Marks & Spencer (M&S) is making yet more improvements to its ever-expanding supply chain after announcing plans to open a new £200 million distribution centre within the London Gateway development.

The company believes that building a facility at the Essex-based super port would help it cut costs and fuel consumption.

London Gateway - operated by DP World - is set to open later this year and is expected to make a huge difference to the UK's logistics industry.

M&S chiefs confirmed a deal has been agreed for a 900,000 sq ft distribution centre and this could create up to 700 jobs.

Last month, the retailer launched a massive complex in Castle Donington in the East Midlands, which will be capable of holding 16 million products and this latest announcement confirms the company is serious about upgrading its operations.

Chief executive at the firm Marc Bolland said the London Gateway complex will be the organisation's third large distribution centre in the UK - should planning permission be granted.

"London Gateway will help us become more efficient by cutting costs and locating our supply chain closer to our stores and our international markets," he remarked.