With reference to the announcement made on 8th January regarding the changes faced by many Tesco employees, the following are answers to questions that have already been raised.
Please bare in mind that Q & A's have not yet been printed and distributed to Stores, DC's and Offices. However, the following are official answers from the Executive Team to the most common questions asked and will, in all likelihood, be edited in order to abbreviate the main points prior to their distribution.
Hopefully this will be of some use to you.
Are you closing the Defined Benefit Pension Scheme to everyone?
Yes we are. What that means is that we will be consulting on closing the Pension Scheme to everyone. What that means in practice is that people in the Final Salary Scheme and the Pension Builder will come out of that Scheme and go into a new Scheme that will be put in place in the future.
What happens to the Pension that I've already built up?
Basically, you continue to be entitled to the Pension you built up, so there is no change. What you built up you will get.
So, what happens next with my Pension?
We appreciate that the Pension Scheme is an important part of our colleagues' reward package. We are going to look at putting in place a very competitive Defined Contribution Pension Scheme. We will be consulting with all our colleagues. What that means in practice is we will write to them individually to their home address explaining what that really looks like and we will give them further details as we progress.
We've heard about a Flat Investment in Pay. What does that mean?
Clearly we are facing some financial challenges. We can't afford to increase our costs. So what this means in practice is there won't be an improvement in pay rates this year. However, we will be looking at giving more flexible choice to our colleagues in the benefits they receive and of course, we'll be listening to colleagues to understand what they really want on what works for them.
Can you tell me about the Turnaround Bonus?
Whilst we talked about pay rates remaining flat this year, we are looking at a new Bonus Scheme for all our colleagues, which will reward us if we meet the turnaround (targets).
What will the new Store Structure look like and what is the rationale behind the changes being made?
The rationale was that we had the current structure for over a decade and that it's served us really well. The customers have changed and we need to change our management structures. The new structures enable the managers to be closer to their own departments, working closer with their colleagues and serving the customers on their own departments.
Is this new Store Structure just a 'code' for job losses?
It's absolutely not a code. In fact, at total level, the head count won't change and we will continue to invest in colleagues within stores the same way we have in the last few months. It does mean a change to the roles. All of our colleagues will have those changes discussed with them individually over the next few weeks.
March feels like a long time to wait, when can you tell me whether I'm affected?
March is a long time to wait and it is understandable why many of our managers are feeling uncertain about the changes. We will begin conversations by the middle of February and all of the colleagues affected, and all of those not affected, will be clear on what's happening to them by 1st March.
When will you be able to tell us which stores will be closing?
Closing stores is never a decision that we take lightly. Over the next few weeks we will be finalizing that list and will be having individual conversations with those Store Teams all of which we will be hoping to do by 1st March.
In Offices, will our functions change or will they just get smaller?
We are in a very difficult financial place, so the reality is that in H.O there will be fewer colleagues. However, the really important thing is that we look at what the customers need and make sure that the work that we are doing in the office serves those needs, but also supports the stores looking after them. One of the benefits of the move that we're making by consolidating our offices in Hertfordshire, is that we're likely to have more opportunity to work together serving the stores so work becomes more interesting and more collaborative.
With the Cheshunt Office closing, what does it mean for other offices?
We have 32 offices across the UK. We need to look at all of them and the purpose they serve and to make decisions, which means that we can serve the stores more cheaply. We need to bring work together in a way that better enables us to collaborate and work together on the things that matter to customers.
How will the decisions about making a 30% office cost reduction be made?
We know that we have to save 30%. We want to make it a collaborative process, which means that we will start at the top. Following the announced changes to the Executive Team, the new Executive Team will work with their immediate Leaders on the shape of the layer below, then working through the organization in a similar manner. Through this, there will be an opportunity for colleagues to take part in 1-2-1 conversations about the shape of the organization and how it affects them as individuals.
Thanks Loki. This is really helpful.
Looks like we could be finding out sooner rather than later. I wonder if this means that consultations will be starting in stores before March then?
Usdaw will have to be consulted first.
Thanks Loki
but I have to ask, will USDAW be Consulted or told? ? ? ?
Why the flippin heck do they need 32 offices spread around the UK?
I think you know my personal view on that.
It was a some what satirical? question lol
Thankyou loki much appreciated,
Quote from: Loki on 10-01-15, 09:52AM
Usdaw will have to be consulted first.
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trust me usdaw will be useless at saving any jobs at whatever level
22 years of paying money that could have gone on a good holiday..
if u have to leave tesco - get as much money as you can
I no longer see any benefit in being part of USDAW, they hold no weight whatsoever,
a simple & easy 'opt me out' would be much appreciated :thumbup:
Fight for 'US' USDAW !! At the absolute least... Negotiate the annual pay increase.
Quote from: Loki on 10-01-15, 09:31AM
We've heard about a Flat Investment in Pay. What does that mean?
Clearly we are facing some financial challenges. We can't afford to increase our costs. So what this means in practice is there won't be an improvement in pay rates this year. However, we will be looking at giving more flexible choice to our colleagues in the benefits they receive and of course, we'll be listening to colleagues to understand what they really want on what works for them.
I guess there is no room in that £500m UK profit for us again! Perhaps we will just get more benefits offers if we spend more money on things we don't actually want? Oh and I appreciate my 10% discount... because if I use all £800 of it I can give £8000 back to the company that gave it to me!!!
Quote from: Loki on 10-01-15, 09:31AM
When will you be able to tell us which stores will be closing?
Closing stores is never a decision that we take lightly. Over the next few weeks we will be finalizing that list and will be having individual conversations with those Store Teams all of which we will be hoping to do by 1st March.
So its 43, not 42 or 44? So the list isn't finalised? !!!
No. It means that they will finalise the list of the 43 stores that they have decided to close.
Once the first list is finalized and they make there minds up for definite which stores are to close whats to say they will not go to a phase two and close even more stores / shops or even pull out of the petrol station partnership with Esso and any other partnership agreements they have ? , ??? ??? :o :o 8-)
As we all know Tosco love to do things in trials / stages and phases just look how they went about the stock reduction programme , Team leader fiasco and the right ours right place etc etc . if things do not improve once the first batch of stores have been closed they might just start phase two and who is to say that some distribution centres are not on a list for closure either in the future if they are underperforming , nothing and no one is safe at the moment ? :-X :-X.
You're right, just curious, anything could happen.
Quote from: Loki on 10-01-15, 09:31AM
Through this, there will be an opportunity for colleagues to take part in 1-2-1 conversations about the shape of the organization and how it affects them as individuals.
Let's hope these 1-2-1 conversations are actually taken seriously to find out what can be improved, and not just something written down by a line manager and filed, never to be seen again.
Hi has anyone got any news on the night operation closing or is this just Ireland at the moment?
There is no news about the UK night operation apart from the usual scaremongers trying to suggest otherwise in order to make a name for themselves.
Thanks Loki hope it stays but after this years news you never know
Quote from: Loki on 10-01-15, 02:58PM
There is no news about the UK night operation apart from the usual scaremongers trying to suggest otherwise in order to make a name for themselves.
How else would they get the BBC to pay them !
Does that mean no pay rise this year 2015 ??? Teesport are still negotiating the 2014 pay rise so they better fight hard for a decent one
So how come usdaw hasn't put a press release out but yet unite have at least one union isn't rolling over on the staff if it wasn't so impossible to find I would post instructions on how to leave usdaw.
