Innovate expands to become largest UK company in its field

Innovate Logistics is now the largest temperature controlled storage and distribution operation in the UK, following the acquisition by its parent Innovate Holdings of the entire business of Corby Chilled Distribution Ltd (CCD).

The enlarged Innovate Group will have a turnover in excess of £175m, more than 2,000 employees and 500 vehicles.

The business will handle more than 200,000 pallets of frozen and chilled goods per week, provide a full range of frozen and chill storage from -25oC to +13oC together with a wide range of specialist services. These include cold storage, chill storage and the chill and frozen distribution of fresh produce, meat, fish and convenience food.

The acquisition is the latest phase of Innovate's strategy for growth and to provide the best and broadest range of services to its retail and foodservice customers within the UK chilled and frozen food industry. Corby Chilled Distribution will retain its branding and continue to be operated as a separate entity.

Iain Stewart, managing director of CCD and Carol Simey, CCD's financial director, both former shareholders of CCD, will remain with the business. Stewart has been named chief operating officer and Simey's role remains unchanged and under the direction of Innovate Logistics' chief executive officer Pete Osborne, both will work to develop and grow the CCD brand and network.

Pete Osborne said: "We have had our eye on the Corby Chilled Distribution business for quite some time. Our two organisations share a commitment to high standards and the combined operations will enable us to deliver a service that will be second to none in terms of chilled and frozen storage, distribution and cost effective supply chain management.

"We welcome the employees of CCD to Innovate and the exciting employment opportunities the new enlarged organisation provides."

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