A FAMOUS wax jacket maker has unveiled expansion plans.

Barbour is opening a 270,000sq ft site bosses say will create a new distribution centre.

According to the plans, the base will supersede existing warehouses at Follingsby Park, in Gateshead, and a raw materials operation opposite its head office in South Shields, South Tyneside.

Steve Buck, managing director, said: “Our new onesite distribution centre will create a superb facility with the ability to house all of our distribution in one place with the flexibility for the future.

“Up until now, we have maintained three separate warehouse sites.

“The new distribution centre, with its location so close to our offices and the factory, brings all of our teams together in the home of the brand.

“This will increase efficiency and enable us to improve aspects of communication across all the different business departments.”

He added discussions are now underway with Barbour’s workforce over the move, which is planned to start in May and be completed by February next year.

The brand is known around the world for its vast range of jackets, shirts and jumpers.

It achieved fame in 1964 when The Great Escape actor Steve McQueen wore one of its jackets while competing in the International Six Day Trials motorcycle endurance event.