DHL invests $17m in new cargo facility at Brisbane Airport

DHL Global Forwarding is investing $17 million over the next ten years for its new cargo facility in Brisbane Airport, with a groundbreaking ceremony taking place on 30 May.

The freight specialist said that its new 4,880 square metre facility also houses the largest international cold chain services in Brisbane, which is set to meet the rising demand for perishables.

It is also set to support the growth of general cargo in Queensland.

“The expansion of our facilities at Brisbane airport reflects the tremendous growth in exports, especially perishable food,” said George Lawson, Managing Director at DHL Global Forwarding Australia

“Brisbane’s economy is predicted to surge by 2031 and with this new facility, we are ready to support our customers’ growth,” Lawson said.

DHL said that the new site is set to be ready by 2023.

The facility’s location at Brisbane Airport also enables DHL to offer air side access, making it the first and only freight forwarder to have such access, and is close to the Port of Brisbane.

Sustainability was one of the key priorities in the design of the facility, which features solar panels, reusable batteries to power most of the warehouse operations, rainwater harvesting and EV charging stations.

According to Green Building Council of Australia, the facility has a 5 green star rating.

“A lot of thought went into the design of the new operation. It will assist our customers trade efficiently. It is also a sustainable facility to help our customers achieve a greener supply chain,” Lawson said.

DHL also announced that plans are in the works to introduce carbon offsetting and insetting for a carbon neutral supply chain for customers.

The new ‘sustainable facility’ is also designed to support employees.

“We want this new facility to be a great place to work for our people,” said Lachlan Elliot, Station Manager – Queensland at DHL Global Forwarding Australia.

“Interactive screens together with a flexible workspace are designed to facilitate virtual and physical collaboration,” Elliot said.