Clipper Logistics plc is pleased to announce that it has secured a new contract with Marks and Spencer (M&S). The new engagement will see Clipper process store-returned merchandise for the retailer, ensuring stock flows efficiently back into the M&S fulfilment centre at Castle Donnington, where it will be ready for re-allocation.

Under the extended agreement, Clipper will provide stock handling capability and reprocessing at its Swadlincote facility, ensuring that merchandise is presented ready for re-sale in a cost-effective, efficient manner. Clipper’s extensive returns handling capabilities – developed within its specialist returns management proposition, ‘Boomerang’ – make it the ideal partner to support M&S with this operational need. The Clipper facility is now fully integrated with the M&S warehouse management system, allowing full control and visibility of items throughout the process.

Clipper’s innovative model is also able to deliver a versatile fulfilment service to support the existing M&S operations during peak periods, including throughout promotional and seasonal activity.

Adrian Harris, Director of Clothing, Home and Multichannel Logistics at M&S said, “Having undertaken a trial with Clipper to support our returns operations, we are delighted to announce that we have now put a contract in place – recognising the value created by the strong partnership that has developed. We are confident that the innovative approach to solutions provided by Clipper will help us remain at the forefront of best practice, and that the relationship will continue to enhance the services that we are able to provide”

Tony Mannix, CEO of Clipper said: “It is with great pride that we can announce the success of the returns handling trial that was undertaken for M&S, and I am delighted that the trial has now moved to a contracted basis. Returns management is a big issue for many retailers, and we are proud to help M&S with our Boomerang service, which was developed with a key focus on returns handling capabilities.”