This week sees the opening of a new distribution depot by Hermes UK, the consumer delivery specialists, in Mill Lane, Warrington (at the ex-Royal Mail North West Distribution Centre). Over 550 seasonal temporary jobs have been created at the 185,000 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 450K 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.

Due to local restrictions as a result of Covid-19, the team decided to donate the money they would have spent on launching the site to a local food bank, to help support local people going through the difficult times due to the pandemic.

“During a year where we have learnt to take nothing for granted, it is fantastic to be opening a new hub for Hermes where business continues to grow, allowing us to provide much needed job opportunities during these uncertain times. The new team has worked extremely hard to get the site ready for what will be one of the busiest periods of the year and ensure that our customers continue to get a fantastic service,” commented Sam Spring, Depot Manager.