Huge Burton Latimer warehouse park welcomes its first occupant

A massive warehouse park on the outskirts of Burton Latimer has welcomed its first occupant.

International distributor Bunzl plc is the first firm to pick up the keys to a unit at Segro Park Kettering Gateway, just off junction 10.

The 230,000 sq ft warehouse, which is already open with pallets going in and out last week, will house the firm's retail division to "improve the quality of its operations".

Also operating out of the Burton Latimer site and part of Bunzl Retail Supplies will be Woodway UK, Lightning Packaging Supplies, Keenpac and Classic Bag

The warehouse will feature an innovation centre to showcase its products and services to customers and will provide a workplace for 100 members of staff, with warehouse operative jobs available online.

Helen Cockerham, Bunzl Retail’s divisional managing director, said: “Finding the right location for our new warehouse and distribution hub was a critical part of our growth strategy.

"The location and connectivity, the infrastructure which is already in place, and the speed at which our new facility can be delivered, made Segro Park Kettering Gateway a great choice.”

The site has planning permission for up to 1.2m sq ft of warehouse and industrial space.

Earlier this year plans for another huge warehouse went on show and a drive-thru McDonald's near the A6 roundabout was given the green light by Kettering Council.

Andrew Pilsworth, Segro's business unit director in national logistics, said: “We understand the importance for our customers of having high-quality, sustainable, well-located and flexible industrial and warehouse space. Segro Park Kettering Gateway meets these needs perfectly and we’re pleased that the new facility will help Bunzl deliver its growth strategy, as well as new employment opportunities.

“The Covid-19 pandemic is changing the way that companies operate both now and in the future. The fact that Segro Park Kettering Gateway already has planning permission, utilities, supporting infrastructure and plots ready to build means a new warehouse can be constructed within six months. This could make a huge difference for those looking to adapt quickly to new market conditions.”

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