This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
As the construction sector slows down due to stringent measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus, Africa Logistics Properties (ALP) is pushing forward with its 50-acre warehousing complex in Limuru.
According to ALP chief executive Richard Hough, the construction at the complex, located at Limuru's Tilisi, is expected to be completed by year-end, with all 172 jobs retained.
Mr Hough attributed the success to the measures put in place to protect workers against the virus, including temperature checks and sanitisation at all entry points, as well as ensuring all employees on-site constantly wear face masks at all times.
“Ensuring no jobs are lost during this time, we remain committed to doing our part,” he said.
The project's first phase is expected to be ready for occupation by December, with the first tenants set to usher in the complex.
Mr Hough said all prospective tenants had maintained firm commitments to take up 55 percent of lettable space for information technology, food and beverage, logistics and fast-moving consumer goods businesses.
The first phase will see smaller warehouses measuring 500 square metres built for small and medium enterprises planning to scale up business via a warehouse space subscription service facility.
“The decision to start with 500 square metres is to allow small-scale distributors to reduce their cost of storage and improve their supply chain and operations efficiency,” Mr Hough explained.
He added that the complex will also offer built-to-spec solutions for businesses with specific needs or requirements.
“Within the last month, we have received several local and international companies (mainly logistics) seeking more information about our developments as they plan to take up space post the current Covid-19 environment,” Mr Hough said.
