A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) has officially opened a 1.1 million square feet, fully automated global and regional distribution centre in Singapore, the World Gateway II, marking a major expansion of its contract logistics and e-commerce capabilities in Asia Pacific.
The facility, supported by the Singapore Government, serves companies using Singapore as a regional or global distribution center due to its prime location and logistics hub status, supports B2B and B2C e-commerce fulfillment across Asia Pacific, and handles products from pharma and healthcare, lifestyle, FMCG, retail, wellness, and technology verticals.
The site leverages Singapore's strategic location and proximity to major transport infrastructure like Tuas Port and Changi Airport, enabling efficient overseas cargo distribution and being near Maersk's 1.0 million square feet World Gateway regional distribution center.
The launch of World Gateway II underscores Singapore's significance in Maersk's global network and the vast opportunities seen in Asia. Supported by strong export growth and rising consumption, Asia's growth remains remarkable. This new facility marks another milestone in Maersk's rapidly expanding integrated logistics business in the region, enhancing customer support with greater resilience and flexibility, according to CEO Vincent Clerc.
Advanced automation to drive efficiency and scale
The warehouse is equipped with cutting-edge automation technologies, including a Multi-Shuttle System, Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), Autonomous Case-handling Robots (ACR), and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). These systems enable faster order fulfilment, shorter lead times, and improved accuracy by reducing manual handling.
"Doubling our warehousing footprint in Singapore is a bold step forward and a strong vote of confidence in this market and our customers. It reflects our commitment to growth and strengthening our regional leadership in contract logistics. The combination of scale and advanced automation positions us to unlock new opportunities, particularly in high-value verticals like luxury fashion, while delivering consistent efficiency at scale" says Chang Kee Seng, Head of Maersk Contract Logistics Asia Pacific.
Maersk has invested more than S$200 million for the development of World Gateway II, which has reached approximately 70 per cent occupancy. Once fully operational, the site will create around 500 jobs utilising advanced digital and automation capabilities.
"World Gateway II strengthens Singapore’s position as a premier logistics hub in APAC, offering businesses a trusted and well-connected base to scale across the region’s fast-growing markets. We welcome this investment by Maersk, a long-standing partner of Singapore, which will create jobs in digitalisation and automation while boosting the capabilities of our logistics workforce" Png Cheong Boon, Chairman EDB.
