© Sigrid Spinnox

  • Home
  • The right connections to help you expand

The right connections to help you expand

It’s all about connection - in every relationship as in business. Making the right choice a lasting one comes down to carefully considering how well you are connected. The same goes for selecting a business location with expansion potential. By choosing Antwerp as your business location, you are closely connected to Europe and the world. When it comes to logistics, Antwerp will definitely make things easier.

Antwerp, in the heart of Europe

Firstly, Antwerp boasts a strategic location in the heart of Europe nearby Brussels, the capital of both Belgium and the European Union. The central position within Europe places the city within relatively short distances of cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Paris, London and Cologne, all of which are vital economic centers in their respective countries. This proximity allows for convenient business connections and trade flows between Antwerp and these key metropolitan areas. 

Then there is the city’s position on the Scheldt River, a crucial maritime gateway for trade and transportation. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges is the second largest port in Europe and one of the largest container terminals in the world. The port offers deep-water access, extensive container terminals, advanced logistics services, and efficient transport connections, making it an ideal gateway for international trade. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges welcomes the largest vessels 80 kilometers inland – bringing products as close as possible to their final destination.  

Picture Jacques Vandermeiren

In the European context, no other port is as central as Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp-Bruges

Infrastructure, network and connections

Antwerp is also well-connected to an extensive network of highways, railways and waterways, providing efficient access to neighboring countries and beyond. This connectivity makes Antwerp an ideal hub for handling and distributing goods smoothly and efficiently throughout Europe. 

The port area lies right in the middle of a large rail network that runs throughout Europe. This rail network has destinations that range from Spain to Norway and from Greece to Poland. Each week 70 destinations are served in 19 countries. The Antwerp-Central railway station is a major hub that offers high-speed rail services to various European destinations, including Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne. The railway infrastructure ensures efficient transportation of goods and passengers.  

The port of Antwerp-Bruges is not only linked to the Scheldt, but can also transport goods over water via e.g. the Scheldt-Rhine Connection and the Scheldt-Seine Connection. The city is also served by an extensive highway system, allowing easy access to neighboring regions and countries. The E19 and E17 highways, in particular, connect Antwerp to major European cities such as Brussels, Amsterdam and Paris. On the other hand The Antwerp International Airport, located just outside the city, offers domestic and international flights, providing convenient air connectivity. Brussels Airport, one of the largest airports in Europe, is within easy reach, offering extensive global air connections. 

Antwerp boasts advanced intermodal facilities that facilitate the seamless transfer of goods between different modes of transportation. The city has dedicated container terminals, railway freight hubs, and logistics centers, ensuring efficient cargo handling and distribution. Last but not least Antwerp offers you its excellent digital infrastructure. The city and port offers high-speed internet connectivity – with a developing 5G network in places - making it an attractive location for businesses, startups, and technology-driven industries. 

These robust infrastructure and connectivity networks position Antwerpen as a vital transportation and logistics hub in Europe, enabling efficient trade flows and enhancing its economic significance in the heart of the continent. Hence Antwerp was awarded a first place in 2022 for fDi strategy to attract foreign investment. The fDI is a ranking given to cities by the Financial Times. Antwerp falls into the category 'Global Cities of the Future 2022/2023'. Among other things, business friendliness, economic potential, human capital & lifestyle and indeed connectivity are taken into account.

Huge logistical expertise - at your service

Why not make use of a logistic partner that saves you time and money? Antwerp hosts all of the top-class logistical players to ensure your business can proceed smoothly to delivering for the European market. Since Antwerp lies at the heart of Europe and a majority of its customers can be reached through our existing connections, investing here is a strategic choice with a strong ROI.  

More information?

Investdesk is happy to help you by offering expertise and advice on logistical challenges in the European market and can offer a tailored solution. 

Flanders Investment & Trade is your point of contact as een international business in Flanders.