400 jobs created as logistics giant moves in at Enterprise Zone
LOGISTICS business Great Bear Distribution is set to open on the Markham Vale Enterprise Zone in a move which will create 400 jobs.
The firm’s new 480,000 sq ft distribution centre – which is the area of 220 tennis courts end to end – has taken eight months to build and is made up of enough concrete to fill 11 average size houses and enough steel to stretch 1,000 metres above Mount Everest.
Now work to kit out the inside of the building will begin and the official opening at the site located off junction 29A of the M1 motorway is expected to be in December this year.
Established in 1994, the Chester-based firm operates in 30 locations nationwide providing warehousing and distribution for clients such as PZ Cussons, BMW, and Unilever.
Glenn Lindfield, CEO of Great Bear Distribution said: “We are extremely pleased with how quickly Henry Boot Developments and Bowmer & Kirkland have been able to deliver our new 480,000 square feet distribution facility at Markham Vale.
“The bespoke unit will add a significant amount of additional capacity to the Great Bear network and with the immediate access to the UK motorway system, Markham Vale will provide us with an advantage to servicing our clients up and down the country.”
Heage-based construction firm Bowmer & Kirkland was awarded a £16.2m contract to oversee the project by Henry Boot Developments – our private sector property partner.
Derbyshire County Council leader and cabinet member for strategic policy, economic development and budget, councillor Anne Western said: “We’re delighted to welcome Great Bear Distribution to Markham’s growing network of businesses and pleased they chose the site for their expansion which is set to create up to 400 new jobs.
“The firm will be another strong string to Markham’s bow and we’re very happy with how the site continues to grow and develop.
“Markham provides great opportunities for small, medium and large businesses to expand or relocate so please get in touch to find out what’s available for your company.”
Existing occupiers at Markham Vale include Meter Provida, inspirepac, Gould Alloys, AW Repair Group, MSE Hiller, Squadron Medical, Industrial Ancillaries, Andrew Page, Holdsworth Foods and Ready Egg Products.
Ben Ward, director at Henry Boot Developments said: “We are extremely pleased to announce the completion of our largest unit on Markham Vale.
“The contractors worked quickly and efficiently allowing us to deliver the building to Great Bear and M&G Real Estate on schedule and on budget.
“This unit will become Great Bear’s flagship distribution centre in the UK and will act as a vital hub within the company’s portfolio.
“Markham Vale has become a well-established and successful development. It is a central UK distribution hub and Great Bear are an excellent addition to its occupiers.”
