Bedford-based independent brewer Charles Wells has selected Gazeley’s G.Park Bedford as the location of its new national distribution hub.
Gazeley is to develop a 130,000 sq ft storage and distribution facility. It will support Charles Wells’s existing production operations at the nearby Eagle Brewery and is anticipated to create up to 60 new jobs.
The freehold design and build development project will have a value of £15 million on completion. Gazeley is developing G.Park Bedford in joint venture with Simons Estates and the Whitbread Trust.
Gazeley, having recently received planning approval, will be on site to build the new warehouse facility in the next couple of weeks, with completion and handover scheduled for December 2006.
The family-controlled brewer and pub retailer produces speciality ales including: Wells Bombardier English Bitter, Wells Eagle IPA, and premium lagers such as Kirin Ichiban, Red Strip and Corona Extra.
The new warehouse unit will also help facilitate Charles Wells’s rapid expansion plans following the announcement that the company is joining forces with London brewer Youngs to set-up a major national force in the brewing industry.
The new company, Wells & Young’s Brewing Company, which is set to begin operations in October 2006, will brew Young’s beers in Bedford alongside the Charles Wells brands.
Richard Burt, property director for Charles Wells says: “We have been very impressed with Gazeley’s attention to detail and their client-facing attitude.”
Following the freehold development agreement with Charles Wells, 18 acres of development land remains available at the park able to support a warehouse building of up to 300,000 sq ft (27,870 sq m). Rents start from £5.75 per sq ft.
