Lidl builds a logistics giant near Kraków – construction underway, opening set for 2027

Construction begins on Lidl’s largest and most technologically advanced distribution center in Poland

In Skawina, construction has officially started on Lidl’s largest and most advanced distribution center in Poland. The new facility, located on Strażacka Street, aims to streamline logistics operations and set new benchmarks in sustainable construction.

This investment is impressive in scale. The concrete used for the flooring alone will amount to approx. 16,000 m³ — equivalent to more than six Olympic-sized swimming pools. The façade, made of sandwich panels, will cover around 23,000 m² — similar in size to Terminal 1 at Warsaw Chopin Airport. The warehouse is also being designed with cutting-edge technology and environmentally friendly solutions.

“We are extremely pleased that Atlas Ward has been appointed as the general contractor for Lidl new distribution center in Skawina. Our strength lies in optimized construction that combines economic efficiency, environmental care, and a deep understanding of client needs. We are proud to be delivering such an innovative and eco-friendly project together with Lidl Polska. We focus on digitization and automation of processes, offering top-tier engineering and technology solutions,” said Mariusz Górecki, President of the Atlas Ward Group.

Lidl’s Largest Warehouse in Poland

“The new distribution center strengthens our operational base and enhances logistics efficiency. It also reflects our approach to responsible business, where growth goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship. The construction in Skawina marks another step in Lidl Polska long-term development strategy, which we continue to implement by creating valuable new jobs for local communities and investing in eco-friendly infrastructure” said Marcin Stopa, Board Member of Lidl Polska.

Eco-innovations at the heart of Lidl’s new facility

The center will feature numerous sustainable solutions to reduce CO₂ emissions and ensure efficient resource management. The rooftop will be equipped with a photovoltaic installation with a capacity of approx. 1 MW. The entire building will be heated without natural gas, using recovered heat from cooling processes and an industrial cooling system repurposed as a heat source in winter. Underfloor heating will also be installed using a coil of pipes totaling approx. 80 kilometers in length.

The building will include chargers for both passenger and delivery electric vehicles, along with a greywater recovery system to irrigate greenery. Additionally, 2 kilometers of 500 mm pipes will be installed to protect the surrounding warehouse area from flooding, enabling fast drainage of floodwaters beyond the embankments.

Lidl Polska places strong emphasis on biodiversity, designing spaces that are friendly to local flora and fauna. Around the center, extensive wildflower meadows will be planted, as well as trees forming a natural buffer zone and green corridor around retention basins. Birdhouses — including those suited for mosquito-eating species — and shelters for pollinating insects like bumblebees will be installed. On clear days, visitors will even be able to see Wawel Castle from the building’s rooftop, given its proximity to Kraków.

The facility is scheduled to be operational in spring 2027. This project is another example of Lidl Polska’s commitment to building sustainable infrastructure that meets modern market needs and environmental challenges.