1150 jobs at risk as Sainsbury’s announces restructuring plans

The UK's second largest supermarket, Sainsbury's, has announced it is to cut 1,150 jobs, including some in the Tu clothing division.

Sainsbury’s CEO Simon Roberts confirmed the news as he outlined proposals to adapt the business in order to put “food first”.

Subject to consultation, the plans include simplifying store support centre teams in commercial operations, human resources, supply chain and logistics, technology and general merchandise and clothing.

In January, Sainsbury’s announced Q3 clothing sales had risen 0.4%, whilst its general merchandise sales rose 6% in the same quarter.

The company will close offices in Coventry and Victoria in London and move out of two of the five remaining floors it occupies at its London head office in Holborn, two floors at its Avebury office in Milton Keynes and one in Manchester as many staff permanently switch to working part-time from home.

CEO Simon Roberts said: “Our new plan puts food first and will create a simpler, nimbler and more efficient business. The money we save will enable us to invest in what customers really care about – lower prices, exciting new products and the most convenient ways for them to shop.

"I know change is difficult but to do the best job we can for our customers, it is vital that we adapt. I understand this will be a very difficult time for affected colleagues and we will do everything we can to fully support them.”