B&M strikes port storage deal

DISCOUNT retailer B&M has struck a deal for extra capacity at the Port of Liverpool.

Owner Peel Ports has agreed to store an extra 85,000 pallets of stock in the run up to Christmas.

B&M, which is headquartered in Speke, Merseyside, currently operates 360 stores across the UK and Ireland.

Jerome Wildsmith, head of supply chain at B&M Retail, said: “Christmas is one of our busiest periods and coupled with the fact that we are witnessing a significant increase in consumer demand means our current warehouse facilities are at capacity.

“Peel Ports has offered us a viable and affordable storage and distribution solution. It will allow us to deal with peak volumes with minimum fuss and maximum efficiency.

“What has been particularly attractive to our business is that we haven’t had to enter in to any lengthy or costly leasehold agreements. So we can add to or take away from capacity without losing out in terms of cost. The deal also means we are able to reduce road miles and carbon emissions, which is important in terms of our commitment to environmentally friendly operations.”

Ross Thompson, sales director at Peel Ports said: “We are pleased to be able to continue our on-going relationship with B&M Retail, helping support them in their storage needs over what is set to be a busy period for them. We understand the importance of flexibility when it comes to storage, and recognise that our customer’s needs will vary at different times of the year, sometimes at the last minute.”