Debenhams Group to create 1,200 jobs with Burnley distribution return
Debenhams Group is expected to create around 1,200 jobs by moving its fulfilment operations back to Burnley.
The group will make the move through a new global distribution partnership with GXO Logistics.
It follows the announcement in September of the £90 million sale of Debenhams’ Sheffield distribution centre to Primark. Debenhams Group expects to continue operating from Sheffield until early 2027, ahead of the transfer to Burnley.
Subscribe to TRBThe group announced in 2025 that it was moving its distribution operations to Sheffield following a strategic review. At the time, it said the site could offer greater capacity and efficiencies.
GXO will run the Burnley facility under a new agreement through which it will oversee Debenhams Group’s global third-party distribution.
Debenhams Group said the partnership will benefit from its own longstanding knowledge of the site and GXO’s expertise in managing fulfilment operations for leading retail businesses.
Dan Finley, chief executive of Debenhams Group, said: “We’re delighted to be returning to Burnley. Burnley has played an important role in the group’s history, as the primary distribution location for over a decade.
“We’re excited to be combining our years of experience operating in the town with GXO’s fulfilment expertise, to support the next phase of the group’s growth.”
Oliver Ryan, MP for Burnley, Padiham and Brierfield, said: “This is great news for Burnley and another vote of confidence in our town. The move will deliver jobs, apprenticeships and huge economic benefits in the years ahead. Debenhams Group have gone through a strong turnaround, and I’m glad to have them back as a local partner.”
