Exel builds new distribution center to support U.S./Mexico cross-border supply chains in Laredo, Texas
- 250,000-square-foot facility will break ground in fall 2011
- Expected to generate 100 jobs
WESTERVILLE, Ohio (Sept. 13, 2011) – North American logistics leader Exel, together with DHL Supply Chain, the global market leader in the logistics industry, today announced it will construct a 250,000-square-foot build-to-suit distribution center in Laredo, Texas. Slated for completion in July 2012, the facility will serve as a hub for the company’s Logistics Without Borders supply chain solution. Logistics Without Borders is an end-to-end supply chain solution that provides Exel and DHL Supply Chain customers one-stop access to the tools, expertise and services necessary to ship across the U.S./Mexico border.
The project is expected to generate 100 new jobs initially for the Laredo community, and will be a multi-client, multi-sector operation that supports Exel’s and DHL’s customers’ supply chains on both sides of the border. They anticipate customers from sectors including technology, automotive, engineering and manufacturing. Facility features will include comprehensive logistics services and certifications such as Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA-A) and Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). Facility plans and construction will incorporate sustainability features including energy efficient lighting, landscaping and building materials, as well as low-flow plumbing and a recycling program. The company plans to pursue Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for the site. If received, it will be the first LEED-certified distribution center in Exel’s North American real estate network and in the city of Laredo.
“Laredo is among the top U.S. ports in North American trade volume and is a cornerstone to facilitate U.S./Mexico trade. So this area is absolutely a strategic location for Exel and DHL Supply Chain,” said Luis Eraña, Exel’s president for the technology, aerospace and service logistics industries. “We want to give existing and future customers access to a location and logistics solution that supports cross-border business objectives and also simplifies their logistics processes. This build-to-suit site in Laredo will offer customers the latest in real estate, security and logistics features and offers the potential for a phase two expansion as well.”
Logistics operations at the site will support customers’ international supply chains managed under Exel’s and DHL’s Logistics Without Borders service. Capabilities will include comprehensive managed transportation services, a large trailer yard, warehousing, cross-docking, U.S. and Mexico customs and brokerage, drayage, bonded warehousing, and value-added services such as configuration. Logistics services will be backed by an integrated and bilingual information technology platform that tracks inventory, facilitates and exchanges documentation, and connects into the customs clearance process.
“We want to be our customers’ first choice for supply chain services at the U.S./Mexico border, and this investment illustrates that commitment,” said Gary Allen, Exel’s vice president of product development and innovation. “Beyond infrastructure and systems, however, our competitive advantage is the experience our company brings to cross-border logistics. We have cross-border expertise and an exceptional record in place already and this new distribution center will only help us better serve this growing market.”
To read more about the company’s Logistics Without Borders solution, click here.
About Exel
Exel is the North American leader in contract logistics, providing customer-focused solutions to a wide range of industries including automotive, consumer, retail, engineering and manufacturing, life sciences and healthcare, technology, energy and chemicals. Exel’s innovative supply chain solutions, skilled people and regional coverage bring together all aspects of contract logistics in addition to a wide range of integrated, value-added and specialist services. Exel is a wholly owned entity of Deutsche Post DHL, the world’s leading logistics group. For more information, visit www.exel.com.
DHL
The Logistics company for the world
DHL is the global market leader in the logistics industry and “The Logistics company for the world.” DHL commits its expertise in international express, air and ocean freight, road and rail transportation, contract logistics and international mail services to its customers. A global network composed of more than 220 countries and territories and about 275,000 employees worldwide offers customers superior service quality and local knowledge to satisfy their supply chain requirements. DHL accepts its social responsibility by supporting climate protection, disaster management and education.