Challenge:
The construction project of a build-to-suit (BTS) facility covering 11,500 m² in Prologis Park Ruda Śląska for a leading logistics operator of parcel locker networks required understanding the client's needs, refining all the assumptions and requirements, and developing a parameterized technical specification, which is key to creating a more precise, valuable, and market-comparable offer. The lack of such a specification in the initial phase of cooperation between the developer and the client could lead to difficulties in evaluating different offers from both a technical and functional perspective. Additionally, due to the specific needs of the client, it was necessary to plan the implementation of many modern technological and infrastructural solutions.
Solution:
The first step was to prepare the offer and a precise cost estimate that fully aligned with the assumptions outlined in the very detailed specification developed by the client. It covered not only the basic warehouse needs but also requirements related to fire protection, building construction, green energy, and logistics process automation. The provision regarding power reserve in the distribution board demonstrates Prologis's excellent understanding of the client's. Some potential contractors understood this as a larger distribution board, without the need to adapt the installation for higher power consumption. The Prologis warehouse in Ruda Śląska offered a large distribution board, along with the installation needed for higher power demand.
After the project was approved, terms of cooperation were agreed upon, and the contract was signed, the investment phase began. At this stage of cooperation, communication between the companies is crucial. Project leaders for both the developer and client played a key role, ensuring the smooth flow of information—approvals, changes, and rejections. A significant advantage of working with the new client in Ruda Śląska was the ongoing phone contact between teams and key decision-making during weekly construction meetings.
Result:
Thanks to the detailed specification, transparent communication, and flexibility of Prologis, the BTS project for the leading logistics operator of parcel locker networks in Ruda Śląska was successfully completed. The warehouse included elements typical for both the client's and Prologis's facilities, such as energy-efficient and automated high-quality LED lighting and electric vehicle charging stations of which there were 10 spaces, including one with a 100 kW capacity. The facility was fully prepared for the installation of photovoltaic systems, not only in terms of roof load capacity but also providing space in the distribution board and proper wiring.
Additional Benefits:
When designing BTS facilities with a focus on the future, it is worth applying solutions that go beyond the standard specification—aligned with the latest trends in the logistics industry, technological solutions, and the concept of sustainable construction. After detailed calculations and discussions of all the advantages, the client decided to implement additional technologies that were not required in the specification. One of them is a smart metering system. This is a standard solution implemented in Prologis warehouses that had never before been used in the facilities of the parcel locker network operator. It enables automated building management, including technical functions, security systems, and electricity and other utility consumption. It significantly improves warehouse management efficiency, allows better control of operational costs, and helps meet the challenges of decarbonization and low emissions. Prologis also proposed and implemented other improvements in the client's facility in Ruda Śląska, such as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery and heat pumps, increased insulation of walls and roof, and continuous real-time roof deflection measurement, which enhanced building safety.
Conclusions:
The detailed technical specification was key to the success of the project, enabling the creation of an offer in line with the client's requirements and the effective comparison of offers, leading to rapid implementation. The developer's flexibility, regular and transparent communication, and weekly working meetings resulted in efficient decision-making, which was crucial for the smooth execution of the investment. The project incorporated modern solutions, improving energy management, reducing costs, and supporting eco-friendly actions. The introduction of the planned and additional solutions, designed in line with the principles of sustainable development and energy efficiency, increased the ecological value of the facility and allowed for obtaining a BREEAM Excellent certification.
Key Takeaways:
- Green Energy Technologies: The introduction of green energy technologies and photovoltaic systems will reduce the facility's carbon footprint and ensure compliance with BREEAM Excellent certification.
- Flexibility: The building design was future-proof, allowing for further expansion and adaptation to the user's growing needs.
- Operational Efficiency: Thanks to the smart metering system and other intelligent solutions, building management will be more efficient, leading to savings in energy management and operational costs.
- High Quality: Attention to the quality of documentation and construction processes, along with cooperation with an experienced developer, ensured a high-quality final facility that met the client's requirements and expectations.
All of these factors make the BTS project in Ruda Śląska an excellent example of successful cooperation based on communication, flexibility, and a shared pursuit of optimal solutions.