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Clothes retailer Gap said it could close down its Rugby distribution centre following a strategic review of its warehouse and distribution model.

In a statement from US-based Gap Inc, Mark Breitbard, head of Gap Brand Global, said it had begun reviewing its options in Europe: “One of the options being explored is the possible closure of our company-operated Gap stores in the United Kingdom, France, Ireland and Italy at the end of the second quarter in 2021.

“In addition, we are reviewing our warehouse and distribution model and our Gap and Banana Republic company-owned e-commerce operations in Europe.

“A possible outcome is the closure of our EU distribution centre in Rugby.”

Breitbard said it would look at transferring elements of the business to “interested third parties as part of a proposed partnership model expansion.

“Franchise partnerships are a strong and cost-effective way to amplify the brand,” he added.

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