IKEA has unveiled a new CDC in India, with a storage capacity of 12,000 m³. The facility will allow IKEA to fulfil orders within 24 hours, enhancing delivery efficiency. The CDC is integrated with Rhenus Warehouse Management System (WMS). This logistics solution streamlines transactions through Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and simplifies the complexities of last-mile logistics. This move is set to strengthen IKEA's commitment to delivering exceptional service to its growing customer base in India.
The CDC has advanced storage and material handling systems; the eco-friendly facility aims to boost efficiency and productivity. With cutting-edge infrastructure, the CDC is set to streamline operations and ensure seamless regional order fulfilment.
Situated approximately 35 kilometres from the airport, the CDC for IKEA is located in Farrukh-Nagar, Gurugram, and well connected to the region's rail, road, and air channels. The CDC will hire close to 150 employees and provide inclusive facilities for their well-being, including healthcare support, emergency-ready infrastructure, a cafeteria and a training hall. It will explore opportunities to deploy specially abled personnel to support their aspirations to contribute and grow within the system.
In the logistics sector, warehouse activities produce approximately 11 per cent of total greenhouse gases emitted. Sustainable features are prioritised in the CDC, from paper pallets, rainwater harvesting systems, LED lights with motion sensors, transparent sheets for daylights in the warehouse, paperless picking systems leveraging RDT scanners, and HVLS fans to a robust waste management system. Renewable energy initiatives are also implemented, such as intra-modal rail transport and 100 per cent electric vehicle (EV) delivery.
"We at IKEA are thrilled to begin our North India journey finally. The IKEA Customer Distribution Center (CDC) will enable us to serve many more people with our beautiful home furnishings products and solutions. This is a movement towards a future where speed, sustainability, and accessibility will define the IKEA experience in North India. Every order is fulfilled with care for both people and the planet. With close to 100 per cent EV deliveries, we are setting a new industry benchmark in the category as a responsible retailer. We look forward to a great partnership with Rhenus in this journey", said Saiba Suri, Country Customer Fulfilment Manager, IKEA India.
Ronny Sassen, CEO of Rhenus Contract Logistics, said, "As we embark on the next chapter of our expansion with IKEA, our first venture for IKEA outside Europe, we reaffirm the strength of our four-decade-long partnership. The establishment of IKEA's first fully outsourced Central Distribution Centre (CDC) marks a significant operational milestone. More than just efficiency, this initiative reflects our shared vision for innovation, sustainability, and especially long-term collaboration. By leveraging Rhenus' expertise in warehousing and fulfilment, we are committed to meeting the evolving demands of IKEA's customers while embedding sustainable practices into our daily operations. Together, we continue to drive excellence, shaping a more resilient and responsible supply chain for the future."
Vivek Arya, CEO of Rhenus Logistics India & Global CEO of Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Intercontinental, said, "The completion of this new warehousing project in India showcases our commitment to providing comprehensive logistics solutions and marks a significant milestone in our journey with IKEA in India, and beyond. As IKEA grows on its strategic expansion in India, we look forward to continuing to be their valued partner in the long run, driven by zeal, zest, and a shared vision for excellence."
