Wincanton awarded Morrisons contract
Wincanton has been awarded a multi-million-pound, five-year contract by supermarket group Morrisons to operate its first ever dedicated UK convenience distribution centre in London. The contract is for combined warehouse and transport operations, supported by Wincanton’s system platform.
Morrisons recently announced plans to open 20 new convenience stores across the UK by the end of 2012 following successful trials of its “M Local” format in Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham. The new 100,000 sq ft cross-dock distribution centre will open in Feltham early next year.
Morrisons convenience stores are a key part of their overall group growth strategy, and Wincanton says its proven expertise in managing this type of operation in the Greater London area was a key factor in securing the contract.
Eric Born, chief executive of Wincanton, commented: “The award of this important contract with Morrisons is a clear sign that the market values Wincanton’s expertise in providing turnkey solutions to leading retailers. We have always believed that the UK retail sector offers Wincanton real opportunities to broader our service offering and grow our market share. Today’s announcement further endorses that belief and highlights the enormous potential that exists for the Group.”