Astra Logistics warehouse at Evergem /02 Sep 2002/

Astra Logistics, a company of the Ahlers Group, will soon start building a 25.000 m2 warehouse at Evergem (close to Ghent). The global sum to be invested amounts to 12 million €. The warehouse will be operational as from half 2003. 20 to 24 new staff will be employed in the new warehouse. Astra Logistics recently obtained the building and exploitation permit, as well as all environmental authorisations required before building. The purchase of the land (46.000 m2) has been completed.

Astra Logistics is already present in the Ghent area through its site located 'Wiedauwkaai' (10.000 m2 warehousing capacity) from where both local clients and foreign companies are served, the latter using Astra Logistics as their European distribution centre.

'This investment wants to be the answer to the local markets' increasing needs for more logistical services. Ghent as a location is a privileged place to be, as 60% of the purchasing power is located within a 500 km range. In order to meet the demand for additional warehousing space, we have had to rent warehouses.', explains Alfons De Jonghe, Astra Logistics' General Manager. 'The new warehouse will be built in accordance with the latest technical and environmental standards and in line with the ruling safety regulations.'

'This project fits in a global investment programme amounting to 22 million € that was approved at the beginning of this year', according to Christian Leysen, Chairman of Ahlers. 'We are convinced of the high potential of a logistical platform on various and complementary locations in Flanders.

For more information, please contact Mr Alfons De Jonghe, tel +32 92544444 or by mail