Clipper Logistics wins five-year deal with fashion retailer Joules

Clipper Logistics has landed a “significant” five-year contract with fashion retailer Joules, the logistics company announced today (13 January).

The partnership, which sees Cliupper take over the operations of Joules' distribution centre in Corby, Northamptonshire, comes after the retailer issued a profits warning following online stock availability issues over the Christmas period which it said had seriously impacted on its trading.

In a joint statement the two companies said the deal will involve a fast-moving fulfilment and logistics operation involving inbound deliveries from a variety of UK-based and international suppliers over seven days a week, fulfilling orders for Joules’ stores, ecommerce and wholesale customers.

The partnership will kick off in the next few weeks, following a staff consultation period.

The deal will also include a multi-million-pound investment programme over the next two years to expand capacity, drive efficiency and modernise the facilities.

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Steve Parkin, chairman of Clipper, said: "The new contract with Joules represents a significant contract win 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 premier multi-channel retailers in UK and Europe, and look forward to working with the Joules team over the years ahead."

Marc Dench, chief financial officer at Joules, commented: "We are delighted to be entering this long-term partnership with Clipper for the operation of our distribution centre in Corby. Through the process we have been impressed with Clipper's capabilities and their cultural alignment with our business."

This latest deal comes as Clipper Logistics approaches its bid deadline this week to take the company private.

Parkin, who founded the company in 1992 and owns nearly a third of its shares, is understood to be preparing a £300m bid with Florida-based Sun Capital Partners. Parkin has until 5pm this Wednesday (15 January 2020) to announce a firm intention to make an offer for the company or withdraw.