Tesco job cuts: Unions call for urgent meeting after reports 15,000 roles are to go

The union Unite has called for an urgent meeting with Tesco management following reports over the weekend that the supermarket is planning to axe 15,000 roles.

The company is said to be preparing to close its fish, meat and deli counters, while in-store bakeries will be overhauled and staff canteens replaced by vending machines in a bid to cut costs.

The supermarket has not confirmed the job losses. A Tesco spokesperson said: “We’re always looking at ways to run our business more simply and efficiently. Whenever we make changes in our business, colleagues are always the first to know.”

On Monday, Adrian Jones, Unite’s national officer for retail distribution, said: “Our top priority this week is to arrange a meeting with Tesco’s management to get a clear picture of what the supermarket is planning, following media reports at the weekend that up to 15,000 jobs could be at risk.

“This is a very worrying time for our members who deliver to Tesco stores across the UK. While the reports centre on job losses in-store, such as at the bakeries and deli counters, we still need to know what this could mean for our members.

“What is required very quickly from Tesco is clarity on its intentions going forward.”

Meanwhile, shopworkers’ trade union Usdaw is also seeking a meeting with Tesco bosses.

The union’s national officer, Pauline Foulkes, said: “Reports and speculation in the media about significant job cuts are distressing for Tesco staff and it is appalling that they should hear about the future of their jobs in this way.

“Usdaw is seeking an urgent meeting with the company to clarify the situation, to examine the details of what changes they are proposing and what this means for staff.”