The Co-op’s new regional distribution depot in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, is gearing-up to serve communities with the first deliveries now underway to stores across the South East.

The depot is now moving through the gears, and has started delivering frozen, fresh and ambient groceries to the retailer’s stores, with the site set to serve over 600 Co-op stores when it becomes fully operational later this year.

At 661,000 sq ft, the new £45million depot - located just off the A1, less than 30 miles north of the M25 – will become Co-op’s largest regional distribution centre.  The depot has a base build constructed to BREEAM Excellent and expects to use 100% renewable energy to power the site which is set to include solar PV designed into the roof.

Ahmed Sharif, Co-op Distribution General Manager, Biggleswade Depot said: “Co-op’s new Biggleswade distribution depot represents a significant investment in its logistic operations – the new composite depot allows Co-op to bring thousands of its products closer to communities across the South East, enabling its Members and customers to shop conveniently, whenever and however they choose to shop with Co-op. Co-op is also committed to giving back to its local communities, from Apprenticeships to access to food and, our successful fundraising partnership with MIND.”

Ahmed continues, “Colleagues and communities are a top priority for Co-op.  Our new depot also embraces adaptable and innovative spaces, both indoor and outdoor, that focuses on wellbeing and mindfulness for the up to 1,000 colleagues working at the site.

This includes a contemplation area, outside green space bordered by a living wall and, Co-op’s award-winning initiative to support and promote better sleep, diet and mental health, known as Night Club.  Our purpose built new depot forms part of Co-op’s work to ensure it has the right distribution facilities, skills and resource in place to serve communities across the South East, both now and, in the future.”