Asda job cuts branded 'shambolic' as hundreds of security roles at risk

More than 300 security officers employed by Mitie and working at Asda stores are at risk of redundancy in a process described as ‘shambolic’ by GMB Union.

GMB has written to Mitie’s CEO, demanding the immediate suspension of the redundancy process. 

The union has raised concerns about a lack of a comprehensive risk assessment of the impact of losing security staff, which could impact customer and worker safety amid high levels of shoplifting offences.

GMB also argues that the consultation process, which concludes on 24 July, is too short to allow meaningful engagement and that security officers have been given incorrect information about the process.

Keith Dixon, GMB Regional Organiser, said:

“Hundreds of security colleagues are facing the prospect of losing their job or seeing their hours cut, and they are deeply worried about what the future holds.

“Members are telling us this process feels like a done deal, not a meaningful consultation, and they have been hung out to dry by their new employer, Mitie.

“They do a vital and difficult job protecting stores and customers, yet Mitie has not considered the impact that reducing security provision will have on people’s safety.

“We are asking Mitie to suspend this shambolic process and ensure that any future consultations are transparent, honest, and backed by robust evidence.”