FedEx expands Spanish logistics footprint with new Bilbao facility

FedEx has opened an enlarged distribution facility in Bilbao as the US logistics group seeks to capitalise on growing e-commerce demand and strengthen its operational network across southern Europe.

The new site spans 2,700 square metres of warehouse space—nearly double the capacity of its predecessor—and includes an additional 400 square metres of office space to consolidate warehouse and administrative operations under one roof.

Operational enhancements

The facility has been designed to process up to 1,500 packages per hour, representing a significant improvement in sorting efficiency. The site features 27 loading docks, compared with 20 at the previous location, enabling faster throughput and reduced processing times.

The expansion comes as logistics operators face mounting pressure to meet accelerating consumer demand for rapid delivery, particularly in the e-commerce sector, which has continued to grow despite normalisation following pandemic-era peaks.

Strategic positioning

Bilbao, the financial centre of Spain's Basque Country, offers strategic advantages for logistics operations. The region has been recognised by the European Union as the leading innovation hub in southern Europe and maintains Spain's strongest regional performance in science and technology.

Ian Silverton, managing director of ground operations for FedEx Spain and Portugal, said the facility "represents a significant investment in our operational capabilities and allows us to enhance our service offerings for customers, supporting their international aspirations and operational needs."

The company already operates stations in San Sebastián and Vitoria, with the latter serving as an air gateway providing next-day connectivity to European and American destinations. Combined, FedEx's Basque Country facilities now possess sorting capacity of up to 6,000 packages per hour.

The investment underscores FedEx's focus on strengthening its European network as logistics groups compete for market share in a sector characterised by thin margins and intense competition from regional carriers and e-commerce platforms developing in-house delivery capabilities.