Milestone reached at M&S National Distribution Centre, DIRFT

Construction of Marks & Spencer’s (M&S) new National Distribution Centre (NDC) at Prologis RFI DIRFT (Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal) has reached a significant milestone, with the completion of the steel frame works. Designed by Stephen George + Partners (SGP), the new 1.3 million sqft scheme will serve as the hub for Marks & Spencer’s national food distribution, representing a landmark £340 million investment in the retailer’s food supply chain.

A steel-signing ceremony in May marked the start of construction on the site and, over the 52-week build programme, Winvic Construction will construct two low-carbon single-storey warehouses which will combine chilled storage, advanced automated fulfilment, returns and reusable packaging operations, alongside dedicated office space to support both on-site and national functions.

It is estimated that the construction phase of the new National Distribution Centre (NDC) will create over 2,000 jobs, with around 1,000 permanent roles once the site is fully operational, covering driving, logistics, management and more technical roles such as automated vehicle technicians.

This latest milestone reinforces DIRFT as one of the UK’s most mature intermodal logistics hubs, contributing more than £750 million a year to the regional economy.

Tariq Khan, Studio Director at SGP comments: “It is a real pleasure to see this landmark distribution centre for Marks & Spencer reach such a significant stage in construction. SGP has worked with Prologis at DIRFT for many years, designing the original masterplan and developing the subsequent unit designs to continuously advance the built environment of the park. The new flagship M&S facility continues that momentum, being part of a bigger story of transformation and forward-thinking development.”

SGP’s design uses meticulous detailing to deliver a bold, architecturally cohesive scheme in a prominent position within the site. Placemaking and innovative design are at the heart of design, ensuring that the development not only provides a state-of-the-art NDC for Marks & Spencer, but that it also fits seamlessly into its surroundings and contributes to the thriving park community. With biodiversity zones and high-quality outdoor spaces, the landscape creates an environment that supports both sustainability and wellbeing.

The new M&S facility is being delivered using BIM Stage 2 and will be one of the largest in the world to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, and is also targeting EPC A+. It will be carbon neutral in construction, certified by Planet Mark.

The new NDC at DIRFT is the largest supply chain investment in M&S history and a major step toward doubling the size of its Food business. The site will significantly increase capacity, reduce long‑term cost to serve, and improve product availability for customers. It is expected to open in early 2029.