Sainsbury’s to cut 3,000 jobs

Sainsbury's has announced plans to cut over 3,000 jobs across the company, including the closure of all remaining 61 cafés.

The supermarket chain will also shut down its patisserie and pizza counters, streamlining its food offerings to focus on fresh food ranges.

The proposals, shared with colleagues today, are expected to lead to the reduction of over 3,000 roles across the business. 

This includes a 20 per cent reduction in senior management positions.

The decision was described as "difficult" by Sainsbury's. 

Sainsbury’s operates stores in Barnstaple and South Molton. 

The company has said it will provide support packages to affected employees, including redeployment opportunities and career guidance.

"This was a difficult decision and not taken lightly," a Sainsbury's spokesperson stated.

Sainsbury's CEO, Simon Roberts, emphasised the need for these changes to improve efficiency and competitiveness in a challenging economic environment.

“We launched our Next Level Strategy almost a year ago and are totally focused on making good food joyful, accessible and affordable for everyone, every day," he said.

“The decisions we are announcing today are essential to ensure we continue to drive forward our momentum but have also meant some difficult choices impacting our dedicated colleagues in a number of parts of our business. We’ll be doing everything we can to support anyone impacted by today’s announcements.”

The supermarket chain plans to utilise the space previously occupied by cafés and counters to expand its fresh food offerings.

This news comes as Sainsbury's seeks to enhance its "First Choice for Food" strategy, focusing on increasing market share and providing customers with high-quality, affordable products.