This week sees the opening of a new distribution depot by Hermes UK, the consumer delivery specialists, in Valor Park, West Thurrock. Around 140 new jobs have been created at the 157,000 sq ft warehouse, which has been opened ahead of the busy Black Friday and Christmas peak periods.

The new facility will be able to handle over 115,000 parcels each day with the ability to operate 24/7 as needed. It forms part of the ongoing investment programme by Hermes UK to expand its capacity to meet the huge demand created by people shopping at home during lockdown and the continuing growth in the sector. The company estimates that it will see record parcel volumes later this year.

“It has been a hectic but successful couple of days since we opened. Our new team includes people from all kinds of professions who have been made redundant as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and being able to employ so many local people from the area has been really important for me. We are getting ready for a busy Black Friday and Christmas period and will be working hard to ensure that our customers continue to get a fantastic service,” said Sidonia Grigorie Depot General Manager.