Booker is tipped to be pulling out of its 34,373 sq m (370,000 sq ft) regional distribution centre at Emersons Green in Bristol.
The UK’s largest cash and carry operator has recently rationalised its assets and sold off parts of its business, including its food services arm and around 30 of its retail outlets. A source suggested that dropping out of Emersons Green is part of this restructuring.
However, Booker denied the allegation. The firm’s Nick Hanson said: “I don’t know anything about this,” while Robert Russell, of Booker’s agents Chesterton said “this is news to Booker and us.”
The unit is one of the UK’s largest warehouse developments and commands a high rent. Chesterton’s Giles Scott, said: “They’re paying circa £5.25 per sq ft, which means an annual rent roll of £1.5m.”
EGi News 14/04/00
