Kuehne+Nagel and ABB Expand Long-Standing Collaboration in Chile with Enhanced Logistics Solutions and Sustainability Commitments
Global logistics leader Kuehne+Nagel has announced a significant expansion of its partnership with ABB in Chile, reinforcing a global relationship that spans over three decades. This latest development marks a major step forward in their joint mission to optimize supply chain performance, enhance operational agility, and drive sustainability across ABB’s national logistics network.
ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation, has long relied on Kuehne+Nagel for critical logistics support across various markets. In Chile, their collaboration dates back more than ten years, initially focusing on air logistics services for ABB’s key business divisions. With the new agreement, this partnership has evolved into a broader, more integrated logistics program, encompassing contract logistics, last-mile transportation, and fulfilment operations.
Strengthening Logistics for Three Core Business Units
Under the expanded agreement, Kuehne+Nagel will now support ABB’s three primary business areas—Electrification, Motion, and Process Automation—through a range of tailored logistics solutions. This integrated service offering includes warehousing, inventory management, order processing, and last-mile distribution across Chile.
One of the key features of this enhanced collaboration is the implementation of a cross-docking model, which works in close coordination with the air logistics team. This solution is designed to streamline inbound and outbound operations by minimizing handling time, reducing storage requirements, and accelerating delivery to end customers. The result is a more agile and responsive supply chain, capable of adapting to fluctuating demand and tight delivery timelines—an essential advantage in today’s fast-paced industrial landscape.
A State-of-the-Art Logistics Hub in Santiago
To support this growing collaboration, Kuehne+Nagel operates a modern multi-customer distribution center strategically located in Santiago. The facility, which was inaugurated in 2024, is built to AAA logistics standards and features advanced security systems, real-time inventory tracking, and climate-controlled zones to ensure the integrity of sensitive components and technologies.
The Santiago hub currently processes approximately 300 orders per month, serving more than 120 end recipients located throughout Chile. The facility’s scalable design and automation capabilities make it well-suited to support ABB’s growth ambitions in the country, while also enabling Kuehne+Nagel to efficiently serve other clients within the region.
Javier Ansó, Head of Contract Logistics at Kuehne+Nagel Chile, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:
“This expansion of our cooperation with ABB reflects our shared commitment to increasingly sustainable and efficient logistics, aligned with the evolving industry challenges in Chile. We are proud to support the development of ABB’s national operations.”
Building a Resilient and Sustainable Supply Chain
A defining feature of the renewed partnership is the strong focus on sustainability. Both Kuehne+Nagel and ABB have integrated environmental responsibility into their corporate strategies, and this ethos is evident in the execution of their logistics operations in Chile.
Kuehne+Nagel has introduced a fleet of electric delivery vehicles dedicated to ABB’s logistics needs. This shift not only lowers greenhouse gas emissions but also contributes to reducing noise pollution in urban delivery zones. The use of electric vehicles represents a key step in ABB and Kuehne+Nagel’s shared goal of reducing the carbon footprint associated with last-mile deliveries.
Looking ahead, the companies have set ambitious energy efficiency targets. By 2026, they plan to install photovoltaic (solar) panels at the Santiago logistics hub, which will enable a significant portion of the facility’s power needs to be met through renewable energy sources. These efforts aim to achieve a 15% reduction in overall energy consumption over the next two years.
In addition, a robust waste management plan is being implemented with the goal of diverting 90% of waste from landfills. This initiative includes recycling programs, composting of organic waste, and careful handling of hazardous materials. In the medium term, the partners are aiming for zero-waste operations—underscoring their commitment to a circular economy and environmentally responsible business practices.
Martín Castellucci, Country Holding Officer for ABB in Chile and Peru, noted:
“Having a strategic partner in our logistics operations allows us to move toward a more agile, secure, and efficient distribution network, with a clear focus on sustainability, which is a fundamental pillar for our company.”
A Legacy of Collaboration with Global Impact
The collaboration between ABB and Kuehne+Nagel is not limited to Chile. Globally, the companies have worked together for over 30 years, co-developing customized logistics solutions that support ABB’s technological innovations and operational excellence. In markets across Europe, North America, and Asia, Kuehne+Nagel has provided reliable logistics infrastructure that enables ABB to deliver its advanced electrification and automation products to customers efficiently and responsibly.
In Chile, the decade-long partnership has evolved in tandem with ABB’s expanding footprint. What began as a focus on air freight services has grown into a fully integrated logistics program that supports ABB’s national operations from end to end.
Meeting Industry Challenges in a Dynamic Environment
Chile’s industrial sector is experiencing a transformative period, with increased investments in renewable energy, smart infrastructure, and digital manufacturing. ABB is at the forefront of these developments, providing the technologies that enable energy efficiency and automation in sectors such as mining, utilities, and transportation.
By partnering with Kuehne+Nagel, ABB gains access to an agile and responsive logistics partner that can support its evolving needs. Whether it’s managing just-in-time deliveries to remote project sites or integrating digital tracking tools to ensure supply chain visibility, Kuehne+Nagel’s capabilities help ABB maintain its competitive edge in a demanding market.
As ABB continues to expand its presence and influence in Chile and across Latin America, the enhanced logistics partnership with Kuehne+Nagel will play a central role in achieving its operational and sustainability objectives. With plans already underway to further reduce emissions, optimize warehouse operations, and expand service coverage, the two companies are setting a new standard for collaboration between technology providers and logistics specialists.
The renewed agreement signals more than just an expansion of services—it represents a shared vision for the future of logistics: efficient, scalable, and above all, sustainable.