Makro makes store and HQ changes

MAKRO, the cash and carry wholesaler, says it is to invest millions of pounds in revamping its UK stores and creating new customer service departments at its Eccles head office.

Following the refurbishments of two of its stores last year, a further eight will be revamped by the end of the year. New equipment including walk-in cool rooms for fresh products will also be rolled out across all stores.

The company also plans to reorganise its head office, and set up two new customer-focused departments – Offer Management and Customer Management – which will both be headed by board directors.

But the head office changes involve the merging of departments, with some job cuts being made and the company has started a 30 day consultation process with some staff.

Makro said the investment is part of a shift in strategy away from an ‘all things to all businesses’ approach to one which is tailored to the needs of thehotel, restaurant, caterer and trader customers.

Hannes Floto, managing director, said: “These proposals follow a series of initiatives in recent months to help us achieve our mission of being the first choice cash and carry wholesaler in the UK. Our robust plans and progress to date have ensured the complete support of our parent company the METRO Group.”