Logistics firm expands in Wythenshawe

Cardinal Maritime plans to build a 50,000 sq ft warehouse to keep pace with growth following the acquisition of its existing premises and development land next door from Promoa GMBH, an Austrian property fund.

The deal gives Cardinal Maritime ownership a 40,000 sq ft warehouse on Harling Road, along with 2.8 acres, close to the company’s head office on Leestone Road.

The Harling Road premises are grade 2-listed, having been built in 1942 as a bus depot. During World War Two, the ministry of aircraft production seconded the building and used it as a site to assemble wings for the Avro Lancaster.

Prior to the purchase, Cardinal Maritime had been a tenant of the Harling Road building for three years.

Brian Hay, chief executive of Cardinal Maritime, said: “Growing up in Wythenshawe, I would pass the Harling Road building on the bus and I was intrigued by its Art Deco style and the history associated with it. It may sound romantic, but I am thrilled to own it now.

“Now our 38,000 sq ft head office and Harling Road facilities are at full capacity, it was vital that we looked for additional space. The 2.8 acres next to the existing building will allow us to build our third facility in the Wythenshawe area.”

Cardinal Maritime was advised on the purchase of Promoa GMBH by DWF with funding from HSBC Manchester office.