400 jobs set to be axed at Tesco distribution centre

FOUR hundred jobs are set to be axed in Middlewich.

Tesco has announced that its distribution centre and trunking station in Pochin Way will close in around June.

Shocked workers were called for a meeting at 1pm on Monday when they were told that operations will be moving to a larger distribution centre in Goole, 104 miles away.

A spokesman for Tesco said: “At Tesco we regularly review our distribution network to ensure it is providing the very best service to our stores.

“Following our latest review, we have decided to close the Middlewich distribution centre and trunking station, subject to consultation with the trade union.”

But furious employees have hit out at Tesco after the supermarket giant told the Guardian last week that Middlewich jobs were safe following the closure of the distribution centre in Middleton.

One of the warehouse staff, who did not wish to be named, said: “There’s been rumours of this for five years since I started.

“We all felt we were safe when we read that and now we can’t believe it.”

A spokesman for Tesco added: “Tesco will be creating over 2,500 new jobs in the north west over the next 12 months and all staff affected by the proposed changes will be offered other opportunities with Tesco.”