Greggs, a leading UK food-on-the-go retailer, has announced plans to enhance its supply chain through the establishment of a cutting-edge frozen production and logistics facility in Derby. This strategic move is in line with Greggs’ ambitious growth strategy unveiled in 2021, aimed at significantly expanding its presence throughout the UK.
Currently operating 2,500 stores as of May 2024, Greggs is on course to unveil an additional 140-160 stores by year-end, with a long-term vision of surpassing 3,000 outlets nationwide.
The new logistics facility, set to be located at the SmartParc SEGRO Derby in Spondon across a vast 23-acre site, is expected to start operations in late 2026. The initiative will generate up to 600 new job opportunities and will see Greggs equipping the site with state-of-the-art manufacturing and logistics equipment to enhance operational efficiency.
This purpose-built facility will introduce new savoury and sweet production lines, cutting-edge logistics for frozen storage, and fully automated robotic shop order picking and distribution solutions provided by Swisslog. Moreover, the site is designed to accommodate future business growth, with the flexibility to introduce new production lines to meet increasing demand.
Featuring an onsite shared energy centre, the facility will utilize a centralised heating and cooling system that repurposes heat from refrigeration plants. Sustainability is a key focus, with green amenities including a rainwater harvesting system, photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging points, and secure bike storage to reduce local emissions.
Roisin Currie, Greggs’ chief executive, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to announce our state-of-the-art facility at SmartParc SEGRO Derby. This purpose-built site offers significant flexibility to add new capabilities and lines as our business evolves, supporting our ambitious growth plans.”
Jackie Wild, CEO at SmartParc, highlighted the site’s vision to become a hub for innovative food businesses prioritizing sustainability and efficiency. “We are immensely proud to welcome Greggs, a cherished food business, to our site, embodying our commitment to sustainable and collaborative operations,” noted Wild.
