Asda is to outsource all of its in-store cleaning roles, The Grocer can reveal.
The proposals which affect 3,500 roles, will see Asda instead work with two separate providers, who will take responsibility for cleaning all areas of Asda’s store estate.
Bidvest will oversee Asda stores in the north of England and Scotland, while NIC will handle Asda stores in the south.
No redundancies are planned under the proposals, with all colleagues set to be offered TUPE transfer to either NIC or Bidvest.
Asda said the proposals would “raise the bar” of its in-store cleanliness, by enabling it to enhance the cleaning of toilets, steam cleaning of trolleys and baskets. The partnership will also enable it to increase the use of robotics and cleaning technology.
“Our ambition is to deliver the cleanest stores in retail,” said Asda chief operating officer David Lepley.
“We continue to review and invest in ways to enhance the customer experience, partnering with industry leaders to deliver the best solutions.
“This latest investment is another important step in our mission to raise the bar for customers. Having taken the time to learn from others, by partnering with Bidvest and NIC Services we have access to the very latest machinery and cleaning technology.”
Asda aims to complete the process by 1 October. All affected colleagues were notified today.
The changes will bring Asda in line with the majority of the sector where cleaning is already outsourced.
However, unions have expressed concern at the proposals. GMB organiser Rachelle Wilkins labelled the proposals “detestable”.
“Outsourcing companies have a proven track record of slashing pay terms, conditions and even jobs as soon as they have their feet under the table.
“Now loyal, hard-working cleaning staff will be worried sick about whether their job will still pay the bills or whether the axe will fall on them.”
It follows the supermarket’s outsourcing of all 1,700 in-store security guards to Mitie earlier this year. GMB criticised the “shambolic” confusion created by the consultation process, which eventually led to around 300 workers losing their jobs.
“We asked Asda in April if there was any further planned outsourcing and the company categorically replied ‘no’ – yet here we are in August,” Wilkins said.
“GMB has called on Asda to halt this process now – at least until the other consultations are finished – and consider what is best for its customers and staff.”
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