UK’s fifth-largest supermarket chain, Bradford HQ, private-equity owned since 2021
Morrisons has announced a consultation over job cuts at its Bradford headquarters, impacting less than 10% of roles. The retailer is shifting focus to streamline operations and increase automation, including expanding its use of AI, amid challenging market conditions and ongoing sales underperformance.
Across UK and Europe, campaigns argue for cage-free hen housing and a fur-farm ban, citing public support and health-risk considerations. The Guardian and The Ecologist report growing political and industry pressure, with policy shifts underway and potential EU-wide action.
Major UK retailers have written to the prime minister, coordinated by the British Retail Consortium, urging a review of policies on national insurance, the national living wage, and employment rights to boost youth employment. The move follows Neets data showing over one million 16-24-year-olds not in work or education. Government is rolling out a youth employment package and new payments to support entry-level hiring.
Ocado is facing questions over Tim Steiner’s pay and potential succession amid a slide in its share price to below its 2010 flotation level. The board is considering replacements as shareholders voice concerns over pay proportionality and performance.
Gousto has proposed closing its Clay Lake, Lincolnshire facility and centralising production at Warrington, Cheshire to improve efficiency and keep prices low amid a highly competitive meal-kit market. About 290 staff face redundancy; Gousto stresses care and support for affected workers.