JD Sports creates 500 new jobs at major Derby logistics hub

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
Jul 26, 2021

Another major UK retailer is upping its supply chain credentials. JD Sport Fashion will open a 514,000 sq ft warehouse complex in Derby towards the end of the year. Currently under construction on Derby Commercial Park, the centre will employ up to 500 people.

The sportswear retailer has signed a 20-year lease for the ‘Derby 515’ address, with the facility expected to feature a high environmental rating, 56 dock doors and parking for 185 trailers.

Site developer Panattoni told Derbyshire Live it’s one of the biggest single-unit buildings currently being constructed in the UK.

Panattoni development director Andy Preston said: “This letting reflects the strength of demand from occupiers for immediately available space and the location of the facility, which has excellent transport links and a very large, suitably skilled workforce in one of the UK’s centres for advanced logistics”.

JD joins retailers such as Marks & Spencer in opening major new distribution hubs this year in the drive to improve supply and delivery options. The fast-growing retailer continues to buy or take significant stakes in rival sportswear producers and retailers, so the push to expand its supply chain is paramount.

In a performance update in June, JD also said trading in the period in the post-pandemic reopening period was “particularly encouraging in the UK”.