Trans-Continental moves HQ to Preston

Lancashire-based distribution firm Trans-Continental Group has embarked on a consolidation from two sites in Blackpool to a single 153,000 sq ft base in Preston.

Trans-Continental was founded in 1994 and supplies 10,000 product lines to household names including Harrods, Tesco, Next, BHS, John Lewis, Asda and Wilkinsons, along with the majority of UK garden centres. It consists of four businesses – Sun Time, Snow Time, Pet Time and Home Time.

It will move from two Blackpool sites, its office headquarters on Amy Johnson Way and a 113,000 sq ft distribution site on Olympic Way, to premises formerly occupied by CCA Stationery on Olivers Place, Preston.

Trans-Continental paid Jersey-based Invesco Pit an undisclosed sum for the building, which includes 30,000 sq ft of offices and showrooms.

Mike Withers, founder and managing director of Trans-Continental, said: "We had been looking for a strategic move for the business for two or three years. Working across the two sites was inconvenient and had the potential, as the business continued to grow, for inefficiency.

"The new premises suit our business down to the ground and it is in an ideal location with great transport links. Trans-Continental imports about 2,000 containers each year and distributes to retailers throughout Britain and Europe, Preston is the geographical centre of the country and is, therefore, perfectly situated for our business activities.

"It's a prestigious looking building, and the customers who visit our offices and showrooms will be very impressed."

Martin Long, partner in Napthens solicitors' commercial property team, advised Trans-Continental on the purchase. Andrew Bather of Blackpool-based property consultants Duxburys Commercial also advised, identifying the building and carrying out purchase negotiations for Trans-Continental.

Martin Long of Napthens added: "Trans-Continental is a real North West success story. In a relatively short time the group has become a market leader in its field and a highly respected name among its customer base.

"This acquisition will allow the group to operate more efficiently, and help in the next stages of its development as a business."

Trans-Contintental Group employs 150 staff, and includes a company in Hong Kong, Trans-Continental Asia, garden centres in Newton-le-Willows and Sefton, and a newly established internet business. This year turnover is predicted to hit £30m.

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