Booker Opens Second ‘Dark Hub’

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 Namnews, 16th May 2022

Booker has started rolling out its ‘dark hub’ concept following the launch of the first site earlier this year.

According to trade publication betterRetailing, the Tesco-owned wholesaler recently closed its branch on the Sowton Industrial Estate in Exeter to the public. However, it remains in operation for deliveries only to retailers across the southwest of England.

Retailers that had previously used the site for cash & carry purchases can use a Makro outlet on Matford Park, which is a 15-minute drive away.

Booker opened its first dark hub site in Stoke three months ago as part of a trial. After closing to the public, it was converted to act as a distribution centre for the group’s Premier symbol stores.

The sites are designed to improve Booker’s delivered network. Last month, Tesco’s Chief Executive Ken Murphy said the first site had been “performing really well” and hinted at further expansion of the concept.

The move comes at a time when wholesalers are facing soaring costs, with some introducing delivery fees to offset rising fuel and driver costs.

NAM Implications:
  • After all, one cannot have ‘shoppers’ interfering with aisle-picking…
  • Seriously, asset optimisation counts.
  • Anticipate more of the same…
  • …and incorporate it into your trade strategies.

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