// River Island to slash up to 350 store management & senior sales roles as part of a retail team restructure
// It says the restructure will allow it to simplify store management structures & better deliver multichannel strategy
// CEO Will Kernan confirmed the job cuts in an internal memo to staff
River Island is set to undergo another round of job cuts in just over a month, this time targeting 350 jobs across its shops.
The fashion retailer is looking to slash up to 350 store management and senior sales roles as part of a retail team restructure.
The news comes after River Island last month said it would make 250 head office staff redundant as a cost-cutting measure after the coronavirus pandemic triggered a fall in sales and footfall.
READ MORE:
River Island said the latest restructure would allow it to simplify its store management structures and better deliver its multichannel strategy.
“We need to make sure we have the right structures in place to deliver our omnichannel strategy, and to continue to deliver the amazing River Island in-store experience that our customers know and love,” chief executive Will Kernan said in a internal memo to staff.
“We are now in the process of restructuring our retail teams by simplifying our store management structures.
“With a heavy heart, I can confirm that these changes will potentially impact up to 350 store management and senior sales roles.
“Whilst 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.”
River Island operates from around 300 stores.
Earlier this month, news emerged that the retailer was mulling a CVA or other form of administration as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on trading.
The fashion retailer was reportedly seeking to close some of its stores and slash rents on others.
However, executives have expressed concerns that creditors would not approve its CVA considering its financially stable position in the market.
At least 75 per cent of creditors must approve for a company to successfully undertake a CVA, according to the 1986 Insolvency Act.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette’s free daily email newsletter
