Pipe Center has officially opened its Measham distribution centre (DC), the newest and most technologically advanced distribution facility in Wolseley UK’s supply chain.

The 142,000sq ft facility enables Pipe Center to deliver across its entire network on a next-day basis and created 54 new job opportunities.

Measham features cutting edge technology such as a dynamic ‘goods to man’ Kasto automated tube storage system. The bespoke Kasto system, which required the installation of 182 drive piles, has boosted storage capacity by 20% and reduced the distance warehouse operatives have to travel when picking.

HighJump, a leading warehouse management system, processes all warehouse tasks and offers superior tracking and traceability of inventory, further maximising efficiencies and reducing costs. Narrow aisle trucks work directly with HighJump and forklift trucks and their operators are automatically directed to the correct location.

Optimised storage and improved stock management allows branches to offer an even broader range of products.

Managing director of Pipe and Climate Center, Andy Wighton, said: “We have created one of the most dynamic and advanced distribution centres in the industry that will help us achieve customer service excellence.

“Measham DC is ideally placed geographically and fits with our supply chain strategy to be as efficient as possible. It optimises our distribution capability for Pipe and Climate Center so we can offer our customers next day delivery, and accommodates our exciting growth ambitions for the next 10-15 years.”

Measham, in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, is situated within unique central hub of national infrastructure connections often referred to as the ‘Golden Triangle’ for distribution and logistics. It has been fully operational since December 2014.

Pictured (L to R): New Zealand rugby team’s former captain Sean Fitzpatrick, Andy Wighton and Steve Ashmore, managing director of Wolseley UK