InvestNN - Logistics and manufacturing

Unparalleled advantages as a logistics and distribution centre

North Northamptonshire offers unparalleled advantages as a logistics and distribution hub attracting significant investment that has made it a linchpin in UK supply chains and part of the coveted 'Golden Triangle'. Positioned midway between London, Birmingham and the East Coast Ports, HGVs can access the vast majority of UK markets within the same working day and 80% of the UK population within 4 hours drive.

We have the experienced workforce, leadership from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and crucially the space to upscale and onshore logistics operations as global trade evolves.

Image of Roundabout in North Northants Concil

A space to connect

Connected by the A14, A45, A43 and close to the M1/M6 spine, it links East Coast ports to the Midlands and beyond. With direct routes to Felixstowe and major freight hubs like DIRFT, this region keeps the UK moving – efficiently, sustainably, and at scale

Global names already call this home

DHL, XPO Logistics, FedEx, Wincanton, Co-op and Homebase

All operating major distribution and fulfilment centres across Corby, Kettering and Wellingborough and recently Nike have made a major decision to establish a state of the art Logistics Campus and UK HQ here in Corby.

Why do they choose North Northamptonshire?

Fast market access

Within 2 hours of Felixstowe port and easy access to UK’s major population centres

Rail, road, and air proximity

Multimodal freight potential

Skilled workforce

Double the national average in transport, logistics, and manufacturing

Cost-effective operations

Lower land and wage costs than many UK competitors

Ongoing upgrades

Ongoing upgrades to the A14 and rail freight capacity

Employment land

Ready for next-gen mega-sheds and hybrid logistics-manufacturing units

Strong pipeline of talent

From local training providers like Tresham College

Future-proof

With the infrastructure gains of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor set to accelerate, North Northamptonshire is not just well-placed - it’s future-proof.

Image of NewCold’s automated cold storage in Corby

Automated warehousing

High-tech, robotised warehouses are also reshaping the logistics landscape here - bringing efficiency gains while creating new, higher-skilled roles in automation, engineering and data management.

In Corby, NewCold’s automated cold storage facility has recently come online with fully robotised, 45-metre-high warehouse serving the food supply chain with pinpoint precision and minimal carbon impact.

A High-Value Engine of Innovation and Growth

North Northamptonshire’s manufacturing sector punches above its weight. With over 22,000 jobs – nearly twice the national average share – manufacturing is not just a legacy, it’s the beating heart of a modern, diversified economy.

With strong industrial roots, a highly skilled workforce, and easy access to UK and International markets, the region is a magnet for both traditional manufacturers and greentech pioneers.

Strategic infrastructure

Available industrial land and net zero ambitions make it an ideal home for manufacturing firms looking to scale, innovate, or decarbonise

Last updated 03 December 2025