// Argos confirms plans to close down Bridgewater, Somerset distribution site
// The move will place 230 jobs at risk, although parent company Sainsbury’s will work to redeploy staff elsewhere
// Last year, Sainsbury’s said some distribution sites would be impacted by a move to streamline logistics operations
Argos has announced plans to close down its Somerset distribution site early next year, a move that will place 230 jobs at risk.
The retailer’s owner, Sainsbury’s, confirmed that the Bridgewater depot was one site set to be affected as part of plans to integrate the logistics networks for the two brands.
Last year, Sainsbury’s said some distribution sites would be impacted by a move to streamline logistics operations for the Sainsbury’s, Argos and Habitat fascias into one network.
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The supermarket group said it would look to redeploy workers impacted by the announcement elsewhere in its operations.
“Last year we shared plans to accelerate the integration of the Sainsbury’s and Argos logistics networks and confirmed a number of our existing depots would close,” a Sainsbury’s spokeswoman said.
“Our Bridgwater depot is one of the sites affected and we are supporting the teams in any way we can.
“This includes exploring redeployment opportunities for our colleagues within Sainsbury’s.”
The Unite union said it was “committed to fight to save as many jobs as possible” after the site was earmarked for closure.
Unite regional officer Tim Morris said: “Our members at the Argos Bridgwater distribution centre have continued to work throughout the pandemic and their reward for this dedication, is to face losing their jobs.
“Unite will be holding an urgent meeting with the company to better understand why this announcement has been made.
“The union will fully engage in the consultation process and will explore all options to preserve as many jobs as possible in Bridgwater or at alternative locations.”
The news comes a month after Sainsbury’s said that around 1150 jobs would be affected as part of a restructuring which included about 500 head-office roles being axed.
with PA Wires
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