Food giant commits to Monarch 330 as part of £100m expansion

Greater Manchester Pension Fund has secured Monarch 330, in Rochdale, for the expansion of global food company, Danish Crown.

In one of the largest logistic lettings in the North West this year, the site will become the main UK distribution hub for the food producer, which announced its expansion last month as part of a £100m investment.

With around 300 jobs expected to be created, the letting is demonstrating the continued strength of the occupational market for prime warehouse buildings and Rochdale as one of the region’s premier distribution locations.

Monarch 330 is a speculatively-developed logistics warehouse developed in partnership between Wilson Bowden Developments and GMPF.

The asset comprises 330,000 sq ft and is located on Kingsway Business Park.

The commitment by Danish Crown is one of the largest investments into the UK food market since Brexit, and, once fully operational, the site will produce up to 920 tonnes of bacon and gammon a week for the UK market.

Kevin Etchells, senior investment manager for GMPF, said: “We are delighted to have secured a great tenant on a long-term lease who are showing their commitment to the location.

“Despite the wider macro challenges to the UK real estate market, we see continued evidence of a resilient occupational market within our favoured sectors. This letting has crystalised an excellent result for GMPF and the wider Greater Manchester economy.”

Cllr John Blundell, cabinet member for economy and regeneration and Rochdale Development Agency board member, said: “This is welcome news for the people of the borough with many seeking an opportunity for a new career.

“Unemployment is an issue we are working hard to tackle, and this new facility will offer residents the chance to make that leap back into the workforce.

Avison Young and JLL advised GMPF on the letting.