Marks & Spencer has opened applications for more than 70 roles at its new fashion distribution centre in Lichfield, as it prepares to launch the site next year. The 437,000 sq ft facility will be fully automated and is expected to create 600 jobs in total when fully operational, announced on 28 October 2026. The hub will add capacity to the retailer's existing 24-hour distribution network, helping it process orders from suppliers before they are sent to stores or directly to customers.

Roles on offer first

The first wave of vacancies includes management, operational and specialist positions. David James, supply chain and logistics director for fashion, home and beauty at M&S, said the company is looking in this first phase for people including planners, team managers and technicians who enjoy the fast pace of logistics. Adverts for the Lichfield team manager roles describe permanent, full-time posts on a 12-hour rotating shift pattern, across day and night shifts. M&S said it will recruit for more roles in the coming months as it gears up to launch, and that the investment forms part of its plan to double online sales across fashion, home and beauty.

How to apply

Applications for the distribution centre roles are available through the M&S Careers website. M&S is also opening a separate 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 local jobs, with candidates able to register their interest now on the M&S jobs site and applications for roles including shift leads and customer assistants set to open in the next few weeks. Applicants should check the individual advert for the role they want, as shift patterns, requirements and closing dates vary by post.

Sources: TheIndustry.fashion, Retail Gazette, M&S Careers.