The new facility will be the Partnership’s second largest distribution centre. Described by Andrew Murphy, Partner and Executive Director of Operations for the Partnership, as a 'one-of-a-kind distribution centre' the Fenny Lock site will support the rapid growth of Johnlewis.com.
The site is a key strategic investment for the John Lewis Partnership. It will be used to fulfil customer orders for fashion, small home furnishing items and technology products. John Lewis will be investing in the site’s automation capability to support future growth and, over the next two years, plans to recruit around 500 new Partners to work at the distribution centre. The site is intended to commence operations in mid-2022.
Nigel Harris, Senior Portfolio Manager in the Partnership’s Group Property team, says: "Fenny Lock is an important milestone, which will ensure the continued growth of Johnlewis.com. Burges Salmon’s support on this transaction has been invaluable and the smooth execution of the deal, under significant time pressures, is testament to their excellent service and legal advice."
The Burges Salmon team advising the John Lewis Partnership was led by Real Estate Partner Richard Clark and Senior Associate Will Hall.
Burges Salmon partner Richard Clark comments: "This is an exciting transaction for John Lewis and we are extremely pleased to be able to continue supporting the Partnership on the acquisition of strategic distribution sites as the online growth strategy is executed. It was fantastic to work collaboratively with the Legal and Property team once again to deliver an important result for the business."