The move puts 300 jobs at risk and will leave Dunfermline as the retail giant’s sole distribution centre in Scotland. All workers at the the Gourock site, which is one of three fulfilment centres which have been put forward for closure in the UK, are expected to receive offers for roles at other Amazon locations.

The decision comes after Amazon revealed its plans to cut its global workforce by 18,000, focusing on trimming its consumer retail business and human resources division. However, the Gourock closure decision is understood to be separate from those plans.

An Amazon spokeswoman said: “We’re always evaluating our network to make sure it fits our business needs and to improve the experience for our employees and customers.

“As part of that effort, we may close older sites, enhance existing facilities, or open new sites, and we’ve launched a consultation on the proposed closure of three fulfilment centres in 2023.

“All employees affected by site closure consultations will be offered the opportunity to transfer to other facilities, and we remain committed to our customers, employees, and communities across the UK.”

According to business minister Ivan McKee, Amazon’s Gourock site has received a total of £2.137m in financial assistance from the Scottish Government — last paid 2011. He told the Scottish Parliament he would meet with Amazon representatives today to “further discuss and understand the decision”, the BBC reports.