JD.com opens large automated e-commerce hub in Willebroek

Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com is expanding its European logistics footprint by occupying a nearly 50,000 square meter distribution center in Willebroek, Belgium. The facility, owned by real estate firm Montea, was originally constructed in 2017 for the retailer Decathlon.

JD Logistics intends to use the site as a highly automated hub to manage the storage, processing, and distribution of online orders for both the Belgian and Luxembourgish markets. While specific technological details have not been disclosed, Montea indicates the warehouse will feature a high degree of automation specifically tailored for e-commerce fulfillment.

This move follows JD.com’s recent efforts to grow its presence in Europe, including the launch of its Joybuy webshop in markets such as the Netherlands. The company is already active in several other European countries, including Germany, France, and the Netherlands.