DHL Supply Chain have started to build a new distribution centre (DC) in Rheinbach near Bonn in Germany.

The 35,000 square metre automated storage facility is being built for DHL Supply Chain’s customer Eaton, a power management specialist.

The new DC is expected to be opened in 2019 and will be connected to all modes of transport. It is near the Duisburg / Venlo port of entry.

Under the contract, DHL Supply Chain is serving Eaton’s electrical business from three DCs in Germany, the Czech Republic and UK over the next few years.

The UK site was opened earlier this year. It is currently involved in the modernisation and expansion of the Czech facility.

The new Rheinbach DC is there to support Eaton customers in Western Europe.

DHL Supply Chain and Eaton have developed a concept for the new facility, which includes complete warehouse consolidation ranging from planning, design and equipment to commissioning and regular operation.

Eaton’s power management technologies will be deployed across the facility to meet the Gold Standard 2015 of the German Council for Sustainable Building.

DHL Supply Chain Germany & Alps CEO Karsten Schwarz said: “The construction start for the new warehouse in Rheinbach is another important step in our strategic partnership, in which DHL is building and managing three integrated, high-performance distribution centers for Eaton in Europe.

“This investment reflects the trust and strategic partnership we have with Eaton, who have leveraged our logistics expertise for the past decade.”

Eaton EMEA supply chain vice president Klaus Gäb said: “This new building is a clear demonstration of our joint approach and supports both companies in achieving our growth and sustainability goals.”