Yusen Logistics UK has opened a 1.1 million sq ft distribution centre in Northampton, introducing a robotics and four-way conveyor system claimed to be the first of its kind in Europe outside China. The facility will support business-to-business logistics while creating up to 900 jobs as operations expand.
Yusen Logistics UK has inaugurated a 1.1 million sq ft (102,193 sq m) distribution centre at Segro Logistics Park, Northampton, strengthening its presence in England’s logistics “golden triangle” with the deployment of advanced warehouse automation technology.
The new facility incorporates a robotics and four-way conveyor system, which the company said is being deployed for the first time in Europe outside China. The technology is designed to improve goods-to-person operations by enabling warehouse staff to pick multiple orders simultaneously while working alongside automated systems.
The Japanese logistics company said around 150 employees are currently working at the site, with the workforce expected to increase to between 500 and 900 as operations expand. According to Managing Director David Evans, the increasing adoption of automation is creating demand for new technical and engineering roles alongside traditional warehouse positions.
The warehouse will primarily support business-to-business (B2B) distribution for electronics manufacturers while also providing home delivery services. Approximately 25 per cent of the facility has been allocated to temperature-controlled pharmaceutical storage.
Located close to the M1 motorway, the distribution centre has been developed with sustainability features including solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. Yusen Logistics also plans to utilise the nearby Northampton Gateway Rail Freight Interchange once it becomes operational, enhancing multimodal freight connectivity.
The warehouse is located at Segro Logistics Park between Milton Malsor and Collingtree, with the logistics park having received planning approval in 2019 for rail-served warehousing and associated facilities.
Source: BBC
