St. Modwen Logistics has leased a c.40,000 sq ft bespoke unit to global automotive company Kia for use as a cutting-edge new training academy for the next generation of Kia employees.
Kia UK Limited will take occupation by the end of 2023 following an extensive fit out period.
The unit has been adapted to suit Kia’s requirements, including the installation of additional power, facilitating advanced electrification training and upskilling on STEM subjects to enable Kia’s apprentices and adult learners to meet the evolving demands of increasingly electrified vehicles.
Built to St. Modwen’s Swan Standard of sustainable construction, the asset is EPC A rated and has BREEAM ‘Excellent’ accreditation. The academy will not have a new gas supply and will instead utilise heat pumps for heating. Furthermore, high-efficiency photovoltaic cells have been installed on the rooftop which will harness renewable energy.
The property is fitted with EV charging ports and benefits from intelligent LED lighting, smart metering and an on-site fitness trail. Designed with sustainability and wellbeing at its core, the asset supports customers on their own net zero journeys and encourages a healthy, active workforce.
Kia is the latest global business to establish an educational hub at St. Modwen Park Derby, following Swedish medical technology manufacturer Getinge, which in February 2023 announced plans to establish a new Global Centre of Excellence for Chemistry and UK headquarters at the Park.
Kia also becomes the latest occupier at the site to have a clear focus on sustainability, following the arrival of Vaillant to St. Modwen Park Derby earlier this year. The German firm will use the new high-tech factory to meet growing demand for its air-source heat pumps.
Sarwjit Sambhi, Chief Executive Officer of St. Modwen, commented: “We are incredibly proud to welcome Kia’s training academy to St. Modwen Park Derby.
“Our site offers a high-quality, sustainable environment that aligns perfectly with Kia’s vision for eco-friendly operations. The adjacent wildlife reserve ensures a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of staff and delegates, making it an ideal setting for learning and growth.”
Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK Limited, added: “We are thrilled to bring our new and enhanced Kia Academy to Derby. This move represents our commitment to supporting STEM education, driving electrification and helping our dealer partners build the workforce and skills they need for the future. Our investment in the new training Academy showcases our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and sustainability, while solidifying Kia’s position as a leader in electrification and the automotive industry.”
St. Modwen Park Derby is home to a diverse array of manufacturing businesses, each of which benefit from the Park’s plentiful amenity offer, sustainable design and strategic location. The Park sits adjacent to the A52, providing direct access to Derby City Centre in under five minutes as well as Junction 25 of the M1, which links the Park to significant national road networks.
Earlier this year, St. Modwen Logistics announced plans for a £59m second phase of development at the Park which will see c. 350,000 sq ft of modern, new warehouse space created by the end of 2024 to help meet increased occupier demand for mid-sized industrial and logistics units in the East Midlands.
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