PML invests £3.5m in new Kent hub and 30+ new jobs
The new Kent-based, 24/7 operation will handle daily consignments of food and is planned to be up and running by the end of September 2021. PML anticipated the new facility will have the capacity to process 80–100 truck movements per day, with a focus on refrigerated goods only.
PML’s new site will function in tandem with its operations at Heathrow and Spalding and help establish a Kent base for the business – as well as reduce delays on roads within the area caused by queuing freight traffic.
Border Control Post status
The company also planned to apply for remote HMRC/DEFRA approved Border Control Post status to enable a faster transit of consignments out of the Port of Dover.
PML planned to spend about £1m on refurbishments to the building, which would include the creation of two purpose-built cold stores, 14 dock levelers, parking for up to 60 trailers and office space.
More than 30 new jobs across warehouse and office roles will also be created as part of the investment in the new site.
‘Seamless service’
Commenting on PML’s plans, managing director Mike Parr said: “In addition to proximity to the ports and Heathrow, we anticipate that haulage drivers will also appreciate the efficient and seamless service we will be able to deliver, enabling them to leave the trailer onsite while they take a rest break, as opposed to sitting in a queue worrying about the lengthy delays which could seriously impact on the condition of their perishable cargo – and of course adds to major delays on Kent’s roads.
“We are keen to become an active member of the local community and will be providing employment opportunities at a time when many people have suffered financially as a result of the pandemic.”
Meanwhile, members of the dairy industry continued to pressure the Government to prevent further damage to the industry caused by the shortage of HGV drivers.
