SUPERMARKET management jobs in East Lancashire could be under threat, after both Asda and Morrisons announced plans to cut staff.
Asda has announced a shake-up of its management structure, which is likely to result in 1,360 redundancies nationwide.
The supermarket chain first set out the plans in May, and had initially forecast that up to 2,600 people would lose their jobs.
Morrisons has also confirmed plans to cut 2,600 store management jobs as part of a restructuring, affecting 15,000 staff.
Asda chief executive, Andy Clarke, said: “As much as it is my job, and privilege, to be CEO of this business and to do what is right for Asda as a whole, this is one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to make. Whilst I genuinely believe that it is the right decision for the future of Asda, knowing that it will result in valued colleagues leaving us is not easy.
“Every supermarket must adapt to the intense changes in UK retailing or they will get left behind. We spotted this nearly two years ago, responding with a new strategy and taking time to thoroughly examine our structures, test scenarios, talk to our colleagues and adjust our proposals accordingly. This thorough process has helped us to reach this difficult decision today.”
A spokesman for Morrisons said it was as yet unclear which stores in East Lancashire, if any, will be affected.
Dalton Philips, Morrisons chief executive, said: “This is the right time to modernise the way our stores are managed. These changes will improve our focus on customers and lead to simpler, smarter ways of working.
“We know that moving to the new management structure will mean uncertainty for our colleagues and we will be supporting them through the process.”
Trade Unions have expressed concerns over the proposals.
Joanne McGuinness, Usdaw’s National Officer representing Morrison’s workers, said: “The next few weeks will be a worrying time for our members in Morrison’s and we will do everything possible to support them.
“Our priority will be to safeguard as many jobs as possible, maximise employment within the business and get the best possible outcome for our members affected by this restructuring.”