Barry Callebaut opens sustainable ‘Chocolate Box’ warehouse in Belgium

Costing €100m, the new global distribution centre in Lokeren, Belgium, is the largest investment to date in Barry Callebaut’s operations network – and it will centralise and increase the efficiency of the Group’s global logistics.

The Chocolate Box is also the first building in the Benelux region with a 'BREEAM Outstanding' certification, the highest standard in sustainable logistics.

The building is fully energy-positive, as it can completely fulfil its own energy consumption. In order to achieve this certificate, the newest techniques in sustainable building have been used: solar panels, air treatment groups, rain water and heat recovery, humidity control, insulation and geothermal energy.

Barry Callebaut also said the wellbeing of its employees, an essential part of the 'BREEAM Outstanding' certification, is ensured through access to natural daylight throughout the building, zones for relaxation and storage facilities for e-bikes.

Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group, said at the inauguration: “The Chocolate Box is a milestone for Barry Callebaut. From Lokeren, all packed chocolate products – mainly under our Belgian chocolate brand Callebaut – will be shipped to the rest of the world. The Chocolate Box is an example of how we execute our smart growth strategy, increasing efficiency and serving our customers in a more sustainable way​. “

• The Chocolate Box is the result of a successful partnership between Barry Callebaut, the real estate developer WDP and the city of Lokeren.