April 2, 2025 – GXO Logistics, Inc. (NYSE: GXO), recognized as the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, has announced a significant renewal of its long-term partnership with Grupa Żywiec, a prominent Polish brewer and part of the HEINEKEN Group. This collaboration, which dates back to 2019, centers around optimizing logistics operations at Grupa Żywiec’s facility located in Elbląg, near Gdańsk in northern Poland.

1. Strengthening Ties with Grupa Żywiec

The announcement reflects GXO's commitment to enhancing its logistics capabilities for Grupa Żywiec, a partnership that has proven fruitful over the years. Jean Luc–Bessade, Managing Director for Poland, Czech Republic, and Romania at GXO, expressed enthusiasm about the renewal, emphasizing the focus on safety—a primary value for both companies. “Our team members at the warehouse in Elbląg are managing complex logistics operations, including efficient and cost-effective bottle sorting, which is key to our customer’s success,” Bessade noted.

GXO's operations at the brewery and a dedicated 12,000-square-meter logistics center involve around 80 team members who provide a range of supply chain solutions, such as production support, warehousing, shuttle service, and delivery execution. The facility is recognized for its high standards, boasting ISO certifications for quality management, environmental care, and food safety.

2. Innovations Driving Efficiency and Safety

GXO has introduced several innovations at the Elbląg facility to enhance operational efficiency and safety. One notable advancement is the implementation of automated pallet scanning, which has significantly improved productivity and allowed employees to engage in more value-added tasks. This focus on innovation aligns with Grupa Żywiec’s goals for efficiency and safety, as highlighted by Tomasz Klima, Supply Chain Director for the brewer. Klima praised GXO’s expertise in the Food & Beverage sector, stating that the partnership has enabled Grupa Żywiec to adapt swiftly to changing economic conditions.

In line with their shared commitment to sustainability, GXO has made strides in reducing the environmental impact of its operations. By incorporating LED lighting and motion detectors, the company has achieved a remarkable 70% reduction in energy use at the Elbląg facility. Additionally, GXO has installed a battery charging station and implemented paperless storage processes, further demonstrating its commitment to eco-friendly practices.

3. Commitment to Safety and Employee Well-Being

Safety remains a cornerstone of GXO's operations. The Elbląg site recently celebrated a notable achievement—a five-year accident-free record—underscoring the effectiveness of GXO’s “Road to Zero” safety program and Grupa Żywiec’s SHE DAY program, which emphasizes safety, mental health, and employee well-being.

4. GXO’s Expanding Presence in Central Europe

The renewal of this contract is part of GXO's broader strategy in Central Europe, where the company has been operational for over 20 years. With a footprint spanning Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Germany, GXO serves a diverse range of industries, including e-commerce, omnichannel retail, fashion, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and DIY sectors. The company has established over 30 sites, collectively offering approximately 1,000,000 square meters of operating space, and employs around 6,500 team members in the region, including 500 new hires in 2024 alone.

5. Conclusion

The renewed partnership between GXO Logistics and Grupa Żywiec highlights the importance of collaboration in enhancing logistics efficiency and safety within the brewing industry. As GXO continues to leverage its technological advancements and commitment to sustainability, it is well-positioned to support Grupa Żywiec in navigating the complexities of the supply chain landscape while fostering a safer and more efficient operational environment. The future looks promising for both companies as they work together to optimize logistics in Poland and beyond.

Original press release