The deal means the 160-strong Wincanton team will now incorporate shunting and core fleet responsibilities alongside its existing automated warehousing operations, which include managing the 50,000-pallet Hi-Bay, systems, maintenance, security, stock control, administration, engineering, H.R., and financial functions.

Brian McDill, Wincanton’s managing director, FMCG, said the new contract reflected the unwavering commitment of the Wincanton team. “We were involved at the NDC right from the start, so we’ve been able to evolve our service to meet the changing needs of Britvic’s business. The team has a huge desire to do well and to add value to Britvic each year.”

Opened in 1994, the NDC was the first fully automated warehouse facility in the UK, handling around 200 product lines and achieving a total volume throughput record in its first year. This achievement remained unchallenged until last year when 150 million cases were moved in and out of the site. McDill acknowledges the record-breaking performance played an important part in securing the new contracts, especially as the distribution centre now handles around 800 product lines with an average load containing seven different lines.

“Last year was a record-breaking year for Britvic at the NDC, both in terms of profit and throughput,” he explained. “It proved again that we were capable of supporting Britvic’s business and this played a significant part in winning the new core fleet and shunting contracts.”

Bob Symons, Britvic’s Logistics Solutions Manager, agrees. “Last year was a momentous achievement that we were all extremely proud of. However, to continuously improve we have taken the opportunity to bring the shunting within Wincanton’s operation and will be looking for the core fleet to deliver cost savings through efficient planning. As a trusted partner, Wincanton was able to deliver an appropriate solution that met our needs.”