Bramble Foods has opened a new 67,000 sq ft national distribution centre in Market Harborough as the family-owned fine food supplier prepares to expand its workforce.

The LDC-backed business has moved into Lancaster House at Airfield Business Park, a purpose-built facility developed by Leicestershire County Council.

The site will become Bramble Foods’ main UK distribution hub, increasing its warehousing and stockholding capacity as it expands its product range and customer base.

Bramble Group, which includes Whitakers Chocolates, The Bay Tree and Lings, currently employs around 300 people and expects the new facility to support the creation of up to 50 skilled roles over the coming years.

Long-serving employee opens new site

The centre was officially opened by Steve Heighton, who is celebrating 50 years working alongside the Foster family and Bramble Foods.

Heighton cut the ribbon alongside managing director Tony Foster, finance director Chris Neville, sales director Ken Osborne and Leicestershire County Council cabinet member Harrison Fowler.

Heighton said he was “honoured” to open the facility, adding that the company’s continued investment in Market Harborough was a source of pride.

Foster said the opening marked a “significant milestone” for Bramble Foods and would improve customer service while creating capacity for further growth.

He added: “We’re investing in our people, improving the service we provide to our customers and creating the capacity to support the next stage of our journey.”

Bramble Foods boosts distribution capacity

Lancaster House has been designed to improve operational efficiency and support future product development across Bramble Foods’ portfolio.

The business supplies confectionery, preserves, bakery products, gifting and seasonal food to independent retailers, farm shops, garden centres, delicatessens, visitor attractions and national retailers.

The new building has an EPC A+ rating and includes a 50kW solar array, which is expected to save between 45,000 and 50,000kWh of electricity each year.

It also features electric vehicle charging points, enhanced insulation and modern construction methods.

The wider Airfield Business Park, which opened in 2019, is home to 14 companies and has more than doubled in size this year, growing from 81,000 sq ft to 190,000 sq ft.

Fowler said Bramble Foods’ expansion would help retain the company’s heritage in Market Harborough while supporting jobs and the local economy.

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