Waitrose is planning to close its Enfield, London fulfilment centre, potentially putting up to 500 jobs on the line.
The John Lewis Partnership-owned supermarket announced the plans in a letter sent out to warehouse workers, stating that “while exploring contract negotiations with the landlord is possible… we know our rent costs at Enfield will increase”.
Waitrose opened the Enfield site just four years ago, but with the building’s lease due to expire in 2025 and cost-cutting measures recently announced, it is unlikely to stay in operation beyond next year.
“While not an option we’re exploring lightly, the proposal would maintain our high levels of customer service for Waitrose.com and support future growth. It’s in no way a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Waitrose in a press statement.
Waitrose intends to move orders currently being processed at Enfield to two other sites.