Wm Morrison Supermarkets

Providing Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC, one of the UK's largest supermarket operators, with a new Depot in the Hook of Holland.

" ...local connections, relationships and knowledge have been vital throughout the construction process, giving delivery of exactly what we wanted to provide. "
- Roger Owen, Property Director

The Challenge

Morrisons approached us with a "multiple" question. To find a plot for their replacement Produce Depot close to a ferry connection between The Netherlands and the UK and to assist during the construction of the Produce Depot (fruit & vegetables exported to the UK) of 8,000 sqm. We also had to keep in mind that the plot could offer expansion of the Depot to 16,000 sq m within a period of 2 or 3 years.

Our Impact

Since the plot also needed to be suitable for expansion almost all available sites were ruled out. After initial conversations with a developer and the Municipality the zoning for one plot could be changed, therefore providing the needed expansion possibility and necessary zoning.

We provided the client with all possible existing warehouses as well as all available sites. After the first scan we advised the client to go for new construction (offered more flexibility and savings on eventual reconstruction of any existing space) and introduced a regional developer with all necessary contacts in this region to assure the client that the entire project would run as smoothly as possible.

We managed to secure this plot, as close to the ferry connection Hook of Holland - Harwich and advised on instruction of the developer. As well as advising on the strategy (we advised the client to extend their lease on their premises for 1 year, to enable continuity of the client's business operations) and managing the transaction(s), we also acted as "translator" between the Dutch developer, Dutch Municipalities and all others involved.

The Outcome

Our local market knowledge provided the needed plot and the "best" developer. We achieved the desired outcome for our client, a build-to-suit Produce Depot as close to the desired ferry harbour as possible, within the time frame that was set out. We succeeded in obtaining the plot for a lower land value than was initially quoted.

Phase I of the building was delivered on time and to price in November 2004 and became operational in time for the client's Christmas trading peak.

The final delivery of the building (phase II) is set for March 2005. We have been working on this project for 2.5 years from initial scanning to final delivery. The final building will comprise 16,000 sq.m. warehouse space and 700 sq.m. office space, constructed on a 35,000 sq.m site.

For more information contact:

Services:

National Logistics and Industrial

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