Global fashion giant to create more than 200 jobs with new Euro distribution hub in Peterborough

URBN is transfering its European distribution to a purpose-built, high-tech fulfilment centre in Peterborough over the next 12 to 24 months.

The move will create more than 200 permanent jobs with the new hub planned to open in two phases at a site at Alwalton Hill, Peterborough Gateway.

The company says the new site is 60 per cent larger than its current premises and will increase its storage capacity from two million items to up to 10 million for its retail, digital and wholesale operations.

URBN, which is a global portfolio of consumer brands comprised of Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie & Free People, has built the new centre to meet what it predicts will be strong growth for its products over the next five to 10 years.

The first phase of the new centre opens this month and will see the Anthropologie brand move operations to Peterborough.

The second phase should be completed by winter 2021, with distribution for all of URBN’s brands having moved to the centre for the UK, EU and EEA markets, along with franchise stores in the Middle East.

The fulfilment centre is equipped with an automated storage and retrieval system where robots and automation will pick, consolidate and package orders using Goods to Person (GTP) technology.

The 200 plus jobs will include roles ranging from Distribution Centre Operatives and Operational Management, to Transportation and Customer Service.

Benefits for URBN employees will include access to a fully equipped gym, free electric car charging and a roof-top terrace on-site, as well as pension plan, income protection, life assurance and private health care.

Employees also receive up to 40 per cent in-store and online employee discounts, and up to 33 days holiday for full-time employees.

The move to Peterborough follows extensive support for the company from economic development company Opportunity Peterborough, which provided ‘critical economic intelligence’ on the city as URBN checked out locations across the country.

OP worked with local property agents to put forward development sites with plenty of room to accommodate the business’ rapidly growing operations.

Tom Hennessy, chief executive of OP, said, “Having worked with URBN from the beginning of their relocation journey, it’s extremely rewarding to now welcome them to the city and to see over 200 permanent jobs with comprehensive benefits packages, created for residents.

“Businesses like URBN share the city’s passion for innovation and it’s exciting to see their plans for a 21st century facility coming to life in Peterborough.

“Support is ongoing as URBN begins to recruit and move operations to Peterborough.”

RELATED:

Hundreds of jobs to be created as fashion and homewares retailer moves into Peterborough