DHL Express, the expedited delivery service, has announced the opening of a new service centre in Gatwick in response to increasing demand for parcel shipments in the area.
DHL stated that it is supporting this growth with the introduction of a £2 million automated shipment processing system at the new centre.
The company also revealed plans for a total £37 million investment over multiple years for the site.
The South East has been identified as the largest export region in England, and DHL hopes the new centre will enhance efficiency and streamline customer shipments across Sussex, as well as parts of Surrey and Kent.
Claire Leo, Gatwick Service Centre Manager at DHL Express, said: “We are thrilled to open our new state-of-the-art service centre in Gatwick, which will enhance our ability to meet the growing demand for express delivery services in the region.
“With this new facility, we are well-positioned to support the local economy and deliver the highest standards of service.”
The 115,000 sq. ft site is expected to process approximately 2 million items annually and operates on 100% renewable energy.
The facility also features low-water-use appliances, energy consumption monitoring systems, and infrastructure to support 90 electric vans, with 30 electric vehicle charging stations for employees.
Mims Davies, MP for East Grinstead and Uckfield, attended the official opening, touring the centre and meeting with staff and customers.
Commenting on the opening, Mims Davies MP said: “I was greatly honoured to join the DHL Express team for the official opening of their fantastic new Gatwick service centre.
“This is a huge achievement and brilliant for our communities as DHL employs over 50,000 people across the UK and will be providing more jobs here in my constituency – East Grinstead, Uckfield and the surrounding villages – from entry-level positions to senior management roles.”
Davies also praised DHL’s commitment to employee wellbeing, highlighting the outdoor areas and quiet room in the building, which she described as ‘hugely beneficial’ for mental health.