Quote from: Loki on 10-01-15, 09:31AM
We've heard about a Flat Investment in Pay. What does that mean?
So what this means in practice is there won't be an improvement in pay rates this year.
It sure looks that way.
Just a thought but I believe that are no 24hr stores in the Rep of Ireland, they all close midnight until 6am. I presume this is the big factor in the decision to move away from night shifts there. Unless Drastic Dave wants to move away from the 24hr format in the UK it would seem less likely to happen here.
Why the flippin heck do they need 32 offices spread around the UK?
[/quote]
Does anyone have a comprehensive list of the elusive '32 Offices spread around the company'? Would be interesting to know how many employees this takes in, especially as a 30% cut in costs will mean hundreds, if not thousands of jobs, and no small amount of redundancy packages.
Can anyone tell me if you will be able to take redundancy and what I would get per year for 25 yrs. considering my best options than having pay protected for 3yrs?
Can anyone clarify what exactly is happening to line managers / what happened on pilot my friend is getting really worried and I can't work out from the various forum what happened to superstore managers
All that's known, so far, is the info at the start of this thread.
Apologies, but until further information becomes available, that's all I have.
Thank you, do you know or can you say what happened to managers in the pilot stores
No. Only that, according to the company, the Pilot is a "success".
Errrr..no it wasnt
I don't doubt you for one moment my friend. But the company obviously have a twisted view on what is and what is not successful.
Is there anyone that was in a trial store and apart of the restucture know what the redundancy pay is? As the governments is 1.5 weeks for every year?
OurTesco has now updated employees with the following Q&A's including additional ones not included within the OP:
We've received lots of different questions from you about the proposed changes to the pension scheme and the benefits package. We thought it would be useful to give everybody a snapshot of the most common ones we've been hearing. It's been great to hear from so many colleagues and we'll aim to keep this Q&A up-to-date as more questions come in over the next few weeks. So keep checking back and keep posting your questions!
Q.Will the pension proposals only affect members of the Final Salary Section of the pension scheme?
A. No. The proposal is to consult with our colleagues to close all sections of our defined benefit Tesco Pension Scheme. This includes the Pension Builder section and the Final Salary section.
Q. Will the changes affect just new starters or is everyone affected?
A. The proposal is to close the current scheme to everyone – not just new starters
Q. If the existing pension scheme is closed will it be replaced with another scheme?
A. Yes, when the consultation is launched we will be providing details of the proposed new pension scheme that will replace it.
Q. What is going to happen to the pension I've already built up when the Scheme closes?
A. The pension you have already built up in our existing scheme will not be affected. This pension can stay in the Scheme and the Scheme will continue to be managed by the Scheme Trustee – the same as it is today. To see what pension you have already built up, please take a look at your latest Benefit Report sent to you in November.
Q. When will I hear more about the proposed pension changes?
A. The consultation will start in the next few months, when we'll be writing to all colleagues with details of the proposed changes and how the changes could affect you. The consultation will run for at least 60 days, when you'll be able to give your feedback on the proposals and ask any questions you may have.
Q. If I am thinking of taking my pension soon, do I need to do anything now because a consultation has been announced?
A. No, nothing has changed in the Scheme and won't change until after the consultation has concluded later in the year. If you want to see how much pension you have built up already, take a look at your latest Benefit Report sent to you in November. The pension you have built up will not be affected by any of the proposed changes.
Q. Can I still join the pension scheme or is it too late?
A. The Scheme is open as usual and all Tesco colleagues can join the Scheme at any time. However, the consultation announced today will look to close the Scheme to all members at a future date.
Q. Will you be consulting with our Unions on the changes?
A. Yes. We will be working closely with your Unions throughout the whole of the consultation process.
Q.What will happen to the Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) I pay into my pension?
A. Like your existing Tesco pension, whatever AVCs you have built up so far will remain unaffected by any of the proposed changes. Any extra money you pay towards your pension now, whether in the existing scheme or any new scheme in the future, can still be used when you come to retire.
Reward Questions
Q.What does a flat investment in pay mean?
A. Clearly we're facing into some difficult financial challenges and we can't afford to increase our costs. So we need to keep investment in pay flat, which means there won't be any improvements in pay rates this year. We will however be introducing a new turnaround bonus for all colleagues, and we'll be looking at giving more flexible choice over the benefits you receive. We'll be listening to colleagues to understand their preferences.
Q. What is the 'turnaround bonus'?
A. We're looking at a new bonus scheme for all colleagues that will reward us if we achieve our turnaround plan. We'll tell you more on this after the reward review.
Q. How will my benefits package change?
A. We will introduce flexible benefits to give colleagues more choice, as well as a plan where colleagues will receive a bonus, if we deliver the objectives set for our turnaround plan
Q. What do we mean by flexible benefits?
It means offering colleagues a choice in the benefits they would personally prefer – and, as part of the reward review, we'll be listening to colleagues about which benefits they value most.
Q. Will the 2012 Cash Bonus still be paid?
A. Yes, we'll be in touch with eligible colleagues in April with more information including how much their award will be and how to choose when to receive it.
Q. Will there be a Shares In Success Award this year?
A. Shares In Success awards are linked to business performance and the decision on whether an award will be made under the scheme this year hasn't been made yet.
Actually the pilot was a success in some stores, while some others did struggle with it.
And as it seems very similar to the old section manager structure there's no reason after all the moves have happened that it won't be a success for the company as a whole.
People seem to forget stores managed perfectly ok before team leaders were introduced.
Quote from: Loki on 10-01-15, 01:18PM
No. It means that they will finalise the list of the 43 stores that they have decided to close.
Sorry, but I was being sarcastic and making the point that they MUST have decided which stores are to close because the number IS 43 !
Surely that wasn't just a mathematical (not that they can do maths ;D) calculation?
I can see this supposed bonus being paid out using the reviews, on a red or amber, forget it.
Apologies for the speculation.
The bonus sounds like a target driven thing. Kinda like in express when they had 15% bonus every month - 5% for hitting sales, 5% for waste & 5 % for mystery shopper. Some shops were always guarenteed at least 10%. If you hit your sales targets etc then you get a bit of money.
God, i remember getting plenty of 30% bonuses in express when we passed stocktake too. Them days are long gone. Express staff were better off on the old lower pay/bonus than being aligned to superstore pay/no bonus. The payouts most of us got in compensation for earning less proved that.
in a few weeks time a fair few teamleaders could be offeed the chance to step down to a ga , and recieve the differance of pay in a lump sum. Does anyone know how this lump sum will be treated in respect of pension contribution. I could imagine it would cost the company a small fortune to match everyones additional contributipns at a time when it is trying to close the scheme because of cost issues.
Don't know for sure but would imagine it would be a seperate one off payment, if we get it at all personally I won't be holding my breath ????
I don't know how successful the stores who participated in the pilot was re new structure, however I DO know that new stores which have opened on the new structure have no problems. However, that is probably due to the fact they have no p****d off ex team leaders there :)
My store was relatively close to one of the express trial stores. We were forever receiving emails begging for staff to do overtime there to give the appearance of the trial bring a success. Never went there myself but by all accounts it was in a right old state.
