Thursday, 20 November 2025
Auchan has opened a new 18,000 sqm build-to-suit distribution facility in Wilcza Góra, developed by Panattoni. The site is designed for e-grocery logistics and operates with the Ocado automation system. JLL advised on the location selection and BTS process, while the design was prepared by Tacakiewicz Ferma Kresek. The investment is valued at nearly EUR 34 million.
“The solutions implemented in the new centre allow for a highly automated order-picking process, greater reliability and completeness of deliveries, and the highest service quality for our customers, while offering an exceptionally wide product range — ultimately up to 40,000 SKUs,” said Alexandre Saussard, CEO of Auchan Polska. He added that the scale of the project required experienced partners and that the cooperation was conducted “at an exceptionally high and professional level.”
The building features a multi-level technological mezzanine, dedicated refrigeration and freezing systems, and a reinforced floor for robotics. The project included extensive infrastructure work, including a 7 km power connection and 100 km of cabling.
Marek Dobrzycki, Partner at Panattoni, noted that “neither in Poland nor across the entire CEE region has the Ocado automation system been deployed on such a scale before,” describing the facility as a reference point for food logistics and online fulfilment.
The Ocado system uses robotics, AI and machine learning, enabling autonomous robots to work within a three-dimensional grid. “With the launch of the Wilcza Góra facility, we are bringing a new level of online grocery service to the Polish market,” said Gregor Ulitzka, President Europe, Ocado Solutions. He highlighted that the project incorporates the company’s latest automation technologies, including AI-supported robotic picking.
JLL supported Auchan throughout the BTS process. Tomasz Mika, Head of Industrial Agency Poland, said the development reflects the increasing automation of the Polish e-commerce logistics sector and required coordination between multidisciplinary teams to meet “stringent technological requirements.”
The facility was developed with a focus on energy efficiency and has achieved BREEAM Excellent certification. Measures include a roof prepared for photovoltaic panels, LED lighting with sensors, a BMS system and a CO₂-based refrigeration system. According to the developers, primary energy use is around 30% lower than a standard reference building. The site also includes EV charging points, bicycle infrastructure and extensive landscaping with more than 200 native trees.
Adrian Lipowski, Senior Architect at Tacakiewicz Ferma Kresek, said the team realised early in construction that the project’s technological and architectural elements were aligning as planned and that completion ahead of schedule appeared achievable.
