Harvey Nichols axes grocery offer, 70 roles at risk

Harvey Nichols is axing its food products and hampers as part of a strategic reset for the luxury department store, putting 70 jobs at risk.

The retailer is planning to close down several non-core operations, including own-brand food, hampers, corporate food sales, and its online food marketplace, The Times reported.

It comes as the business is looking to sharpens its focus on its fashion, beauty and hospitality offerings under chief executive Julia Goddard’s three-year strategy.

Harvey Nichols, which employs 1,400 people, has entered into a consultation with impacted staff. Around 70 roles are at risk of redundancy.

The business has proposed changes across multiple divisions and will be concentrated in areas that no longer align with its long-term strategy.

The retailer said its food division, which includes own-bought grocery lines, seasonal hampers, and some corporate gifting, has become a marginal contributor to the group’s earnings.

The retailer said in a statement: “Harvey Nichols is undergoing a significant transformation to re-establish the brand as a British icon and flagship destination.

“This involves major changes, including a substantial refurbishment of our Knightsbridge flagship store to significantly enhance the store’s attractiveness and customer experience.

“In line with this strategy and the focus on our core fashion and beauty edit, we are putting forward proposals regarding the non-core areas of our business and the restructuring of some of our teams.

“We are committed to supporting all affected employees through this transition and ensuring the long-term success of our business.”

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