The facility is the largest investment Barry Callebaut has ever made in its operations network, costing EUR 100 million.
The Barry Callebaut Group, the world’s largest cocoa and chocolate producer, opened its new Global Distribution Center in Lokeren, Belgium, today, dubbed “The Barry Callebaut Chocolate Box.”
The Chocolate Box will be the logistical hub for all packed Belgian chocolate and decorated products made in Barry Callebaut’s chocolate plants in Wieze and Halle, Belgium.
The Chocolate Box is the product of a successful collaboration between Barry Callebaut, WDP, and the municipality of Lokeren.
It is the largest investment Barry Callebaut has ever made in its operations network, with a total investment of EUR 100 million. The Chocolate Box boosts Barry Callebaut’s global logistical efficiency and allows the company to reach clients even faster.
The warehouse in Lokeren is conveniently placed along the E17 highway, allowing carriers to move goods throughout Western Europe and providing easy access to the Port of Antwerp for international shipping.
In the summer of 2019, work on the project began. The structure, which covered the equivalent of 12 football fields, was built in less than 24 months. Up to 125 000 pallets may be held at a constant temperature of 18°C in the fully automated high bay warehouse, which stands 41 metres tall. Over 120 personnel, 40 of whom are in newly formed jobs, ensure that operations run smoothly.
The building was the first in the Benelux to receive the “BREEAM Outstanding” certification.
Not only is the Barry Callebaut Chocolate Box the world’s largest chocolate warehouse, but it’s also the most environmentally friendly.
The Chocolate Box is the first building in the Benelux to receive the highest level of sustainable logistics certification, “BREEAM Outstanding.” The structure is completely energy-positive, as it can completely meet its own energy needs. Solar panels, air treatment groups, rain water and heat recovery, humidity management, insulation, and geothermal energy were employed to earn this certificate.
Employee well-being is assured by natural lighting throughout the building, relaxation zones, and e-bike storage facilities, all of which contribute to the “BREEAM Outstanding” rating.
“The Chocolate Box represents a watershed moment for the Barry Callebaut Group,” stated Peter Boone, CEO. “All packed chocolate goods will be sent to the rest of the world from Lokeren, mostly under our Belgian chocolate brand Callebaut. The Chocolate Box is an example of how we implement our smart growth plan by enhancing efficiency and providing more sustainable service to our clients.”