Winvic Construction has been appointed by Prologis to deliver a new national distribution centre for Marks & Spencer (M&S) at the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT).
The 1.3 million sq ft scheme represents a £340 million investment and forms a central part of M&S’s strategy to double the size of its food business.
The development will combine temperature-controlled storage, automated fulfilment, returns and recycling operations, and dedicated office space.
Over a 52-week programme, Winvic will construct two Low Carbon single-storey warehouses with multi-storey office accommodation, a security hub linked via a pedestrian bridge, and a Vehicle Maintenance Unit.
Infrastructure and Site Works
Infrastructure works include soil nailing to strengthen the M1 embankment, earthworks, access roads, footpaths, and a bridleway bridge. External works cover a gatehouse, service yards, HGV and car parking, hardstandings, drainage, and landscaping.
Sustainable design is a key element of the project. The new facility will be fully electric, with embodied carbon measured through Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) in line with RICS Whole Life Carbon Methodology Edition 2 and the UKGBC Framework Definition.
The building aims to become the largest in the world to achieve BREEAM Outstanding certification and an EPC A+ rating. Features include a large rooftop photovoltaic array, EV charging, energy-saving technologies, and extensive use of recycled materials.
Employment and Skills Plan
In line with Prologis’ Social Value Charter and the National TOMs framework, Winvic is delivering an Employment and Skills Plan to create opportunities in the local community.
The initiative includes a National Construction Skills Programme in partnership with Northampton-based social enterprise Goodwill Solutions, supporting individuals in developing skills and securing sustainable employment.
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Industry Commentary
Danny Nelson, Managing Director of Industrial, Logistics and Data Centres at Winvic, said:
“Winvic is well placed to deliver large-scale projects that expand our temperature-controlled and cold store portfolio. Being selected by our long-standing client, Prologis, as the construction partner on this landmark distribution facility is a significant achievement for the Winvic team.
“Our experience in delivering complex large-scale industrial and logistics projects designed to meet the highest sustainability standards positions us perfectly to deliver this industry-leading facility for M&S. It’s a special project due to its Low Carbon in Construction credentials and BREEAM Outstanding target, and we’re utilising a stage 2 Building Information Model to its full potential to assist with this goal.”
Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK, added:
“Prologis is pleased to have appointed Winvic as our construction partner to deliver this complex, large-scale logistics project designed to meet the highest environmental standards. This development enables a future-fit supply chain for M&S and brings lasting economic value to the Midlands through skilled jobs, resilient infrastructure, and investment in one of the UK’s most important logistics locations.”
Economic and Workforce Impact
The project will support over 2,000 jobs during construction, with approximately 1,000 permanent roles once operational, including driving, logistics, and technical positions such as automation technicians. The appointment also increases Prologis’ leased or committed space at DIRFT to over 75%, reinforcing the site’s position as one of the UK’s most mature intermodal logistics hubs.
