Scottish wholesaler JW Filshill is to relocate to a brand new, purpose-built distribution centre at Westway Park, near Glasgow Airport.
The 120,400 sq ft distribution centre is subject to planning approval from Renfrewshire Council. It will incorporate a 10,000 sq ft of office space for the company’s head office functions, with the development process likely to take 18 months to complete.
It is being built to the wholesaler’s specification and will provide pallet capacity of 12,000 in a 14-metre high warehouse with 12 loading docks. There will also be 10,000 sq ft of fresh and chilled space to accommodate growth in the category.
JW Filshill is on track to hit in excess of £155m this year, with growth helped by the development of its core delivered wholesale business, along with an expansion of its craft beers and spirits international division.
Simon Hannah, managing director of JW Filshill, said the move would future-proof the business, secure employment and improve efficiencies. “We can’t hold off waiting for Brexit. We need to get ready for the next phase of group growth, keep ourselves relevant to the ever-changing market, ensure job security for our staff and continuously improve on providing service excellence to our customers – that’s all hugely important to us.
“Westway is an outstanding location for us, less than three miles from our current premises at Hillington and next to Glasgow Airport, which will become increasingly important as we develop our international business in the coming years. Our business is successful because of our people, most of whom live in Renfrewshire, so finding new premises near their homes was a major consideration for us in choosing Westway, along with its prestigious and secure location,” he added.
Canmoor director Rob large added: “To have a company of Filshill’s calibre make such a substantial commitment to Westway is a tremendous endorsement, following the significant investment and improvements we have made since purchasing last year. We are delighted to be able to assist Filshill facilitate its exciting expansion plans which will provide real employment opportunities in the area.”
Bob Grant, chief executive of Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce said that the substantial investment demonstrated the ambition of Filshill as they continue their expansion in UK and international markets. “To secure the long-term future of 200 jobs in Renfrewshire is great news and we welcome the decision. The purpose-built facility at Westway in a secure location will enable Filshill to create future job growth. Renfrewshire’s excellent location with strong transport links, a skilled workforce and ambitious plans for investment around Glasgow Airport have all been important factors.”
