Sainsbury's announces closure of two Argos depots

The move will see more than 1,400 jobs at risk with the company sharing that they are proposing to shut down Argos distribution centres at Heywood Distribution Park, Greater Manchester, and Basildon in Essex.

Sainsbury's also said that the closures would take place over the next three years and will be part of a wider shake-up of its merchandise operations. 

The chain also shared that all those who would be affected by the change would have the chance to apply for jobs elsewhere within the company. 

Introducing our new Taste Me, Don’t Waste Me £2 fruit and vegetables boxes hitting 200 Sainsbury’s stores this week. Get your hands on a range of fresh fruit and veggies, carefully selected to give you more, for less. #FreshFruitAndVeg #BudgetFriendly pic.twitter.com/VvOKjh8562

— Sainsbury's (@sainsburys) February 20, 2023

Sainsbury's to close two Argos depots placing 1,400 at risk

Following the announcement of Sainsbury's plans, Unite union who represents workers said that there was "no economic justification" for the job losses. 

Sharing that at least 750 people would be left out of work amid Sainsbury's plans. 

As Unite national officer Matt Draper said: “Management at Argos/Sainsbury’s has yet to provide any form of business case for the loss of these jobs. Unite will be fighting to preserve every job and will put forward an alternative business case to the company to preserve employment at these two sites.

“This is an incredibly wealthy company which should be investing in its loyal workforce rather than dumping workers in pursuit of short-term profits.

“If Sainsbury’s doesn’t drop its closure plans then Unite will pursue all avenues to preserve employment at these sites.”