Overview

Company Overview

JD Sports Fashion plc is one of the UK’s leading multi-channel retailers of sports fashion and outdoor brands. Operating internationally, JD is a household name with an extensive portfolio of stores and a rapidly growing online presence. The company is a major employer, with tens of thousands of staff globally and a strong footprint across Greater Manchester.

Industry

Retail / E-commerce / Logistics

Company Size

Global business with over 70,000 employees (group-wide)

Relocation to Rochdale

In response to sustained growth and the need for additional operational capacity, JD Group took the strategic decision to expand its logistics network. In 2021, the company identified the opportunity to locate a major new distribution facility in Rochdale, at Kingsway Business Park—one of the region’s largest and most advanced employment sites.

The challenge was finding a modern, large-scale site that could meet JD’s complex logistical requirements and support long-term expansion plans.

RDA’s Role in Supporting the Move

The RDA played a key role in facilitating JD Groups’ move to Rochdale. Acting as the primary liaison between the business, the site developers, and local partners, the RDA:

• Helped identify and secure a site that met JD’s operational and spatial requirements

• Provided location intelligence and strategic insights to support the business case for investment

• Worked collaboratively with stakeholders across planning, infrastructure, and employment services to enable a smooth transition

The outcome was the development of a purpose-built distribution centre of approximately 600,000 sq ft, enabling JD Sports to significantly expand its UK logistics capabilities.

Impact on Rochdale’s Economy

JD Groups’ investment in Rochdale has had a substantial and positive economic impact, reaffirming the borough’s position as a key employment hub in Greater Manchester:

• Hundreds of new jobs created locally, with recruitment phased to support long-term employment growth

• Significant capital investment in land, buildings, and infrastructure

• Increased business confidence and interest in Kingsway Business Park as a strategic location

• Enhanced national visibility for Rochdale as a viable destination for large-scale employers

As one of the largest private sector employers to move into the borough in recent years, JD Groups’ presence is vital to local job creation, skills development, and the resilience of the regional economy.

Driving Business Growth Through Partnership

JD Groups’ successful relocation to Rochdale illustrates the strength of RDA’s approach to inward investment and business support. By working closely with developers, local authorities, and business leaders, the RDA:

• Delivers strategic property solutions tailored to business needs

• Facilitates investment that creates long-term economic value

• Supports the ambitions of high-growth companies

• Strengthens the borough’s economic base through collaboration and connectivity

Conclusion

The arrival of JD Group in Rochdale represents a significant milestone for the borough’s economic development. Through targeted support and effective partnership working, the RDA helped secure a major investment that continues to generate employment, stimulate local growth, and reinforce Rochdale’s reputation as a prime location for business.

RDA remains committed to supporting businesses of all sizes to locate, invest, and thrive in Rochdale.