Expansion for Stoke warehousing firm
BROWNS DISTRIBUTION SERVICES is expanding its footprint by 30% after investing in a new sustainable warehouse facility, with support from Lloyds Bank.
THE FIRM, which counts the likes of Royal Mail, 3t Logistics, JCB and DHL among its customers, secured a £4.5 million package from Lloyds Bank to fund the 75,000 sq ft high bay warehouse space.
Two years in the making, the purpose-built distribution centre and new HQ is designed to facilitate the company's three-year growth plan.
The site includes a contemporary two-storey office space, with specialist IT and ergonomic infrastructure, collaborative meeting areas and bright recreational spaces.
The warehouse has an 80kW solar PV array on the building's roof, and the use of multiple biodisc septic tanks to ensure optimal and efficient waste removal from the premises.
The new warehouse has already seen a reduction of 50% in its energy usage thanks to the new measures and a 100% reduction in gas following the removal of all heavy fossil fuels from its infrastructure. There is also a focus on decarbonising the business’ fleet of 70 vehicles, starting with the rollout of 100% electric forklift trucks which operate 24hrs a day.
Managing director David Brown Jnr, said: “The new facility has been meticulously designed with a people-first approach to improve our efficiency and encourage a more collaborative approach. We’ve also been able to introduce more energy-efficient ways of working, with sustainable improvements throughout the warehouse build and fleet.”
Chris Perkins, relationship director at Lloyds Bank, added: “At Lloyds Bank, we’re committed to helping businesses such as Browns Distribution to reduce their environmental impact while creating a better workplace where their colleagues can thrive.”
Browns employs 145 people, including 70 drivers, and has a forecast turnover of around £23 million for this financial year.
