The paper merchant has transferred existing staff from the company's previous facility two miles away in the city, and has recruited three warehousemen.

It has also said that it will be looking for more staff in the near future once shift patterns are established.

Alan Chalkley, regional director for Mason's Paper, said: "This is great news for printers in this region who will benefit from a faster and more comprehensive service.

"We will hold up to 2,000 tonnes of paper at any one time and the new computer-controlled stock management system we are currently installing will allow us to pick and pack from 3,000 pallet spaces."