Sony DADC has announced plans to construct a new, bigger UK distribution centre on the original site in Enfield, North London, where the company's national distribution hub was completely destroyed by fire during the London riots last year.

The new building complex will be two-meter higher than its predecessor; it will contain three office floors (one more floor than previously) stretching over 24,000m2 and it will incorporate high technology investment needed "to support a strongly growing business." The new facility will offer enhanced B2C distribution and retail services in addition to its existing B2B services.

A so-called super structure holding more weight, will set a new standard in warehouse and distribution services, says Sony DADC, "to accommodate an expanded products and services portfolio, future proofing evolving industry strategies."

Recognizing the need for higher levels of security, Sony DADC announces that when completed, the Enfield distribution centre will employ an enhanced security concept "which will make a repeat of events from last summer virtually impossible."

Speaking at the PEVE conference in London, Chris Reiser, Executive Vice President at Sony DADC International - and MD of Sony DADC UK - spelt out a strong message to the market "Same but better, more capacity, technology investment and throughput, intended to support evolving industry strategies."

Reiser also praised Cinram, a competitor but who provided critical support in getting the facility back in business. That was a good example of the industry needing to co-operate more on occasion.

Overall responsibility for Sony DADC UK Distribution is now in the hands of Natasha Tyrrell, brought on board as General Manager. She takes over from Darren Houghton, who is relocating to Australia to assume the position of Managing Director of Sony DADC Australia. Tyrrell joins Sony DADC from Technicolor.

The new distribution facility will become fully operational during the summer of 2012.

Story filed 31.03.12