Fast-growing online fashion retailer PrettyLittleThing is setting up an eCommerce operation in Sheffield which will create 1,200 jobs.
PrettyLittleThing has signed a contract on a 600,000 sq ft site which will be serviced by Clipper Logistics and specialise in fast-fashion, footwear and accessories.
The operation will commence in July 2018, with the site expected to employ approximately 1,200 people by the end of the year. The roles will include part-time, night shift and student-friendly working hours.
Various forms of automation and mechanisation are planned for introduction over the next five years to facilitate growth at the firm.
PrettyLittleThing is part of Manchester-headquartered giant boohoo.com and is the UK’s fastest-growing online fashion brand, generating £181.3m in sales in the 12 months to February 28th – an increase of 228 per cent.
“We are delighted to have successfully concluded our negotiations and to be entering into a contractual relationship with Clipper which we hope will be a long, successful and prosperous partnership for both parties,” said Mahmud Kamani and Carol Kane, joint CEOs of boohoo.com.
Sheffield council’s chief executive John Mothersole said: “This is a brilliant addition to the city’s jobs market. Our logistics offer is strong and that is why Clipper Logistics have decided to base its Boohoo and PrettyLittleThing operation here.
“It is especially pleasing after the sadness around Polestar UK, which previously occupied the site. We have worked closely with those affected to help them through this difficult period.
“Clipper Logistics has signified a long-term commitment to the region with this deal which brings yet another multi-national company with a global reach and reputation into our city.
“It follows many months of constructive work involving council officers and the lead cabinet member and will bring a range of competitive, highly-valued jobs to the local economy.”
Steve Parkin, executive chairman of Clipper, said: “The new contract with PrettyLittleThing represents one of the company’s most significant contract wins and is demonstrative of our ability to deliver cost-effective solutions for retailers of any scale.
“We are delighted to have been awarded this contract with one of the fastest-growing online retailers, and look forward to working with the PrettyLittleThing team over the years ahead.”