Job losses expected in latest shake-up by online retail giant

Shop Direct HQ in Speke

Up to 100 jobs could be shed at Shop Direct in Speke.

The online retailer, which includes the Littlewoods and Very brands among its stable, has announced a restructuring plan affecting its retail team.

It confirmed that some roles will be merged and other new ones created.

However, it has also confirmed that there will be redundancies as a result of the shake-up.

Shop Direct said more than 200 staff will be impacted by the exercise. It is believed that up to 100 people could end up leaving the Speke head office if the plans go ahead.

Shop Direct said it will start a consultation with shop workers’ union USDAW regarding its plans.

It said the proposed changes “will enable Shop Direct to enhance its customer proposition, attract more target customers, drive continued category growth and digital innovation, and provide clearer career paths for its people”.

Sam Perkins, group retail director at Shop Direct, said: “We are performing strongly in a hugely competitive and challenging retail market, as evidenced over Christmas when we increased group revenue by 3.7%.

“But, as is true of all businesses, we must constantly improve the experience we offer customers to remain competitive.

“Continuing to innovate, realigning the way we work, enhancing our capability and simplifying our business will remain key to achieving that.

“This type of change is never easy but is a reality of doing business in today’s dynamic retail world.

“For our impacted colleagues, our commitment is that we’ll work through this process openly and transparently and with empathy and respect.”

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