The 32 metre tall, high bay frozen cold store is located between two existing manufacturing units at the Balliol Business Park and will be used for the bulk storage of frozen products ready for distribution to Greggs store across the UK.
Operating as a fully ‘lights out process’ facility, Greggs said it would free up space onsite and enable efficient and faster delivery of finished goods. The facility included six new loading docks, nine levels of automation and reduced oxygen fire suppression.
Commenting on the new facility, Greggs senior project manager Peter Boughton said: “Designed with sustainability in mind, this project highlights our commitment to Net Zero Greggs with carbon efficiency considered at every stage of the construction process.
Innovation and investment
“A first for Greggs, the automated warehouse demonstrates our commitment to innovation and investment in our sites and the business.”
Designer and constructor of food manufacturing and distribution facilities Clegg Food Projects was appointed as the principal contactor for project.
The build marked the 20th large scale capital expenditure scheme completed for Greggs since it began working with the baker in 2001, with a cumulative value of about £100m.
John Moxon, business development director at Clegg Food Projects, said: “Following coordination meetings with the Greggs team and their specialist mechanical systems suppliers and logistics consultants, works started on site in October 2019.
Problem solving design
“The construction sequence was continually updated and modified as details were confirmed, with extensive groundworks and piling installations carried out to cope with the high structure as well as the volume and weight of the products being stored in the building.
“Access routes alongside installation and commissioning plans were also jointly agreed and equipment was installed during the main construction works to meet the overall project timescales and ensure the project ran smoothly.”
Meanwhile, Cargo specialist Perishable Movements (PML) has invested £3.5m in a new satellite operation at Lympne Distribution Park, Hythe, creating more than 30 new jobs.