Axe hangs over jobs
Tesco issue warning of 4500 redundances nationwide
NICOLA FINDLAY
Jobs at East Kibride’s Tesco Metro stores are under threat after the supermarket giant announced it is set to axe thousands of posts.
The cuts would see 4500 jobs go across the UK with dozens of staff at the St Leonards and Westwood stores facing an anxious wait to see if they are safe.
Shop workers union UDSAW say members are “shocked and dismayed” at yet another round of potential job losses, coming just months after 9000 staff were put at risk, mainly in larger superstores.
Tesco is in the midst of trying to save £1.5bn as the competition between supermarkets intensifies.
It comes as budget rivals Aldi and Lidl continue to put pressure on the big four supermarkets.
Tesco say a consultation is now underway with staff in the 153 stores – and they aim to find as many staff as possible “alternative roles” within the company.
They say changes to the way the stores operate would “serve shoppers better” and help to “run the business more sustainably”.
Tesco are also planning to make changes in 134 of its 1750 Express stores, where customer footfall is lower, including a reduction in opening hours during quieter trading periods at the start and end of the day.
Tesco boss Jason Tarry said the firm did not take the jobs decision lightly.
“In a challenging, evolving retail environment, with increasing cost pressures, we have to continue to review the way we run our stores to ensure we reflect the way our customers are shopping and do so in the most efficient way,” Mr Tarry said.
The Metro format was originally designed for larger, weekly shops, but today nearly 70 per cent of customers use them as convenience stores, buying food for that day.
Pauline Foulkes, Usdaw national officer, said: “We will be working hard to make sure that any members potentially affected by these proposals are supported at this difficult time and throughout the consultation period.
“This issue is not confined to Tesco.
“Our high streets are in crisis, with jobs being lost due to shops closing, retailers folding and businesses engaging in significant restructuring to survive.
“We need the Government to address the worries and concerns of shopworkers and our members.”
East Kilbride MSP Linda Fabiani said: “Whilst it is unclear which stores may be affected by these job cuts, all staff should be supported during this difficult time, and throughout the consultation period.
“Tesco should be working with the trade unions and take the concerns of their employees on board.”