THE PROPERTY LADDER
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A key policy decision that Mini Clipper made concerned property. As the business grew, additional premises in Leighton Buzzard were required, and, where possible, these were purchased. A separate company was created to manage premises and these incremental acquisitions provided surplus space to let to other firms (Cranleigh Freight Services is a current tenant), yielding revenue income independent of logistics, and, in some cases, providing additional transport work.
Mini Clipper's new headquarters was opened at the end of last year by Pall-Ex founder Hilary Devey following the purchase and conversion of a 200, 000fe former Gossard bra factory — a bold but astute decision in the midst of a recession.
Peter explains: "Our old premises were costing us £250,000 a year in rent and rates alone, so it made sense to buy this facility," Relocating during a global economic meltdown has "been a challenge", but he reckons the support of staff, customers and suppliers made it 'relatively easy".
He reveals that the refurbishment and enhancements, including a canopied loading area and new operations offices, have taken major investment, but "we now own a building, which is a perfect fit for our distribution centre activities".
He adds: "The security of our new site is vastly superior compared with our old HO. We have 20 CCTV cameras and a secure entry system on this site alone, giving our clients peace of mind, and a purpose-built operations facility for our Pall-Ex and Mini Clipper fleet.'