UTi Worldwide Inc. a global supply chain services and solutions company, officially opened its new London operations located in Heathrow, United Kingdom last month.

Located in close proximity to Heathrow International Airport, the 33,000 sq. ft. building is a highly secure facility with CCTV (HD standard) and security access controls, according to Colin Reynolds, UTi airfreight director for the UK.

"Following a lengthy search for the right facility for our air operations close to Heathrow Airport, we are very confident that this new facility delivers on all fronts. The contemporary office combined with the state of the art warehouse ensures that our people enjoy a wonderful working environment, plus it enables us to provide even more services to our clients in a very efficient and responsible way," said Barbara Kearney, UTi vice president, UK and Ireland.

As the main air and road facility in the UK, the operation offers X-ray screening, bonded storage, including refrigerated capabilities. Dangerous goods safety advisors are on staff. The warehouse received Home Office Section 5 approval for handling firearms and ammunition shipments.

In recent years UTi has also expanded its gateway operation in the UK and the facility will be utilized for consolidation of air cargo to and from the other UK locations on a 24 hour, 7 day per week basis. In addition there will now be space for contract logistics activities to complement the current freight forwarding and customs brokerage operations. There will be in the region of 60 employees based at the new site, according to Reynolds.

The new building is equipped with up to date energy saving devices, including solar panels (which will provide 40% of the power), plug in terminals for electric cars, water saving measures and motion activated lighting throughout.