Amazon is set to shut down a fulfilment center in Milton Keynes, affecting 590 jobs. The closure comes as part of a plan by the company to streamline operations. Affected employees are being offered the option to transfer to the new Amazon site in Northampton or to other facilities.
The new £500 million Northampton building is expected to open in May, initially hiring 1,400 workers, with plans to increase the workforce to 2,000. The Amazon sortation center in Milton Keynes, which is a separate division of the logistics business, will remain unaffected by the closure.
An Amazon spokesperson stated that the decision to close the Milton Keynes site is part of regular network evaluations to enhance efficiency. The company aims to provide support to affected employees during the transition process.
Meanwhile, Amazon has begun testing drone flights from its Darlington base in preparation for launching its airborne delivery service in the UK by 2026. Although deliveries have not started yet, once operational, eligible customers in Darlington will receive packages weighing less than five pounds within two hours.
The drones have been designed to operate quietly and avoid obstacles during delivery. Advanced technology onboard enables the drones to identify and navigate around objects like clotheslines or trampolines. The company is working closely with local authorities and aviation regulators to ensure safe operations.
Overall, Amazon’s strategic moves reflect its commitment to innovation and operational excellence in serving customers and optimizing its business network.