The shop workers Union USDAW has expressed concerns over restructuring plans announced by the Studio Retail, a home shopping business wholly owned by Frasers Group with premises in Trafford,Widnes and Accrington
Plans would see the Closure of the Trafford office, moving the functions to the Clayton office in Lancashire and Fraser’s Academy House based in London.
There would be a Restructuring of their Accrington warehouse and reducing the overall number of staff employed there.
Transferring the personalisation of products service from Studio to Frasers, with the permanent relocation of the department to Shirebrook and also the Integration of the operations at the Widnes warehouse into the Accrington facility, which could result in the permanent closure of the Widnes warehouse.
Julia Baldwin – Usdaw Area Organiser says: “Studio Retail’s proposal of further redundancies at the Accrington site and the possible closure of the Widnes warehouse and Trafford office is devastating news all staff. After many recent operational changes within the business, this further restructuring leaves staff in a very uncertain position and worried for their future at Studio Retail.
“Usdaw reps are supporting members through this difficult time and through the consultation process we are seeking the best possible outcome for those impacted. The union is working with the company to identify suitable alternative roles to maximise the number of staff retained in employment.”
