With facilities based in Redditch, UK and Ireland, multi temperature supply chain specialist Oakland International has expanded operations to assist its growth plans and will create an additional 100 jobs with the opening of a new chilled distribution facility, their third, based in Corby, Northamptonshire.
Oakland International Managing Director, Barry Davies, commented: “Our strategic investment in Corby will assist and enable continued business growth; supporting the UK economy and provide continued job security for our 320 workers nationwide; as a socially responsible family business, it was very important to us that key local partners and suppliers worked on this project with us.”
In one of the fastest growing towns outside of London, Oakland’s Corby facility launched in March to support expansion in the UK and the firm’s sustained business growth supplying UK and Irish retail, discount, convenience and wholesale markets, with their Corby operation supporting the discount retail sector.
Corby is currently a 5,200 m2 site with the ability to expand to a 7,900 m2 (55,000 to 85,000 sq. ft.) footprint, able to accommodate circa. 8,000 pallets, with an allocated contract packing area capable of accommodating Oakland’s continuously expanding value added services offer.
A major strategic investment by Oakland, the Corby facility underwent a £1.5m transformation refurbishment programme, which included the installation of new energy supplies, energy efficient LED sensor lighting and refrigeration system, racking, bay doors and dock leveler and scissor lift, new barrier and security systems together with an office redesign focused on engaging and encouraging a one-team culture.
Oakland International CEO and Co-Founder, Dean Attwell, commented: “Corby is a fantastic addition to the business and one which will play its part in supporting, and further developing our discount retail growth plans, contract packing and extensive value added service offer.”