THE possible closure of an online retailer in Widnes have been described as ‘devastating’.

Trade union Usdaw said it had been briefed by Studio Retail about proposed changes at its Widnes, Trafford and Hynburn sites.

Studio Retail, formerly Express Gifts, is a digital retailer with around 1.8 million customers that sells branded clothing and home product ranges. 

The Fraser Group which owns Studio Retail said it would not be providing a comment about the proposals.

Usdaw said it had been briefed about proposals to restructure the business, which could have a significant impact on staff working in Accrington, Trafford and Widnes.

Usdaw said it had been told of ‘integration of the operations at the Widnes warehouse into the (Hyndburn) facility’, which could result in the permanent closure of the Widnes warehouse.

There were also plans to close the Trafford office, ‘moving the functions to the Clayton office in Lancashire and Fraser's Academy House based in London’. 

Usdaw area organiser, Julia Baldwin, said: “Studio Retail’s proposal of further redundancies at the (Hyndburn) site and the possible closure of the Widnes warehouse and Trafford office is devastating news for all staff. 

“After many recent operational changes within the business, this further restructuring leaves staff in a very uncertain position and worried for their future at Studio Retail.

“Usdaw reps are supporting members through this difficult time and through the consultation process we are seeking the best possible outcome for those impacted. The union is working with the company to identify suitable alternative roles to maximise the number of staff retained in employment.”
 
After buying out Hyndburn’s Studio Retail Ltd last year, Frasers purchased the 76sq ft office property in Clayton-le-Moors which was used for Studio Retail's administrative and operational functions.

The office sits alongside the flagship warehouse in Church, which was also acquired by Frasers as part of the initial agreement.

Frasers Group is one of Europe's leading retailers, providing consumers with access to sports, premium and luxury brands. The group is made up of Sports Direct, FLANNELS, House of Fraser, Jack Wills and Evans Cycles, among others.