Trade union questions Tesco’s move that is putting 1,500 jobs at risk

Retail trade union Usdaw will enter into consultation talks with Tesco after the company announced a restructure of their night shift operations. 

Almost 1,500 jobs are at risk at Tesco as the supermarket ditches night shifts in more than 80 stores and almost 40 petrol stations.

This follows the closure of just over half their in-store counter services and the Jack’s store format announced yesterday.

“Tesco has informed us that they are looking to undertake a number of restructures across the business that could put around 1,600 jobs at risk. Clearly this will be incredibly unsettling for those who may be affected,” Daniel Adams – Usdaw National Officer said on Tuesday (1). 

“We should not forget the role that key workers have played throughout the Coronavirus pandemic and to receive this news is devastating. 

“Usdaw will do all we can to support members throughout the process and we will fully engage in consultation with the business with a view to protecting jobs and, where this is not possible, securing the best possible deal for those affected.”

Overnight stock replenishment will now be done during the day in 36 large stores and 49 convenience stores. At 36 stores, petrol stations will be converted to be “pay-at-pump only” overnight.

The job cuts are part of Tesco’s efforts to save £1 billion in costs over the next three years as it tries to fend off competition from discounters Aldi and Lidl in a price-sensitive market. As inflation bites, shoppers are monitoring the prices of their goods more closely than ever and Tesco, like rival Sainsbury’s, has responded by matching Aldi prices on key items.