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Pedigree Wholesale has announced plans to streamline its distribution network by closing its depot for the North in Leeds, as part of a broader investment scheme aimed at reinforcing the business and fuelling long-term growth.
The pet and aquatic products distributor said that following an in-depth operational evaluation, it intends to consolidate the center’s logistics in its national distribution hubs to optimise its current capacity, enhance efficiency and improve reliability.
This move follows the company’s roll out of an updated demand planning capability (DPIM) over the last 12 to 18 months, along with the launch of a mobile app, refreshed webstore and warehouse management system.
Pedigree said its distribution network transition builds on these earlier measures, and that the closure of its North site was not related to its team’s performance.
It added that the decision will not impact deliveries or ordering processes.
When it comes to the wider UK pet care sector, Pedigree said this shift comes as it is facing an increasingly competitive and complex market, with flat volumes, persistent cost pressure and growth that is pushed more by channel shift and product mix than core demand.
Managing director Julian Grindey said: “This is part of a broader programme of work focused on getting the fundamentals right and investing for the future,” he said. “We’ve been very clear internally on our ‘Back to Brilliant Basics’ approach – focusing on availability, competitive pricing, dependable delivery, and making it easier for customers to do business with us.
“Our network today has the capability to support our customers effectively. By simplifying how we operate, we can utilise that capability more efficiently and continue to build consistency into the service we provide.”
He added: “They have done a strong job over many years. This decision is about how the site fits within the wider network and how we best position the business for the future. In this environment, standing still isn’t an option,” Grindey said. “You have to be proactive – strengthening your operations, investing in the right areas, and making sure you are set up to support customers effectively.”
