// Boohoo will close its Wellingborough distribution centre in January putting 420 jobs at risk
// The closure is part of the group’s investment plans into its distribution network
Boohoo is closing its Wellingborough distribution centre in Northamptonshire, which puts 420 roles at risk.
The fashion etailer only set up the Wellingborough warehouse in April last year to service its Boohoo, BoohooMan, MissPap, Karen Millen, Coast, Dorothy Perkins, Oasis, Burton, Wallis and Debenhams brands.
Staff impacted by the move will have the opportunity to apply for similar roles at the group’s other UK distribution centres in Daventry and Burnley.
Drapers said the reason for closure is for cost-saving purposes and a rationalisation of Boohoo Group’s warehouse estate.
However, a Boohoo spokesperson told the publication that it had upgraded its existing three sites since it opened.
The spokesperson said: “Over the last three years, as our portfolio of brands has grown, we have been investing heavily into our distribution network to ensure we can continue to offer customers the rapid delivery times they expect.
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“Our facility in Wellingborough has been an important part of that network for the last two years, enabling us to upgrade our three other sites across the UK.
“Now that this stage of investment is complete, we will be closing our distribution centre in Wellingborough in the new year.
“We have informed our colleagues on site and we have been offering transfers to another of our warehouses in Daventry, or if they’re able to travel further, our site in Burnley.”
In October, Boohoo revealed it had partnered with DHL to run its first-ever US distribution centre to help bolster its growth Stateside following investment into its distribution network.
Boohoo has been suffering of late as shoppers pull back from online purchases. The retailer warned that sales are likely to be hit during the golden quarter after it reported adjusted pre-tax profit dropped 90% to £6.2 million in the six months to August 31.
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