Next puts Joules jobs at risk

Next said in a statement that due to the similar functions and teams at both retailers “a number of tasks performed by Joules personnel [would] be absorbed into Next teams" or would “no longer be needed”.

Those no longer needed by Joules will be given the opportunity to interview for vacant positions at Next.

Drapers has contacted both retailers for comment but has not received an indication of the numbers of employees currently involved in consultation over their positions.

The majority of positions impacted are expected to be within Joules head office teams.

The business said that Joules was due to launch on Next's Total Platform (which offers third-party brands access to the high street retailer's online logistics and back-end systems) much earlier than expected - it was previously anticipated to launch in early 2024 - and that as a result of this “a number of jobs” would be absorbed into the Next team.

Next said that where roles are no longer required it would be working with those affected to ensure that they are “considered for any suitable vacancies” at the high street retailer, singling out employees at Joules’ head office in Leicestershire’s Market Harborough for relocation to Next’s head office in Leicester.

Next bought Joules out of administration in December 2022 and now owns 74% of Joules, with the remaining 26% owned by founder Tom Joule, and also acquired the Joules head office building for £7m cash.

Today, Next said that Joules would remain an independent company with its own board and management team.

“However, the team, led by founder Tom Joule, will be entirely focused on product, marketing and brand development,” the retailer added.

Among the functions that will continue to be wholly managed by the Joules teams are design, buying, garment‐technology and merchandising.

Next said it “anticipated” that those remaining with Joules following the consultations including senior management, product and marketing teams,  would continue to work from Joules' existing offices.