A 638,000 square foot distribution centre is co-created by Nestlé, the world’s largest food and drink company, and XPO Logistics, a leading global provider of transport and logistics solutions. The digital warehouse of the future will be built at the new SEGRO East Midlands Gateway Logistics Park in Leicestershire, UK, and will be occupied mostly by Nestlé for its customer packages goods.
Functioning as a testbed environment for XPO technology prototypes prior to global release, the custom-designed distribution centre is scheduled for completion in 2020. It will feature advanced sorting systems and robotics alongside state-of-the-art automation co-developed with Swisslog Logistics Automation.
“Nestlé has entrusted XPO with the digital architecture for its future vision. Together, we will create limitless opportunities to explore new technologies in a state-of-the-art logistics environment,” said Richard Cawston, Managing Director, Supply Chain, XPO Logistics Europe.
The site’s digital ecosystem will integrate predictive data and intelligent machines to deliver one of the most advanced distribution management centres in the world, giving consumers faster, more efficient access to KITKAT, MAGGI, NESCAFÉ and other much-loved Nestlé brands.
“Our partnership with XPO will encourage innovation and experimentation in our UK logistics operations and help future proof our business. We will be able to be even more responsive for our customers across our brands, which include some of the most recognisable in the world,” said Nestlé Director of Supply Chain, David Hix.
Being located in the Midlands offers the benefit of direct access to the M1 motorway for road transport, the East Midlands Airport for cargo flights and an onsite rail freight terminal with direct access to the major UK ports of Southampton, Felixstowe, London Gateway and the Channel Tunnel.
The facility will be sited on man-made plateaus, with landscaping to minimise the visual impact to nearby settlements. Additional sustainability measures include energy-saving LED lighting, environmentally friendly ammonia refrigeration, air source heat pumps for administration areas and rainwater harvesting.
