Central Co-op is planning to close its three distribution centres and garage in Leicester and transfer distribution operations to the Co-operative Group.
The company’s proposal puts nearly 400 jobs at risk, although the food retailer has given a commitment to offer alternative roles to all staff affected.
John Gorle – Usdaw (the retail trade union) national officer, says: “This is devastating news for staff affected by the company’s proposal, our members are deeply concerned about their future employment prospects.
“We will now enter into a period of meaningful consultation where Usdaw reps and officials will interrogate the company’s business case for the transfer of distribution operations.
“We welcome that Central Co-op has given an early commitment to offering alternative roles to all staff affected, both within Central Co-op the Co-operative Group. Our priorities are to avoid redundancies and secure the best support package possible.
“In the meantime we are providing our members with the advice, support and representation they need during this period of uncertainty.”
Central Co-op is one of the largest independent retail co-operative societies in the UK, with a history stretching back over 175 years, over 440 trading outlets and around 7,700 colleagues.
