Community News From Around Our Area

JLR and Unipart Set to Make History in Leicestershire

As the Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) global parts business continues to grow, the company is consolidating its Jaguar and Land Rover warehousing operations on a purpose-built logistics campus at Mercia Park, adjacent to Junction 11 of the M42 in North West Leicestershire.

Since IM Properties bought the 238-acre site in 2016, the developer has worked closely with building contractors Winvic to deliver a high quality, sustainable facility. Replacing a number of smaller warehouses, the new facility will reduce JLR’s inter-site transport and associated emissions by 25% whilst continuing to deliver high-quality service to customers.

In March, 2021, JLR awarded Unipart Logistics a 5-year contract to operate the Mercia Park distribution centre. Unipart’s relationship with JLR spans over 30 years and the company already manages a number of JLR warehouses around the world. Operations Director – Global Automotive, Ash Evans, explains, “Winning this contract is testament to our long-standing commitment to strong relationship building and collaboration, innovative thinking and compelling contract negotiation. Our can-do attitude and cutting-edge technology help customers remain competitive. The solution we offered JLR highlighted Unipart’s operational excellence and use of digital technology to drive efficiency and growth. These differentiating factors fuel success in all our key sectors.”

These iconic British companies are making history with one of the largest UK warehouse developments for any single customer. Covering an area equivalent to 26 football pitches, not only is its size impressive, but the facility has been thoughtfully developed with people, the environment and digital innovation in mind.

Unipart will begin to transition people and products from other JLR sites to Mercia Park later this year, recruiting externally to meet any shortfall. Activities will ramp up throughout 2023, with over 1,000 jobs ranging from warehouse operatives and administrators to senior managers.

Known for high levels of employee engagement and internal promotions, Unipart is confident that many will take advantage of the development opportunities on offer. Kerensa Rushton, Unipart’s HR Lead for the new facility, said, “Our comprehensive training and development programme uses VR technology for an exciting, immersive experience, ensuring that all colleagues reach their full potential.

“With something for everyone, Mercia Park offers flexible working, different shift patterns and working hours on different days of the week, and both full-time and part-time working. Surrounded by 30 acres of woodland, three small lakes and a 5km running track, this facility will also boast one of the best staff restaurants in the business! Who wouldn’t want to work there? We are currently exploring sustainable transport initiatives such as new bus routes and car share schemes as well as supporting those able to cycle or walk to the campus. Anyone interested in a role at Mercia Park will have an early opportunity to visit, and we will help them make an informed decision.”

Unipart has a dedicated careers page at www.unipartjobs.com/mercia. In the meantime, anyone interested in finding out more can contact mercia@unipart.com.