Don't think express employees will be safe at all as some our saying. I think one way or another we're all about to get shafted by the powers that be :'(
Anyone know the structure of a superstore under the changes? I am a deputy and I think the new structure is "traders"
What did the structure look like in express pilot stores does anyone know
I thought it was supposed to be the addition of a third team leader to release the SM/DM from running duties (also known as filling shelves/doing routines). Don't know if it's still happening tho.
My wife, an express DM, has always insisted she doesn't need another team leader to manage - she needs more GA's to work delivery/serve on tills so she can actually do manager things instead of dilling/serving! Shows how out of touch senior leadership are. They want to replace expensive managers with cheaper team leaders when all that's really needed is even cheaper CA's! But what would we lowly shop staff know? It's not like we have to drag ourselves through the same c**p every day with no one listening to us....
Not to worry...... She'll be a G A herself soon....
News Article:
"The shop workers union Usdaw said it had not yet received a list of stores affected but said it was committed to supporting and protecting staff.
Although Tesco is not yet disclosing the locations of the 43 stores to close Mr Lewis revealed that a "significant proportion" would be its Express convenience shops.
The sites will be spread across the country.
The chief executive would not give any guidance on the scale of the jobs to be lost or whether they were likely to be in the thousands. Head office jobs will also see cuts as overheads are slashed by 30%."
Tesco might not be saying what shops are shutting but local press across the country and facebook - twitter etc are having a field day with speculation over what stores are being shut. Usdaw supporting and protecting staff right and I'm the Pope.
Just a question could teamleaders be offered only flexible contracts possibly older staff losing sunday premiums etc.. has to be asked? >:(
Quote from: scorpio on 11-01-15, 09:29PM
Just a question could teamleaders be offered only flexible contracts possibly older staff losing sunday premiums etc.. has to be asked? >:(
Reading between the lines i think every member of staff will be placed on a flexible contract.
If this is the case, then how are they going to get around the Sunday working rules? which I believe state that you cannot be forced to work on a Sunday, or are Usdaw just going to roll over like they do on every other issue involving it's members and let Tesco introduce Flexi-contracts to all of it's workforce. I for one would not work a Sunday unless I was paid an incentive to do so, and that incentive would have to of the monetary kind, not just be that I kept my job if I agreed. ;) ;)
There is no way they can just place everyone on a fleixable contract however much they might wish to do so.
Certainly hope you are right penguin, but remember Usdaw will be representing us and their recent record is appalling. :'(
We've spoke about this at work too, someone said exactly the same re flexible contracts. I don;t think they can, but who knows? We are just speculating, but according to the Q&A, it should only be a few weeks before we find out for sure.
I have worked with the company for 20+ years, and remember getting apid a premium for working Saturdays, and that was 'bought' off us. As a long serving (and suffering) member of staff who has been a manager and now T/L (I'm working my way DOWN the ladder ;) ) I get double time for Sundays. I very rarely work them, but if I do, normally do it for time back. So if I do a half day Sunday, I get a full day off. If this was stopped, I'd never work another Sunday, and claim for religious reasons, I am unable to be contracted to that day.
As a former manager surely you should know the law about not having to work Sundays and know that religious belief nor any other reason need be given?
What I think more likely is any new staff would be on felix contract and all current staff might be offered some cash to move onto a felix. One would then have to make a choice if to accept the upfront payment and havw a fleix contract or stick with the current contract.
Loki, I work in one of the 5 dotcom stores 'fulfilment centres' and have been briefed by my managers thatwe are in a 'good' place, and won't face closure or be effected by the flat pay, because we are not classed as stores. How true is this? And how much do they know?
I think a lot of people are over looking what Dave Lewis said in regards to "increase in working-hour flexibility", that screams of flexi-contracts.
Seeing as though we can only speculate at the moment -
- All TL's to step down or take redundancy, apart from checkouts.
- All current full-time GA's/TL's offered a cash incentive, then offered flexi-contracts. This happened in my last place of employment. The company went into administration and was bought out, we were then offered flexi-contracts with a small payout, which was 12 months difference in pay to compensate for loss of hours. Don't believe for a second that this isn't possible, I've been through it before.
Flexi-contracts is what a lot of retailers have been phasing in for a good few years now, they are absolutely horrendous and no good for most employees and absolutely perfect for employers from a wage/holiday/sickness/pension point of view.
Quote from: AlexM on 11-01-15, 06:25PM
I thought it was supposed to be the addition of a third team leader to release the SM/DM from running duties (also known as filling shelves/doing routines). Don't know if it's still happening tho.
My wife, an express DM, has always insisted she doesn't need another team leader to manage - she needs more GA's to work delivery/serve on tills so she can actually do manager things instead of dilling/serving! Shows how out of touch senior leadership are. They want to replace expensive managers with cheaper team leaders when all that's really needed is even cheaper CA's! But what would we lowly shop staff know? It's not like we have to drag ourselves through the same c**p every day with no one listening to us....
,
3rd T/L is not going to happen,, But I do agree with your wife as to the need for more CA's
Usdaw Statement
11 January 2015
Usdaw, the shopworkers' trade union, has expressed deep concern about Tesco's recovery plan which has left staff worried and unclear about their future. Usdaw is the main union at Tesco, representing over 180,000 staff in the UK business.
National Officers Pauline Foulkes and Joanne McGuinness said: "While the announcement was well received by the Stock Exchange, the same cannot be said for staff. They feel completely let down by both the content and nature of the turnaround proposals and the manner in which they found out.
"It was disappointing to learn that the proposals included the closure of the Cheshunt head office and 43 stores. What is worse is that the company has still not declared which shops they intend to close, leaving staff in all 3,000 plus stores worrying whether it is theirs that will close, creating additional anxiety and uncertainty.
"Announcing the intention to close the defined contribution pension scheme has left staff extremely concerned about their future income in retirement. Introducing a new store management structure leaves thousands of team leaders and line managers upset and distressed about what this will mean for them. This is no way to treat staff, whose hard work and commitment has helped the business over the years and through one of Tesco's most difficult periods.
"Usdaw is calling on the new chief executive Dave Lewis to ensure that the staff are respected and valued throughout this turnaround programme. The company must listen, engage and meaningfully consult staff and Usdaw representatives, acknowledging that they will play a huge part in turning Tesco around.
"Usdaw's priorities are to: obtain the list of stores earmarked for closure; maintain good pension provision for all Tesco staff; provide clarity for team leaders and line managers in relation to the new management structure, and do everything possible to keep staff employed in the business and job losses to a minimum.
"Usdaw is pressing for immediate dialogue with the company to address these matters in full and seeking to improve communication and information channels to staff. We are committed to supporting, representing and protecting our members and reps during this difficult period and we will be seeking the best possible outcome for them."
Notes for editors:
Strongish words. Too little too late for me. I wonder how many people will genuinely leave USDAW after all this, if not before?
Definitely too little too late.
Would it have been to much to ask of our employers to have all available options to the affected staff within a day or two of the announcement.
Really want to know my choices now,not in a couple of months or whenever they can be @rsed telling us.
Do we know if the security department will be effected by the change in structure. Ie advance guards, tesco security, And temporary shrink security managers instants in high shrink stores? ??? Will they cut down on security staff? ??
If there is no ballot at all, then I will have to seriously reconsider not only my role as a rep, but also as a member.
Why?
Well, what would be the point?
P Foulkes tried to stand against Hannett and against the partnership before, maybe she is trying again, but me thinks that her voice is going to be lost in this fiasco of a union.
That's it for me now, union membership is ending for me.
