Norfolk wholesaler D&F McCarthy Ltd is to move to a brand new distribution centre next year.
The Norwich fruit and veg trader, winner of the Capespan Wholesaler of the Year award at Re:fresh 2008, has chosen the city’s Broadlands Business Park as the location of its new operation.
Construction of a 2,000sqm facility starts in February, and completion is due by the end of 2009.
Managing director Martin McCarthy said: “We have been at our current city centre location for 40 years and, during that time, our business has changed immeasurably. We have outgrown the premises and our focus has shifted from cash and carry to mainly distribution.”
The 131-year-old, fifth-generation family business supplies retailers and restaurants throughout Norfolk and turns over £10 million a year.
McCarthy said: “Finding new, larger premises that would enable us to expand, explore new foodservice avenues and offer us excellent road links has been something we have been planning and saving for over many years. We chose Broadlands Business Park because it is the perfect location and a very prestigious local site. We wanted to be part of that. With the A47 on our doorstep, we will have easy access to all major routes in the region, enabling us to continue to improve our distribution network to existing and new customers.”
McCarthy believes that the move will enable his business to use its fleet of trucks and vans more efficiently, and to expand.
“Our entire 45-strong workforce is moving to the new site and with the development of new product lines, we expect to create as many as 10 new jobs in the first five years,” he said.
