The 30,000 sq ft building (cash & carry and delivered) was once owned by Lowrie’s, which in 2013 sold this depot, as well as those in Killingworth (Newcastle upon Tyne) and Hexham, to Blakemore.

The 10,000 sq ft Hexham unit closed at the end of July, leading to rumours in the national press that the Landmark Wholesale member was on the verge of selling its cash & carry business for around £100 million, which then comprised 13 branches.

It resulted in a swift denial by the West Midlands C&C/wholesaler (Cash & Carry Management: July) followed by a relaunch of its Wolverhampton C&C and the announcement that a similar revamp would take place at the other branches over the following three months.

A Blakemore spokesman said: “We can confirm that we have commenced a period of consultation with the 14 members of staff at the Penrith depot with a view to the site changing ownership to Bidfood. It is our intention for all former Blakemore Penrith employees to be offered employment with Bidfood upon completion of the acquisition.”