A union representing Asda workers has outlined its next steps as employees have been left with “more questions than answers” following news that the supermarket is set to axe a reported 150 jobs. The company has confirmed that negotiations are in progress at the retailer, one relating to its 21 depots across the UK, and the other focusing on its parcel delivery service.
General union GMB said on its Asda distribution workers page: “For some of you, finding out that ASDA are proposing to make big changes that may put your job at risk will leave you with many more questions than answers. Your union will by your side every step of the way and we will be doing all we can to protect jobs.”
It added that the organisation will be representing staff members in collective consultation, in their one to ones and “working hard for the best deal for our members, whatever the outcome of this process is.”
GMB added: “Your reps are on hand to support you. We won’t have all the answers yet, but we are collating all your feedback and questions ready to present to the company in our first formal meeting.”
The union said in a separate message on its Asda ALS managers notice board: “Yesterday, many of you will have received the news that ASDA will begin consultation with GMB about proposed changes to how the transport operation is managed. Following this ASDA have said job cuts may be necessary. I know that this will be concerning news for many of you.
“Your union will be doing everything possible to protect jobs and get the best deal possible for our members.”
An Asda spokesman previously told The Express: “We are proposing to introduce a new regional structure for our transport teams to simplify our distribution network and our deliveries to stores. This involves creating eight regional hubs with a regional transport office coordinating activity across each region.
“This approach would deliver several practical benefits, including reducing duplicated tasks, improving regional flexibility, creating more consistent ways of working, and lowering our reliance on agency and haulier support.”
Separately, the firm is planning to make changes to its parcel delivery system.
An Asda spokesman added: “We currently process over 28m parcels a year through a network that was never designed for this level of demand. As a result, fewer than half of our stores can offer next-day parcel collection – a service that customers now expect as standard from all major retailers.
“By partnering with Evri, all 1,200 Asda locations will be able to offer next-day collection and returns, providing customers with a quicker and more convenient service.”
