Kingfisher plc has signed contracts on a new B&Q distribution centre (DC) in Swindon.
Construction on the new 375,000 square feet site started in March 2018. When complete, it is estimated around 100 new jobs will be created. It is expected to be operational by February 2019, when the site will be run by Kingfisher’s logistics partners Wincanton and XPO.
The new site will be developed next door to B&Q’s existing Swindon DC and connected to the biomass plant that heats it. As well as benefiting from 100% renewable heat, the new building will incorporate roof-top solar panels and beehives in the surrounding grounds. Its proximity to the existing site also means that road mileage can be kept to a minimum.
The new site will improve efficiencies within the B&Q supply chain, enabling it to maximise product availability for in-store and digital customers, as well as supporting Kingfisher’s UK supply chain.
Tim Crighton, Group Logistics Property Manager at Kingfisher plc, said: “This is an important milestone for Kingfisher and B&Q in implementing our supply chain strategy as part of the One Kingfisher transformation plan. The new site will allow us to improve efficiencies within the supply chain for B&Q, meaning we’ll be able to get product out to stores more quickly, and help us to help more customers improve their homes.”
The site will be developed by Gazeley, a leading developer, investor, owner and manager of prime logistics real estate in Western Europe.
Bruce Topley, Senior Development Director, of Gazeley, said: “G.Park Swindon benefits from exceptional transport links and has become a leading destination for logistics and distributions operations in the UK. We are delighted to be working with B&Q for a second time and look forward to delivering this exciting project. Gazeley has built a reputation for exceptional customer service and delivery of high quality buildings that give its customers the flexibility to adapt to the changing and fast evolving ecommerce landscape.”
Kingfisher saw sales rise 3.8% in its 2017/2018 financial year, with sales softening in Q4. The group has reportedly cut jobs at B&Q HQ in Hampshire and at its French brands Brico Dépôt and Castorama.