Retailer, Marks & Spencer has indicated that it is planning to close down a distribution centre at Mallusk in Newtownabbey, County Antrim, putting more than a hundred jobs at risk.

The distribution warehouse is run on behalf of the company by global logistics major, DHL and about half of the jobs there are linked to the contract with Marks & Spencer. Marks & Spencer has said that the distribution will take place from England and Scotland form the next year. The close puts about one hundred and forty jobs at the risk after the closure of stores in the Republic of Ireland that may lead of loss of 180 jobs.

"M&S is changing, becoming a more efficient, international, multi-channel retailer. As a result we have to reorganise our supply network and, as part of that work, we have made a proposal today to cease the warehouse operation at the Hydepark distribution centre," said a company spokesperson.

A spokesperson for DHL Supply Chain said that the staff has been informed about the process and it will soon begin consultations for discussions options for the employees.