End-to-end supply chain solutions provider XPO Logistics has announced an extension of its partnership with UK cooperative Arla Foods. The result will be the construction of a new UK central distribution center (CDC) that will handle all of Arla’s chilled palletized products in the UK.
The new facility will open in late 2027 on a Prologis logistics park in Northamptonshire. The aim is to strengthen Arla’s supply chain resilience, reduce road miles and support more efficient distribution across the country.
Fran Ball, SVP of UK supply chain at Arla Foods UK, commented, “Consolidating our chilled pallet operations into a single, advanced facility in Northamptonshire is a strategic leap forward for Arla. By partnering with XPO Logistics and Prologis, we are improving the resilience of a critical part of our supply chain and making meaningful progress on reducing waste and road miles.”
Automation investments
According to XPO Logistics, its investment in state-of-the-art automation will create skilled warehousing roles in the region, including automation operations, maintenance, quality, inventory control and safety. Appropriate training and upskilling for advanced automation will be provided by XPO Logistics as part of the recruitment and onboarding process.
Dan Myers, senior vice president of dedicated supply chain – Europe at XPO Logistics, said, “Arla stands for quality; their products are loved and trusted by every household in the UK. This future-ready CDC will play a key role in ensuring that Arla continues to deliver great products whilst improving the resilience, sustainability and efficiency of its supply chain. Working together, we’re driving positive strategic change that will support Arla’s business to continue to prosper today and tomorrow.”
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