Model manufacturer Hornby has completed the move of its warehouse operations to a new base run by a logisitics specialist.

The 100,000 sq ft facility in Hersden, Canterbury, replaces its historic warehouse in Margate, which had been open since 1954.

With much of the firm’s production now taking place overseas, the Thanet site’s factory space had been used as a warehousing and packing facility since 2000.

Hornby increased underlying losses last year

The firm said the move had been brought about as a result of the tired warehouse conditions at the site leaving the location no longer suitable for large-scale, modern logistics operations.

Its new base – which will be coordinated by DS Logistics – is capable of holding 7,000 pallets and 60% of it is fully racked. The remaining space is a pick pack operation that includes internet despatch and space for re-works.

It also has a much larger yard with three loading bays to ensure the smooth operation of inbound containers from suppliers based in the Far East and India.

The company retains its offices in Margate, which remains its headquarters.

Chief executive Richard Ames said: “The warehouse move was a smooth operation with virtually no disruption to customer deliveries.

Hornby losses widened in its latest annual results

“It is an excellent, modern facility that will enable us to improve our stock management and distribution activity.

“It will also provide a platform from which we can resume our growth, while improving our service to both consumers and customers.

“All the permanent Hornby staff employed as part of the distribution warehouse team were offered a transfer to DS logistics. This has been completed and the new team is now working at the Hersden site.”

As well as its Hornby model rail range, the Margate-based firm also owns Airfix and Humbrol model kits and paints brands.

Other products include Corgi in die-cast and Scalextric slot racing. Hornby has expanded internationally with the acquisition of Electrotren, Rivarossi, Jouef and Arnold.