// Tesco axes contractors and hands extra work duties to staff at nearly 2000 stores

// Staff have called the extra workload a “psychological blow” after unprecedented demand

Tesco has reportedly handed staff in 1920 of its stores extra workload after its cleaning contractors were axed.

The contract cleaners’ duties, which includes washing windows and mopping floors, are reportedly being transferred to store staff.

Staff have expressed concern, calling the extra workload a “psychological blow” after unprecedented demand due to the Covid-19 pandemic, The Guardian reported.

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Starting on August 24, staff working in 1920 of Tesco’s smaller Metro and Express supermarkets will have to take on new cleaning tasks on the shop floor.

They will also have to start cleaning their own break rooms and toilets.

The move comes as the pandemic has made high hygiene standards a top priority for retailers.

Tesco stressed it regarded the cleanliness as a top priority and that store budgets would be increased to give staff additional time to complete cleaning tasks.

Staff were also promised training on how to perform their new cleaning tasks.

The Big 4 grocer added it would use contract cleaners for specialist tasks such as cleaning external signage, pressure washing and removing graffiti.

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