In August, LKQ officially opened a new logistics center in Bielefeld, Germany, marking a milestone in the company’s strategic expansion of its logistics network across the DACH region. This state-of-the-art facility, launched with an investment of approximately 20 million euros, represents LKQ's commitment to optimizing service efficiency and reliability for its customers.

The Bielefeld logistics center, previously the central warehouse for LKQ PV AUTOMOTIVE, has been transformed into a fully automated hub utilizing the latest logistics technology. With the capacity to house over 100,000 unique items, the facility is designed to support faster and more accurate processing and distribution. A key innovation within the center is the implementation of the AutoStore concept, a highly efficient storage and retrieval system developed in collaboration with Toyota Material Handling Germany. This technology uses robotic systems to stack and move items within the warehouse, optimizing space usage and enhancing productivity.

“This new facility in Bielefeld underscores our dedication to expanding and enhancing our logistics network in northern Germany. It’s a significant step forward in our logistics without borders commitment as part of the 1LKQ Europe concept,” said Andy Hamilton, President and Executive Managing Director LKQ Europe.

Not only does the AutoStore system improve operational efficiency, but it also prioritizes the well-being of the employees. The automated processes reduce the physical demands on staff, enabling them to pick items with greater ease and accuracy. This focus on employee safety and workplace quality aligns with LKQ’s broader commitment to fostering a supportive and safe work environment.

Strategically located, the Bielefeld center will serve as the main hub for northern Germany, while the Sulzbach-Rosenberg logistics center continues to cover the southern regions and central Europe. Together, these facilities ensure that LKQ can meet the growing demand for reliable and timely parts delivery across the DACH region.

In addition to the Bielefeld center, the Sulzbach-Rosenberg facility will soon benefit from a new automated warehouse set to open later this year, enhancing its already impressive capabilities. With these advancements, LKQ DACH aims to expand its capacity and continue saying "yes" to more customers, reaffirming LKQ’s leading position in European automotive aftermarket.

The opening of the Bielefeld logistics center is a testament to LKQ’s commitment to continuous improvement, combining cutting-edge technology with a customer-first approach to logistics.