Sainsbury's to close two Argos warehouses; 1,400 jobs at risk

Sainsbury’s is planning to close two Argos warehouses in the next three years, putting 1,400 jobs at risk, it emerged on Tuesday.

The supermarket chain plans to close its Argos warehouse in Basildon, Essex, and another in Heywood in Greater Manchester by 2026.

The move will affect not just Argos staff but also HGV drivers employed by Wincanton.

Sainsbury's said all of its workers affected by the plans would be able to apply for jobs elsewhere in the company.

Chief executive Simon Roberts said: "As with any major change to our business, we have not taken the difficult decision to start this consultation lightly.

"As part of our plan to create a simpler business, we previously set out our intention to integrate our Argos and Sainsbury's logistics networks.

"Over the last few years, we've been working hard to transform this network as we make our business simpler, more efficient and more effective for customers. This also allows us to reduce costs, so we can invest where it will make the most impact for our customers."

The Unite union said in there was no "economic justification" for the closures.

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."