I like to think that I'm pretty much thick skinned, however, having to answer questions at work is getting pretty tiresome. Especially when there is so much uncertainty.
By Dastardly Dave making the announcement the way in which he did demonstrated his nonchalance towards Usdaw.
He more or less implied "I'm making these unilateral changes whether you like it or not. What the f**k are you going to do about it?"
looking at the christmas usdaw newsletter there is a part of it that discusses the 2015 pay negotiations and the items in it as some of the item pay increase closing the gap between np1 and np2 realigning overtime rates etc have not been discussed yet however as all these items have a cost increase on the wage bill i would expect a wage neg for this year to be pointless waste of our subs as they will go with what ever tesco says.
Go with whatever Tesco says? That's what they did last year
By the looks of it, they won't even turn up this year!
Neither Pauline foulkes or joanne mcguiness fill me with confidence after having dealt with both of them in the past.
Best defence here is that 300,000 plus employees is a massive consumer group, too late to save final salary pension but stopping introduction of flexi-contracts across the board is a realistic aim >:D
Me & my wife will be cancelling our union subs if she loses her job. Won't be able to afford to waste the money on a spineless union when we can't even afford to live.
I wonder if Usdaw realise, or even care, that all eyes are on them to see what little gonads they have left?
Only reason I am still a member is because of what is happening now, so I have some sort of support in store. As soon as its finalised, adios usdaw.
No ean, that's how me and the rest of the managers feel in my store.
Usdaw only chance of any of us staying in the union is for them to save the pension, but we know how they will deal with that.
Morris999-as I've said in a to post on sat a manager chatting & laughing with another manaer & a Ga, nothing to do with work,the usual in our store while we are running around, staff in our store think managers are getting what they deserve for being lazy and hiding behind their role.
It seems to me we may need a ballot on strike action over pension etc to show that we as a union are not happy. How do the rest of you feel. By the way in my 35 years in this and other workforces I have never voted to strike before .
Viewpoint posters have gone up in our place today - asking us to do viewpoint in a week or two with things like "can you see yourself working for Tesco in a years time" etc there taking the p**s big time
So tesco shows usdaw what partnership means to them no agreement at present as the new partnership wasn't signed anyhow. So why can't we be balloted we need to be?
Or are they as I believe become a collection point for yellow bellies afraid of the dark.
A ballot decision will only be on the table if your unhappy with the new pension and u raise your concerns thro it.
But im sure as loki will comment im really naieve in thinking that ya ready for any sort of action.
Wishfull thinking i spose
I think the best thing you can do with viewpoint this year is to try and organise a mass boycott in your store. We did this a few years ago and people just flipped out. They won't listen to anything you have to say but if a hefty percentage of your team refuse to do it you'll get noticed
I really don't think that a poor viewpoint score is going to be a surprise to them, or high on their list of concerns at the moment.
No but 40-50% of store team just refusing to complete will have an effect even if just as an up yours to te$co
My store has had poor viewpoints year after year. The way that the management have dealt with this? - by not publishing the results, nothing put up on noticeboards or anything. We simply do the viewpoint and then never hear or see of it again until the next one.
All this talk of boycotting is too little too late. The wheels are already in motion, the boys at the top know what fate awaits us and will be well prepared to deal with the fallout. We've known a few details about this "news" for 10months when the pilot was first discussed, problem is 95% of the workforce buried their heads in the sand, didn't believe it or didn't believe it would happen to them. Questions were asked and we all hit brick walls, the time to demand answers was 6 months ago, but alls we got told was "await official confirmation" - well the official confirmation is now coming out piece by piece and what can we do about it? - sod all. This isn't like the fire service, at the end of the day we are lowly shop workers and every single one of us is replaceable.
This company has turned me into a nasty, bitter git. There are some genuine, hardworking decent people in this company, but largely I'm disappointed with it at all levels. Complacency, greed, ignorance and laziness has done none of us any favours in the long run.
Come down on email today that they are not monitoring the completion rate this time.
If people do not want to do it then that's ok.
Seriously?...... We're all doomed >:( haha
What baffles and disappoints me is the lack of feedback from the pilot stores about what happened to their stores. I imagined we would be reading all kinds of examples of what went well, what went wrong, how did they adapt? Etc the silence from them is deafening. 10 months later we know as much as we did when it was first announced.
They've probably had to sign a confidentiality agreement. Or perhaps were paid off significantly and are all off on their jollies :-\
Maybe there are not many people from the pilot stores on this forum? Or maybe they would be making themselves too easily identifiable if they did provide details?
Quote from: SAMCRO on 12-01-15, 02:51PM
My store has had poor viewpoints year after year. The way that the management have dealt with this? - by not publishing the results, nothing put up on noticeboards or anything. We simply do the viewpoint and then never hear or see of it again until the next one.
All this talk of boycotting is too little too late. The wheels are already in motion, the boys at the top know what fate awaits us and will be well prepared to deal with the fallout. We've known a few details about this "news" for 10months when the pilot was first discussed, problem is 95% of the workforce buried their heads in the sand, didn't believe it or didn't believe it would happen to them. Questions were asked and we all hit brick walls, the time to demand answers was 6 months ago, but alls we got told was "await official confirmation" - well the official confirmation is now coming out piece by piece and what can we do about it? - sod all. This isn't like the fire service, at the end of the day we are lowly shop workers and every single one of us is replaceable.
This company has turned me into a nasty, bitter git. There are some genuine, hardworking decent people in this company, but largely I'm disappointed with it at all levels. Complacency, greed, ignorance and laziness has done none of us any favours in the long run.
This pretty much sums things up perfectly. Exactly how I feel and its looking like a sad end to 20+ years service.
Quote from: Loki on 12-01-15, 10:01AM
If there is no ballot at all, then I will have to seriously reconsider not only my role as a rep, but also as a member.
Why?
Well, what would be the point?,
Think a lot of us are thinking the same thing, But I don't think there will be a ballot ,
At our Express we have no Union rep, and last time we had a visit from someone from the union was over a year ago, and that was just to see if they could get any one else to sigh up :(
I think SAMCRO's right.
Seems to me we are like sheep being led to the slaughter who hope that baa-ing quite loudly might be of help to us.
Quote from: Morris999 on 12-01-15, 02:52PM
Come down on email today that they are not monitoring the completion rate this time.
If people do not want to do it then that's ok.
Well......maybe at least our PM won't give us the 'this is what we have done for you in the last year' speech. I, however, will GLADLY fill it in, and I hope to God there is a space for comments.....although THAT is probably pretty pointless too :(
Quote from: tasha66 on 12-01-15, 01:54PM
A ballot decision will only be on the table if your unhappy with the new pension and u raise your concerns thro it.
But im sure as loki will comment im really naieve in thinking that ya ready for any sort of action.
Wishfull thinking i spose
There should be a ballot on whether or not we accept such a significant change to our pension scheme. Then, if the majority of members who vote reject the proposal, then there should be a ballot for industrial action.
Of course, in the first instance, the Union would make their recommendation to the members on whether or not to accept the proposal.
Drastic Dave's statement regarding there being no increase in pay rates PRIOR to the discussions on pay with the National Forum pay negotiation team is a blatant breach of the Partnership Agreement. In fact, the way in which he has gone about this entire matter renders the agreement null and void as far as I'm concerned. So far that's 3 good reasons to ballot members. One of them being on whether or not members are willing to remain within a "groundbreaking" Partnership Agreement with a company that clearly makes a mockery of it all.
