By Mark Buckshon
Ontario Construction News staff writer
DHL Express plans to build a new $100 million logistics and shipping facility at the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. The new structure will replace its existing one, also at Hamilton International, to meet double-digit growth in shipment volumes.
“Hamilton International Airport offers us the benefits that we need to meet our growing demands in handling capacity,” Andrew Williams, CEO of DHL Express Canada, said in a statement. “With 24-hour landing capability, dedicated onsite Canada Border Services Agency representation and the ability to grow in the future with a partner positioned to become the cargo hub of Ontario, we know this is the best decision to continue leading the market.”
Illinois-headquartered ARCO/Murray is the project’s design-build contractor, working with GMA Architects, a DHL Canada spokesperson said.
“I was pleased to visit DHL officials in Leipzig, Germany two years ago to underline our commitment to do everything possible to assist in the expansion of DHL’s facility at Hamilton International Airport,” said Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger. “This is further evidence that our airport is an economic driver that is attracting international investment resulting in high-value jobs and increased prosperity.”
The new structure, which will be four times the size of the current one at 200,000 sq. ft, will feature a fully-automated sort system with a capacity of processing 15,000 packages per hour.
Today, the DHL Express Hamilton International Gateway has two daily flights connecting Canada to the International network via Cincinnati. The facility will also generate an increase in front line job growth to meet higher demands, adding to its existing 225 employees.
“As I’ve said before, government doesn’t create jobs, businesses do,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford. “We welcome DHL’s $100 million investment in our province and we will continue to make Ontario the best place to grow a business and create jobs for people.”
DHL Express moved to its current Hamilton International facility in 2008. In the last four years, the company has invested more than $30 million to increase its fleet and aviation capacity, along with expanding its facilities in Edmonton and Winnipeg, and most recently, doubling its capacity at the Vancouver International Airport in Richmond. DHL Express has 17 owned locations throughout Canada and more than 450 partner locations.