XPO Logistics inks deal to provide warehouse services to Crown Paints at two key UK sites

XPO Logistics has secured a contract to manage warehouse operations for Crown Paints - part of the international coatings giant Hempel A/S.

XPO Logistics will operate two warehouses for Crown Paints at its production sites in Darwen, Lancashire - home to the company’s headquarters - and Hull, Yorkshire.

In France, XPO Logistics also works with Hempel. Since 2018, the company has been distributing products from Hempel sites to shops or transferring them between sales outlets. XPO Logistics operates in various regions of France and Spain, where Hempel's production and storage sites are located. 

Dan Myers, Managing Director – UK and Ireland, XPO Logistics, says: “Crown Paints recognises the importance of connecting to its customers through creating value in every aspect of its operation. This is one of the key reasons XPO was chosen as its long-term strategic logistics partner. Leveraging our expertise and technology, we will support Crown in delivering continuous value for its customers.”

XPO Logistics' warehouse services include receiving finished goods, picking, preparing, and packing customer orders, and site-based shunting at Darwen and Hull.

Michael Stevens, Head of Logistics & Planning, Crown Paints UK, says: “Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for us; it's at the heart of everything we do. At Crown, we’re committed to becoming carbon neutral throughout our network of factories, offices, and Crown Decorating Centres by 2026. Partnering with XPO Logistics, who specialise in sustainable logistics, will support us in achieving our net zero goal in our operations.”

“Our partnership will also successfully deliver the exciting Crown Paints E-Commerce Strategy, which launches Q1 2025. XPO Logistics will fully integrate into the Crown Paints business. This is especially important when operating on Crown Sites, where we share the same values and commitments.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Sustainable retail will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.