Bleckmann, a major player in supply chain management, is taking over Superdry’s UK logistics, anticipating growth and job creation.
- The contract will involve the transfer of approximately 170 employees, ensuring no redundancies and preserving existing employment terms.
- Reinardt van Oel and Julian Dunkerton both express enthusiasm for the strengthened logistics partnership.
- Superdry, facing declining sales, is pursuing cost-cutting measures, including exiting the London Stock Exchange.
- Research reveals retailers’ preference for importing goods through ports closer to their destinations to enhance efficiency.
Bleckmann, a prominent Dutch company in supply chain logistics, is poised to take control of Superdry’s logistics operations at their Burton on Trent location. This move is set to commence in the coming month and signifies a strategic expansion for Bleckmann in the UK market. The company, recognised for its expertise in managing logistics for fashion and lifestyle brands, aims to streamline operations while maintaining existing employment conditions for approximately 170 transferred employees. Crucially, Bleckmann has assured that no redundancies are planned during this transition phase, demonstrating its commitment to workforce stability and growth in the region.
The announcement has been backed by Reinardt van Oel, Chief Operations Officer of Bleckmann for Belgium and the UK, who emphasised the seamless nature of this operational transfer. He highlighted the longstanding relationship with Superdry since 2007, reflecting pride in extending their logistics services to the UK market. This transition is viewed as a significant milestone, bolstering Bleckmann’s reputation as a leading provider of logistics solutions within the region. Meanwhile, Julian Dunkerton, Superdry’s founder and CEO, expressed his approval, remarking on the strengthening global logistics partnership between the two entities.
Superdry’s decision to partner with Bleckmann comes at a time when the fashion retailer is facing substantial challenges, including declining sales linked to reduced foot traffic in high street stores. In response, Superdry is actively seeking ways to cut costs, a strategy that involves delisting from the London Stock Exchange and negotiating reduced rental agreements across numerous UK outlets. These moves are part of a broader effort to stabilise the company’s financial standing amidst a challenging retail environment.
A recent survey indicates a growing preference among retail industry leaders for importing goods through ports proximal to their final destinations. This strategy is motivated by the desire to minimise emissions and reduce logistical inefficiencies. Such insights suggest a shift in industry norms, which align with Bleckmann’s strategic expansion plans, including the opening of a new distribution centre in Lutterworth to reinforce its UK operations. This facility, boasting over 430,500 square feet, supports Bleckmann’s ambitions to broaden its business-to-consumer services both domestically and internationally.
Bleckmann’s acquisition of Superdry’s UK logistics operations underscores a pivotal development in the logistics sector, promising enhanced efficiency and growth.
