Harvey Nichols to slash jobs as it axes its grocery offering

The luxury department store is planning on closing down several non-core operations, including its own brand food, hampers, corporate food sales and online food marketplace, according to The Times.

It comes as new chief executive Julia Goddard looks to sharpen the retailer’s focus on fashion, beauty and hospitality.

Harvey Nichols has entered into consultation with the 70 impacted staff at risk of redundancy.

In a statement, Harvey Nichols said the food division had become a marginal contributor to group earnings.

“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.”