Sainsbury’s to cut 1,500 jobs

Sainsbury’s announced on Thursday (29) a restructure that could impact 1,500 roles within the business.

The proposals could affect the company’s store support structure, three Argos fulfilment centres at Bamber Bridge, Sheffield and Stoke-on-Trent, along with an outsourcing of work from their Widnes call centre.

A change to bakery operations puts roles at risk, with the vast majority likely to have redeployment opportunities.

It is expected that the proposals, part of its Save and Invest to Win programme, will result in the reduction of around 1,500 roles across the business, with plans still subject to consultation.

The supermarket group said the savings created will be invested back into the business to deliver on its Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy.

“Our Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy is about giving customers more of what they come to Sainsbury’s for – outstanding value, unbeatable quality food and great service. One of the ways we’re going to deliver on this promise is through our Save and Invest to Win programme,” Simon Roberts, chief executive, said

“As we move into the next phase of our strategy, we are making some difficult, but necessary decisions. The proposals we’ve been talking to teams about today are important to ensure we’re better set up to focus on the things that create a real impact for our customers, delivering good food for all of us and building a platform for growth. I know today’s news is unsettling for affected colleagues and we will do everything we can to support them.”

Retail trade union Usdaw said they have been informed about the proposed restructure.

“Usdaw will now enter into meaningful consultation talks, where we will interrogate the business case put forward by management and seek to secure the best outcomes for those affected,” Bally Auluk, Usdaw national officer, said.

“Our priority is to keep as many employed within the business as possible. In the meantime, we are providing our members with the representation, support and advice that they need through this process.”