Our history

Throughout the years, ADPO has developed into a leading integrated logistics partner for the chemical industry. Take a closer look at the key milestones that have shaped our company’s growth and innovation.

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34 year history in logistics

What started in 1988 as a family-owned company has, over the decades, grown into an organisation driven by continuous development and innovation. This journey and our progress have been shaped by the dedication of every individual who has been part of our company.

History markers that made ADPO to its current state

  • 8-8-1988

    Our story

    Antwerp Distribution and Product Operations was founded in 1988 as a Belgian, privately owned and family-managed company. ADPO has its roots in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges through its parent company, the ‘Graanhandel Natie’. It was the first Logistics Service Provider to combine all aspects of physical distribution for liquid bulk products on a single site.

  • 1999

    Start of transport company AFC

    To offer customers the full supply chain concept, ADPO established its own transport company, AFC. This liquid bulk transport company specialises in the dock transport of ISO tanks between the Port of Antwerp-Bruges area and the ADPO storage tanks and terminals.

  • 2001

    Inauguration of the C-Terminal

    ADPO expanded its existing terminal infrastructure by 10 ha, constructing a highly automated tank terminal connected to a 330-metre-long deepwater jetty with two positions for seagoing vessels and two for coasters and barges. The C-Terminal has since developed into a multi-customer terminal with full road, rail and sea access.

  • 2014

    Inauguration of Liefkenshoek Logistics Hub

    A new terminal, LLH, was constructed in Doel, specialising in the tolling, blending and processing of products for the automotive and aviation sectors. LLH is accessible by road, rail and sea, and is specially equipped for the handling of block trains. The terminal is also connected by pipeline to two major partners in the chemical industry.

  • 2015

    Start of transport company ACC

    Following the success of transport company AFC and in response to customer demand, ADPO established ACC to expand its services to packed cargo such as drums and IBCs, as well as FTL, LCL and intermodal transport.

  • 2020

    Water access for ISO and box containers

    Since 2020, ADPO has expanded its operations to include barge access for the (re)delivery of ISO tanks and box containers. In its first operational year, this solution removed around 10,000 container journeys from the Belgian road network.

  • 2021

    Inauguration of warehouse ALP

    ADPO opened a 23,000 m² warehouse (ALP) with compartments of 2,000 m² and 3,500 m² for the storage of hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals. The warehouse is equipped with the latest WMS and bar-coding technology, as well as CO₂ fire-fighting equipment.

One-stop shop: fully integrated services

Our one-stop-shop approach brings all essential services together in one seamless flow. Fewer interfaces mean more control, greater efficiency and a smoother process for our customers.

Digitalisation & AI/data driven

Digitalisation and smart data integration allow orders to be created faster, more accurately and with minimal manual effort. From API connections to automated file processing and web input, ADPO offers flexible solutions that streamline the entire order flow.

ESG as an integrated value

ESG is embedded in the way ADPO operates and grows. Through investments in renewable energy, cleaner transport, efficient infrastructure and nature-positive projects, we create long-term value for our customers, our people and the planet.

Strategic location and infrastructure

ADPO’s strategic location offers excellent access to European and global markets. With flexible transport options by water, rail and road, we help customers build more efficient, reliable and sustainable supply chains.

Ready to streamline your liquid logistics?

Talk to our team and discover how ADPO can create a more efficient, flexible and fully integrated logistics flow for your business.

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