JTI unveils 'cutting edge' distribution centre in Crewe following £7.8m investment

Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has completed a significant refurbishment of its National Distribution Centre in Crewe. Investing £7.8 million into the facility, the upgrade aims to foster collaboration, enhance employee wellbeing, and drive operational excellence to continue JTI’s growth.

Originally opened in 1994 for Gallaher Ltd, and becoming part of JTI following the acquisition in 2007, the Crewe site is crucial to JTI's UK operations. The centre handles the distribution of all JTI products within the UK, including tobacco, Nordic Spirit, and Ploom products. It despatches an impressive 12,000 customer orders annually, equivalent to 18 billion sticks across JTI's diverse portfolio which includes heritage brands Benson & Hedges, and Mayfair.

The site is a significant contributor to the local economy, employing approximately 70 JTI employees across both UK and global roles, and supports an additional 50 jobs through outsourced services.

"This refurbishment marks a significant milestone for JTI,” said Laura Bailes, Crewe Director. “The redesigned space reflects our vision for the future of work, promoting agility, collaboration, and a strong ‘one-team’ culture. We've created an environment where our employees can thrive, with dedicated wellbeing spaces, modern amenities, and a design that inspires innovation."

The comprehensive refurbishment goes far beyond cosmetic upgrades. Drawing inspiration from Japanese design principles, JTI's brand identity, and local heritage, the new space boasts 32 meeting rooms, including bookable offices and individual focus rooms.

Wellbeing is prioritised with the inclusion of a gym, a yoga studio with weekly classes, and a dedicated training suite. Employees can also utilise a wellbeing room, multifaith room and a parenting room. Further enhancements include sit-stand desks, ergonomic chairs, upgraded AV equipment, and tech-free relaxation areas. A full accessibility review was undertaken in collaboration with the Business Disability Forum, to make the building as accessible-friendly as possible.

The transformation extends to every aspect of the facility, from a new HVAC system to upgraded games facilities and a modern merchandising suite for sales training. This holistic approach ensures a consistent and engaging experience for all employees.

JTI UK continues to support the local community, working in long-term partnerships with a number of charities in the area which support excluded adults. As well as regular fundraising events and volunteering days, employees host monthly tea parties on-site and in the community to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation for local older residents. Through its “Green Connections” partnership with Age UK Cheshire, older people are matched with local community activities to improve feelings of connectedness whilst improving their gardens. The company has long-standing relationships with myCWA and Survive, charities helping those affected by domestic and other forms of abuse, and has recently announced a new partnership with Wishing Well, which provides mental health support to adults in the local area.

This refurbishment follows similar successful projects at JTI's Putney office and other global locations, demonstrating the company's commitment to investing in its people and infrastructure.