Press Release

Rhenus Group Makes Key Investment in Solar Panels for Its Warehouse in Colombia as Part of Sustainability Strategy

Rhenus continues to grow its sustainable solutions across the world. Blu Logistics LATAM, a member of the Rhenus Group, has made a significant investment by installing 264 solar panels at its 11,700 square-meter multi-client warehouse in Tenjo, Colombia.

This solar panel installation marks Rhenus Group's first warehouse in South America powered by solar energy, setting a benchmark for future sustainability initiatives in the region. It highlights the company’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency in its operations. The solar panel installation is expected to generate 180,000 kilowatt-hours per year, reducing CO₂ emissions by 8.9 tons per month. This impact is equivalent to the carbon absorption of approximately 300 to 350 trees per year, based on data established by ANLA (National Environmental Licensing Authority) and UPME (Mining and Energy Planning Unit) for Colombia.

“With the installation of these solar panels, we will cumulatively reduce our carbon emissions by 106 tons per year and generate enough energy to supply 26% of our distribution center's power needs,” stated Natalia Duran, Head of Sustainability for Blu Logistics LATAM. “This project is a major step towards a more sustainable future and a demonstration of our responsibility towards future generations. By taking these initiatives, we also aim to inspire our clients to adopt similar sustainable practices and further contribute to environmental conservation.”

Serving a variety of industries, the warehouse is specifically focused on providing inbound, outbound, storage, picking, packing, order certification, and kitting and VAS processes for health and wellness, beauty products, flammables, surgical materials, and more. Major global brands such as Henkel, which occupies 60% of the warehouse space, will be among the first clients to benefit from the enhanced sustainability initiatives. As a participant of the UN Global Compact, Rhenus contributes to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.

Alber Rodriguez, Head of Warehousing for Blu Logistics LATAM in Colombia, commented: “The implementation of the solar panels has transformed our warehouse, proving that it's possible to combine operational efficiency with environmentally responsible logistics. This investment represents a major step forward in our sustainability journey and strengthens the Rhenus Group's commitment to innovation. We are dedicated to continuously adopting practices that benefit our company, our clients, and the planet."

The warehouse in Tenjo is fully equipped to handle a variety of logistics services, including inventory management and order fulfillment across multiple sectors. It holds certifications such as BASC, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 28000, and CCAA, which validate the storage and conditioning of medical devices and diagnostic reagents; BPM, certifying the storage and conditioning of medications; and CCP, certifying the conditioning of cosmetic, cleaning, and hygiene products. These certifications ensure that operations meet the highest industry standards. The facility is designed to meet the needs of clients in the cosmetics, beauty, and pharmaceutical sectors, offering specialized handling services.

Acquired by the Rhenus Group in September of last year, Blu Logistics LATAM is currently in a brand transition period and will soon operate as Rhenus Logistics. By installing solar panels into its warehouses, Rhenus strengthens its commitment to sustainable logistics by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions in its facilities, while continuing to meet the evolving needs of its customers with greater environmental responsibility.

About Rhenus

The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 7.5 billion. 40,000 employees work at 1,320 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.

Head of Group Communications – Region Americas
Janice Betti
Head of Group Communications – Region Americas

ABOUT RHENUS

The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 8.6 billion. 39,000 employees work at 1,120 business sites and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.