Eddie Stobart Ltd is to take over the running of Tesco's regional distribution centre (RDC) in Middlewich, Cheshire after the supermarket giant reviewed its transport operations. While the details of the deal are sketchy, all drivers working at the depot are expected to transfer to Stobart.
One driver told Commercial Motor he
was concerned about drivers' pay under the deal. "The impression we get is that our hourly rate will be cut by 15%." A Tesco spokesman says: "We regularly review our distribution network to ensure we can deliver the very best service to our customers.
"At Middlewich, we have a unique situation where we use a combination of Tesco, Stobart and agency drivers. Following our latest review, we intend to transfer the Middlewich operation to Eddie Stobart, subject to consultation with trade unions."
The T&G section of Unite confirms it is talking with Tesco and Stobart. Maria Smythe, regional industrial organiser at Unite, says: "We are holding constructive talks with Tesco and have proposed an alternative to outsourcing the jobs. We believe it's possible to maintain these driving jobs in-house and Tesco is currently considering our proposals."
No one from Stobart was available for comment as CM went to press.
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