(Commonwealth) _ Yusen Logistics (UK) and SEGRO are poised to redefine industry standards with their collaborative effort at SEGRO Logistics Park Northampton. This venture marks a significant milestone for both companies, highlighting their dedication to pioneering sustainable logistics solutions. David Goldsborough, Managing Director of Yusen UK, expressed enthusiasm for this groundbreaking project, emphasizing its role in advancing sustainability objectives within the logistics sector.
Scheduled to commence with a groundbreaking ceremony in early 2024, the facility aims for full operational capacity by the summer of 2025. With a focus on sustainability, the building is designed to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating, underscoring its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. The project’s design anticipates significant carbon savings, aiming to mitigate approximately 418 tCO2e in scope 1 and 498 tCO2e in scope 2 annually.
A substantial £280 million investment underscores the scale and ambition of this undertaking. The sprawling 1,191,000 sq ft facility incorporates various initiatives to achieve net-zero operational impact. Notably, a solar array spanning the entire roof space is projected to generate around 1,850 MWh of renewable energy in its inaugural year. Surplus energy will be channeled back into the National Grid, contributing to the broader adoption of green energy sources.
Yusen Logistics is already committed to sustainable practices through its Zero Carbon program, which prioritizes the procurement of green energy. This commitment extends to the facility’s design, which integrates sustainability at every level. Enhanced connectivity, including proximity to the M1 and public transportation options, ensures efficient operations while minimizing environmental impact.
Moreover, the site prioritizes employee well-being, featuring green spaces, expanded bicycle storage facilities, and charging stations for 220 electric vehicles. This aligns with Yusen Logistics’ transition to an all-electric company car fleet, further reducing carbon emissions. The facility’s strategic adjacency to SEGRO’s Strategic Rail Freight Terminal underscores its commitment to sustainable transport solutions, offering CO2 savings on inbound transport through rail freight options.
Practical considerations are also central to the design, with ample truck parking spaces and loading docks to facilitate smooth operations. Electric truck charging stations underscore the commitment to sustainable transport infrastructure, catering to the growing demand for electric vehicle fleets. Additionally, the temperature management system supports diverse storage needs, including chilled storage for healthcare products compliant with regulatory standards.
Automation plays a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency and sustainability, with automated pick, pack, and sustainable packing solutions integrated into warehouse operations. These advancements not only optimize processes but also support Yusen Logistics’ customers in achieving their own sustainability objectives.
Dan Holford, Head of National Markets at SEGRO, emphasizes the collaborative effort behind this endeavor, highlighting the infrastructure development and customer-centric approach that underpins SEGRO Logistics Park Northampton. The site represents more than just a storage facility; it’s a cornerstone of national industrial infrastructure, fostering economic growth while prioritizing sustainability.
The incorporation of a rail freight terminal within the logistics infrastructure underscores the partners’ dedication to embracing multimodal transport solutions. By integrating rail transport into their operations, Yusen Logistics and SEGRO prioritize flexibility and efficiency while simultaneously reducing their environmental footprint. This comprehensive approach aligns with their shared vision of sustainable logistics practices, setting a precedent for the industry as a whole.
In essence, the collaboration between Yusen Logistics and SEGRO signals the dawn of a new era in sustainable logistics solutions. Their joint efforts, characterized by thorough planning, cutting-edge design, and an unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility, are poised to redefine the traditional norms of the logistics industry. Through this pioneering approach, they are not only setting new standards but also laying the groundwork for a future where sustainability is central to every aspect of logistics operations.
