Union Unite seeks job security assurance as Carlsberg dismantles secondary logistics arm and outsources 900 jobs
The trade union Unite has said it is "dismayed" at brewer Carlsberg's proposals to outsource 900 jobs at its beer distribution arm.
Carlsberg announced yesterday it will complete the transfer of its remaining secondary logistics operations to DHL Tradeteam no later than March 2018.
The move follows a strategy change announced in November last year to cut costs and focus the business solely on beer and brewing.
As well as delivering its own products, Carlsberg's distribution operation also has contracts with the pub chains JD Wetherspoon and Punch Taverns.
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Unite represents drivers, warehouse operatives and admin staff in 11 depots.
"We are waiting to see the full business plan that the Carlsberg management has prepared before we can comment in detail," Unite regional officer Joe Clarke said.
"The bottom line for Unite is that of job security for our members – we will fight any proposals for compulsory redundancies.
"We will also want copper-bottomed guarantees on pay, and terms and conditions at Carlsberg's Northampton headquarters on Friday 15 July when we hope that flesh is put on the bones of the company's proposals."
In a statement yesterday, Carlsberg UK chief executive Julian Momen said: "The review and subsequent proposal have been given the considerable time and care they warrant.
"Our intention to outsource our secondary logistics to a specialist logistics provider in DHL Tradeteam is taken with a long-term view of the market to ensure a sustainable solution in terms of service and cost for our business and our customers."