Member Article

Workwear boss reveals £10 million trade park plans that could yield 300 jobs

The entrepreneur behind a successful corporate clothing firm plans to move his company to new premises near Durham and create a £10 million trade and retail park in the process.

Andrew Ward, the man behind Workwear Express, has already kick-started the venture by purchasing the former Kerry Foods factory on a 5.82 acre site near Durham Retail Park, for a seven figure sum.

The move would grow Workwear Express’ headcount from 90 to 130 over the next 12-18 months, as well as a motor showroom, trade units and a fast food outlet - which in turn will create jobs.

Work will begin this year on the development, which is to be called Ward Trade Park. It expected to be completed by next summer.

Bradley Hall advised Workwear Express on the acquisition of the 132,616 sq ft unit, while CBRE Leeds acted for the vendor Kerry Foods.

Mr Ward, who launched Workwear Express in 1990, said: “Seldom does the opportunity arise to acquire such a prominent site on the outskirts of Durham within such close proximity to major retailers such as Tesco, B&Q and Boots.

“The site not only provides us with the space and opportunity for our company to grow but also allows me to feed my passion for property and develop what will hopefully become a vibrant business hub in the area.”

Peter Bartley, director of Bradley Hall, said: “It’s nice to see a local company committing to the area and purchasing such prominent opportunities with a view to growing their existing business.

“The site is arguably one of the most desirable locations in Durham which has been proven by the amount of enquiries that I have already taken from potential occupiers and other purchasers.

“Andrew’s plans are bold and ambitious and this £10m development, when it is complete, will be a key part of the regeneration of County Durham.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .