A spokesperson for Boots has confirmed that no job losses will take place at the pharmacy retailer's Irish operation, following the announcement yesterday that the business is set to undertake a 'transformation plan' in its UK operation.
As part of the plan, which the retailer said will 'address the rapidly changing needs of its customers and patients, and continue the transformation of its businesses', it is seeking to reduce its non store-based workforce by approximately 700.
However, as the spokesperson told Checkout, the "announcement of a reduction of around 700 non store-based roles refers to support functions in the UK only."
The plan forms part of an expanded Walgreens Boots Alliance cost restructuring programme, which was set out in the retailer's Q2 financial results.
Last week, Mandate trade union announced that its members within Boots Ireland will be balloted on a 3 per cent pay increase, following the union's lodgment of a pay claim in May.
Brendan O’Hanlon, Mandate Divisional Organiser, said: “Boots is one of the most successful retailers in Ireland and that’s largely down to their workers. We’re recommending acceptance of this deal which will impact on approximately 2,000 workers in 80 stores nationwide.” The results of this ballot will be known on 19 June.
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Stephen Wynne-Jones
