Winvic wins contract to develop M&S 1.3 million ft2 mega hub
Winvic Construction has been appointed by Prologis to deliver Marks & Spencer’s 1.3 million ft2 new national distribution centre Prologis’ DIRFT RFI III scheme in the East Midlands.
By Liza Helps, Property Editor, Logistics Matters
THE SCHEME represents a £340 million investment in M&S’s food supply chain and forms a key part of the company’s strategy to double the size of its food business.
The development combines temperature-controlled storage, advanced automated fulfilment, returns and recycling operations, and dedicated office space.
Over the 52-week build programme, Winvic will construct two Low Carbon single-storey warehouses which include multi-storey office accommodation, a security hub linked via a pedestrian bridge and Vehicle Maintenance Unit.
On completion, the new facility will be fully electric, with embodied carbon reduced and assessed through Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) in line with RICS Whole Life Carbon Methodology Edition 2 and the UKGBC Framework Definition. The building is expected to be the largest in the world to achieve BREEAM Outstanding certification while also targeting an EPC A+ rating.
Sustainable features include a large-scale rooftop photovoltaic array, EV charging, energy-saving technologies that will further reduce annual operational emissions and extensive use of recycled materials.
The scheme is expected to support over 2,000 jobs, with approximately 1,000 permanent roles once operational, covering driving, logistics, and more technical roles such as automation technicians.
Infrastructure works comprise an intensive soil nailing to strengthen the embankment to the M1, earthworks, access roads, footpaths and a bridleway bridge. External works include a gatehouse, service yards, HGV and car parking spaces, hardstanding’s drainage and landscaping.
In alignment with Prologis’ Social Value Charter and the National TOMs (Themes, Outcomes, Measures) framework, Winvic is delivering an Employment and Skills Plan designed to create meaningful opportunities and a positive impact in the local community. Winvic is working with Prologis on a National Construction Skills Programme, in partnership with Northampton-based social enterprise Goodwill Solutions, to support individuals facing challenges to develop skills and gain sustainable employment.
This latest milestone takes Prologis’ leased or committed space at DIRFT to over 75%.
