Over 450 jobs at Marks & Spencer are at risk after the retailer announced plans to close 14 stores as part of a restructuring programme. Over 450 jobs at Marks & Spencer are at risk after the retailer announced plans to close 14 stores as part of a restructuring programme. The high street giant is proposing to shut stores in Andover, Basildon, Bridlington, Denton, Falmouth, Fareham, Keighley and Stockport, with 468 staff entering consultation. High street chains have been hammered by Brexit-fuelled inflation that has sent the cost of goods rocketing and consumer confidence plummeting, while also having to stomach hefty business rates increases. M&S currently has 1,025 stores in the UK, comprising 302 clothing, home and food shops, 684 food-only premises and 39 outlets.

Source: Irish Independent January 31, 2018 11:26 UTC