Rhenus Logistics wins SAPOA Property Development Award for Industrial Development of the Year

Rhenus Logistics, in partnership with Improvon, is proud to announce that its state-of-the-art facility in Meadowview, Johannesburg, has been awarded the prestigious SAPOA Property Development Award for Industrial Development of the Year. 

This recognition celebrates the exceptional innovation, sustainability, and community impact of the newly developed 30,648 m² multinational logistics facility, with an additional 4,700 m² reserved for future expansion. Designed and delivered in just 10 months, the project exemplifies excellence in industrial development and sets a new benchmark for logistics infrastructure in South Africa. 

Earlier this year, Rhenus opened the R440 million facility, its latest logistics hub in South Africa. The site has introduced advanced energy and water independence systems. Featuring over 600 CCTV cameras, a 620 kWp solar PV system with 800 KWp battery backup and a 1.1 million-litre stormwater tank, the development reinforces Rhenus’ commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence. 

Award-Winning Highlights 

The facility consolidates all business operations under one roof, enhancing efficiency and scalability while setting a new benchmark for industrial development in the region. 

Designed to meet the EDGE V3 Standard, the hub has achieved EDGE Advanced Certification and is on track for EDGE Zero Carbon Certification. It has recorded a reduction in energy consumption from the grid, 22.48% water savings and a 37% reduction in embodied energy of materials. These achievements translate into annual savings of 774.5 MWh in energy, 32,934 m³ in water and 4,774.69 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in embodied carbon. 

The development also made a significant social impact, creating 620 construction jobs, it included 15 safety and construction training initiatives, a dedicated community liaison officer and infrastructure upgrades such as the access-controlled closure of Ronald Road to improve safety and security. 

The SAPOA Property Development Awards recognize excellence in property development across South Africa, and Rhenus Logistics is honored to be among the leaders shaping the future of the industry. 

The Management Perspective 

“Receiving the SAPOA Industrial Development of the Year Award is a proud moment for Rhenus,” stated Ronny Sassen, CEO Contract Logistics of the Rhenus Group. “It reinforces our approach of combining innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence to deliver logistics infrastructure that supports both our business growth and the communities we serve.” 

“Our partnership with Rhenus Logistics reflects what we stand for at Improvon, building spaces that inspire progress,” said Craig Wittstock, Project Manager at Improvon. “This award celebrates not just the structure itself, but the shared commitment to excellence, innovation and long-term sustainability.” 

“This award is a testament to the collaborative vision and execution between Rhenus Logistics and Improvon, said Martin Taylor, National Risk Manager and member of the Executive Committee of Rhenus Logistics in South Africa. “We are proud to contribute to the transformation of Meadowview into a thriving logistics hub, while setting new standards for sustainable industrial development.” 

Rhenus Advances Sustainable Infrastructure  

Rhenus continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and innovation through substantial investments in future-ready infrastructure. In recent years, the company has developed a portfolio of environmentally responsible buildings that meet internationally recognized standards, including BREEAM and WELL certifications. These initiatives reflect Rhenus’ dedication to energy efficiency, environmental stewardship, and the health and well-being of building occupants. 

Key additional examples of these sustainable developments include state-of-the-art facilities in Nuneaton (UK), Tilburg, Eindhoven, and Venlo in the Netherlands, as well as Wesel in Germany. Each site embodies Rhenus’ long-term vision to minimize its environmental footprint, strengthen operational resilience, and foster healthier, more efficient workspaces for employees and partners.