Kitwave Group Plc has opened a new 65,000 sq. ft. distribution warehouse in Wakefield, replacing its previous facility.
The Tyneside-based group's HB Clark alcohol wholesale business will operate from the site that will feature warehouse management systems that Kitwave says will drive efficiencies.
The unit, which sits on a 165,000 sq. ft. site will also serve as HB Clark's head office where there is space for coaching, training and in-person meetings.
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Kitwave's InFAMous Soft Drinks post-mix production facility will relocate from Leeds to Wakefield by May this year - a move that it said will improve capacity and better storage facilities.
Paul Young, chief executive of Kitwave, said: “The opening of this new site in Wakefield is a testament to the group’s determination to continue pursuing opportunities through expansion and improved efficiencies, both for our customers and colleagues.
"Thanks to these synergies and optimised processes, including the launch of the fully functional online solution for customers, we are able to further improve the quality of our service provision and drive cross-selling, which will deliver long term value to the group and its customers.
“We are delighted that all 80 of our staff members are making the move to the new site, highlighting the strong relationships Kitwave maintains with its colleagues. This is only the third move in HB Clark’s 100+ year history and comes at an exciting time for the group, as it delivers on its growth strategy.”
Jay MacKay, Kitwave’s managing director, On-Trade Division, added: “Across the Kitwave Group, we have always endeavoured to continue improving all touchpoints of the business. The new site, the relocation of our InFAMous Soft Drinks post-mix production facility to Wakefield and the imminent launch of HB Clark’s online purchasing solution epitomise this ambition.
“Forward-thinking initiatives such as these will significantly improve HB Clark’s operations, allowing the business to ensure the delivery of the highest quality service to its customers and continue to provide a first-class route to market for our supplier partners.”
