1,000 new jobs created at M&S online centre

Marks & Spencer is to create 1,000 jobs over the next year under plans to boost its online operations, the retailer announced today.

The new roles will be at a 900,000 sq ft distribution centre in Castle Donington, Leicestershire, from where M&S expects to distribute two million clothing and home products a week.

Around 100 people are already working at the site ahead of the centre's opening early next year, with the jobs figure set to rise over the course of the year.

IT and logistics director Darrell Stein said: "Castle Donington is a key part of M&S's strategy for the future. This new distribution centre will help us deliver our goal of being a leading multi-channel retailer by 2015."

M&S has launched a new employability scheme for people with disabilities and health conditions - Marks & Start Logistics - as one of the recruitment channels used for the roles on offer.

It will be run in partnership with Remploy Employment Service, which specialises in supporting disabled people in overcoming barriers to work.

PA