Retail logistics

At Retail Logistics, we make sure that the right products are in the right place at the right time. Our customers are our stores, and with over 4,000 stores* and approximately 15,000 product lines, this is a major operation in itself. In March 2009, Somerfield joined the Co-operative Group, which has established us as the fifth largest food retailer in the UK.

During 2004, we began a major change programme to build a logistics network that would serve our stores and customers better than ever before. Our aim was to simplify the flow of goods, remove any inefficiencies, upgrade the network and create a platform for superior store service. What has followed has been a comprehensive review of our Distribution Network and Supply Chain. While this has meant phenomenal change, it has been well managed and even saw us receive design awards for our innovative new depots.

Better systems, better processes, better environments

In 2005 we opened a brand-new purpose built facility in Coventry. This new National Distribution Centre serves the whole of the Food Retail operation and houses 7,500 slow-moving ambient lines. By doing this, we significantly increased the efficiency of inbound deliveries from suppliers and released vital capacity in our other depots for faster moving lines. Our brand new, state-of-the-art, multi-temperature, regional distribution centres located in West Thurrock in the South East of England and in Birtley, County Durham are already operational, and there are more to follow.

This change programme is continuing to transform and modernise our entire logistics network and our continued investment in systems, facilities, the environment and our people, make our business a very exciting place to work. It is an extremely positive period of growth for our food business, and we are extremely proud of our success to date, which has already resulted in better systems, better processes, better working environments, increased efficiency and productivity.

A new generation of logistics at Newhouse

The opening of our brand new distribution centre in Newhouse is the latest development in a major change programme. Our aim is to build a logistics network that can serve our stores and customers better than ever. To do that, we’re simplifying the flow of goods, removing any inefficiencies, upgrading the network and creating a platform for superior store service. Newhouse is part of an ongoing comprehensive review of our Distribution Network and Supply Chain. While we’re undergoing phenomenal change, it’s all been managed well and we’ve even received design awards for our innovative new depots.

There has never been a better time to join Retail Logistics. And with the opening of Newhouse, we’re looking for people to join us in all kinds of roles. Hear about jobs in this exciting area of our business and share our team’s passion and enthusiasm. Alternatively, apply here.

*This includes independent co-operative societies as well as the Co-operative Group Food estate

We are currently encouraging speculative applications for forthcoming posts within our brand new distribution centre in Newhouse, Lanarkshire opening in early 2011. For posts not currently listed please apply via the speculative vacancy – Newhouse.