English top-fruit marketing desk Norman Collett has officially opened its new 40,000 sqft premises at Paddock Wood Distribution Centre.
The £3.2 million, custom-built facility houses a sales, admin and technical support centre, as well as 1,000 pallet long-term storage capacity and further packing and storage space.
It was declared open by company founder and chairman Norman Collett and his wife Jean, who unveiled a plaque in the presence of more than 500 guests at a launch party last Friday night.
Andy Sadler, Norman Collett managing director, pictured on the left with Norman and Jean Collett, said: “Our new development makes good business sense and shows our determination to continue building on the company’s past successes by laying foundations for the future.”
The company holds a 21 per cent volume share of the English apple and pear industry, selling fruit from 49 Kent-based growers into retail customers including Tesco, Somerfield, Co-op and Booths and wholesale market clients across the country. It is also a supplier, in partnership with Greencell, to the government’s School Fruit & Vegetable Scheme.
Sadler added at the launch: “Tonight is a celebration of the journey so far and the optimism we hold for tomorrow, but essentially an opportunity to thank all our growers, customers, associates, staff and friends that have supported us over the last 30 years or so.”
