Debenhams Group, home to Debenhams, PrettyLittleThing, boohoo, MAN and Karen Millen, has announced plans to move its fulfilment operations back to Burnley, through a new global distribution partnership with GXO Logistics. The move is expected to create over 1,200 jobs.

Dan Finley, CEO at Debenhams Group, says: “We’re delighted to be returning to Burnley. Burnley has played an important role in the group’s history, as the primary distribution location for over a decade. We’re excited to be combining our years of experience operating in the town with GXO’s fulfilment expertise, to support the next phase of the group’s growth."

In September, the group announced the £90 million sale of its Sheffield distribution centre to Primark. Debenhams Group expects to continue operating from Sheffield until early 2027, ahead of the transfer to Burnley. GXO will run the Burnley facility under a new agreement to oversee Debenhams Group’s global third-party distribution. 

Russell Atkinson, Managing Director of Fashion and Apparel, GXO UK&I, says: “We’re excited to begin this new partnership with Debenhams, bringing GXO’s retail logistics expertise and global network to support its continued growth.”

Oliver Ryan, MP for Burnley, Padiham and Brierfield, says: "This is great news for Burnley and another vote of confidence in our town. The move will deliver jobs, apprenticeships and huge economic benefits in the years ahead. Debenhams Group have gone through a strong turnaround, and I'm glad to have them back as a local partner."

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

Supply chain technology will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world, have now closed for entries. Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.

Check out our 2026 shortlists and finalists here.

We received a record number of entries this year and many fantastic examples of technology excellence driving transformative change across the global retail sector.

Congratulations to all those who made it through the initial submission process! It’s now over to our star studded judging panel who will decide the winners to be announced at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London. 

The event will be held on Wednesday, 4th November and consist of a drinks reception, three course meal, awards ceremony presided over by award winning stand-up comedian, presenter, actor and broadcaster, Aurie Styla, and after party until 1am.

Click here to book your place at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, 4th November.