- Author, Isaac Ashe
- Role, BBC News, Derby
A new Greggs factory coming to Derby will create up to 600 jobs, the bakery chain has said.
Construction is already under way at the 23-acre SmartParc SEGRO site to create a bespoke frozen production and logistics facility.
Greggs will then develop the facility and install manufacturing and logistics equipment including kit to produce new savoury and sweet products, with the site expected to open in late 2026.
Roisin Currie, Greggs chief executive, said: “This purpose-built site offers significant flexibility to add new capabilities and lines as our business evolves.
“This is a significant step in our supply chain investment and will provide much-needed manufacturing and logistics support to power our ambitious growth plans.”
The new facility is being built with sustainability in mind, says Greggs.
It will have a centralised heating and cooling system to recycle heat from refrigeration units, a rainwater harvesting system, solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.
Jackie Wild, SmartParc chief executive, said: “It is our ultimate vision that SmartParc SEGRO Derby becomes a hub for forward-thinking food businesses seeking sustainable and efficient operations, a collaborative work space and a first-class location with excellent connectivity, whilst also putting their people first.
“Greggs embodies this approach and we are immensely proud to welcome such a cherished food business to the site.”
Greggs also plans to buy land near Corby and Kettering to develop a National Distribution Centre for chilled and ambient goods.
Currently Greggs runs about 2,500 food-on-the-go outlets.
The two East Midlands projects will support plans to increase the number of Greggs shops nationwide by 140 to 160 by the end of the year, and ultimately to 3,000 nationwide.