ST MODWEN MAKES FIRST SALE AT HOLBROOK

St Modwen Properties PLC has made the first sale on its new development at Holbrook, Sheffield, to Country Fresh Foods, which processes fruit and vegetables and wholesales fresh produce to the foods service sector including hotels, restaurants, schools and hospitals.

The food company is taking two units totalling 10,200 sq ft , part of a nine unit first phase started by St Modwen in February,which will total 44,000 sq ft and will be completed in August. The total scheme for which St Modwen obtained planning consent last year will comprise 81,600 sq ft of industrial/warehouse units of between 3,000 sq ft and 6,000 sq ft.

Nigel Cunis of St Modwen said: “The provision of these units is helping local businesses to expand and thrive. Indigenous businesses which for some years have had to look outside the city to expand, are now keen to remain and grow in the city¹s new, and strategically located office and industrial centres.

“Holbrook, with its easy access to the M1, is one of the industrial locations that has caught the eye of firms wanting medium-sized industrial space. The demand is evidenced by the fact that within two months of starting on site nearly 40 per cent of the space has been taken or is under offer.”

Neil Dowker, managing director of Country Fresh Foods, said: “We are extremely excited at the prospect of moving into our new headquarters. As the region¹s premier supplier of fresh and chilled produce to the food service sector, we see this move as a fundamental key to the growth of our company.”

He added that the company aims to double its sales over the next two-three years and create about 20 new jobs. All its operations – transportation, warehousing and manufacture – will be under one roof.

Knight Frank acted for St Modwen.Country Fresh Foods were unrepresented.

For further information contact Nigel Cunis of St Modwen (0113 272 7070).

Issued by Paul Raymer of Howle Chapman Raymer (0121 313 1000).

Ref: MOD/52/08