Lift Off for Leicester

James Latham, the UK’s biggest independent distributor of timber and panel products, is relocating its Wigston depot - where it has been for more than forty years - to a brand new, purpose built site at Optimus Point in Glenfield.
 
In what is an £7m investment for James Latham, the move, which is set to be completed in January 2018, will see the new 55,000 ft2 facility become one of the most efficient, state-of-the art operations within the Latham Group’s 10-strong nationwide network of depots.
 
As well as the latest racking and storage - which will improve handling - making picking faster and more efficient for dealing with customer orders, the depot will incorporate some of the most advanced warehouse management technology available, including such operational innovations as zonal controlled lighting, hi-tech CCTV and Combilift trucks with built-in cameras.
 
Paul Wilkinson, Depot Manager at James Latham’s Leicester operation who is overseeing the move explained, “After 40 years at Chartwell Drive in Wigston we have outgrown the site and this new, purpose built facility at Optimus Point, which is right next to J21A of the M1, will accommodate the strategic development plans we have going forward for our fast-growing business.
 
Mr Wilkinson added, “It’s very exciting for everyone involved and the Wigston team have fully embraced the relocation which will deliver all kinds of benefits both for our staff and customers.
 
As well as greatly improved access for collections and deliveries, with a 35 per cent increase in capacity from our current site, the new location will allow for an even wider range of products as well as increased stock levels. In addition, increased technology and extended shifts will also be incorporated into operations throughout the site making the entire operation a more efficient and pleasurable environment.”
 
An open day is planned for March/April 2018.
 
You can see a time lapse video here of the new site in development http://wilsonbowden.reachtimelapse.co.uk/optimuspoint/lathams/