Poundland to build 350,000 sq ft south east distribution centre
Single price retailer Poundland has been given the go-ahead to build a new state-of-the-art distribution centre in Harlow in Essex. The 350,000 sq ft purpose built facility will be operational in 2014 and will create around 650 new jobs.
The new facility, which replaces the temporary distribution centre in Hoddesdon, will serve as Poundland’s main depot for the South East and will support the business as it looks to expand its presence in the UK and mainland Europe. At peak capacity, it will service up to 300 stores.
Andy Monk, Poundland’s distribution director, said: “The development of this distribution centre marks a major milestone for Poundland, securing our future growth and supporting our expansion plans, both in the UK and in Europe. The eco-friendly warehouse, almost double the size of the group’s temporary hub in Hoddesdon, will benefit from 37,000 pallet locations, on-site fuel and vehicle maintenance workshops, ensuring that we maximise our logistical efficiencies and maintain overall control of stock availability at store level.”
Built to a Building Research and Establishment Assessment Method rating of “Very Good”, the facility will have a carbon neutral roof and wall cladding as well as eco-friendly energy sources including rainwater harvesting and solar heating for water supply usage.
