Moody Logistics and Storage has expanded its current warehousing facilities by 50 per cent to meet growing demand.
With its current 44,000 sq. ft of storage space operating close to capacity, it has leased an additional 22,000 sq. ft warehouse in nearby Ashington to create a total 66,000 sq. ft capacity.
The Cramlington-based business has experienced a surge in enquiries for storage space from both current and potential customers seeking to store anything from 30 to 150 pallets worth of goods.
This reflects a desire by European companies in the wake of Brexit to store their goods in the UK, along with a rise in post-pandemic business activity which has been accompanied by a boom in online shopping. In addition, many companies are also increasing their stockholding due to concerns over supply chain issues.
Recent figures released by the ONS found that the share of online sales over total UK retail sales remained high in March at 26 per cent – a particularly strong performance compared with pre-pandemic levels, despite the current cost-of-living crisis.
Managing director Caroline Moody said: “Our current storage facility in Cramlington is operating close to capacity and, as a result, we have taken the decision to lease additional quality space to ensure we continue to meet customers’ needs.
“We’ve been inundated with calls seeking storage facilities following the lifting of Covid restrictions, reflecting a growth in online sales and manufacturers ramping up production in the wake of Covid.”
In addition, its sister company MCR Services has also seen an increase in demand for its pick, pack, and despatch services.
Moody Logistics and Storage, currently celebrating its 75th anniversary, provides contract logistics and pallet-based deliveries to commercial and domestic customers nationwide.
She added: “There are a mixture of factors driving the demand for storage space, ranging from the growth in e-commerce to the post-pandemic increase in production.
“We have also seen a definite move by European companies following Brexit to store their goods in the UK amidst concerns over supply chain issues.
“This additional warehouse facility represents a significant investment for Moody’s but one I believe that allows the company to continue to grow.”