A business has announced $100 million plans to bring a former Amazon warehouse near Watford back into use after it closed.
The worlds largest food wholesaler, Sysco, has announced that Hemel Hempstead is set to be the site of its largest depot in Europe.
The building in Boundary Way was formerly an Amazon warehouse, which closed last year. Taking it over is part of Sysco’s plans to grow its presence in Great Britain and significantly expand its capacity in the South East.
- Big Watford business failed to pay over £17,000 in minimum wages
- Four new shops to open in atria's former John Lewis unit
- Man charged with death by dangerous driving after two killed in M25 crash
The company, which distributes food to restaurants, healthcare and education facilities, and accommodation, said its takeover will contribute to the creation of 850 jobs over the next 10 years.
Adapting the 475,000-square-foot depot (around the size of Wembley Stadium) will involve an initial $100 million investment and 18 months of work, which is now set to begin.
The project will make the facility suitable for foodservice operations including the introduction of frozen and chilled areas. It is expected to be fully operational from the beginning of 2026.
Sysco GB Paul Nieduszynski said: “The new Sysco depot is a next-generation site, unlike anything we’ve seen before.
“As the largest Sysco site in Europe, it will offer a more comprehensive service to independent customers in London and the surrounding areas.
“It takes foodservice wholesale in Britain to an entirely new level.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here