Wulf Gaertner Autoparts AG holds topping-out ceremony for warehouse extension building

Hamburg, 15.01.2013. A major step forward has been taken: On the first construction plot the framework of the building expanding Wulf Gaertner Autoparts AG's central warehouse has now been completed. Last Friday the topping-out ceremony took place, attended by employees and construction companies including the general contractor for the shell construction Max Bögl. The extension to the building, which is scheduled to become operative by mid-2013, will provide an additional 12,000 sqm of storage space, nearly doubling the storage capacities of the company's Hamburg central warehouse. Besides new storage facilities the extension will accommodate new offices, a modern staff restaurant and a state-of-the-art training centre.

In order to increase the product range and meet the demands of new international markets, Wulf Gaertner Autoparts AG is currently expanding its central warehouse by over 12,000 sqm, increasing the overall storage capacity to 56,000 pallet slots. "The project will help the company achieve its strategic objectives of developing its product portfolio and maximising part

availability" says board member Marita Schwartze, expressing special thanks to the architects and contractors involved. "Although, the turf was only cut in June 2012 we have already hit a milestone in this impressive project. We are very proud to be hosting the topping-out ceremony for the first stage of the extension building, especially, because today is also the birthday of Wulf Gaertner, who founded this company" Schwartze explains to the guests.

The second, significantly larger construction phase is scheduled to be completed by mid-2013. Construction work is progressing well with all foundations cast and the sprinkler tank and two staircase towers erected. On over 2,000 sqm the second building area will accommodate new offices, a modern staff restaurant and a state-of-the-art training centre.

In total, the family-run company is going to invest around 40 million euros at its Hamburg base in the next few years to future-prove its operations.