Logistics and distribution

We recognise the importance of the logistics and distribution sector on a local and national scale. It brings people and products together, creating growth across a range of industries.

The borough is well positioned to provide a base from which to serve worldwide markets. There's easy access to nearby Newcastle International Airport, which serves 80 worldwide destinations. Not to mention four local ports with the facilities, capability, land and expertise to handle, store and transport cargo. They deal with anything ranging from delicate raw tea to large subsea machinery.

The region's road infrastructure ensures connectivity to all parts of the UK, via the A1 (M), A19 and A66. We continue to make significant investments in infrastructure, including recent upgrades to the A1 (M). This work is in addition to a further £290m of planned investment.

We've designated 22 hectares of land to support the growth of this sector, following changes in spending habits and the rise of online retail. This land forms Gateshead's Enterprise Zone at Follingsby Park.

Before partnering with Gateshead College, we relied heavily on agency staff to maintain our vehicle fleet, which was unsustainable. Now our apprentices are a core component of our engineering team recruitment and the drop-out rate for apprentices has decreased from 75% to just 10%, proving how well it works for our workforce" Kevin Carr, Managing Director, Go North East