Amazon is set to shut down a fulfilment center in Milton Keynes, affecting 590 jobs. The closure plan is part of a consultation process initiated by the company. The Milton Keynes site, which was Amazon’s inaugural center in 1998, will see its employees offered transfers to the upcoming Amazon facility in Northampton or to other locations.
The new Northampton site, a £500 million investment, is slated to open in May. Initially, it will employ 1,400 individuals, with plans to increase the workforce to 2,000 over time. Notably, the Amazon sortation center in Milton Keynes, a distinct segment of its logistics operations, will remain operational and unaffected by the closure decision.
An Amazon spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to aligning its network with business requirements for enhanced employee and customer experiences. The proposed closure at Milton Keynes aims to facilitate a smooth transition for affected employees to the advanced Northampton facility or alternative Amazon sites. Supporting employees through this process is a key priority for Amazon.
In other news, Amazon has initiated drone flight testing in preparation for the launch of its airborne delivery service in the UK by 2026. The company has commenced a limited number of flights from its Darlington base but has yet to introduce drone deliveries for customers. Once launched, eligible Amazon customers in Darlington will benefit from receiving packages weighing under five pounds within a two-hour timeframe.
The drone technology deployed by Amazon is designed to operate quietly, with noise levels comparable to traditional van deliveries. Advanced onboard systems enable the drones to detect and avoid obstacles during descent, such as clotheslines or trampolines, not visible on satellite maps. The drones’ perception technology relies on sophisticated machine learning models to identify various objects, ensuring safe and efficient aerial operations.
For the latest news updates and exclusive deals, join our Money WhatsApp group or subscribe to Mirror’s Money newsletter.