Magna Park

Mammoth project

In 2006 members of the John Lewis Distribution team moved to the 650,086 sq ft site adjacent to the M1 near Milton Keynes to manage the largest project ever undertaken by the Partnership’s logistics experts.

Revolutionary

The new SANDC (Semi automated national distribution centre) revolutionised the division’s supply chain allowing a “little and often” replenishment system rather than relying on branches taking large deliveries as had previously been the case.

Supply chain of the future

The use of state of the art systems and equipment was key to delivering the supply chain of the future. As Distribution Director Dino Rocos recalled “The new DC has been created to support further enhancements to our customer experience, whether in our selling branches or through our multi-channel proposition. It will improve operational efficiency, and through this, product availability and customer service”.

Ahead of the game

It was the first time small items were able to be despatched directly to customers without the need to go through the shops first increasing speed and efficiency. This and other innovative systems have proved vital in the increasingly omni-channel world in which John Lewis competes, and the success of Magna Park has led to more similar projects and investment by the business to keep our supply chain ahead of the game.