British Corner Shop opens European DC as it tackles Brexit and Covid challenges

Online grocery venture, British Corner Shop, has opened a new warehouse in the Netherlands after Brexit caused a surge in demand across Europe.

The 125,000 sq ft unit is the company’s first European warehouse and is set to serve as a distribution centre for customers across Europe and beyond. 

The opening comes as the retailer, which targets British expats, sizes up to the effects that new Brexit related import laws have had on the food and beverage industry.

It had to significantly reduce the product range available to EU customers throughout the Brexit transition period.

It currently has 2,000 products from British brands available to EU destinations and has seen a surge in online retailing over the course of the last year, particularly as the Covid-19 pandemic has meant that many Brits have been unable to travel back to the UK for extensive periods of time.

A friend who serves you tea and snacks when you drop round unannounced is a friend for life 🙌 #BritishHappiness pic.twitter.com/PYrMhw3GnB
— British Corner Shop (@BritishfoodBCS) July 18, 2021

Jon Farrar, Head of Marketing at British Corner Shop, say: “Expanding our warehouse space is a crucial step in our growth strategy, so we can continue to support the expat community at a time when they need us the most. “

“We have seen an influx of customers shopping online for both essentials and nostalgic items and the expansion of our warehouse space into Europe will have a massive impact on the speed and efficiency of our operation.  

“The opening of our new warehouse means that we’re able to increase the product range available to our European customers whilst also significantly reducing our delivery timescales to EU countries.

He concludes: “We’re thrilled to be able to once again serve our loyal customers, and in return we have ensured that all European Union orders will be free of any additional customs fees or duties.”

“We have had to adapt very quickly to the changes brought on by both Brexit and the Covid-19 lockdown and are excited to be taking this swift expansion in our stride.” 