Barry Callebaut’s brand-new worldwide distribution centre that WDP’s constructing in Lokeren was impressive even on paper. But it’s only now that we’re in the home stretch of the project, that it’s become apparent, just how impressive this massive development really is.

The construction of the world’s biggest chocolate warehouse has entered its final phase. Soon, this will be the logistics hub that ensures your favourite chocolate delights are available in stores around the globe.

Want to read up on the most recent progress? Then sink your teeth into this status update!

Lokeren will become the logistical hub for Barry Callebaut’s worldwide operations. To guarantee success, the company can rely on a distribution centre that boasts up to 60,000 m² of storage capacity!

To put that into perspective: this chocolate warehouse is set to store no less than 123,000 pallets! 83,000 of them will be managed through full automation in the innovative high-build. The automation system is supported by 13 high-tech cranes designed to autonomously place pallets in their precise location. Talk about innovation through technology!

So, what are our developers and contractors doing in these final months to ensure delivery within the agreed deadline?

• They’re installing the cranes, monorail and conveyor belts in the high-rise;
• They’re installing all the racks in the low-rise, where HVAC is already operational; and
• They’re working hard to finish and deliver the new offices.

Construction commenced at the beginning of January 2020. The entire site will be operational by the 17^th of July 2021.

• 1^st of June, the first batch of chocolate products will be handled in the low-rise;
• 14^th of June, automation systems will be fully operational; and
• 17^th of July, the offices will be delivered, as a capstone for the project.

A daring exploit in planning and development, to the contentment of both developer and client.