Operational start in Gdańsk: Nagel-Group opens new logistics hub in Poland
Gdańsk – With the official opening of its new site in Gdańsk, Nagel-Group strengthens its temperature-controlled logistics network in Poland. Developed in partnership with LemonTree, the new facility significantly enhances operational efficiency and provides state-of-the-art infrastructure for handling sensitive food products.
Robert Katafiasz, Managing Director of Nagel Polska, speaks about the strategic importance of the new site, sustainability ambitions and what the opening means for customers and employees.
The project in Gdańsk has now been completed and operations have officially started. What does this milestone mean for you and for Nagel Polska?
Robert Katafiasz: It’s a very proud moment for us. For me personally, this opening is the result of many months of close collaboration, planning and commitment from our teams. The Gdańsk project is part of a wider, long-term investment programme and a strong example of how we are continuously modernising our infrastructure in Poland. The new site also strengthens our connection to the larger Nagel-Group network across Europe. Being part of such a wide-reaching system means we can provide seamless, high-quality logistics not only locally but all across Europe.
Robert Katafiasz, Managing Director of Nagel Polska
How did the ramp-up phase go and what were the main challenges to get things up and running?
The ramp‑up phase went very well overall — thanks to strong planning and close collaboration across all teams. We implemented everything step by step, which allowed us to test systems, fine‑tune processes and ensure that quality and safety standards were consistently met before full operation.
Of course, like any project of this scale, there were challenges that required extra attention to detail, but thanks to open communication with partners and a very committed in‑house team, we were able to address these issues quickly and keep the schedule on track. In the end, we managed a smooth transition from construction to full operational readiness, and we’re now fully delivering for our customers.
Modern infrastructure was a key focus of the project. Which technological solutions have been implemented at the site?
Food logistics requires absolute precision. The new site combines ambient storage, chilled zones and a large cross-docking warehouse under one roof. All temperature zones are equipped with modern glycol-ammonia cooling systems to ensure consistent conditions.
Importantly, we have also future-proofed the building. The structure allows us to add additional cooling chambers later on, including for frozen goods, without interfering with ongoing operations. That flexibility gives us a real competitive advantage.
How does the new facility enhance your service offering and create added value for your customers?
Beyond storage, we have integrated a dedicated co-packing area on a mezzanine level. This allows us to provide value-added services such as packaging, labelling and promotional bundling directly on site. For many of our customers, especially in retail, that flexibility is extremely important. At the same time, our customers expect reliability, speed and the highest quality standards, particularly when it comes to sensitive, temperature-controlled goods. With this new facility, we are fully equipped to meet and even exceed those expectations.
Sustainability played a major role during the planning phase. How has that been implemented?
Sustainability was not an add-on; it was integral to the concept. The building was designed to be highly energy-efficient, using heat pumps to supply the office and warehouse areas. We also reuse waste heat from the refrigeration systems, which helps us significantly reduce overall energy consumption.
Another key element will be a 1.5 MWp photovoltaic system planned for installation on the roof, which will allow us to generate a substantial share of our electricity on site. In addition, rainwater collection and reuse systems are being implemented, for example to maintain green areas and clean trailers.
All of these measures help us lower our environmental footprint while ensuring efficient and reliable day-to-day operations.
How important was the collaboration with LemonTree for this project?
It was essential. LemonTree brought expertise in developing tailored logistics facilities and worked closely with us to ensure the building met our operational, technological, and sustainability requirements. Their partnership allowed us to turn our vision into a fully functional, future-ready centre.
How have your employees adapted to the new Gdańsk centre?
The transition from our previous site in Gdańsk has been a real team effort. Our employees adapted quickly to the modern systems and processes, enabling us to run operations efficiently from day one. The new site offers great working conditions, combining a modern, comfortable environment with the tools and layout needed for high productivity.
I’d like to thank every colleague for their dedication, flexibility and hard work throughout this project. Their commitment has been key to making the opening a success, and it’s great to see them take pride in a facility that sets new standards for quality, sustainability and logistics excellence.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Robert Katafiasz for sharing his insights and reflections. The new Gdańsk centre represents a significant milestone for Nagel Polska, providing a modern, efficient, and sustainable facility that strengthens both local operations and the broader European network. The commitment of the employees, combined with the focus on innovation and excellence, ensures that this centre provides the perfect conditions for delivering high-quality logistics today and in the years to come.