Global online shipping firm opens new Lancashire HQ
Global online shipping firm, World Options, opened its new headquarters in Accrington yesterday.
It is expected to create dozens of jobs for the area.
World Options is one of the fastest-growing franchise firms in the country and the new site includes a high-spec customer support and training centre which will be used by World Options’ 81 franchisees in the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and the USA.
International business partners from the global offices and representatives from the world’s largest logistics carriers will also meet for regular industry updates at the new site in Clayton-le-Moors, Accrington.
The Mayor and Mayoress of Hyndburn Council cut the ribbon at the official launch event.
Stewart Butler, group CTO and managing director of World Options, said: “I am incredibly proud to be one of the company’s original founders and to have seen it grow so phenomenally in just 15 years.
“Born and bred in Manchester, I’m thrilled to be able to give something back to the community and bring jobs to the north of England, and I hope that we get plenty of applicants for the new vacancies we have already announced, with more to come in the near future.”
Employees can unwind in the new site’s ultra-modern breakout space, with computer games, a pool table, TV area and lunch room.
They will be working on state-of-the-art computer systems with the highest security features, while a VoIP calling system has replaced all telephones in the office.
Mr Butler said: “It was important for us to keep pace with new ways of working, so we have adopted a clutter-free approach in the new headquarters, including a locked and secure storage wall to keep paperwork safe and out of the way.
“Our high-tech LED lighting system has sensors to detect lack of movement, while stimulated lighting automatically adjusts to external weather changes, finding the optimum level of lighting to keep staff comfortable.
“These are just some of the forward-thinking ways we aim to push the business forward as we maximise on this impressive new headquarters to ensure staff are delivering the best possible service to our clients, partners and franchisees.”
World Options’ customer support centre is a key part of the new office and the firm is currently looking to recruit customer service, accounts and credit control staff, as well as inviting those looking to start their own business to consider the firm’s franchise model.
Established in 2003, World Options provides shipping solutions to small to medium-sized businesses around the world via its online portal.
The online system offers customers the chance to send their parcels, packages and documents with the largest carriers in the world and access the lowest courier rates at the same time, along with a range of other unique features that save businesses time and money.
In 2016, the company opened offices in Australia, Belgium, Netherlands and Singapore, before launching its US offices in 2018.
The company has relocated from its previous headquarters on the Link 665 Business Park, in Haslingden, Rossendale.
