SIG Distribution - the distribution division of FTSE-listed construction supplies firm SIG plc - formally opened its new £2m Tyneside 'supercentre' on 5 December, 2013.
Gateshead MP Ian Mearns and the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Gateshead were among the dignitaries celebrating the opening of the new branch in Dunston, Gateshead, alongside SIG plc group chief executive Stuart Mitchell and SIG Distribution managing director Paul Gordon.
The branch is the first in the UK to bring together all five of the company's constituent businesses on one site, namely SIG Insulation, SIG Technical Insulation, SIG Interiors, SIG Fixings and SIG Construction Accessories.
Mr Mitchell said: "The launch of the Tyneside supercentre in Dunston marks a major milestone for SIG Distribution. As well as making SIG Distribution's business operation more streamlined and efficient, we believe this new branch will add value to our customers' businesses. By working with us more efficiently, we will help them to ensure their businesses are fit for the future and well positioned to take advantage of the growing upturn in the construction sector.
"It will also play a central role in supporting the roll out of SIG's business strategy for the future by helping us secure new customers," he added.
SIG Distribution has invested over £2m in work to regenerate the derelict site, which was formerly the distribution centre for the Newcastle Federation Breweries. The site now employs around 70 people and will service the needs of SIG's 1,500 construction customers in the North East.
In his speech as guest of honour at the opening ceremony, Mr Mearns MP said: "The government needs to see that the way to economic growth and future prosperity is directly linked to the strength of our construction sector. That's why developments such as this are so important. SIG has shown its faith in the future of the region's construction sector, and that is enormously significant. I want to thank SIG for the confidence that they have demonstrated in Gateshead, and wish the company every success in the future."
Paul Gordon, managing director of SIG Distribution, added: "I'm extremely proud that with our investment we have been able to reinvigorate this previously derelict industrial complex and bring it back into use as our brand new distribution centre. As a business we have 1,500 plus customers located here in the North East. Indeed, we see the region as offering a real opportunity for further growth. The investment we have made in this fantastic new site will enable us to realise that ambition by helping us build and maintain productive working relationships with existing and new customers across the North East, in the months and years to come."
