Evri Launches £1.3 Million Depot in Belfast, Creates 650 Jobs

Evri, a prominent parcel delivery firm, has inaugurated a new depot in Mallusk, near Belfast, with an investment of £1.3 million (€1.5 million). This facility aims to capitalize on Northern Ireland’s unique market position, creating 650 new jobs, including approximately 500 temporary positions to meet the demands of the upcoming holiday season.

The newly established depot will serve as a critical hub for distributing goods both across Northern Ireland and into the Republic of Ireland. The facility’s location benefits from the Green Lane system under the Windsor Framework, which is designed to expedite cross-border shipping. This strategic advantage follows Evri’s acquisition of the customs clearance and logistics specialist Coll-8 in the Republic, laying the groundwork for enhanced operational efficiency.

Strategic Growth and Job Opportunities

Evri characterized the opening of the depot as a significant strategic move aimed at integrating with its UK network. The company anticipates that this integration will lead to faster shipping times, smoother return processes, and an automated customs system. The firm articulated its vision, stating, “The depot will serve as a strategic gateway for distributing goods across England, Scotland, Wales, and the wider EU via the Republic of Ireland, enabling frictionless movement across borders, simplifying logistics, and accelerating delivery times for consumers.”

Among the 650 new jobs, there will be 50 permanent positions at the depot, encompassing roles such as warehouse staff, drivers, supervisors, and managers. Evri has also created 85 permanent courier roles in the region, including in Belfast, Craigavon, and Strabane. Additionally, the company is actively seeking to fill 515 temporary Christmas roles, reflecting the anticipated surge in demand during the festive period.

As part of its recruitment strategy, Evri is offering a £3,000 welcome payment to successful applicants in Belfast, Craigavon, and Strabane, enhancing its appeal in a competitive job market. Couriers can expect to earn around £18 per hour on average.

Anticipating Increased Demand

Conor Ormsby, country manager at Evri, expressed enthusiasm about the depot’s opening, stating, “We’re delighted to officially open our Belfast depot. We anticipate another record peak driven by consumer behaviour and the continuation of online retail growth. This site will help us meet that demand and ensure we can maintain a faster, smoother supply chain.” He emphasized that the depot’s strategic positioning is crucial for supporting the company’s ongoing international growth.

Ormsby also underscored the importance of service and reliability for Evri’s clients, noting, “Our couriers are the backbone of our business, so it’s fantastic that we’re able to expand our network throughout Northern Ireland to reflect the growth we’re seeing in the region.”

Tom Donnan, head of agency and director at Lambert Smith Hampton Ireland, commented on the significance of the new facility, stating, “We were delighted to act on behalf of Evri in securing the site for their new warehouse in one of the most significant lettings of the year. Evri’s commitment to Belfast signifies confidence in the region.”

With the establishment of this depot, Evri is poised to enhance its logistics capabilities and support the growing demand for parcel delivery services across the region, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving market landscape.