The Kion Group has commissioned its new "KION Regional Distribution Center Central Europe" (KION RDC CE) at the Kahl am Main site. The investment volume for the highly automated spare parts distribution center was around 90 million euros. With the new center, Kion aims to strengthen its presence in Central Europe and take a step towards optimizing its supply chains.
"We want to grow," said Markus Kellermann, head of the Kahl site, about the motivation for the establishment of the new logistics center in an interview with LOGISTIK HEUTE. "On the one hand, we needed a new warehouse because the old one had become too small. For this, we sought a new opportunity. On the other hand, we naturally wanted to improve."
The Kion Group describes the new spare parts distribution center as a "pioneering showcase project for integrated
solutions" of the company. On an area of around 22,000 square meters, the entire range of the group's capabilities is demonstrated – from automation and digital technology to safety and energy solutions, and integrated material flow systems. The complex construction project was realized in close collaboration with the Kion brands Linde Material Handling and Dematic, which also act as integrated solution providers in major customer projects.
"With the highly automated 'KION Regional Distribution Center Central Europe,' we ensure long-term fast and reliable spare parts supply for our customers in Germany and neighboring markets," said Andreas Krinninger, President KION ITS EMEA. "This flagship project impressively demonstrates the comprehensive capabilities of the Kion Group and combines the most modern automation, digitization, safety, and energy technologies from our two segments – Industrial Trucks & Services and Supply Chain Solutions."
The new spare
parts distribution center not only improves their service quality and delivery performance but also strengthens the resilience and sustainability of their supply chain.
The warehouse layout has been designed by Kion for high efficiency and flexibility. It features a 30-meter high, fully automated high-bay warehouse with six aisles, as well as a powerful multishuttle system with around 110,000 locations. The equipment is complemented by an "intelligent material flow" with continuous conveyor technology from Dematic, as well as Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and classic industrial trucks from Linde Material Handling, which are intended to enable fast and precise processing of customer orders.
"With our new distribution center, we have not only created a state-of-the-art logistics building but also set a strong example for the region," said Kellermann, who is also the project manager for the conception and implementation of the
spare parts warehouse.
The investment of around 90 million euros is a clear commitment to the Kahl location with its highly dedicated team and the very supportive collaboration with the community. He is particularly proud of the sustainable construction and the high acceptance on site. The distribution center is a future project – for the Kion Group and for the region.
By repurposing the traditional site, a modern, sustainable building has been created, according to the company. Kion relies on a CO₂-free heating system, a photovoltaic system for power generation, and environmentally friendly construction. Additional sealing of surfaces is avoided, and ecological compensation measures are integrated. The implementation of the project was supported by the Kahl community, local plant management, the works council, and the workforce. Many employees come from the region, and the new distribution center creates qualified
