WHSmith will transfer all three of its UK distribution centres to GXO, as the travel retailer appoints the firm as its new outsourced UK logistics partner.
WHSmith, which has over 1,100 stores across the UK in both travel and high street locations, is working to establish a more efficient and effective supply chain. In September 2023, WHSmith credited its travel business for a 28% rise in group revenues.
Sean Feeney, supply chain director, WHSmith, said: “WHSmith’s growth is accelerating and we need a supply chain which can match this and support our future plans.
“We are pleased to have appointed GXO as our UK logistics provider to work with us in creating a modern and efficient supply chain which delivers for our UK businesses and customers.”
All 440 colleagues who work in the three centres – located in Swindon, Birmingham and Dunstable – will transfer to GXO via the TUPE process.
Furthermore, WHSmith has also recently awarded its transport operations to GXO, starting from February 2024. GXO will be optimising the transport planning for WHSmith’s core distribution network as well as utilising its shared-user transport capabilities to provide full coverage for stores across the UK.
Gavin Williams, managing director, UK and Ireland, GXO, added: “We’re delighted to partner with WHSmith to deliver end-to-end supply chain management as part of its network modernisation. With our extensive retail warehousing and transportation expertise, as well as our technology-driven commitment to continuous improvement, we’re perfectly positioned to support WHSmith’s growth plans.”
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