Construction starts on M&S Daventry logistics hub
Building work is under way on a 1.3m sq ft automated distribution centre in Northamptonshire, part of Marks & Spencer’s £340m plans to modernise its supply chain and double the size of its food business.
Two single-storey warehouses will be built at the 430-acre Northamptonshire terminal with the development set to include temperature-controlled storage, advanced automated fulfilment, returns and recycling operations, and dedicated office space.
The complex at Prologis’ rail-connected DIRFT park in Daventry is being built by Winvic Construction, with works expected to last around a year.
To mark the start of the build, Michelle Elliman, from MS Rugby store joined Kevin Bennett, CEO of Gist (MS Food’s logistics arm), Stuart Andrew, MP for Daventry and Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and Prologis for an on-site for a steel‑signing ceremony.
Over 200 MS Food stores will be serviced by the new DC, supporting colleagues with faster deliveries and simpler stock and fill processes, so they can spend more time with customers on the shop floor.
James Hemstock of Prologis, Stuart Andrew MP, Michelle Elliman, and Kevin Bennett, of Gist makred the start of works on site with a steel signing. Credit: M&S
Kevin Bennett, who leads MS Food’s logistics arm said: “Starting the build on this site marks a major step in transforming MS into a true destination for the weekly shop, with a modernised supply chain at the heart of that ambition. This investment will boost capacity for future growth, lower our long‑term cost to serve, and improve product availability so customers get the right products in the right place at the right time.
“With construction underway, this new site strengthens our network and puts us ahead of the volume curve as we build a bigger, better food business. By deploying the latest proven automation, we’re future‑proofing our operations and UK retail logistics, while creating 1,000 permanent jobs on site.”
Stuart Andrew, MP for Daventry and Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said:
“I welcome the investment by Marks Spencer into the new distribution centre in Daventry. It was great to visit the impressive site and meet the people involved and learn about the future plans for the centre. This area has for a long time been at the heart of the UK’s logistic network and this investment shows confidence in the local people and businesses.”
James Hemstock, Vice President of Capital Deployment at Prologis UK, said:
“This construction milestone reflects the incredible strength of collaboration behind this project. Working closely with MS, Gist, Winvic and West Northamptonshire Council, this project from the outset has been shaped by a shared commitment to quality, sustainability and long-term value.”
The retailer says it’s aiming for 420 larger food stores and a “more productive” set of 180 full‑line stores by 2027/28.
