Supermarket giant Sainsbury’s has said it plans to close two Argos depots in a move that will impact 1,400 jobs.
It is expected to take place over the next three years as part of a wider shake-up of its general merchandise operations across the group.
The company said it was proposing to close its Basildon distribution centre in Essex and depot at Heywood, Greater Manchester.
Sainsbury’s said all those affected by the plan would have the opportunity to apply for jobs elsewhere in the company as it moved to modernise its logistics operations.
The Unite union responded by saying there was “no economic justification” for the job losses.
The company’s statement said it was looking to further automate operations at its Daventry site, “enabling a reduction of stock, more responsive delivery to customers and stores and a simpler delivery process for suppliers.”
An office in Milton Keynes was also slated to be shut due to greater demand for flexible working.
