A major union has raised significant concerns over potential job losses at Asda, claiming that up to 1,200 warehouse roles are now at risk of redundancy. This development comes as the supermarket giant moves to outsource the delivery operations for its popular George fashion range to the international parcel service provider DHL.
Impact on Clothing Depots and Local Communities
The GMB trade union has specifically highlighted that staff working at clothing depots located in Lymedale, North East clothing, and Brackmills will be directly impacted by this strategic shift. According to union officials, the decision could have severe repercussions for families and communities reliant on these employment opportunities.
Union Criticism of Private Equity Buyout
Nadine Houghton, a GMB national officer, provided a stark assessment of the situation in comments to the Telegraph. She emphasised the human cost, noting that at the Lymedale depot alone, there are 14 couples with children whose entire household income depends on their work at the facility.
"GMB is clear; the private equity buyout of Asda has been a disaster for workers, customers, the supply chain and communities," Houghton stated. "The recent job cuts announcement and now the outsourcing of clothing distribution pave the way for a full carve-up of the company."
Contrasting Business Developments
This news emerges alongside Asda's continued expansion in the convenience retail sector. The company has recently opened two new Asda Express stores in Bradford and Salford, marking a contrasting business focus. The Bradford location has transformed the former Hare and Hounds pub on Toller Lane, while the Salford store is situated on Norton Street, conveniently close to Salford Central train station.
Corporate Perspective on Growth
Joseph Sutton, Vice President of Asda Express, foodservice and fuel, expressed enthusiasm about these openings: "We're excited to kick off the year by opening two brand-new Asda Express stores, building on our fantastic momentum from 2025. In under five years, we've built a nationwide convenience estate of over 500 stores which is now outperforming the wider convenience market thanks to the combination of our great products and unbeatable value."
The simultaneous announcement of potential redundancies and store expansions presents a complex picture of Asda's current business strategy, highlighting the tension between operational restructuring and market growth initiatives.
