Retailability’s Durban distribution centre, affected by the intense unrest in July 2021, has reopened its doors. Following the tumultuous events in KwaZulu-Natal during that month, the parent retail group overseeing popular brands like Edgars, Legit, and Keedo had to evacuate the facility due to the extensive damage incurred. However, after diligent reconstruction efforts, Retailability’s 13,000 square meter apparel distribution centre at Cornubia Ridge Logistics Park, situated north of Durban, has been fully restored, just in time to cater to the high-demand festive season.
In the aftermath of the upheaval, Retailability faced a significant setback alongside numerous other retailers severely impacted by the July riots. These events not only dealt a heavy blow to South Africa’s economy, estimated at a staggering R50 billion in losses but also claimed the lives of 350 individuals. The riots erupted merely a month after Retailability’s relocation to the newly constructed distribution centre, owned by the JSE-listed logistics property giant, Fortress. This abrupt upheaval compelled the Durban-based retailer to temporarily relocate its operations to maintain continuity.
Steve Pearson, the head of the supply chain, elucidated the challenges faced by the business over the past two years, citing the extensive damage inflicted during the riots, which included the destruction of equipment and electrical supply and control systems. Pearson emphasized the resilience and collaborative effort demonstrated by various partners, including landlord Fortress Real Estate Investments, to expedite the reconstruction process, allowing operations to resume ahead of schedule.
Reflecting on the tumultuous period, Pearson stated, “Now, almost two years later, we are back and geared for growth. That speaks to our resilience and extraordinary teamwork by our landlord and the stakeholders.”
During this trying period, Retailability exhibited tremendous resilience, ensuring uninterrupted stock flows to their 600 stores across southern Africa despite the unexpected relocation to temporary premises. Pearson acknowledged the Herculean effort required by the sizable retailer to establish a new distribution centre and maintain smooth stock flows.
Conveyall, a provider specializing in conveyor and racking systems, played a pivotal role in the relocation efforts. Commissioned by Retailability to design, manufacture, install, and commission the material handling system for the centre in 2021, Conveyall facilitated the transition to temporary premises following the destructive events in July. Owner Bruce Jamieson praised the collaborative effort, emphasizing their timely completion of another turnkey distribution warehouse facility to allow Retailability to continue its distribution operations from the temporary premises within a record-breaking three-month period.
In a poignant twist of fate, Conveyall also contributed to the new layout design of the reconstructed Cornubia premises, bringing the journey full circle for Retailability and its partners.
