AF Blakemore to build 165,000 sq ft DC at Bedford

AF Blakemore, the food and drinks business, has taken a pre-let on a 165,000 sq ft build to suit warehouse at Manton Lane in Bedford from Barwood Capital.

The ambient, chilled and frozen warehouse is part of Blakemore’s national expansion plans. A planning application will now be submitted and AF Blakemore is due to take occupancy in Q1 2021.

Manton Lane is an eight-acre site which has an existing outline planning consent for 10 industrial units totalling 150,000 sq ft. It was acquired in September 2018 for £3.5m with Equation Properties acting as the development manager.

Geoff Hallam, joint managing director of AF Blakemore said: “The move will strengthen our reputation as a national food distributor, enable us to continue to improve our service to customers and ensure the long-term sustainability of the business. We have a firm commitment to responsible business practice, and positive engagement with colleagues, customers, the environment and the local community will be a clear focus for the business as we look to establish the new site.”

Kimmre acted on behalf of Barwood Capital; Knight Frank acted on behalf of A.F. Blakemore & Son.