Ocado plans to add more delivery spokes to its network this year to meet increasing demand for its own grocery operation, as well as that of online delivery partner Morrisons.
Following the news that it is to develop a fourth hub, in south-east London, Ocado said it has acquired additional sites in unnamed locations for the development of additional depots.
In its annual results to 30 November 2014, published today, it also revealed that the Erith, south-east London hub is to cost £135m. It plans to spend £50m on more loading docks, mezzanine floors and fridge plants in addition to this.
The company said it has until April to decide whether to increase the scope of the hub's coverage to include Morrisons.com fulfilment. Ocado entered into an agreement in 2013 to provide the infrastructure required by Morrisons to develop its own online shopping service.
Ocado also plans to install “next generation infrastructure” across its existing sites during the current financial year. It currently has, or has plans for, four hubs (in Hatfield, Andover, Dordon and Erith), an NDC in Welwyn Garden City, and 14 depots.
