International logistics giant has formally opened its £120 million, 32,000 square metre package sorting and delivery hub at the DP World London Gateway Logistics Park. Government Transport Secretary Chris Grayling was at the official opening.

The new centre is to act as a UK package processing hub as well as a distribution centre for London. It will also be a gateway to the UPS global logistics network, and has a capacity to process up to 28,000 parcels per hour and has room for expansion beyond this.

“This state-of-the-art facility enables us to further improve our services to companies of all sizes that are looking to grow their cross-border business,” said Mark Vale, president for UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics. “With strong growth in our export volume in the UK, which increased nearly 20% in 2017 and more than 15% in the first quarter of 2018, we are optimistic about the future. This key investment is tangible proof of UPS’s commitment to helping customers doing business in and with the UK.”

The new UPS operations hub will employ more than 500 people. The centre has more than four miles of conveyor belts and has advanced package scanning and sortation equipment.

Attending the official opening ceremony, Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling MP said: “The significant investment announced today by UPS is a strong vote of confidence in our country’s economic strength and our aspirations for the future. As the gateways for as much as 95% of our international trade, our ports – including the world-leading operations at London Gateway – are vital to our country’s long-term prosperity. That is why we are committed to enhancing their productivity and maximising their potential, as set out in our port connectivity study. This new London Hub, bringing employment and investment in the South East, will further enhance our position as an outward-facing and dynamic trading nation.”