United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) last week (Sept 18) touched a historic milestone with the official opening of its brand-new 82,000 sq ft cash & carry depot in Rainham, London, its first step outside Scotland.
The launch represents the company’s aggressive expansion, signaling its commitment to supporting and empowering independent retailers and caterers across the UK’s most competitive wholesale market.
“This is a monumental moment for independent retail and caterers across London,” said Asim Sarwar, Chairman of UWS.
“Rainham is just the beginning of our journey in England, and we are here to deliver the same innovation, investment, and customer focus that has made us the market leader in Scotland.”
A Launch Like No Other
The Rainham launch drew an exceptional turnout of customers and suppliers, many of whom described the event as unlike any other depot opening.
Guests were treated to live entertainment from DJs, acrobatic performers, and a special appearance by artist Apache Indian, while enjoying exclusive promotions, competitions, and complimentary food.
United Wholesale Scotland opens doors to Rainham depot www.asiantrader.biz
Stephen Cheetham of Unitas Wholesale commented, “I’ve been in retail and wholesale for many years and have seen some fantastic launches, but this was something completely different.
"UWS has rewritten the rule book when it comes to launching a depot.”
Investment and Innovation
The Rainham depot is UWS’s fourth site and its largest investment outside Scotland.
A multi-million-pound refit transformed the site in just three months into a modern, tech-enabled hub designed to meet the needs of London’s diverse retail landscape.
“This depot looks spectacular,” said Chris Gallacher, Managing Director of UWS. “We lead the way in Scotland, and it was vital that we bring that same level of innovation and energy to London. It’s safe to say we’ve delivered.”
The depot stocks more than 10,000 product lines, mirroring the range available at other UWS sites while introducing tailored local ranges to meet London’s unique market demands.
United Wholesale Scotland opens doors to Rainham depot Image from United Wholesale Scotland
Supporting Independent Retailers
The new site is also a springboard for UWS’ symbol group expansion, with 10 stores already in the pipeline to launch under the Day-Today and Usave fascias by the end of October, and a further 30 conversions planned shortly after.
“There’s something for everyone here,” added Anshu Chandra, Commercial Director of UWS. “Whether it’s a quick top-up shop, full delivered service, or joining one of our symbols, we are flexible and scalable – supporting retailers of all sizes.”
A dedicated Rainham-based sales team of five will strengthen UWS’s relationships on the ground, expanding both collect and delivered services.
Focused on the Future
While the Rainham opening represents a landmark step, UWS remains focused on long-term growth.
“Our priority is growing the business sustainably across the UK,” Gallacher concluded.
“Right now, our full attention is on supporting our customers in Scotland and London, delivering the best possible value, service, and experience.”
United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) is one of the UK’s leading wholesale businesses, operating cash & carry depots across Glasgow, Falkirk, and Grangemouth, with Rainham marking its first English site.
The company supplies over 10,000 product lines to independent retailers, caterers, and hospitality businesses, while supporting over 500 symbol stores under the Day-Today and Usave fascia’s. With a focus on innovation, investment, and customer-first service, UWS continues to set new standards in wholesale.