GSK, MG Real Estate, and Yusen Logistics Benelux today inaugurated a new pharmaceutical warehouse in Gembloux, Wallonia. The 40,000 sqm facility, the largest biopharmaceutical logistics centre in Wallonia, features advanced technologies such as automated mobile robots, automated packaging systems, and sorting devices. This facility will enable Belgium’s largest pharmaceutical company to store and export millions of vaccines and raw materials to over 160 countries. The warehouse will be 100% powered by green energy and certified to the BREEAM Excellent rating. The inauguration ceremony took place in the presence of Willy Borsus, Vice-President of the Walloon government and Minister of Economy & Research.
The newly established Yusen Logistics Distribution Centre, the largest logistics facility in Wallonia and within GSK’s global network, is set to commence operations in the first week of July, following a successful audit by the Belgian health authorities. Valued at €50 million, the centre can store up to 42,000 pallets, with flexible storage options facilitated by a 7,000 sqm cold room and a 700 sqm freezer compartment. Equipped with advanced technologies including automated mobile robots, self-driving vehicles, and sorting equipment, the facility will enable GSK to efficiently manage raw materials and distribute vaccines to over 160 countries. As a result, the centre will support the daily export of 1 million vaccine doses.
While the loading and unloading of goods will continue to be performed manually, the introduction of a goods-to-person process will significantly ease the workload for employees. This system allows for goods to be automatically picked by robots, eliminating the need for workers to move around. Additionally, high-capacity shuttle devices, automatic packaging systems, and sorting machines will be utilized.
Designed to meet the highest standards of environmental sustainability, the centre will be certified to the BREEAM* ‘excellent’ standard. It will be powered entirely by green energy, facilitated by solar panels covering the entire building and an intelligent energy management system. These sustainable measures align with GSK’s goal of operating entirely on renewable electricity by 2025 and achieving a net positive impact on nature by 2030. Automated processes for road and sea transport, along with semi-automated preparations for air transport, will ensure shorter delivery times and greater flexibility to meet the needs of patients globally.
