August 1996 – international expansion by the foundation of Ponetex Logistics in Poland.
In 1996, Axell (in that time Timmermans Logistics) took its first step towards international market by expanding into Poland. What started as a local carrier grew into an international logistics services provider.
The story began in 1995 when Timmermans was approached to transport aid goods to Poland following relief efforts. Under the leadership of Jan Timmermans, this effort resulted into much more than a simple shipment. Powered by the longstanding friendship between the municipalities of Diessen and Rakoniewice, the initiative blossomed into a thriving enterprise.
In May 1995, a decision was made: a piece of land was acquired, and in 1996, construction of a warehouse in Rakoniewice began. Utilizing a steel structure from the Netherlands and Polish craftsmanship, the first warehouse came to life. On August 31, 1996, Ponetex Logistics was inaugurated, the sister company in the Polish Poznan region. A new chapter had begun.
Success followed swiftly. The Nowy Tomyśl warehouse, boasting an impressive 10,000 m2, became a hub for international clients. Starting from February 2000, Timmermans Logistics offered a daily groupage service between Poland (Poznan, Rakoniewice, Warsaw, and Wroclaw) and the Netherlands (Diessen and Etten-Leur). And there was even more.
In Nowy Tomyśl and Diessen, customs agencies were established. The handling of customs formalities seamlessly integrated into the service, catering to both in-house operations and external partnerships.
In its 90 years of existence, Axell has been more than just logistics. It’s a story of dedication, growth, and international connectivity.