Makro's distribution centre to be expanded

Johannesburg, Nov 29 (I-Net Bridge) - Investec Property on Tuesday said it had secured the development rights for Makro's distribution centre in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. 

The distribution centre is to undergo a massive refurbishment and development that will see the existing premises expand from approximately 16,000 square metres to 27,000 square metres. 

Investec Property is a division of Investec Bank (INP, INL) and one of SA's leading property operations.

Makro, which operates within Massmart's (MSM) Masswarehouse division, required an expanded facility for its central distribution centre, ideally without having to relocate, as well as being able to keep the facility fully operational during the construction period. 

Investec Property, through its relationship and engagement with the tenant and the existing owner of the property were able to provide a creative and entrepreneurial solution to meet the client's exact needs, it said. 

The current distribution centre will be transformed into a modern facility and will include an additional 11,000 square metres of warehousing space. 
Improvements to the site will include an expanded yard area and a new perimeter ring road to facilitate more efficient vehicular movement. 

The fire control systems and sprinklers will also be upgraded during this process maintaining a strong focus on safety.

"We were able to provide a long term warehousing solution to accommodate Makro's requirements. We are proud of our contribution to this important development for one of SA's major retail groups," Investec Property's David Rosmarin said.

Doug Jones, Masswarehouse commercial director, said it was particularly important for the group that its current operating capacity was not compromised during the building phase, so that it could continue to ensure that its customers' needs were met without interruption or unnecessary cost. 

Construction has commenced on the facility, which will be delivered by the end of July next year.

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