Bristol Port is celebrating receiving their first ever shipping container from The Range Retailer. This is an historical event for The Bristol Port Company, The Range and their partners Agility (Logistics) and shipping line MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company.) Having worked collaboratively in order to get this venture off of the ground, this is a massive milestone for all parties involved.
With the recent opening of The Range’s new state-of-the-art mega shed based in Avonmouth, the need for a local port is an essential requirement for The Ranges’ goods received and with Bristol Port’s excellent transport links, is the perfect solution.
The Range is one of the fastest growing homeware retailers in the UK, with over 140 stores around the UK, and many more scheduled to open in 2017. Bristol Port is privately owned, has had £475 million invested since privatisation and sits on a 2,600 acre site. The Range is looking to put through a minimum of 7,000 containers annually via the shipping line MSC, which will make the company the largest importer into Bristol Port, not to mention injecting increased value into The Port and the local area.
Talking about the joint venture, Plymouth based billionaire the owner and founder of The Range, Chris Dawson said: “I’m delighted to welcome our first container into Bristol Port. With our ever-evolving and expanding business, The Range’s new distribution centre along with Bristol Port will open up better transport links for the company, will support store growth and will also see an increase in multi-channel operations.
“I see this as a major factor in taking the business forward and look forward to working with all of the partners in the future.”
David Brown, Chief Executive Officer at The Bristol Port Company added: “We are delighted to be a key part of The Range’s supply chain for their southern distribution centre based in Avonmouth. Bristol Port continues to benefit from its excellent links by sea, road and rail and commitment to our partners in the local area and beyond. We wish The Range every success with their new facility.”
Michael Collins, Commercial Director at MSC UK, commented “As the largest user of Bristol Port, MSC is delighted to have been selected as The Range’s key shipping partner as they launch their new venture in South West England. Delivering their cargo to the closest port of arrival to their new distribution centre brings significant business efficiencies and environmental benefits, reducing the amount of road time encountered in their journey. We wish The Range every success for the future.”
Agility is one of the world’s largest integrated logistic providers and will be taking the lead on the Logistics side of the venture.
Colm McAlinden, Managing Director, Area North West, at Agility said: “Our job is to help entrepreneurial, fast-growing companies like The Range find ways to do business smarter and more efficiently. It’s a privilege to work with innovative customers, helping them navigate international trade so they can tap their potential.”
