JD Wetherspoon to axe up to 130 head office roles

JD Wetherspoon has warned that up to 130 positions in its head office could be at risk of redundancy, following a restructuring of the group. 

The company confirmed it has written to all 417 employees at its head office, including those who are regionally based, to inform them of the possible move as the group looks to cut costs across its estate. 

According to the group, the decision was largely due to the downturn in trade in the pub and restaurant industry, as well as a reduction in the company’s rate of expansion and a reduction in the number of operating pubs, which has fallen from 955 in 2015 to 873 today.

JD Wetherspoon added that the redundancies would not affect staff working in its operating pubs. 

In a statement, CEO John Hutson, said: “We should emphasise that no firm decisions have been made at this stage. All head office employees will be affected by the process, with the exception of those working directly in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

“The company will listen to suggestions from staff to help avoid or reduce the number of compulsory redundancies which are required.”

He added: “These include voluntary redundancy or early retirement, including an enhanced redundancy package to employees that volunteer, the option to transfer to a pub based position (where suitable positions are available), flexible working options, reduced working hours, unpaid periods of absence (including sabbaticals and study leave).

“Wetherspoon is proposing to collectively consult with employees through an employment representative committee, which will be established for this purpose.”