Hermes depot

Parcel delivery giant Hermes UK is set to open a new distribution depot in Test Lane, Southampton ahead of the peak season.

The company said the new 118,000 sq ft facility will create 20 new permanent, full-time jobs and over 80 seasonal temporary jobs, which will be opened as Black Friday and the Christmas peak period approaches.

The new facility will be able to handle over 180,000 parcels each day and has the ability to operate around the clock seven days a week.

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Hermes said the new facility is part of its ongoing investment programme to expand its capacity to meet the “huge demand” created by online shopping during lockdown and continuing growth in the sector. The company added that it estimates that it will see record parcel volumes later this year.

Steve Jones, depot manager, said: “We’re delighted to be opening a new depot in Southampton to support our growing business. With the festive season fast approaching and the huge rise in online shopping since the pandemic the requirement for increased staff and capacity was clear.

“This depot will allow us to provide much needed job opportunities within Southampton during these uncertain times.

"Our team are working incredibly hard to prepare the site for what will be one of the busiest periods of the year and ensure that our customers continue to receive a fantastic service.”