Penguin Random House is a name synonymous with literary excellence. From timeless classics to children’s favourites and bestselling cookbooks, the publisher’s iconic monochrome mascot represents quality. But did you know that every Penguin book you’ve encountered in the UK has passed through Essex on its journey to you?
Tucked away in the north of the county just outside of Colchester, is Penguin Random House’s UK distribution centre in Frating, where we recently had the privilege of welcoming our members for an exclusive behind the scenes networking tour of this amazing facility.
Before the tours began, Nick Brown our Client Relationship Manager for the North, welcomed everyone. Nick opened the event quoting Penguin’s mission statement: “We make books for everyone, because a book can change anyone.” This statement became apparent throughout the event, from the passion of the staff to the sheer scale of the operation, the dedication to the distribution of books is paramount.
Nick then introduced Neil Springall, Distribution Operations Director at Penguin Random House. Neil spoke to attendees about the history of the company, how Penguin – a British brand, and Random House – an American brand, were merged to form the company we know today. In fact, the Penguin brand is celebrating 90 years this year, a phenomenal achievement.
He discussed the creation of the site in Frating, which was completed in 1997. Originally based in Tiptree, the decision was made to develop a field in Frating into the impressive operation it is today. The workers from Tiptree were encouraged to be involved in the development build, and as a result, many made the journey over when the site opened and have remained there. The fact so many employees have been at the company for decades, is a testament to the nurturing workplace ethos.
Attendees also heard from Cheryl Arthur, Head of Customer Services and Nigel Drew, Head of Credit Services. The pair explained that as well as the logistics and distribution of books, the centre is also responsible for processing orders, whether this be for Amazon or independent books sellers – to licensing, royalties and finance. The finance team is the biggest in the area and is also responsible for all the other businesses in Penguin’s parent company, becoming a European centre of excellence.
With 140 million books on site, the centre distributes 85 million books a year. Every Penguin Random House book you would have encountered in the UK, will have gone through the distribution centre in Frating.
During the tour, attendees were granted access to witness the impressive operation, which is almost labyrinthian in scale with shelves and shelves of books. There were audible gasps from some as they saw the newer extension warehouse. The height of the facility was staggering and seeing the workers so skilfully manoeuvring and elevating their specialist forklifts up and down the aisles was something to behold, with one attendee describing what he saw on the tour as the “engine of the company.”
Alongside an insightful tour, attendees enjoyed a fantastic networking opportunity over a delicious in-house catered lunch. The event was a resounding success, with members forging new connections and gaining valuable industry insights.
“Thank you so much for such a brilliant event. The day was well organised, and I had such a fantastic time. The team at Penguin Random House were so lovely and welcoming. I was fascinated to learn about the business and loved the tour. I also met some very lovely new connections. Overall, the event for me was a 10/10!” ~ Laura Wright, HR Partner Kingswood Group.
A huge thank you to the team at Penguin Random House for hosting such a fantastic experience.
For information on our events programme, including our upcoming event at Radisson Blu Hotel with MAG London Stansted Airport, please visit our website.
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