It is blatantly clear that the Partnership Agreement has been brought into disrepute.
But the question remains as to whether or not Usdaw will ballot the members regarding any of the above. Of course, there are DC's that already have a vote on pay. As insane as it sounds, stores cannot regain that "right" without first being balloted regarding the Partnership Agreement that incorporates the entire pay negotiation process via the National Forum.
However, once Usdaw have been consulted on the items already dictated by Drastic Dave, a ballot on the Partnership Agreement and the pension should automatically happen regardless of Usdaw's recommendations.
After all, have not Usdaw already issued a statement today "strongly" criticising their Partner regarding the changes and the manner in which they were announced?
Am I naive enough to believe that Usdaw will, without doubt, ballot their members?
From my experience with this Union, particularly in comparison to my experiences with other Unions, no I am not.
Am I naive enough to believe that if balloted, the members would without doubt vote against such proposals?
When it comes to the crunch, no I am not.
Before commencing employment with tesco, like many others, there have been a few times I have taken part in industrial action over changes to pensions, pay deals and terms & conditions. Some with a successful outcome, others not.
Unfortunately, when comparing the environment I now work in, the attitude of those that work within retail AND the conduct of our recognised Union, I cannot help but doubt there being enough conviction amongst the members to carry through with what, in my opinion, needs to be done.
Usdaw dont care less about our pensions or pay or anything else - the top people in usdaw are just in it for the cash end of story. If Tesco announced plans to hang staff from lampposts usdaw would say ok to it and we all know that deep down the partnership agreement is a farce and works only one way. I have nothing but contempt for the top people in usdaw they are a disgrace and we all deserve better.
Great post Loki. I like yourself have fought the fight during my long and varied working life, won a few and lost a few, but always thought it was better to have a go at the powers to be, than just roll over and surrender, always cost me quite a bit of lost pay but it was worth it as gives you a feeling of self respect. Unfortunately most people I work with in my store are like headless chickens and this is mostly down to Usdaw and one particular union rep. who is a complete and utter oaf, the biggest , thickest Showboating moron I have ever had the misfortune to work with. He is a T/L and although I would never normally gloat at someone elses misfortune I can't wait for the loadmouthed to be demoted to GA. He is everything that is wrong with the way Tesco promote people way above their capabilities. By the way I had dealings with John Hannett in a former life and he sold us down the river then as well. >:( >:( >:(
Oh god please can we have some conviction from our union if ever it was needed its NOW!
Penguin I agree with you,I know some one in unite union and they get £8,000 a year plus their wages from the company they are in. So it must happen with usdaw also someone on wage negotiations for last year said tesco said take it or leave it,
Quote from: carlos on 12-01-15, 09:57AM
Do we know if the security department will be effected by the change in structure. Ie advance guards, tesco security, And temporary shrink security managers instants in high shrink stores? ??? Will they cut down on security staff? ??
Any info on the above???
Week 51,store managers attending meeting to be briefed on management structure changes.
Loki..........Bloody good reasoning. I wish somehow I could copy that and get it onto twitter. ;)
I'm afraid you're all doomed , I did 11 years at tesco then came to asda 16 years ago but still close as my wife of over 20 yrs is still there .
We did this last summer and now I run a £1m a week store with 7 managers and usually only 3 in a day , you will have to cut to the bone to keep your costs down and stay in business
Even now another restructure is planned for those above us , Best of luck to you all but it's inevitable .
So you joined Asda soon after Walmart's takeover in 1999? Are you surprised that they cut your managers to the bone and are considering further restructuring? You're freaking doomed too matey.
I think the vast majority of people in retail are now on a limited lifespan jobwise - the days of working in retail being a fairly safe and sound long term job option are all but over. Just wait until the big chains really kick on with click and collect for both food and non food and see how many shops are left in 20 years time. I take no pleasure in saying this as it affects me and several close family but anyone who still thinks a full time retail job is a long term option needs an urgent rethink im afraid to say those days are passing as we speak.
I like many of you have seen the demise of the good things this company had at one time...the exit of good capable managers and staff that have walked away or been hounded out because they would not follow the falsification of budgets/targets that became a working practice through out the business and ultimately got exposed at the very top level - and we the staff are having to pay for now
If staff are not allowed to ballot on any of this or have a say then how else can we show our disapproval of what the company are doing to us?
A national "sick day"?
Everyone call in sick across the country on a given date - then the company may realise that it is the staff that ultimately get the cash put in the till's to deliver the profits for the shareholders
I would love to see how they would cope trying to get thinks picked,delivered and open any store with 85% of the staff not turning up for work across the whole company
May be if USDAW wont/cant do anything we should just get organised and do it our selves!
:thumbup:
Loki, brilliant post! I never even THOUGHT about what DD said re pay freeze and the union, was too worried about my pension! I definately feel some sort of action is required, though apart from stopping my union fees, I don't know what at this moment!
As for the ref to Asda, I have just posted a link in news articles, which I got from an Ex Manager from Asda who was made redundant during their 'last' (year) restructure.
What action would you take Loki? I'm NOT asking you to give us a pointer, just some thoughts of what we COULD do 8-)
egghead, great idea! If only we could reach 85% of the staff :(
We could stop buying stuff from T*sco.
If everyone did it they would soon notice. If everyone didn't do it, oh well.
I myself did just that a couple of years ago , the corner shop was cheaper for fresh milk and some other items , Home bargains and B and M , Discount UK all sell grocery / toiletry items cheaper than Tosco with out the promotions or staff discount - then there is Jack Fullertons and Heron foods who both sell goods at a better price than Tosco not for getting the likes of Lidl and Aldi . you can even get better prices in the pound shops on some lines and the weights - sizes are the same pack weights and size as the Tosco price .
I stopped giving them eight grand a year just to save eight hundred quid staff discount and gain a few club card points and be rewarded with useless clubcard coupons for stuff that is over priced !! . other staff could save to if they shopped around , spend your hard earned money any where other than Tosco - hit them in the till where it hurts them most .
Quote from: Egg Head on 12-01-15, 10:20PM
I like many of you have seen the demise of the good things this company had at one time...the exit of good capable managers and staff that have walked away or been hounded out because they would not follow the falsification of budgets/targets that became a working practice through out the business and ultimately got exposed at the very top level - and we the staff are having to pay for now
If staff are not allowed to ballot on any of this or have a say then how else can we show our disapproval of what the company are doing to us?
A national "sick day"?
Everyone call in sick across the country on a given date - then the company may realise that it is the staff that ultimately get the cash put in the till's to deliver the profits for the shareholders
I would love to see how they would cope trying to get thinks picked,delivered and open any store with 85% of the staff not turning up for work across the whole company
May be if USDAW wont/cant do anything we should just get organised and do it our selves!
:thumbup:
or better still a national sick WEEK. i would deffo be up for that.
If new staff had a sick day they will loose a days pay, longer serving staff will not loose a days pay so not sure newer staff would want to loose a days pay.
Hello,
I've been saying for years on this site.......a "work to rule" would teach Tw*tco a very important lesson in how to treat as you wish to be treated yourself. You would not be in any breach of contract, do your flickin hours and go home..end of!
Babylon5 :-*
Tumshie, re "We could stop buying stuff from", some of us are already doing that!
