Discount domestic goods chain Blokker has said it will consolidate its distribution operations in Geldermalsen as it looks to cut costs.

The Amsterdam-based family-owned company, which is under restructuring, will shut its smaller distribution centre in Gouda and move its e-commerce activities to an expanded Geldermalsen facility.

Blokker said the omnichannel approach will make its operations more efficient. The move will mean shorter delivery times for both internet customers and its own stores.

The integration is expected to be completed by the summer of 2019. The 49 Blokker employees in Gouda will be offered jobs in Geldermalsen, which is 60km away.

Blokker has been undergoing a shift in focus since last year. It is selling off its other stores chains including Xenos and Intertoys in order to concentrate on its core business. Hundreds of stores will be closed and 2,000 people are set to lose their jobs.

Blokker Holding posted losses of €344m in 2017, widening from a loss of €180m the previous year. The restructuring itself ‘weighed heavily on results’ the company said.