John Lewis department store cuts 270 jobs as it rebrands

Awkward timing as firm also unveils name change to stress its partnership modelThe department store chain John Lewis is axing 270 jobs, just as it changes its name to “John Lewis & Partners” to highlight it is owned by its employees.The blow to staff came as its upmarket rival Fenwick confirmed plans to shed 421 jobs as part of a shake-up at the 136-year-old family business where profits collapsed last year. Related: Ashley faces potential revolt at Sports Direct annual meetingRe