Autumn 2014
Retail giant IKEA is to build a regional distribution centre in the world’s first purpose-built aerotropolis in Dubai World Central as it continues to expand in the Gulf region.
The world’s largest furnishing company will base its distribution hub in DWC’s Logistics District and is scheduled for completion in September 2015.
“It is only fitting that a venture of such significance and proportion happens in DWC,” said Rashid Bu’qaraa, chief operating officer of Dubai World Central.
“We are more than a gateway to the MENASA region – we are a gateway to the world. Being selected as the future logistics platform for global companies such as IKEA… is how we plan to step into the future.”
This is IKEA Group’s first direct investment in the region. The centre will initially employ 230 people and have the capacity to handle 50,000 twenty-foot equivalent containers (TEUs) per year, increasing to 70,000 TEUs per year within three years.
The new distribution centre in DWC will enable IKEA to deliver fast-moving products more efficiently to stores across the GCC, cutting distribution costs and shipment times.
The build-to-suit facility is being developed through a joint venture between DWC and Gulf Resources Development & Investment (GRDI), a real estate development and investment company.
“We are delighted to be working on this major project in a joint venture with DWC,” said Jim Osborne, chief operating officer of GRDI. “Our active involvement in building one of the largest distribution centres in Dubai demonstrates our strength in developing such large-scale ventures. All initial planning has been completed.”
Any further questions?
If you have any further questions about this article, feel free to contact us.
Get in touch