Sustainable Lidl distribution centre in Almere
Ever since 2013, supermarket chain Lidl has been constructing all its distribution centres to the highest possible sustainability standards: the BREEAM Outstanding score. The distribution centre now under construction in Almere will also meet these high sustainability requirements. Although Lidl is going one step further with this distribution centre: the porter’s lodge will be fully circular and sectional.
Why this new distribution centre?
The distribution centre in Zwaag was becoming too restricted and did not have any options for expansion. For that reason, Lidl Netherlands decided to build an additional distribution centre at another location: the Stichtsekant industrial estate in Almere. In September 2020, Lidl embarked on the construction of its new distribution centre, which is expected to be completed by December 2021.
What makes the building so sustainable?
BREEAM is a sustainability standard for construction projects. To achieve a BREEAM score of “Outstanding”, a building must meet a range of sustainability requirements. That is why Lidl is taking nine sustainability themes into account in the design and construction of the distribution centre: energy, ecology, management, health, transport, water, material, waste, and pollution. In addition to the use of energy-efficient and CO2-conscious construction methods, climate adaptation and biodiversity will also be factored in. For example, Lidl has drawn up a nature plan for the premises surrounding the distribution centre. The greenery is composed of trees and several plant species, in order to accommodate a range of wildlife. Rainwater falling on the premises will be collected and filtered in wadis. All the rainwater collected will be reused to flush toilets in the new distribution centre and to irrigate the greenery during periods of drought.
Circular porter’s lodge
At the new distribution centre, Lidl Netherlands will provide a sectional porter’s lodge, composed of elements that can be dismantled and re-assembled. The fact is that in the future, the porter’s lodge might not be needed anymore. In that case, Lidl can use these elements to construct another branch establishment. The sectional porter’s lodge is constructed of circular material. For example, its wooden structure will be insulated using old staff polo shirts. The wooden structure has been treated with natural materials and does not require any paint or coating. The lighting is composed of maize products.
Lessons to be learned
Good communication is vitally important in the construction of a sustainable distribution centre. That is why Lidl has involved every relevant party at an early stage of the process: the municipality of Almere; the environmental service; the fire brigade; local residents; consultants; and several departments of its own organisation, such as Logistics, Legal Affairs, Procurement, HSE, IT, Energy, and Facility. Other important factors are the enthusiasm among members of the project team and sufficient preparation time. The preparation time ensures that Lidl can cope with any obstacles that might result in delays, whilst the enthusiasm ensures that the project will get off the ground and that Lidl can make it a success.
Contact
Lidl Nederland GmbH
035-5287287
www.vastgoed-lidl.nl