Retailing | 4:13 March 04, 2010 | Pete Dodd | Print this story

Tesco closes Middlewich; promises jobs to workers

Tesco said it will offer other work to 426 employees whose jobs will be lost following the decision to close its distribution depot in Middlewich, Cheshire, and shift operations to its larger centre in Goole, Yorkshire.

Tesco began a 90-day consultation with unions over the future of the Middlewich site, saying all staff affected will be offered alternatives within the firm’s retail chain.

The retailer said in a statement that it reviewed its distribution network regularly seeking to provide the best service to its stores: “Following our latest review, we have decided to close the Middlewich Distribution Centre and Trunking Station subject to consultation with the trade union.”

Tesco said that it would create more than 2,500 new jobs in the region over the next 12 months and all staff affected by the proposed changes would be offered other opportunities.