Electricals specialist Comet intends to close its national distribution centre in Corby, Northants as part of an efficiency drive.

The retailer, part of Anglo-French group Kesa, wants to operate from two distribution centres instead of its current three. The proposal follows a review of its distribution, and it awarding all contracts for warehousing and transport to logistics firm Wincanton.

A formal consultation has begun with staff at Corby, who mostly work for DHL and Wincanton.

Comet managing director Hugh Harvey said: “The decision took careful consideration and if implemented will result in a significant reduction to our fixed costs, without impacting on customer service.”