Unique facility opens its doors

A unique, multi-purpose logistics facility, known as the Logistics Research and Innovation Centre (LRIC), is now open to visitors.

A unique, multi-purpose logistics facility, known as the Logistics Research and Innovation Centre (LRIC), is now open to visitors. Situated in North Manchester LRIC was built by the Warehouse Technology Group (WTG), a remarkable collaboration of 12 companies involved in the manufacture and supply of specialist equipment to the warehousing and logistics industry.

Leading the WTG is Phil Culling (MD of Redirack) “This project started over 12 months ago and the support from all the partners has been fantastic. As a group we share a common vision in what this centre can offer both to potential customers, and to promote logistics as a career of first choice to young people by giving them experience of working in it.”

Head of Mantra Learning Mark Currie: “Our original discussions with Phil centred on a few bays of rack for our FLT training area and then an opportunity presented itself to acquire the LRIC building. That seems a distant memory now and what we have created provides a facility to deliver training to the industry and showcase leading technology solutions. As a learning provider we are subject to strenuous assessments, audits and testing and inevitably lots of visits. The response from all accrediting bodies has been hugely positive and this has helped further enhance our reputation as the leading learning provider in the logistics sector.

The 18,000 square foot LRIC is a fully functioning warehouse, and showcases the latest equipment from the WTG partners: These include state-of-the-art computer management system, pallet racking, mezzanine floors, fire protection sprinklers, and telescopic boom conveyors.

Potential customers see the products in action before buying, and learners attending the training school have the opportunity of hands-on experience, which stands them in good stead for their future careers.

LRIC also provides a fully accredited training environment. Operated by Mantra Learning, delegates gain skills in a wide variety of warehouse related activities as well as apprenticeships and NVQ’s in a wide range of logistics activities ranging from warehousing, to traffic office and HGV for both operators to managers.

But LRIC is not just a giant exhibition stand. It is also a commercial venture providing storage of pallets and goods for a number of clients. The facility is open to visitors and appointments can be made via the website www.wtglive.co.uk where you can also find more details on all the partners.

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