Leeds-based retail logistics firm Clipper Logistics plc announced it has signed a new five-year contract with Ireland’s largest sports retailer Life Style Sports (Ireland Limited).

Clipper said it will provide e-commerce and store replenishment operations from a new distribution centre in Rathcoole, South of Dublin.

Life Style Sports trades from 42 retail stores across the island of Ireland from Cork to Belfast and also operates an e-commerce platform for its sportswear ranges.

“The new contract is for an initial five-year period and the Rathcoole facility comprises 100,000 square feet of warehousing space, that can be extended over time through the use of mezzanine floors,” said Clipper.

“To support the new contract 75 new jobs will be initially created and over time it is envisaged that as many as 110 new roles may be required.

“Clipper has developed an automated solution for Life Style Sports utilising leading smart logistics technology, Geek+, a ‘goods to person’ robotics solution and auto bagging operation, which will facilitate this transformational project.

“It is anticipated that the Life Style Sports operation will go live in January 2022.”

Clipper executive chairman Steve Parkin said: “We are delighted to win this new contract with Life Style Sports, which extends both our geographic footprint in Ireland and showcases Clipper’s ability to lead this major transformation for Ireland’s largest sports retailer.

“Working with Geek+ Clipper is providing a technology based solution, which demonstrates that Clipper remains at the forefront of technological solutions for end-to-end services in omnichannel retailing.”

Life Style Sports CEO Mark Stafford said: “We chose Clipper as our service provider given their excellent reputation for delivering rapid and effective logistics solutions.

“We look forward to working together in the years to come.”