Page 8 - Waterfall City July Issue 2023

Waterfall City News

Transforming logistics
Stretching across a massive 6,000 square meters of office
space and boasting an additional 3,000 square meters of
warehousing capacity, the Baobab facility is no ordinary
workspace. Innovative features like solar, electric vehicle
charging points and a borehole for independent access to
potable water reflect the forward-thinking design.

However, the building’s carbon-neutral status really puts
it on the sustainability map. In a world where ‘green’ is the
new gold, the Baobab facility shines with its innovative
energy-saving features. Michaletos explains, “The
facility employs various measures to minimise energy
consumption, including water recycling capabilities and
solar power systems.”

These eco-friendly solutions reflect DHL’s global
environmental strategy, further bolstering Waterfall City’s
reputation as a sustainable urban hub.

Ongoing investment
Not only is Baobab a symbol of DHL Express’ dedication to
a sustainable future, but it also represents its commitment
to South Africa and the wider African continent.
Michaletos says, “We’ve signed a 15-year lease and are
optimistic about South Africa’s investment potential. The
launch of this facility underscores DHL Express’ belief
in South Africa as a strategic gateway to the rest of the
continent, embodying a robust promise of long-term
investment and growth.”

Developed in partnership with property developer
SOM Group and Waterfall City, the project has stirred
excitement among stakeholders. Jeanette Strydom from
SOM Group expressed her enthusiasm: “The project is a
true landmark along the N1 in Waterfall City. It has been
a great journey developing this facility, working closely
with the Waterfall Management Company and DHL teams
and the various consultants and contractors, including
Giant Leap - the interior designer and space planning
company who assisted with the unique office design and
fit out.”

Coenie Bezuidenhout, Director of SOM Group, echoed
this sentiment; “SOM and Waterfall Management
Company, together with our team of design consultants
and contractors, are proud to be associated with this
prestigious project. The new DHL Express facility is
situated in one of the best logistics locations in South
Africa.”

In a world facing the stark realities of climate change,
companies like DHL Express are stepping up to champion
a more sustainable future. The Baobab facility is a beacon
of environmental responsibility and an embodiment of
the ‘green’ building design ethos of Waterfall City, growing
towards a brighter, greener tomorrow.

6 Waterfall City Issue 7 2023