Spaciotempo solves seasonal space shortage at height of pandemic
As with many major retailers, John Lewis & Partners are prone to seasonal surges that impact on storage and distribution. Due to these peaks, the firm often resort to employing additional staff to fulfil increased demands on their operations.
Accommodating extra personnel doesn’t usually present a problem, but in the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the government imposed mandatory social distancing measures in attempt to minimise the risk of coronavirus transmissions.
With excess personnel on the books, John Lewis found an urgent requirement for additional space across their flagship distribution centres in Milton Keynes, to ensure seasonal staff could enjoy breaks whilst safely adhering to social distancing requirements.
Having approached Spaciotempo regarding the design and rapid provision of temporary infrastructure, John Lewis took the decision to install three temporary buildings across two sites, to provide a total footprint of 800sqm in additional space.
The first site featured two buildings, comprising of a 10m x 15m x 3m welfare area to be used as a breakout space. The other was a large locker facility, also measuring 10m x 15m x 3m, to ensure that employees’ personal effects could be stored securely whilst on shift.
At the second site, Spaciotempo installed a slightly larger structure with windows, measuring 10m x 20m x 3m, serving as a canteen dining room which provided ample space for staff to relax, whilst crucially maintaining a safe social distance.
Spaciotempo completed each of the temporary building solutions with flooring, electrics and heating to provide maximum comfort throughout the colder months, meaning the buildings can be used year-round and for as long as the government’s restrictions are in place.
If you have a requirement for additional space to ensure business continuity, contact Spaciotempo on 01889 569 569.
