H&M expands Polish logistics hub with fully automated distribution
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H&M has taken a significant step in modernizing its supply chain with the expansion of its e-commerce distribution center in Stryków, Poland. Partnering with Arvato, the Swedish retailer has introduced a high-capacity automated shuttle system that enhances both speed and flexibility for order fulfillment across Central and Eastern Europe.
The expansion reflects a broader shift toward automation in logistics, particularly as retail brands seek to optimize their operations in high-growth regions. With e-commerce demand continuing to rise across the continent, H&M’s investment underlines its strategy to remain competitive by reducing delivery times and increasing operational resilience.
Automated shuttle systems accelerate fulfillment
At the core of the Stryków expansion is a fully automated KNAPP shuttle system, now the largest of its kind in Central Europe. Installed across 10,000 square meters, the system includes 144 shuttles moving at speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour across 16 storage levels and 15 aisles. This infrastructure enables the rapid storage and retrieval of up to 270,000 cartons, dramatically improving throughput.
The shuttle system integrates with approximately five kilometers of conveyor lines, which handle internal transport with minimal human intervention. As a result, the facility can respond more quickly to fluctuations in online order volume, especially during peak shopping periods.
According to Lidia Ratajczak-Kluck, Managing Director of Arvato in Poland, this is the first deployment of the technology in one of their Polish facilities. “It is currently the largest system of its kind in Central Europe,” she said, emphasizing the innovation behind the installation. The automation marks a notable advancement in how goods are handled, reducing errors while maintaining consistency at scale.
Scaling for flexibility and volume in Central Europe
With this expansion, the total warehouse space at the Stryków facility now spans 98,000 square meters, including 31,000 square meters across multiple mezzanine floors. The newly constructed high-bay hall allows for vertical storage up to 8.7 meters, supported by self-propelled reach trucks that manage order picking across tall shelving units.
The site’s scale positions it as a key node in H&M’s regional network. It enhances the company’s ability to manage both current and future volume across Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in fast-growing markets like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Romania.
Arvato, which has operated in Poland since 2018, now runs 16 distribution centers across seven locations in the country. The company sees Poland as a strategic base not only for its favorable logistics conditions but also for its talent pool and connectivity. “Poland is a growth market for us with very good conditions for strengthening our own international presence and that of our clients,” Ratajczak-Kluck added.
Technology integration brings new operational complexity
Despite the gains in speed and volume, the implementation of automation technology brought its own challenges. Integrating multiple IT and infrastructure systems required a high degree of coordination between Arvato and various solution providers. Ensuring compliance with fire protection regulations during the build-out added additional complexity.
To support the new setup, existing staff underwent intensive training programs to manage and maintain the automated systems. The transition not only reflects the rising complexity of warehouse operations but also demonstrates a growing need for skilled labor that can operate in highly digitized environments.
As more companies explore the potential of smart warehouses, the ability to integrate technology while maintaining safety and operational efficiency is becoming a critical competitive differentiator.
Strategic impact on regional e‑commerce supply chains
The fully automated facility represents a strategic shift for H&M in how it approaches fulfillment across Central and Eastern Europe. With faster processing speeds and improved inventory accuracy, the company is better equipped to handle regional market demands.
This investment also positions Arvato as a leading logistics provider in one of Europe’s most dynamic regions. By aligning with partners like H&M, the company strengthens its role in streamlining e-commerce operations through scalable infrastructure and innovation.
Sources
Arvato