Next shuts Doncaster distribution centres after staff pressure – but IKEA remains open

Despite Government instructions for people to stay at home and work there unless ‘absolutely necessary’ – and the closure of all but essential shops – many retail firms, including Next and IKEA, have still been operating an online delivery service, which requires warehouse staff to prepare orders.

In recent days the Free Press has received multiple messages from people angry that they or loved ones have been made to come into work to complete ‘non-essential’ tasks.

Many were concerned about the virus being spread between colleagues and beyond, including to vulnerable people.

One woman, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “My mum works in a care home and her husband still has to work at IKEA, meaning my mum could spread germs to the old people.”

She said while bosses at the IKEA warehouse in Doncaster were working from home, ‘low-paid workers’ had to go to work.

In an email sent to staff on Thursday, Next, which has a number of warehouses and distribution centres in the Doncaster area, announced they would be closing them from today.

The company said they had “listened carefully to the feedback voiced by many of our colleagues.”

The email read: “It is clear that many of you increasingly feel that you should be at home and are worried about coming to work in the current climate.

“As a result we have taken the decision to close our warehouse and distribution operations until further notice.”

IKEA said its Doncaster warehouse remains open.

A spokesperson said: “We understand this is a time where many people are worried, however, the latest Government guidance is that online retail is still open and encouraged, including distribution and delivery services.

“During these times, with people spending more time in their homes, we have continued to see a need for our products such as cooking and nursery equipment and home office furniture.

“For roles that support the fulfilment of online orders and the operations of these units, enhanced safety and social distancing measures are in place.”