250 jobs at risk as M&S closes major distribution centre

// M&S to close major UK distribution centre, putting 250 jobs at risk

// Staff have now entered a 30-day consultation period

// M&S said it was looking to change its supply chain to address flow of product and availability for customers

Marks & Spencer is set to close down one of its major distribution centres next year, putting 250 staff at risk of losing their jobs.

The retailer said it would shut down its Thorncliffe distribution centre in Sheffield in summer 2021.

The warehouse is run by goods management company XPO Logistics, and distributes stock for M&S.

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The logistics partner has commenced a consultation period with the estimated 250 warehouse staff members affected by the closure.

“We’re in the early stages of changing our supply chain to address flow of product and availability for our customers, an M&S spokesperson said.

“As part of this we’ll no longer be serving our stores from our Thorncliffe distribution centre.

“Moving the operations is not a decision we’ve taken lightly but it’s an important change to help us best serve our customers.

“Our logistics partner will be working closely with the colleagues at the site on what is best for them.”

An XPO spokesperson said: “Following a review of their operations, our customer has decided to withdraw its operations from the M&S Thorncliffe warehouse.

“We have entered into a consultation period with colleagues, the trade union and elected employee representatives to finalise the plans.

“We will work to support employees through this time.”

According to the Daily Mirror, an additional 330 workers are affected in Nottingham, with M&S reportedly planning to shut down its Long Eaton Distribution Centre in 2021 as well.

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