I think we are drifting to far away from the point of this thread, which is New Changes - Q&A's
I think the big question for T/L is the £ they will be offered to change their terms and conditions to drop to GA & how long they would have to stay without having to pay it back if they left
The other worry is the £ offered to take the redundancy option...
I believe that in the "pilot" these figures where not put on the table till the last few weeks of the consultation period...and I can see it being considerably less than was offered to the "pilot" T/L's ...as the numbers involved now are greater and they are giving you option to have a GA job - continued employment
We have been told we will find out in February :o
The problem with the Q&A's regarding the changes is that they are, in many ways, so ambiguous that they have done more harm than good.
Uncertainty, insecurity, fear and anger.
Hardly what I deem to be transparent.
In defence of Usdaw (shock - horror!) I believe that there is a possibility that they were not fully aware to the extent Drastic Dave would go prior to his announcement.
Hardly what I deem to be good industrial relations.
Granted, the changes to our pension will take some time. This needs to be consulted,negotiated and then a ballot!
With regards to the restructure, there is nothing stopping Tesco AND Usdaw providing more information IF it is based on the Pilot, which, when reading between the lines, it most certainly is.
The pay "freeze" is something that needs to be addressed and answers provided regarding the role of the pay negotiating team for stores and the negotiating process for DC's and Offices. After all, the announcement on pay has blatantly snubbed them all. It's all well and good glossing over this with an incentive plan in the shape of this so called Turnaround bonus, but how can this be announced without first negotiating with the aforementioned negotiators? As much as I despise the Forum process regarding pay, it forms a major part of the Partnership Agreement of which has clearly been breached.
On that basis, more detailed Q&A's need to be provided promptly by both Tesco AND Usdaw!
Last but not least, Drastic Dave and his merry men and leather clad lady have provided no further information regarding the call for further flexible working. Surely they must be aware that speculation is rife about employees having their Terms and Conditions turned upside down onto Flexible Contracts? Again, Usdaw need to obtain answers quickly.
The Company got rid of the night team in 1992 and replaced it with a twilight shift. This was a cost reducing measure.
It didn't work then and it sure as hell wouldn't work now. Deliveries arrive later and later and we already struggle to replenish the stores.
Any info on night restructuring would be greatly received though.
THE BENEFITS OF PARTNERSHIP WORKING – TESCO
This is the biggest private sector collective bargaining agreement in the UK
and one of the biggest in Europe. It is under the terms of the Partnership
that Usdaw have over 164.000 members and over 4,000 activists across
the business.
The agreement gives Usdaw sole recognition, negotiating and consultation
rights across the whole of Tesco Retail. This means that Tesco and Usdaw
co-operate to improve working conditions and to give employees a
greater say in how the Company is run.
I think the "Partnership Agreement" has just ended....
Quote from: sb1326 on 13-01-15, 11:02AM
Any info on night restructuring would be greatly received though.
There is no restructuring of nights in the UK. This rumour stems from the usual scaremongerers. If there were, I would inform you. In the meantime, ignore that rumour.
if there is no restructuring on nights , will nightshift management and team leaders be unaffected ?
Again, rumours and the lack of information provided by Tesco is the cause of much confusion amongst employees.
The only answer I can give to your question is that if the restructure is a roll out of the Pilot, then yes. The restructure announced by Drastic Dave does not make any distinction between nights and days.
I'm sorry to say that we will have to wait for further information regarding who and who will not be severely affected by the restructure. I'm in the dark as much as anyone else and won't give any false hope or unconfirmed information regarding this matter.
Quote from: panther on 12-01-15, 07:38PM
Quote from: Morris999 on 12-01-15, 02:52PM
Come down on email today that they are not monitoring the completion rate this time.
If people do not want to do it then that's ok.
Well......maybe at least our PM won't give us the 'this is what we have done for you in the last year' speech. I, however, will GLADLY fill it in, and I hope to God there is a space for comments.....although THAT is probably pretty pointless too :(
Well don't see how they expect us to do it, What when it comes to asking if we think we will still be there is a years time, Since we don't know if we will still be there next week ???
I would agree with those like Loki That have said that in Reality no one , and I Mean no one really has any real information as to what is going to happen,, NO site manager has been told, nor personnel manager, area managers are as much in the dark as any one else,
my thinking would be that only at stores director level is there any real Insight as to what will happen, And they will not pass on any thing till they are told to do so,
We can shout scream all we like at Managers and those above them, But I would say that they are as much worried about what will happen as we all are,
This has happened before, Only 4/5 years ago with Duty managers in Express, Then about 6 years before, and then about the same before that,, But not as drastic as this as this is effecting jobs, pay conditions as well as pensions,
This Q&A thing is getting us no where :-X,, in fact I would say that they at the top are getting more information from us than we are getting from them,
Only thing I would say is plan for the worst, Stop thinking I'm ok jack,
@Notsofunny, couldn't agree more: hope for the best, prep for the worst.
This whole situation reminds me of the line from the classic movie, Full Metal Jacket
"It's a huge s**t sandwich and we all have to take a bite."
More Q&A's were published today:
Pension Questions
Q. When will the current scheme be closed? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. No date has been agreed yet – as the proposal to close the scheme is still subject to consultation. Regardless, you will still have access to a company pension scheme.
Q.Will I have to pay more towards my pension in the future? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Until the consultation takes place, we will not be able to confirm what the details of the proposed new scheme might be, including how much you might pay towards it. Please remember, nothing has changed yet and what you pay towards your pension now will remain unaffected by the announcement.
Q. How will my life cover be affected by the proposals? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Until the consultation takes place we will not be able to confirm what the details of the proposed new scheme might be, including life cover. Please remember, nothing has changed yet and all of the benefits you currently receive as a member of the scheme, including life cover, remain the same.
Q. Will my current pension continue to build up in the same way, now these proposed changes have been announced? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Yes, your pension will continue to build up as usual, until the point any changes are made to the scheme.
Q. If the scheme closes, will the pension I have in the scheme increase? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Yes, if the scheme closes, the pension you have in the scheme will increase each year, until you choose to retire, in line with inflation (up to 5% a year).
Q. Will I still be able to take some of my existing pension as a cash lump when I retire, even if the scheme closes? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Yes, this option will still be available to you, even if the scheme closes.
Q. Can I transfer my pension out of the scheme to a different scheme? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Yes, in most cases you'll have the option to transfer your pension out of the scheme to a different scheme if you wish to do so, now and in the future.
Q. Who can I talk to if I have more questions or want to give my opinion? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. The detail of the proposed changes to our pension scheme will be sent to you in the next few months when the consultation starts – and this will include details of how the changes will affect you, where you can go to ask questions and how you can give your feedback. The consultation will last for at least 60 days so you'll have plenty of time to participate.
Q. Should I consider taking my pension early because of the proposed changes to the scheme? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. No, you do not need to consider taking your pension early purely because of the proposed changes to the scheme as the pension you have built up will not be affected.
Reward Questions
Q. Is the Save As You Earn scheme I joined in November affected? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. No, if you applied to join the latest Save As You Earn scheme your application isn't affected by the announcement. Colleagues who applied to join the scheme should receive their Option Certificate from 19th January onwards. If you applied online you'll receive your certificate via email, otherwise it will be sent to your home address.
