110 jobs on the cards at new distribution hub

A top UK redistributor of surplus food and household products has submitted plans for a new 50,000 sq ft Regional Distribution Hub which could create around 110 permanent jobs.

Company Shop Group’s new facility at Leicester Distribution Park has already been built, but a change-of-use application must be approved by Leicester City Council before the firm can occupy the site.

The Regional Distribution Hub will prevent millions of items of food and household products from needlessly going to waste.

Around 70 per cent of the site will be used for processing, distribution and logistics, while the remainder will become Company Shop’s first redistribution superstore in the city.

Jane Marren, managing director of Company Shop Group, said: “Following an extensive search for suitable premises we’re delighted to have submitted a change-of-use planning application for our first Regional Distribution Hub in Leicester. This is an exciting step in our ambitious expansion plan, with the Midlands being a key focus for us.

“We are excited to be making this long-term investment in what will become our Midlands Distribution Hub, as we continue to expand. We have had several positive discussions with Leicester City Council and look forward to continuing to work with the local authority in the months and years ahead.

“Not only will Company Shop create 110 permanent, new jobs across processing, logistics and retail, we will be supporting hard-working families across Leicester to stretch their budgets, whilst preventing millions of items from going to waste and supporting the city’s ambition to achieve Net Zero by 2025.”

Should planning permission be granted, Company Shop will also seek to introduce its Community Shop social enterprise to Leicester.

A final decision is expected from Leicester City Council in the spring.