Sainsbury’s Announces 1,500 Job Cuts as Part of Save and Invest Strategy

Sainsbury's has unveiled plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 1,500 positions in line with its Save and Invest strategy, aiming to save £1 billion over the next three years and redirecting the funds into business growth.

Under this initiative, the supermarket chain, which also owns Argos, is shifting its focus towards enhancing its food offerings within stores, reclaiming space from general merchandise and clothing sections.

The company also intends to leverage more automation within its operations to achieve cost savings and drive further investments into its operations.

The job cuts will primarily impact roles at Sainsbury’s store support centre, contact center operations, in-store bakeries, and general merchandise fulfillment network.

Sainsbury’s has proposed that the affected colleagues at its Widnes contact center, responsible for the Careline service, transition to an existing partner as part of the restructuring.

Furthermore, the implementation of a more streamlined bakery service will lead to job reductions in that particular division of the company.

Simon Roberts, the CEO of Sainsbury’s, stated, ‘Our Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy aims to provide customers with outstanding value, quality food, and exceptional service. As we enter the next phase of our strategy, we are making tough yet necessary decisions to better position ourselves to focus on initiatives that truly benefit our customers.’

Roberts expressed empathy for the impacted colleagues, assuring that the company will offer support during this transitional period.