Woolworths LIMITED update
What changes are happening at Woolworths Limited?
Woolworths Limited recently announced significant structural changes to the Company. Whilst the reported job losses will mostly affect head office and backend support staff the announcement does include proposed store closures.
Over the coming year these changes include the closure of up to 21 Woolworths stores and 5 Big W stores in Australia and New Zealand. However, this will be offset by the roll out of 45 new stores and the refurbishment of a further 80 stores.
Specific store locations are yet to be announced and the SDA is working with the Company to minimise shop floor job losses as a result of any closures.
How will this affect workers?
The vast majority of Woolworths Supermarkets and Big W workers will not be affected by these changes. However, the SDA will be working hard with any affected workers and Woolworths to secure redeployment within Woolworths Limited.
The SDA will be on hand to help all affected workers throughout any such redeployment and ensure that your workplace rights and entitlements are maintained.
Further questions?
The SDA will keep all workers updated with more information as it comes to hand.
Please call the SDA on 3833 9500 if you have any questions or concerns about this issue or any other workplace matter.
CHANGES AT WOOLWORTHS LIMITED – KEY FACTS
• The 500 job losses announced will mostly affect support and backend staff.
• Woolworths Supermarkets will close 17 supermarkets and 4 Metros prior to the end of the current financial year.
• The specific store locations are yet to be announced.
• Woolworths will continue to roll out 45 new stores and refurbish a further 80 stores.
• Big W – it is anticipated that up to 5 stores will close over the next 3 years
• Big W and EziBuy (the apparel and homeware catalogue /online retail brand) are to be separated and Woolworths Limited will now look at options to sell EziBuy.
• Restructuring in the supply chain relates to the Hume DC in Victoria which will close in 2019.