The new Victorinox Distribution Center is operational

The opening of the new European distribution center in Seewen SZ represents a further milestone in the history of Victorinox. By centralizing distribution, logistics are optimized, processes are streamlined, and efficiency and sustainability are increased. The center also demonstrates the company’s clear commitment to the Schwyz site. In July 2020, the first railcar containing Victorinox and Wenger travel gear arrived at the new distribution center. "It is the first time in the history of Victorinox that a railcar can be driven from Belgium right up to the entrance of the Victorinox warehouse exclusively by rail," proudly explains CEO Carl Elsener. The direct connection makes it possible to use rail transport whenever appropriate, and also supports the company’s sustainability efforts. Following extensive tests during the last few months - from incoming goods to delivery - the new European distribution center is now operational. It allows for the centralization of seventeen separate warehouse locations across Switzerland and Europe. The European distribution center is divided into three floors, has a building volume of 173,000 m3 and houses a fully automated small parts warehouse with four aisles, 29 levels per aisle, 116 shuttles and space for 38,500 containers, as well as a semi-automated high rack with 9500 pallet spaces. It is a prime example of technical digitalization. The raw material warehouse is located in the basement, storing around 3,000 tons of steel, synthetic materials and corner counter displays. With a trained core team of approximately 40 employees, up to 115,000 orders or 1.1 million order items can be processed in the distribution center each year. Running at a good level of capacity utilization, this means that more than 40 million products can be shipped per year. The high investment of around CHF 50 million in the valley basin is a clear commitment to the Schwyz site. This allegiance is also demonstrated by the fact that four out of the five Victorinox product categories are made in Switzerland, namely Swiss Army Knives, Cutlery, Watches and Fragrances. In the region itself, industrial traffic in the Schwyz valley basin can be significantly reduced. This is thanks to the merging of the previous six regional warehouses which eliminates multiple transfers be-tween locations. Above all, driving through Unterseewen will be eased with internal controlling measures. The new rail connection, along with the photovoltaic system on the roof and charging stations for electric cars, demonstrate the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainability.

Press Contact

Victorinox AG Schmiedgasse 57 CH-6438 Ibach-Schwyz Pressoffice.hq@victorinox.com