Tesco shuts Cardiff call centre, cutting 1,100 jobs

Tesco will close its Cardiff call centre will close on Friday with the loss of 1,100 jobs despite the efforts of unions to reverse the decision.

The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (Usdaw) fought the closure which was announced in June after Tesco said it sought to move all customer engagement to Dundee where 200 jobs would be created.

Nick Ireland, Usdaw divisional officer said: "The closure of Tesco Cardiff is a massive blow for our members and for the Cardiff economy."

Although Usdaw has held a jobs fair and helped to secure alternative work for members affected, it is understood that around 800 members of staff will still be working at the centre when it closes on Friday afternoon.

Speaking after the initial announcement in June, UK chief executive of Tesco Matt Davies said: "The retail sector is facing unprecedented challenges and we must ensure we run our business in a sustainable and cost-effective way, while meeting the changing needs of our customers."

Rising competition from discount supermarkets such as Lidl and Aldi, along with the increase in the living wage from £7.20 to £7.50, have forced retailers to look for cost-cutting measures.

As of 1417 GMT, Tesco shares were up 0.15% at 204.00p.