M&S names next stores targeted for closure as over 1,000 jobs hang in balance

Marks and Spencer has named the next 17 stores set to close as part of its reorganisation plan – with three in the East Midlands set for the axe.

Some 1,045 staff will lose their jobs nationwide as outlets in Ashford, Barrow, Bedford, Boston, Buxton, Cwmbran, Deal, Felixstowe, Huddersfield, Hull, Junction One Antrim Outlet, Luton Arndale, Newark, Northwich, Rotherham, Sutton Coldfield and Weston Super Mare.

Sacha Berendji, M&S’s retail, operations and property director, said “Proposing to close stores is never easy, for our colleagues, customers or the local community, but it is vital for the future of M&S.

“Where we have closed stores, we are continuing to see an encouraging number of customers choosing other nearby locations and shopping on M&S.com.”

M&S says it will not enter into a period of consultation with staff and will listen to any ideas on how to keep the stores open.