Tesco shakes up northern distribution
March 1st 2010 More than 400 warehouse staff are fearing for their jobs after Tesco announced it will close its distribution centre in Middlewich,Cheshire.
A Tesco spokesperson said the move was prompted by a review of its non-food network in the wake of the recent opening of its Middlesborough import centre.
“At Tesco we regularly review our distribution network to ensure it is providing the very best service to our stores.
“Following our latest review we have decided to close the Middlewich distribution centre and trunking station, subject to consultation with the trade union, with these operations moving to a larger distribution centre in Goole [Lincolnshire].”
Tesco claimed it will create over 2,500 new jobs in the North West during the next 12 months and all staff affected by the proposed changes will be offered other available opportunities with the company.
In an unrelated development, Tesco is closing its distribution centre in Middleton, Greater Manchester, with operations moving to a new centre in Widnes.
The centre is run by Wincanton and the 695 Wincanton staff at Middleton will be offered the opportunity to work at the new facility. Staff will be eligible to transfer to Tesco, or Stobarts, who will run the site’s transport operation. The closure is expected to be completed by July.
Tesco added: “The site at Middleton is 20 years old and provides no room for expansion. The Widnes site is larger and offers access to alternative transport infrastructure; including port and rail which will allow us to explore future opportunities to help us further reduce freight travelling by road.” More articles from Handling & Storage Solutions: | 
