Tesco's latest new operational depot, at Magor in South Wales, has opened to acclaim with Rider Levett Bucknall receiving warm praise for its part in this success. The project involved the construction of a new 250,000sq.ft trunking station for the South West of England, allowing Tesco to simplify its existing distribution network and to support local fresh fruit and grocery depots more efficiently. It has also become a standard-bearer for Tesco's updated levels of design by acting as the pilot project for the company's new man-less gatehouse rollout programme.
Key challenges for Rider Levett Bucknall included effectively resolving a series of environmental and ecological issues connected with the site. BA's ‘hands-on' approach made for good communications between all parties involved, essential for a successful project to be delivered and opened on time. So impressed were Tesco that, in making an award to RLB's PM Richard Wedgbury, the Development Director of Tesco Distribution described the opening as "the most seamless to date. The PM strengths delivered unbeatable value".
RLB's ‘can do' attitude was a key factor in the successful launch of Tesco's Home Direct shopping project in Crewe, which caters for the delivery of large furniture items for the home. This project was delivered on time and under budget. Work included the part installation of a new 360,000sq.ft unit for a third-party operator including sprinklers, heating, lighting, racking, CCTV and security as well as the fitting out of offices and a call centre. The six-week period from the initial project briefing to RLB's commencement in site represented a challenge but it was one that was met because of a ‘can-do attitude' combined with strong working relationships between the design team, the main contractor and other specialists, all of whom were appointed on the basis of past good performance.
Another challenging role was for RLB to help deliver Tesco's first warehouse for internet food shopping. This £6m project involved the fitting out of an existing 100,000sq.ft warehouse to include new staff offices and canteen, product shelving, chilled and frozen facilities and alterations to amenities for van loading, refuelling and vehicle repairs. In assisting Tesco to implement a new format for its expanding Dot Com home shopping business, RLB was heavily involved with various internal stakeholders to design and sign off the brief. Maintaining good communications throughout the project was, as ever, key to its ultimate success.
Meanwhile, RLB continues its productive relationship with Tesco in venues across the country by completing a rollout programme in thirteen operational depots from the South coast to the North West. In a project valued at approximately £3.5m, work comprises refurbishment of drivers' rest areas, goods in and out offices and the implementation of a new man-less gatehouse system. In planning, the RLB team helped the client to develop the brief quickly following initial site surveys and cost plans. Teamwork and the building of excellent working relationships with key stakeholders were central to the success of this prestigious project.