Screwfix to double size of Stoke DC

DEVELOPER St Modwen has partnered with M&G Real Estate on a property deal which will see trade retailer Screwfix’s distribution centre in Stoke-on-Trent virtually double in size to 630,000 sq ft.

It has been suggested that the move will create an additional 107 jobs at the Trentham Lakes site.

Birmingham-based St Modwen, developer of the original facility in 2003/04, has obtained planning permission and will construct the extension on an adjoining 8.38 acres of land to be sold by St Modwen to M&G Real Estate as part of the deal.

Planning permission has been granted and a start on site is expected in August 2014 with a 12 month estimated construction period.

The existing facility is set to increase from 320,000 sq ft to 630,000 sq ft, enabling Screwfix to consolidate and expand its existing operations, safeguarding the current 430 positions and creating 100 additional full time jobs in the area.

It will also provide the potential for a further 200 employment opportunities in the future.

The extra space will facilitate next day delivery services for both Screwfix and B&Q to be managed at one centralised location by parent company Kingfisher Group.

David Crowley, director, asset management at M&G Real Estate, said: “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.”

Euan Lindsay, senior development manager at St Modwen, said: “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.”

Richie Sutcliffe, director of supply chain at Screwfix, added: “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.”

Source : Andy Coyne - TheBusinessDesk.com
www.thebusinessdesk.com/westmidlands/news/626886-more-than-100-new-jobs-promised-as-screwfix-distribution-centre-expands.html