Q. Can I cancel or change my contributions for Save As You Earn if my circumstances change? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Due to rules set by HM Revenue & Customs you cannot amend the amount you save once you have applied to join a Save As You Earn scheme. However, you can cancel any of your Save As You Earn schemes at any time and get your savings back. To do this call our Shares Helpline on 0871 384 2976.
This one has me worried, I hope people take advice before doing this too hastily -
'Can I transfer my pension out of the scheme to a different scheme? Yes, in most cases you'll have the option to transfer your pension out of the scheme to a different scheme if you wish to do so, now and in the future.'
I believe Tesco is the last defined benefit scheme in the UK 100 listed companies, if not the last then one of only two or three. The likelihood is that transferring your pension into a different scheme would be a defined contribution scheme, the outcome of which is much riskier.
not a lot new is there?
They must have a date in mind as to when it will close, since There planning has to run along side costings they have made for the year,
At least they should have been Honest in saying yes, The cost of the new style pension will be more to the workers,, and for a lower reward,, This was not to be the case there would have been no reason to close the old one would there :question:
If the scheme closes, will the pension I have in the scheme increase? (new question added 13 January 2015)
A. Yes, if the scheme closes, the pension you have in the scheme will increase each year, until you choose to retire, in line with inflation (up to 5% a year,
So If we cant add anymore to it, and Tesco are not going to pay any thing in to it any more, The max amount in growth we will get is 5% if that is the inflation rate for that year 8-),, That meaning real growth will be none since inflation will wipe out any increase :( wondering what will happen to the true growth rate if as it has been said inflation is only 1% and wage increase goes up by say 2% :o would that not mean that the true value of our future pension will go down :(
the only thing I wanted to know about is
Q. How will my life cover be affected by the proposals? (new question added 13 January 2015)
And I got no true reply >:(
As to save as you earn ???
Is the Save As You Earn scheme I joined in November affected?
reply should have been yes it bloody well could be,
If you where brave and decided to commit the max amount you could afford and then find , That we have screwed you on your T&C, no pay rice, no premiums for sunday working night working, and the rest,,And now you have less of a salary coming in each month,, well bloody well bad luck,, It just means you have to stop saving and loose out completely on this save as you earn,,
So it just could be another one to add to the list I made of the way staff will get screwed ,,
And there I was thinking there was only so many ways you could get scre,,,, :-X
Quote from: The Mrs on 13-01-15, 11:07PM
This one has me worried, I hope people take advice before doing this too hastily -
'Can I transfer my pension out of the scheme to a different scheme? Yes, in most cases you'll have the option to transfer your pension out of the scheme to a different scheme if you wish to do so, now and in the future.'
I believe Tesco is the last defined benefit scheme in the UK 100 listed companies, if not the last then one of only two or three. The likelihood is that transferring your pension into a different scheme would be a defined contribution scheme, the outcome of which is much riskier.
Very true :thumbup:,
I think Tesco would like more of us to transfer out to another pension, Since they will then no longer be responsible in having to top it up,
Including Tesco there are 3 other companies that offer DB pensions to new employees in the 100 listed companies they are Morrison's, Diageo and Johnson Matthey
However with tesco trying to close its, and morrisons just sacking its top boss due to poor Xmas sales and now closing stores too, they will probably follow tesco and close there's too.
The new pension scheme shouldn't increase your payments unless you want too.
However the amount you get when you retire will be a hell of a lot less than the current one.
You will also be starting from scratch again when they open the new one, while that won't be that much of a issue for people in there early-mid 20's those in there 30's/40's are screwed.
Also tesco will not have to pay the billions its short to cover it if they kept it running.
Can anyone out there from the newly structured stores tell me what the team managers salary scale is? Will line managers in extras have to take a reduced salary?
following on from the previous post. Were pilot store managers offered redundancy and is there a new management contract and if so is is the same , better or worse
Panther .....
I think your delusional , asda don't have a £3billion pound black hole in the pension , operate at a lower cost rate and are quicker to change and adapt. ..... Yet they too still crucified the structure , what makes you think a few protests and sick days will make the slightest difference ?
I suggest you search 'our voice ' or ,..... The Grocer under 'asda managers restructure' then drill down to the comments threads left .
This is what you have to look forward to , and tesco is in more s*** and doesn't have £52billion in the bank because banks lend to them , no-one lends to wal-mart !
So rock on , I feel sorry for those who left ASda then have to go through it all again
Quote from: Morris999 on 13-01-15, 11:53PM
Including Tesco there are 3 other companies that offer DB pensions to new employees in the 100 listed companies they are Morrison's, Diageo and Johnson Matthey
However with tesco trying to close its, and morrisons just sacking its top boss due to poor Xmas sales and now closing stores too, they will probably follow tesco and close there's too.
The new pension scheme shouldn't increase your payments unless you want too.
However the amount you get when you retire will be a hell of a lot less than the current one.
You will also be starting from scratch again when they open the new one, while that won't be that much of a issue for people in there early-mid 20's those in there 30's/40's are screwed.
Also tesco will not have to pay the billions its short to cover it if they kept it running.
well morris 30/40.... ;D Think those of us in our 50's are more so :P,
Point I don't agree with is the fact that Tesco will not have to pay the billions its short..........
as I understand it they will still be responsible for any thing short till the last person in it is paid off,, Only reason they want to stop it is that they don't want any responsibility's over and above what they have to those that are in the pension at the moment,
So what happens to the people already recieving Pension, is there any fallout for them, ie like no pension increase
Quote from: Twochops on 14-01-15, 12:13AM
Panther .....
I think your delusional , asda don't have a £3billion pound black hole in the pension , operate at a lower cost rate and are quicker to change and adapt. ..... Yet they too still crucified the structure , what makes you think a few protests and sick days will make the slightest difference ?
I suggest you search 'our voice ' or ,..... The Grocer under 'asda managers restructure' then drill down to the comments threads left .
This is what you have to look forward to , and tesco is in more s*** and doesn't have £52billion in the bank because banks lend to them , no-one lends to wal-mart !
So rock on , I feel sorry for those who left ASda then have to go through it all again
Twochops, you do not know a thing about me, delusional I am not! I don't really care what Asda are up to, I merely mentioned what I had seen. What I DO care about is myself and the rest of my colleagues who are getting s*** on from a great height in more ways than one. Say what you want, but keep your thoughts about me to yourself!
Lets face it were being dragged down to the depths of wal-mart who pay pittance wages in america have food bank basket for staff at the exit to there store's.Iv'e watched right wing media in america attacking hard working staff for standing up to the walmart heirs and being torn apart by CNN news commentator how stupid they all are and anyone can fill shelves if you got a problem go find another job Bull**it. BBC breakfast business news this morning tesco and there store closures being backed up by some business blogger no mention of pensions going, pay freezes, store restructures total right wing press talking it down tory led propaganda machine doing its best to hush hush it all up while talking of the Tory's phantom recovery absolute total Boll**ks. Meanwhile were being robbed while sitting at the family table at 67 and someone's taking tens thousands pounds from the family chicken and sneaking off out the front door.Apparently unnoticed to the oblivious union rep who think were still in some form of union partnership wake up people the horse has bolted time to stand up.
I wish you all the very best of luck for the next twelve months .
I want to know if it is possible to take all your cash out of the pension scheme altogether.......Surely if they are changing the T&Cs then the current contract is null and void! I would reinvest this money in my quest to attain my HGV so i can find alternative employment...
