Encon warms up for growth with warehouse

AN INSULATION company is expanding its central distribution operations through the acquisition of a major warehouse unit.

Encon Insulation has taken 105,664 sq ft of space in Leeds.

The company, a national distributor of thermal, acoustic and fire protection insulation products, began trading in Halifax in 1981 and currently supplies all sectors of the construction industry.

Since 2005 Encon has been a wholly owned subsidiary of the Wolseley Group, whose business interests include national chains such as Plumb Center.

The acquisition of the new facility will enable Encon to relocate its Leeds operations from its existing Gildersome premises, increase storage capacity and expand its workforce to continue to meet customer demand.

The warehouse, off Benyon Park Way, was originally occupied by Next and has been let by Leeds-based industrial specialists Gent Visick, on behalf of owners The National Grid UK Pension Scheme, whose property portfolio is managed by BNP Paribas Real Estate Investment Management.

Elliot Herbertson, of BNP Paribas REIM, said: “This letting is an excellent result for the pension fund and strengthens our belief that the occupier market in the Yorkshire region continues to be robust, and is a testament to the tenacity and hard work of our agents, Gent Visick.”

Andrew Gent, of sole letting agent Gent Visick, said: “The retention of Encon Insulation’s distribution facility within Leeds is a positive outcome for the city. It is indicative of the underlying strength of the local occupier market, which is experiencing a gradual take up of the existing supply.”

BNP Paribas REIM was advised by Gent Visick. Encon Insulation was advised by DTZ.