A sustainability-focused logistics company has marked its 50th year by relocating to a carbon-neutral headquarters.
The John K Philips Group, an established logistics firm, has transitioned from its St Helens base to a 135,000-square-foot warehouse and office building in Warrington. This new headquarters, named Solar 120, has received an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating, acknowledging its environmentally friendly features. The facility is fully equipped with solar panels, LED lighting, heat pumps, and new electric forklift trucks, allowing the company to offer carbon-neutral warehousing services.
Originally a BT call centre, the building was acquired in 2022 by CBRE Investment Management and transformed into a modern warehouse, earning the title of ‘building of the year’ at the National Sustainability Awards in 2023. John K Philips Group, established in 1974, now employs 80 staff and operates a fleet of 35 trucks and 32 trailers. The family-owned business is currently led by Managing Director Alan Simpson, who joined in 2019, with John Philips’ daughter, Karrie Hughes, serving as the Commercial Director.
The firm specialises in the storage and UK distribution of goods, including paint and specialist liquids for sectors such as pharmaceuticals and healthcare. All drivers are ADR trained to handle specialist freight. John Philips noted, “We have made a significant investment in our new headquarters and warehouse to provide additional storage capacity in line with our plans for future growth. We’ve been growing steadily year-on-year by 15 per cent, and our aim is to continue to expand at this rate.”
The new location, close to the motorway network, is strategically positioned to grow John K Philips’ customer base. Solar 120’s carbon-neutral credentials include solar-generated electricity powering its warehouse, offices, and electric forklift trucks. Philips added, “Sustainability is a priority for our business, and our relocation to Solar 120 enables us to deliver significant further progress in this area. More investment in electric vehicles is planned, providing us with the capability to decarbonise our customer supply chains.”
Philips also highlighted ongoing investments in people and technology to enhance efficiency and productivity. John K Philips Group is part of the Palletforce express distribution network, offering local customers cost-effective and sustainable overnight freight delivery across the UK and Europe.
As John K Philips Group celebrates its 50th anniversary, its move to a carbon-neutral headquarters underscores its commitment to sustainability and growth.