Bauder Breaks Ground on New Distribution Hub

FLAT ROOFING specialist Bauder has marked the start of construction of its new 44,000 sq ft distribution hub with a groundbreaking ceremony at Gateway 14, a business, innovation, and logistics park near Stowmarket.

Bauder’s managing directors Yvonne Higgins and John Llewellyn, plus logistics manager, Ian Madgwick, led the groundbreaking ceremony, joined by representatives from Gateway 14, Mid Suffolk District Council, Jaynic, Freeport East, and Wilten Construction in turning the first shovels of dirt, symbolising the official start of construction.

The new facility, set to open in Spring 2025, is intended to increase Bauder’s storage capacity, streamline logistics, and enhance distribution capabilities. The warehouse will feature sustainable building design and practices, and renewable energy generation and efficiency features.

The hub will become Bauder’s largest distribution location in the UK, with its UK operational headquarters continuing to be based at Landseer Road, Ipswich.

The development of the building is being spearheaded by Gateway 14, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mid Suffolk District Council, in partnership with Jaynic. Leicestershire-based Wilten Construction has been awarded the construction contract.

“This is a landmark day for Bauder,” said Yvonne Higgins, Managing Director of Bauder. “Our investment plan, to grow and strengthen our presence in the UK market, welcomes the new distribution centre to meet increasing demand, and is in line with our sustainability programme. This is the first part of a larger plan that will also see us expand our operational base in Ipswich and create further job opportunities at both our sites.”

New Bauder Distribution Centre

As part of Gateway 14’s commitment to sustainability, Bauder’s new distribution centre will be designed to BREEAM Excellent standard, featuring an EPC A rating, EV charging, LED lighting, solar PV, smart energy systems, and rainwater harvesting. The site will also include integrated walking and cycling routes, public transport links, and high-quality landscaping to support local biodiversity and create a vibrant, healthy working environment.

Jan Bauder, Managing Director, Paul Bauder GmbH & Co. KG, said: “The Bauder group is delighted to recognise the growth of our UK daughter company with this investment in the future of its operations. The facility is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing us to meet evolving customer demands while maintaining high standards of service.”

Bauder will soon be joined at Gateway 14 by another manufacturer at their £45m new facility, following recent planning consent. Assan Panel manufacturers sandwich panels for roofing.

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