The Co-operative Group is to build a new £12m regional distribution centre (RDC) in the North-East. Work is under way on the new 270,000ft2 multi-temperature facility in Birtley, Co Durham, which is expected to be fully operational in the first half of 2009. Co-op's two existing distribution operations in the area will relocate to the new site.
These include the group's current RDC facility in Birtley, which employs 240 staff, as well as a distribution operation 12 miles away in Blaydon,
with 234 employees. The firm says the move is part of its plan to rejuvenate its food distribution service to its stores in the region. A Co-op spokesman says: "The new RDC will provide a multi-temperature operation, capable of serving all stores throughout our northern region." The group says it will consult with staff and unions as part of the transition.
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