River Island to cut a further 350 jobs

River Island is to cut a further 350 roles across its stores and head office.

The latest cuts at the high street chain are in addition to 250 head office job losses announced last month.

In an internal memo sent to staff CEO Will Kernan told staff that the latest move was being made with a "heavy heart" as the company sought to simplify its management structure with the cuts being made at store management and senior sales level.

“While this is an incredibly difficult decision, these actions are crucial to ensure that our stores continue to effectively play their hugely important role in our omnichannel future.

“By making these changes, we will create a flatter management structure with a greater emphasis on customer service and a seamless experience, whether online or in store," Kernan said.

The news follows speculation earlier this month that the retailer was considering a CVA or another administration process that would enable it to close stores and cut rents across its 300-strong store estate. 

However it was suggested that a CVA would be difficult to push through (the arrangements require 75% sign-off from creditors) due to the healthy financial position of the business prior to the COVID-19 crisis.