Sainsbury’s cuts to cost 500 jobs

Sainsbury’s is set to axe 500 jobs as part of the latest round of cost-cutting in the supermarket industry.

The chain said its proposals for the streamlining of its central operations will require around 500 fewer roles, spread across all divisions and grades in its store support centres.

The steps form part of the £500 million in cost savings outlined by the retailer in a strategic review published in November.

It has already announced plans to mothball a number of schemes in its property pipeline and intends to reduce the amount of money spent on new space over the next three years.

Last week, Tesco boss Dave Lewis announced plans for 43 store closures and the cancellation of 49 new stores in its pipeline as the industry comes to terms with a continued squeeze from discounters.

The streamlining will combine the company’s supermarkets and convenience store businesses. With some central functions losing staff and others taking more on, Sainsbury’s said it expected around 500 fewer roles, spread across all divisions and grades in its store support centres.

In a letter to staff, chief executive Mike Coupe said: “We want to work through this period of uncertainty as quickly as possible, while making sure we consult with colleagues who are affected by these changes.

“We’re committed to treating all impacted colleagues with respect, during what we know will be a difficult time.

“I recognise that these changes will be difficult for our colleagues and I can assure you the decision to make them was not taken lightly. However, I’m certain that we will be in a stronger position to deliver our new strategy and better equipped to win in these times of change as a result.”