Asda announces major shake-up affecting 3,500 workers in UK

This change will affect around 3,500 workers, who are set to transfer to one of two external companies.

The supermarket chain said there are no plans for redundancies as part of the move, which will see cleaning duties in northern England and Scotland go to Bidvest, while NIC Services will take on stores in southern England.

David Lepley, chief operating officer at Asda, said: “Our ambition is to deliver the cleanest stores in retail.

“We continue to review and invest in ways to enhance the customer experience, partnering with industry leaders to deliver the best solutions.

“This latest investment is another important step in our mission to raise the bar for customers.

“Having taken the time to learn from others, by partnering with Bidvest and NIC Services we have access to the very latest machinery and cleaning technology.”

Asda said customers will see improvements such as cleaner toilets, steam-cleaned trolleys and baskets, and greater use of robotic cleaning equipment.

The company notified staff of the proposals on Tuesday, August 11, and expects the transition to be completed by October 1.

All affected employees are expected to transfer to the new employers under TUPE regulations, which are designed to protect workers’ rights during changes of employer.

However, the GMB union has criticised the decision and called for the process to be paused.

Rachelle Wilkins, GMB organiser, said: “Outsourcing companies have a proven track record of slashing pay, terms, conditions and even jobs as soon as they have their feet under the table.

“Now loyal, hard-working cleaning staff will be worried sick about whether their job will still pay the bills or whether the axe will fall on them.

“Morale in stores is already at rock bottom.

“GMB calls on Asda to halt this process now – at least until the other consultations are finished – and consider what is best for its customers and staff.”

The union also said it asked Asda in April if more outsourcing was planned and was told there was not.

This latest announcement follows a similar move earlier this year, when Asda said it would outsource around 1,700 in-store security roles to Mitie.