'Landmark' Dh1B logistics facility opens in Dubai

Dubai - Retail firms investing in logistics supply chain as demand from online platforms continues to remain strong

Landmark Group, owned by Dubai-based billionaire Micky Jagtiani, on Wednesday opened a Dh1 billion fully-automated distribution and warehousing centre in Jebel Ali Free Zone, which is said to be the largest in the region, enhancing Dubai's position as a hub for logistics and trade.
Renuka Jagtiani, chairwoman and CEO of Landmark Group, said that the group is committed to this market. "Through the years, we have seen Dubai emerge as a global and economic business hub, giving us the opportunity to innovate and invest in the most advanced technology and processes for our business. Today, innovation drives economic growth and development, greatly influencing the modern industry," she said.
Despite a slowdown in the brick-and-mortar business, retail companies are investing in their logistics supply chain, as demand from online platforms continues to remain strong.
Landmark's new facility, spread across 700,000sqft, will meet the needs of group's 2,300 outlets across nearly four dozen brands in the region.
It was inaugurated by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, and the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority.
"Customers are looking for speed, transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness. A new approach is necessary to meet their demands along the supply chain. By promoting technological advances that benefit the industry, the economy and the community in which we operate Landmark Group and DP World are united in our journey," Bin Sulayem said.
The distribution centre will process 300 million units per year, inter-changeably handling pallets, cartons, pieces and garments-on-hanger.
"In a fast-paced retail world where the need for speed, flexibility and agility in the market is higher than ever before, our facility has been designed to meet the changing market needs, increase productivity and cater to the business of tomorrow," said Mihin Shah, chief supply chain officer of Landmark Group.
Also present at the opening of the facility was Rahul Jagtiani, group director for digital at Landmark Group.
The distribution centre plans to meet 50 per cent of its energy requirements through an 8.2 MWP rooftop solar system.
- waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com