Fiege wins tender for 3M Central European Distribution Center operations

As a result of a long-term tender and the consideration of various solutions, the implementation of the 3M Central European Distribution Center (CEDC) project has been entrusted to Fiege. The scope of services includes: customer order fulfillment, supplying other 3M warehouses in the Eastern European region, warehousing and distribution, value-added services and other activities related to adapting items to local requirements (e.g., creating promotional sets), as well as maintaining delivery documentation in multiple languages.

– We are pleased with winning the tender and expanding our existing cooperation with 3M. This is undoubtedly not only a significant success but also a major challenge. We will make every effort to fulfill the entrusted tasks as best as possible – said Piotr Kohmann, CEO of Fiege Sp. z o.o.

– The proposal submitted by Fiege in the tender process for the operation of the new Central European Distribution Center made a great impression on us – added Paul Davis, Director of 3M European Distribution Network. – For the first time, 3M is outsourcing the operation of a European Distribution Center to an external logistics provider. The good cooperation with Fiege to date, as well as the confidence that they demonstrate due diligence and attention in resolving important issues, were key factors that contributed to Fiege winning the tender.

The new 3M CEDC will be located in Silesia (in Dąbrowa Górnicza). This location coincides with the “center of gravity” for the Central and Eastern European region and also has good connections to major cities in Poland and the region. Additionally, it offers relatively good road infrastructure to the main markets of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary, which can be served within 24 or 48 hours. Furthermore, the region is characterized by a still competitive cost level and offers access to a qualified workforce. The facility in Dąbrowa Górnicza was built in 2005. The area occupied by Fiege is 45,000 sq m. The Class A facility, offering customs warehouse services, is equipped with a sprinkler system, CCTV and 24/7 monitoring, and has direct access to a railway siding. The total area designated for 3M operations is 15,000 sq m. Storage will take place in a wide-aisle racking system, with appropriate fire protection also adapted for the storage of hazardous products. Pharmaceutical and dental products will be stored in a specially separated and adapted part of the warehouse, where specific storage conditions (temperature and humidity) will be strictly controlled.

The launch of operations is planned for January 2008.