Arvato Launches High-Tech Shuttle Storage System to Revolutionize H&M’s Polish Distribution Center

Boosting Logistics Efficiency for H&M in Central and Eastern Europe

H&M’s logistics in Central and Eastern Europe is stepping up a notch with modern automation technology. Arvato has expanded its e-commerce distribution center in Stryków, Poland, to incorporate a state-of-the-art automated shuttle storage system capable of holding up to 270,000 boxes. This upgrade promises faster, more flexible handling of goods, ensuring rapid response to market demands.

A Record-Breaking Automation Installation

This new system represents the largest of its kind in Central Europe and marks the first deployment of such automation technology in Arvato’s Polish facilities. The heart of this upgrade lies in the installation of a KNAPP shuttle system, occupying roughly 10,000 square meters within the expanded warehouse space.

The shuttle system features 16 storage levels spread across 15 aisles, managed by 144 high-speed shuttles zipping along at speeds of up to 70 km/h. This setup is integrated with approximately five kilometers of conveyor belts, allowing swift product storage and retrieval.

Warehouse Expansion and Advanced Storage Techniques

Alongside the shuttle system, a new warehouse hall with high-rack storage has been constructed. It employs self-propelled reach trucks to pick orders from racks as tall as 8.7 meters. After an extension adding 16,000 square meters—including mezzanine floors—the Stryków site now totals 98,000 square meters, over 31,000 of which are mezzanines. This substantial scale positions the facility as a key logistics hub for H&M’s operations in the region.

Challenges in Integrating Sophisticated Logistics Technologies

Setting up this automated system wasn’t without its hurdles. Integrating multiple IT systems and infrastructure required meticulous coordination between Arvato and their vendors. Additionally, compliance with fire protection standards during installation was crucial. On top of the technical complexity, Arvato invested heavily in staff training to ensure smooth operation of the new technologies.

Complete Process Automation from Dock to Storage

The shuttle system marks full automation of the inbound goods process — from the unloading dock right through to storage in high racks or shuttle units. This seamless flow reduces manual handling, accelerates processing times, and cuts down errors, a real win for operational efficiency.

This milestone represents a significant enhancement in Arvato and H&M’s partnership which began back in 2018. The prospect of providing outstanding customer experience across the region is front and center, with a clear focus on adapting to available technological advancements.

Strategic Regional Logistics Hub for H&M

Operating within Arvato’s global network as a regional logistics center, the Stryków plant provides fast deliveries across several Central and Eastern Polish markets. This positioning is boosted by Poland’s favorable market conditions, supporting both Arvato’s and H&M’s international growth ambitions.

Arvato boasts 16 distribution centers in Poland alone, with over 360,000 square meters of storage space spread across seven locations, further underscoring their logistics muscle in the country.

How Automated Logistics Systems Shape the Supply Chain

Automation in logistics isn’t just a shiny gadget—it’s a game changer. Systems like shuttle storage and automated conveyors drive faster turnover times, reduce labor dependency, and improve accuracy in order fulfillment. For a global fashion retailer like H&M, timing is everything, especially during peak seasons when logistics bottlenecks can mean lost sales.

On the logistics front, these technologies optimize warehouse footprint, enable dynamic inventory management, and enhance data visibility across the supply chain—critical aspects to keep freight and shipments flowing smoothly from factory floors to customers’ hands.

Последствия для логистической отрасли

Arvato’s move reflects a broader trend where warehousing and distribution centers evolve into high-tech hubs supporting rapid e-commerce and omnichannel retail demands. As more operators adopt automation, logistics chains become more integrated and scalable, ready to meet surging volumes and complex order patterns.

This shift affects freight forwarding, haulage planning, and last-mile delivery strategies, where speed and reliability reign supreme. Investment in such infrastructure signals serious commitment to supply chain excellence—something every logistics professional watches closely.

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Looking Ahead: What This Means for Global Logistics

This advancement may not shake the global logistics landscape overnight, but it signifies how regional leaders are embracing innovation to stay competitive and proactive. Rapid automation deployments such as Arvato’s setup in Poland pave the way for more intelligent, data-driven freight and distribution networks worldwide.

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Заключение

The launch of Arvato’s modern automated shuttle storage system marks a milestone in logistics efficiency for H&M’s operations in Poland. Combining large-scale warehouse expansion with cutting-edge automation technology boosts speed, flexibility, and accuracy crucial for handling vast volumes of goods in dynamic markets.

This progress mirrors the broader logistics industry’s shift toward automation to meet growing e-commerce demands and complex supply chains. Whether for bulky freight, pallets, or international shipments, such innovations enhance the entire freight distribution process.

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