Fashion supply chain manager Bleckmann expands UK presence

Supply chain management company specialising in fashion and lifestyle brands, Bleckmann, has today announced the opening of a new distribution centre in Crick, UK, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued expansion.

The standout feature of the new site? Its expansive 100,000 square meters of floorspace, coupled with a 21-meter height, which enhances both storage capacity and operational efficiency. This has boosted Bleckmann's operational footprint in the UK to an impressive 3.2 million square feet.

Bleckmann started as a local Dutch and Belgian logistics provider for companies in the fashion industry. Now, the business has grown into an international company serving brands such as Cloudnine, Superdry and Gymshark, to name a few.

This strategic investment underscores Bleckmann’s ongoing commitment to scaling its logistics capabilities, improving operational efficiencies and delivering greater value to its fashion clients.

The new facility is equipped with cutting-edge automation technology, including an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) shuttle system, which significantly boosts efficiency and optimises storage.

As the Crick site ramps up, it will not only contribute to Bleckmann’s operational growth but also play a vital role in creating local employment opportunities, with up to 1,500 new jobs expected to be generated once the facility reaches full capacity.

Reinardt van Oel, Chief Operations Officer for Belgium and the UK, said: "The UK is a critical growth market for Bleckmann. Over the last few years, we have expanded significantly, growing from serving 5 clients in a single warehouse to managing operations for over 60 brands across 8 logistics centers.

"This new facility is an essential part of our growth strategy, enabling us to meet the rising demands of both existing and new customers. With our state-of-the-art automated environment, we ensure efficiency, scalability, and seamless service, reaffirming our dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction."

Bleckmann's new site in Crick

Giles Weir, UK Head of Tenant Representation at JLL, added: "We are thrilled to support Bleckmann’s continued expansion and assist in securing this high-quality, state-of-the-art facility at Crick.

"Bleckmann’s rapid growth as one of the most active third-party logistics providers in the UK highlights its confidence in the market. This new operational space will be pivotal in enabling them to achieve their ambitious growth targets, and we’re proud to have played a part in this exciting development."

With this expansion, Bleckmann is not only reinforcing its position as a leader in logistics for fashion and lifestyle brands but also contributing to the broader UK economy, ensuring the seamless flow of goods for its growing roster of brands.