900 jobs created with new Sainsbury’s DC in Daventry

To be operated by DHL, the new 1 million sq ft facility will use both automation and conventional assembly methods and will open in two phases; low bay operations will commence in early 2015 with a 150,000 pallet high bay operation following later in the year.

Located at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT II) in Northamptonshire, the location links both road and rail operations, including a new intermodal terminal connected to the existing DIRFT railway infrastructure. 

In line with Sainsbury’s 20x20 sustainability targets, the facility will feature the latest environmental technologies including LED lighting, rainwater harvesting and vehicle charging points in the car park. The facility will also recycle or put to positive use all of its general waste.

Richard Fleming, Sainsbury’s Logistics Director said: "The distribution centre at DIRFT II represents a significant investment for Sainsbury’s. We are always looking at ways to serve our customers better and this depot will provide us with a central location to support our growing general merchandise business, which is growing at twice the rate of food.”

Mel Brockhouse, Vice President, Retail Operations for DHL Supply Chain added: "We’re delighted to be partnering Sainsbury’s on its new facility at Daventry and applying our expertise to drive efficiency into the supply chain. Sainsbury’s is an exciting and innovative brand, and we look forward to supporting them further as they continue to grow.

The new facility marks the latest milestone in DHL’s twenty nine year relationship with the retailer.