Global supply chain services provider UTi Worldwide has officially opened a new 33,000 sq ft office and warehouse facility in London.

The site is in close proximity to Heathrow Airport - a convenient location for a firm that delivers goods internationally.

It is certainly a high-class building, as the Home Office granted it Section 5 approval for handling firearms and ammunition shipments. The complex will also have refrigeration capabilities, bonded storage and x-ray screening.

With sizeable warehouses and distribution centres being in such short supply in the UK - and Europe for that matter - it is always encouraging to see new buildings being opened.

The fact projects of this nature are being specially built so close to Britain's largest airport could also add weight to Heathrow's plans to construct a third runway.

Barbara Kearney, UTi vice president for the UK and Ireland, said: "Following a lengthy search for the right facility for our air operations close to Heathrow Airport, we are very confident that this new facility delivers on all fronts."