Norbert Dentressangle (ND) is to run the food logistics operation for The Co-operative Group over the next five years following the supermarkets' decision to outsource its transport operations.
The supermarket chain has opted to switch from in-house distribution, and instead appoint ND to undertake transportation from its new 500,000ft2 DC in Andover, Hampshire, which is due for completion in March.
The facility replaces the Co-op's existing transport operation in nearby Fareham, and a number of the staff affected will transfer to ND under TUPE regulations, to form a 350-strong workforce of lorry drivers, operating 110 tractor units, 200 trailers, and 61 rigids.
As well as the new DC, the Co-op has announced a number of other changes to its food logistics network, which it has been revamping since its acquisition of Somerfield in 2009.
A new RDC will open near the M1 in either Derbyshire or Nottinghamshire during 2012, replacing two smaller depots in the same areas, home to some 900 jobs.
Plans have also been submitted for a RDC in Avonmouth, Bristol, and a smaller depot in Newhouse, Scotland. Together with the new Andover facility, these sites will create an additional 350 jobs.
However, the firm has confirmed its depots in Halesowen, Peterborough and Thetford will close during the next 18 months. It says efforts will be made to redeploy as many of the 500 affected staff as possible.
Trevor Ashworth, director of food retail supply chain at the Co-op, says: "Our food business has grown significantly in recent years, so it was important for our logistics operation to develop accordingly. At this stage of the process we will have an efficient and modern logistics network that will reflect the Co-op's position as one of the UK's 'big-five' food retailers."
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