Clipper Logistics’ new John Lewis-anchored hub nears completion

Fit out work is now underway at Leeds-based Clipper Logistics’ new facility located at the M1 Junction 15 near Northampton.

The new build, which has been completed by the property developer Goodmans, will initially provide circa 500,000 sq ft of space to bring together a number of the key elements of a multi-channel supply chain.

The site is to be shared use but retail giant John Lewis will be the anchor customer.

The facility was completed at the beginning of March, upon which the fit out commenced to turn the site into a multichannel logistics hub, which includes new equipment, mezzanine floors, as well as operational and office space.

Located near to major transport infrastructure arteries, the site will become operational in summer 2016 and reach its full capability later in the year

Clipper has developed high levels of capability in pre-retail and returns management, under its Boomerang initiative, and the solution created for John Lewis has both of these as key elements.

The Clipper Servicecare capability (electronic/electrical returns) will also be embedded within the operation and therefore Clipper will be able to process all returns, irrespective of product category, for the retailer under one roof.

The new site will also benefit from the inclusion of a sortation solution to complement the existing Click & Collect capability within the Clipper business. The facilities will provide national coverage and offer the opportunity for other retailers to benefit from the Click & Collect solution pioneered by Clipper in partnership with John Lewis.

Dino Rocos, operations director of JLP, said: “We have had a long standing partnership with Clipper and value their continued support & capability. We are confident that this new operational facility, which brings together several key elements of our omni-channel supply chain, will be a tremendous asset.

“The ability to provide next day Click & Collect solutions throughout our estate and to have the ability to route returns via the same network directly back into the returns facility, will drive inventory efficiency and enhanced customer service.”

Tony Mannix, CEO of Clipper, commented: “It is with great pride that we are able to announce that work is well underway at the latest Clipper site at junction 15 of the M1.

“This project has brought together several of our initiatives – inbound pre-retail, Boomerang returns management, and our new Click & Collect capability. The speed of change in retail multi-channel activity requires innovative ideas and great execution – I am delighted that John Lewis recognises the value we provide to their business.

“The new site is “shared use” and therefore we have created the capability to assist other retail customers who are facing similar challenges, and we have a pipeline of opportunities for the site.”