Waterline to re-open distribution centre amid 'groundswell of demand'

Waterline, the UK's largest supplier of kitchen furniture and accessories, has reopened one of its three UK distribution centres after weeks of shutdown in response a 'groundswell of demand' from clients.

The Newport Pagnell distribution centre in Buckinghamshire resumed operation today (4 May). The Crown Imperial factory has also partly re-opened today to support the distribution process.

In a statement, the firm explained: 'When guidelines required our kitchen specialist customers up and down the country to close their doors in March, we at Waterline followed suit. With the recent confirmation that the distancing guidelines are likely to be in place for some months, it will be a while before we are all able to return to "business as usual".

'It has become clear over recent days, however, that there is a groundswell of demand from some of our customers who are able to carry out their works on site within the current distancing guidelines.'

Customers will be able to access a limited delivery service based on demand, together with a collection service as well as some external courier deliveries.

Waterline stressed that operations would resume on a 'small scale utilising the extensive stocks held at this location' and that all work would take place in accordance with official Government safety advice.

For the time being, there are no plans to open two more depots in Bristol and Bolton.

The announcement makes Waterline the latest in a series of major kbb industry names to implement controlled return to work. Roman, PWS and Ideal Bathrooms are among the companies who have reopened their doors in recent days.