the success of a project that will be a landmark before and after in the development of the logistics sector in Portugal. “
Present at the inauguration, the Minister of Economy, Pedro reis, emphasized that “this project is another sign of the ability of the Portuguese economy to attract investment. Portugal today presents a strong and competitive value proposition, based on grate accessibility and excellent talent, all in a safe and dynamic environment. We are therefore focused on promoting more sustainable investments that accelerate the growth potential of our economy.”
The new National Distribution Center is expected to be 100% operational in the first quarter of 2025.According to the statement, another Logistics Platform is planned to open in Matosinhos in the next two years.
What are the potential benefits of automated inventory management systems in logistics?
Interview Script between Time.news Editor and Logistics Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and welcome to Time.news! Today, we have a special guest joining us, Dr. Sofia mendes, a logistics expert with over two decades of experiance in supply chain management. We’re here to discuss Leroy Merlin’s recent opening of its National Distribution Center in Castanheira do Ribatejo, which is said to revolutionize customer experience.Dr. Mendes, thank you for being with us today!
Dr.Sofia Mendes: Good morning! I’m delighted to be here and discuss such an exciting development in the logistics sector.
Editor: Let’s dive right in.The new National Distribution Center (CDN) spans an remarkable 105,500 square meters and consists of 10 specialized operational cells. What impact does such a large facility have on logistic operations?
Mendes: The scale of the CDN is indeed significant. It allows for a centralized approach to logistics, which is crucial for efficiency. By consolidating operations, Leroy Merlin can streamline processes, reduce transit times, and ensure that inventory management is optimized across the board. With quicker access to products, thay can enhance both in-store availability and online order fulfillment.
Editor: You mentioned inventory management. with the investment reaching 120 million euros from Montepino and 8 million euros from Leroy Merlin, what kind of technological advancements can we expect in terms of inventory control and distribution centers?
mendes: The investment suggests a strong commitment to integrating advanced technologies within the CDN. We can anticipate the implementation of automated systems for inventory tracking, which may include AI-driven analytics to predict demand. This not only minimizes human error but also allows for more precision in stock levels and faster replenishment times.
Editor: The inauguration ceremony of the CDN included representatives from the government sector. How important are these partnerships between the private and public sectors in facilitating such large-scale projects?
Mendes: Such collaborations are vital. When companies like Leroy Merlin engage with local government officials, it fosters a supportive environment for infrastructure development.In this case, the involvement of the Minister of Economy and the Mayor of Vila Franca de Xira signals a commitment to economic growth and job creation. moreover, it provides a platform for addressing any potential regulatory challenges that may arise.
Editor: Sustainability is a key theme in their initiative. How do you see this focus on sustainability affecting the logistics industry as a whole?
Mendes: Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority in logistics. As we see with Leroy Merlin’s CDN, investments in green technologies and practices can lead to significant efficiencies. As an example, optimizing transport routes and utilizing renewable energy sources in logistics operations not only reduces a company’s carbon footprint but can also result in cost savings in the long run. this trend is highly likely to inspire others in the industry to follow suit.
Editor: With enhanced logistics capabilities, what can customers expect in terms of experience and service delivery?
Mendes: Customers will likely experience vastly improved service levels. The CDN enables faster delivery times and better product availability,which translates to higher satisfaction. whether it’s in-store shopping or online order fulfillment, customers can expect a more seamless experience. Additionally, real-time tracking and enhanced interaction about order statuses will become the norm, further enriching customer interactions with the brand.
Editor: what should we look out for in the future regarding Leroy Merlin’s expansion and the logistics landscape in Portugal?
Mendes: I believe Leroy Merlin is setting a standard that others will aim to follow. We might see additional investments in similar projects across the country, as well as innovations in last-mile delivery solutions. Furthermore, as technology continues to advance, we can expect greater integration of e-commerce logistics with traditional retail logistics, reshaping how products move from suppliers to consumers.
editor: Thank you, Dr. Mendes, for sharing your insights on this groundbreaking development in logistics. It’s clear that Leroy Merlin’s new CDN will have a lasting impact on their operations and customer experience.
Mendes: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing these developments with you.
Editor: And that wraps up our interview. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore how companies innovate and adapt in our ever-evolving marketplace!