Screwfix this week announced a large scale investment into the growth of its Stoke-on-Trent based distribution centre. Under the plans, which have already gained approval from the local authority, Screwfix’s existing 320,000 sq ft facility will almost double in floor space to 630,000 sq ft. This will allow the firm to expand operations on the site and will ensure its existing 430 jobs are safeguarded whilst also creating an estimated 100 additional full time positions.
Furthermore, executives at the Kingfisher-owned brand believe that the expansion will pave the way for around 200 further employment opportunities in the future. It will also add to Stoke’s growing reputation as a leading national distribution hub.
Director of supply chain at Screwfix, Richie Sutcliffe, believes the extended facility will allow the company to further improve the consumer experience.
He says; “Screwfix has continued to go from strength to strength over the last 12 months.
“We strive continually to evolve our innovative and multi-channel retail model to ensure it provides high quality products as conveniently as possible for busy tradesmen on the move.
“Our industry leading next day delivery service has played a central role in this offering, so we are delighted to be able to further enhance the service across the group with the expansion of our warehouse.”
The work involved at the Trentham Lakes site will be spearheaded by St Modwen, the firm which designed and created the original facility in 2003/04. Space for the extension will be found on the adjoining 8.38 acres of land, which will be sold by St Modwen to project partner M&G Real Estate as specified in an additional clause of the existing deal.
Should all go to plan, the speedy granting of the planning permission by the local authority will allow St Modwen to commence work on the extension by August. The firm estimates that the construction period will last for around 12 months, meaning the extended facility should be fully operational by September 2015.
Both parties expressed their pleasure at the ability to work together on this sizeable project, with senior development manager at St Modwen, Euan Lindsay, saying; “The decision to expand the Screwfix facility at Trentham Lakes highlights the success of the existing facility and Kingfisher’s confidence in the location of both Trentham Lakes and Stoke on Trent for logistics operations.”
Director of asset management at M&G Real Estate, David Crowley, added; “We are very pleased to have been able to work with St Modwen and Screwfix to create what will be a fantastic modern facility.
“It is a great example of active asset management, which will produce excellent future returns for our client.”
