DHL Global Forwarding has invested R127m (US$7m) in a 10,000m2 trans-shipment airport hub and head office in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The primarily solar-powered complex has been developed in the Sky Park Industrial Estate to provide access to OR Tambo International Airport. The facility includes offices and a 10,000m2 warehouse. It will serve as a hub for transport, logistics and warehouse solutions, as well as international freight expertise for different industries. This includes a focus on Africa’s life sciences and healthcare (LSH) sector, which is one of the booming industries in the country, with an expected annual growth rate of 6.3% and anticipated revenue of €7.1bn (US$6.9bn) by 2023. To serve the needs of the LSH sector, the site has been designed to meet the DHL Global GxP Pharma standards and the highest Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) security standards. The facility is also expected to create skilled jobs in Johannesburg, as DHL Global Forwarding has expanded its total workforce in South Africa by 11% since 2021.
Amadou Diallo, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding in the Middle East and Africa, said, “We are proud that this new facility was built to the highest standards of sustainability and energy efficiency in line with DHL Global Forwarding’s goal of reaching net zero logistics-related emissions by 2050. Already, our climate protection initiatives and CO2 emissions reduction programs have had a positive impact on logistics supply chains globally, and building sustainable infrastructure like this solar-powered facility takes us closer to our goal.”
At the facility’s opening ceremony, Clement Blanc, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding for South Africa (SA) & Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), said, “A new facility in Johannesburg is a natural next step in our efforts to support economic growth and accelerate the pace of supply chain transformation ongoing in South Africa. This facility expands global connections to Africa, ensuring that sectors like LSH can operate smoothly, access an efficient and reliable logistics network, and continue to grow.
“The strategic location of our new facility at OR Tambo will enable us to enhance our service offering to clients. We are excited to be able to transport both time- and temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical goods and health products, among other services. I am confident in our ability to assist our customers in developing and expanding their businesses and continuing to aid the socio-economic growth of South Africa and the greater Sub-Saharan African region.”
