M&S has unveiled the first wave of jobs available at its new fully automated fashion distribution centre in Lichfield, set to open next year.

Over 70 vacancies are now available on the M&S Careers website, including management, operational and specialist roles. The new 437,000 sq ft logistics warehouse is expected to employ 600 people in total when fully operational.

The state-of-the-art hub will add additional capacity to M&S’ existing 24/7 distribution network, enabling it to more quickly process and move orders from suppliers to distribution centres and then onto stores or direct to customers.

M&S is aiming to double online fashion, home and beauty sales, with supply chain transformation a key part of its reshaping for growth strategy.

David James, supply chain and logistics director for fashion, home & beauty at M&S, said: “Our new Lichfield hub will mean we can better serve our customers, delivering M&S fashion faster than ever before.”

James added: “As we get closer to launch, building the right team is crucial. From planners to team managers and technicians, in our first phase of recruitment we’re looking for those who enjoy the fast pace of logistics and are keen to play a role in our exciting transformation journey. We’ll recruit for more roles in the coming months as we gear up to launch.”

M&S is also investing in a brand-new food store in Lichfield on St John’s Grange, Baker Way.

The 15,800 sq ft fresh market-style foodhall is set to open next March and create 70 new local jobs, with candidates able to register their interest now.

Applications are set to open in the next few weeks for a range of roles, including Shift Leads and Customer Assistants, with roles available across the shopfloor and operations.

The store is one of 18 new Food stores M&S is opening this financial year, as it looks to expand its footprint and deliver larger format stores for customers, offering the full product range.

Customers can look forward to an in-store bakery, hot chicken counter, fresh produce from M&S’ Select Farm partners and popular ranges including Only… Ingredients, Nutrient Dense and Remarksable Value.

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