Million-dollar investment for Thuringian high-tech industries and up to 120 new jobs
DHL Supply Chain It continues to expand its presence in Thuringia: With the traditional Stützenfest, the logistics service provider marked a key construction milestone for its new logistics center in Apolda. By the planned commissioning in March 2027, nearly 27,000 square meters of warehouse space will be created there, tailored to the requirements of regional growth industries. Up to 120 jobs are expected to be created at the site by 2028.
Key facts in summary:
- Project & schedule: New construction in Apolda; foundation work completed; handover scheduled for March 2027.
- Areas: 64,700 m² total area, around 27,000 m² of hall space and 2,300 m² for office and social areas.
- Jobs: Start in spring 2027 with 50 to 70 employees, gradual expansion to up to 120 positions by 2028.
- Focus Contract logistics for high-tech industries (semiconductors, medical technology, batteries), with direct connections to partners such as ZEISS.
- Sustainability: Construction according to the DGNB Gold Standard; equipped with a photovoltaic system, heat pumps, battery storage systems, and electric charging infrastructure.
Together with representatives from politics and business, DHL Supply Chain held a groundbreaking ceremony at the construction site in Apolda. The structural works on the approximately 64,700 square meter site are progressing according to plan. By March 2027, in addition to the pure storage and handling areas, 2,300 square meters of office and social areas will be completed. With the million-dollar investment, DHL aims to provide direct on-site logistics support for the growing high-tech and manufacturing industry in Central Germany.
Strategic location in the Thuringian technology triangle
The decision to choose Apolda was made deliberately: The region of Jena, Erfurt and Weimar is increasingly developing into an important location for semiconductor technology, medical technology and battery production, as Katrin Hölter, Germany head of DHL Supply Chain explains. Thanks to its convenient location, the new building closes an important supply gap in the region. Aiste Slabokaite Heid from the DHL management also emphasizes the advantage of the short distances to key customers such as ZEISS: Only with close proximity could reliable, short-term and crisis-resistant supply chains be guaranteed.
DGNB Gold Standard and regional employment
With its indoor concept, DHL is relying on energy-efficient standards and is aiming for the Gold Certificate of the German Society for Sustainable Building (DGNB). A photovoltaic system on the roof will cover part of the company’s own energy needs in the future, while industrial heat pumps and battery storage systems regulate the energy supply. Charging stations for electric vehicles are also a fixed part of the planning.
For urban development, the large project sends a tangible signal: Apolda Mayor Olaf Müller sees the settlement as a significant boost to the economic location. The staffing process is being carried out gradually. After the opening in spring 2027, initially 50 to 70 employees will take on work, before the workforce is expected to grow to up to 120 employees by 2028.