// The Co-op is cutting four layers of managers in each store down to three in a move that will impact 2000 staff
// The role of team manager will be axed across its 2600 stores, but the Co-op stressed there would be no compulsory redundancies
// Each impacted staff member would offered an alternative role as team leader, and that their pay will be protected for 6 months
The Co-op is overhauling its store management structure in a move that will impact more than 2000 staff.
The grocery and convenience retailer revealed it was cutting four layers of managers in each store down to three following a successful trial in around 300 shops over the past two years.
It will axe the role of team manager across its 2600 stores, but stressed there would be no compulsory redundancies.
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The retailer added that each impacted staff member would offered an alternative role as team leader.
The new three-tier management structure – which is set to be in place by the end of May – will comprise store manager, team leader and customer team leader.
The Co-op said those that choose to take the role of team leader will have their pay protected for six months.
It added that team managers would also be able to apply to become trainee store managers, with the potential to take part in a development programme, or other roles within the group.
The Co-op said where trialled in stores so far, the new management structure had “successfully given store colleagues more time to serve customers and members in our communities”.
The retailer, which employs around 50,000 staff across its food stores, began a 45-day consultation with impacted staff this week.
“Our aim at Co-op is to serve and support our communities, giving our customers the best possible shopping experience,” a Co-op spokesman said.
“As we move our stores over to a three-tier management structure, protecting jobs is a continuing key priority and we are pleased to be able to offer alternative positions to all the colleagues affected.
“These changes will free up store colleagues to give our customers great service from efficient and well-run shops.”
The move comes after the Co-op Group revealed just two weeks ago that annual profits after tax and discontinued items more than doubled to £77 million, with like-for-like food sales at its retail arm up 6.9 per cent.
The Co-op said on reporting the full-year figures that it would repay the UK Government £15.5 million it received in furlough support at the height of the pandemic, but stopped short of handing back the £66 million it secured in business rates relief.
with PA Wires
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