Sheffield M&S distribution centre to close, putting around 250 workers at risk

The retail giant confirmed it will close its Thorncliffe distribution centre in the summer of 2021.

It is understood that around 250 staff members are affected and have entered a consultation period after the announcement this afternoon (Wednesday, February 12).

An M&S spokesperson told the Star: “We’re in the early stages of changing our supply chain to address flow of product and availability for our customers.

“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.”

A staff member, who did not wish to be named, described the feeling among employees as ‘one of annoyance’.

They added: “We have been taking on more staff, so we thought the site would be safe.”

The warehouse is run by goods management company XPO Logistics which distributes stock for Marks & Spencer.

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.”