Marks and Spencer will open a new national food distribution centre in Milton Keynes, expanding capacity by up to 60 per cent, accelerating supply chain modernisation plans and creating 360 new jobs in the local area.

Set to open and begin operating by September, the new 365,000 sq ft facility will be operated by XPO Logistics and will supply ambient M&S Food products to the South of England regions.

Unlocking value in its food supply chain is a key part of M&S Food’s transformation plan, with a commitment to resolve the longstanding issues in food availability and waste.

M&S has already begun these improvements to its supply chain through the Vangarde programme, which aims to reduce waste and improve customer experience through improved shop keeping processes such as better forecasting, allocation and stock counts.

Implemented in 93 stores across the estate so far, the programme has resulted in more productive stores, generating lower waste and higher sales through an improved customer experience. The programme is now being rolled out to all stores nationwide during this financial year.

M&S Food managing director Stuart Machin said: “Many of our customers’ shopping habits have changed over recent months and our new distribution centre will enable us to respond faster and more flexibly to customer demand, providing greater product availability and significantly improving the service we provide our customers.”

XPO Logistics will shortly begin recruiting for the 360 new roles across warehouse and inventory operations.

Share Story: