British retailer Marks & Spencer earmarked 400 million Euros investment in its food supply chain, the largest in its history. At the centre of this multi-year programme is the development of a flagship automated distribution centre, equipped with automation technology from Austria-based TGW Logistics.
Scheduled to open in 2029, the 120,000 square metres facility will be located at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal in central England. The site will integrate advanced warehouse automation designed to increase throughput capacity, reduce operating costs, and deliver end-to-end supply chain resilience.
The distribution centre will incorporate three key automation modules. First, automated pallet crane systems optimised for ambient products will provide high-density storage and efficient retrieval at pallet level. Second, high-speed shuttle technology will enable rapid sorting and sequencing of items at case level, significantly reducing lead times. Finally, hands-free case-picking automation will load items directly onto store-ready cages, removing manual touchpoints and streamlining replenishment.
Anticipating growing volumes
Together, these systems are expected to drive faster stock flow, improve order accuracy, and reduce in-store handling. Alex Freudmann, Managing Director at Marks & Spencer Food commented: “Our new site will strengthen our network and help us get ahead of the volume curve as we build a bigger, better Food business. By using the latest, proven automation, we are future-proofing both our business and UK retail logistics “.
Alongside efficiency gains, the site has been designed to meet rigorous environmental specifications. It will feature responsibly sourced and recycled building materials, a large-scale rooftop solar array with integrated EV charging infrastructure, and an advanced rainwater harvesting system to reduce potable water usage.
