Matchesfashion to open new London distribution centre

Matchesfashion is to open a new distribution centre near Heathrow Airport next year as it gears up for growth.

The luxury multichannel retailer says the centre has the capacity to be extended to up to 500,000 sq ft to enable it to fulfil its projected 4m shipments a year by 2020.

“This is a significant evolution of our logistics operation as the business experiences continued strong growth and achieves increased scale. This development will further strengthen our reputation for the best in class luxury service globally,” said Matchesfashion CEO Ulric Jerome.

The location close to London's main airport will allow the business to speed up its overseas deliveries as well as maintain its 90-minute service within the capital.

News of the new centre marks the second large expansion announcement from the retailer, which was recently acquired by private equity house Apax Partners for a reported £800m. Last month the business revealed that it was planning to open a new 24,000 sq ft creative hub in East London at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which will house 20 video and photography bays.