Amazon to close three UK warehouses

The US giant said on Tuesday that it has launched consultations over the closure of three sites, in Hemel Hempstead, Doncaster and Gourock in west Scotland. Affected workers will be offered roles at other Amazon locations.

The planned closures are part of a review of Amazon’s UK operations, which will also see two fulfilment centres open in Peddimore in the West Midlands, and in Stockton-on-Tees. The new centres are expected to create over 2,500 jobs over the next three years.

An Amazon spokesperson told PA Media: "We’re always evaluating our network to make sure it fits our business needs, and to improve the experience for our employees and customers.

"As part of that effort, we may close older sites, enhance existing facilities or open new sites.

"We remain committed to our customers, employees and communities across the UK."

Last week, Amazon announced it was axing 18,000 jobs worldwide, the biggest round of layoffs in the company’s history. Amazon currently employs around 1.5m people worldwide, including around 300,000 corporate roles.

In a memo to staff, chief executive Andy Jassy blamed the "uncertain economy" for the cuts. He said the consumer retail division was likely to be most affected, although human resources was also likely to be impacted as the overall workforce was reduced.

He did not state which countries would be affected, although it was confirmed that Europe would be included.