Look Guys,
I do not work for Tesco but my wife does so I have a vested interest. Scorpio (post 133) has it more or less spot on. Dave Lewis has previous form for this he screwed Unilever staff over their pensions as well .They went on strike although little good it did them.
You lot have the most spineless Union out of the lot and unless you all start demanding a strike ballot they will do their usual and as usual that will be nothing.
Interesting this pay freeze because the company is in trouble. How many companies in trouble are on course to make one thousand four hundred million pounds profit this year?
The truth is this guy is a hatchet man in the finest Tory tradition brought in to take away what meagre benefits you already have.
Intersting to read about flexible benefits. Could this mean you can have sick pay or holiday pay but not both. Watch this space.
Thing is though the last lot in charge were not exactly purer than the driven snow were they. Ordering brand new corporate jets while the workers had year after year of little if no pay rise and awarding themselves big fat bonuses while the pension defecit got bigger.
We have yet to see if their actions over falsifying the accounts will lead to any jail time for anyone but dont hold your breath. Lets not forget how non of the bankers went to jail after bringing the country to its knees and causing the longest recession in history.
Wake up people. You are screwed unless you start banging on at your union rep about a strike ballot. Imagine Tesco having to close stores because of strikes. Maybe the Tory press would sit up and take notice then.
How many of you are on Tax credits because you cannot get a living wage or enough hours work a week. Reading about more flexible working needed means that guy wants you all on zero hour contracts.
Its nothing more than a disgrace.
Quote from: Jet1 on 14-01-15, 06:59PM
I want to know if it is possible to take all your cash out of the pension scheme altogether.......Surely if they are changing the T&Cs then the current contract is null and void! I would reinvest this money in my quest to attain my HGV so i can find alternative employment...
You can cash out your pension if you've been contributing to it for 2 years or under according to the email I got asking the same question, after that period of time you cant
Tesco store staff are never going to strike in large enough numbers to make a difference, even if the union allowed a strike vote!
How many of the colleagues in your store would be able to lose a day's pay or more?
Not enough to make a difference!
And even if there was a strike tesco would be the ones gaining as all those that did strike there pay would be turned into Tesco profits!
Usdaw didn't do a thing last year when Asda and morrisons all went through there management restructure etc
So don't expect them to this time!
By all means utilise them while it's going on, and then ditch them once it's over!
If everyone affected by this cancelled there Union subs then and only then might Usdaw take notice!
How can Usdaw get involved in what goes on at Asda?
Asda doesn't recognise Usdaw.
Quote from: Morris999 on 13-01-15, 11:53PM
Including Tesco there are 3 other companies that offer DB pensions to new employees in the 100 listed companies they are Morrison's, Diageo and Johnson Matthey
And one big unlisted company: John Lewis Partnership--Final Salary DB scheme. But apparently the John Lewis scheme has been restructured a couple of times in the last 10 years and is about to be restructured again to stop the costs eating the company; a hard decision for the employee owners to make.
Quote
Q. How will my life cover be affected by the proposals? (new question added 13 January 2015)
Tesco can choose to set up a defined contribution scheme which includes life cover. Lots of DC schemes do include life cover at 2x to 4x salary level since the cost of the life cover for a large group of people is pretty marginal in terms of the running cost (the cost of personal term life cover is the cost of the salespeople to sell it). So I would guess that Tesco probably would include this (it's probably the one negotiation that USDAW could successfully influence).
Quote from: Loki on 14-01-15, 11:25PM
How can Usdaw get involved in what goes on at Asda?
Asda doesn't recognise Usdaw.
.....and guess what , in about three months time when you lot wake up and smell the coffee ...... Neither will you .
You are all sleep walking towards the iceberg and think you'll be the one that will be ok .
Not thinking that at all - have you got any ideas on how to avoid the iceberg?
https://www.ctp.org.uk/focus/events-tesco-management-trial/460567 (https://www.ctp.org.uk/focus/events-tesco-management-trial/460567)
obviously they feel it's time to get rid of the deadwood and plan to fail a lot of exsisting managers when they re-aply for the new roles
Quote from: Twochops on 15-01-15, 09:13PM
Quote from: Loki on 14-01-15, 11:25PM
How can Usdaw get involved in what goes on at Asda?
Asda doesn't recognise Usdaw.
.....and guess what , in about three months time when you lot wake up and smell the coffee ...... Neither will you .
You are all sleep walking towards the iceberg and think you'll be the one that will be ok .
If you had the capability of reading through many of the threads on this site, then you would realise that many of us have thought the exact opposite of what you have stated.
Quote from: Loki on 14-01-15, 11:25PM
How can Usdaw get involved in what goes on at Asda?
Asda doesn't recognise Usdaw.
Tesco doesn't recognise usdaw either!
Only by name.
Change is coming and there is nothing that can be done about it because those in charge think this is the way forward to get the company back on it's feet and appease shareholders.
How an employees life is altered detrimentally or not through these changes will never be a concern of this company and as long as those shareholders are kept happy then all is well in Tesco land.
As for the unions, Thatcher removed their testicles years ago as proved by ineos at Grangemouth with their very real promise to shut the refinery if they didn't get their way.
Message to Drastic Dave we are your customer
Where leaving your shops to, shove your 10% it's cheaper at Asda
[admin]Please try to avoid swearing in your posts,thanks[/admin]
Whilst I understand everyone's nervousness at change, I think the decisiona made have been the right ones.
I do feel for the team leaders, but there are far too many poor team leaders that simply don't do what the role should be...
Managers deserve to be reviewed, there are even more poor managers than team leaders - in fact I think te poor managers explains why there are poor team leaders!
A shake up is necessary!!
Straight from the pages of Yammer.
http://www.usdaw.org.uk/aboutus/contactus/contactusform.aspx (http://www.usdaw.org.uk/aboutus/contactus/contactusform.aspx)
Contact form USDAW website, use it, let them know how your views !
5 minutes of your time people.... :-X
Quote from: Happytesco on 18-01-15, 11:25PM
Whilst I understand everyone's nervousness at change, I think the decisiona made have been the right ones.
I do feel for the team leaders, but there are far too many poor team leaders that simply don't do what the role should be...
Managers deserve to be reviewed, there are even more poor managers than team leaders - in fact I think te poor managers explains why there are poor team leaders!
A shake up is necessary!!
Could not agree more - but start by culling all the dead weight at manager level before you even think about the TL's. As I've said before, getting rid of TL's is like trying to save yourself from gangrene in your hand by cutting off your thumb; it's a lot of pain for no actual benefit.
It's official: Lewis is a complete and utter moron. 8-)
Quote from: Happytesco on 18-01-15, 11:25PM
Whilst I understand everyone's nervousness at change, I think the decisiona made have been the right ones.
I do feel for the team leaders, but there are far too many poor team leaders that simply don't do what the role should be...
Managers deserve to be reviewed, there are even more poor managers than team leaders - in fact I think te poor managers explains why there are poor team leaders!
A shake up is necessary!!
Happyreturns, quite literally, Welcome back!
All our team leaders in office today and told about there positions going ,our team leader thinks they will be no job as the manager will be staying on the department and we are told we are over hours,we still have too many managers in our store as our senior manager once told me,interesting see how this plays out not good to see them all upset, but i said at least we still have a job,
happy returns , the blame and all the blame not just a portion of it ,lies with the top management not line managers ,not team leaders . They enforced a culture of fear of failure with KPIs,, performance reviews and the options program , which realistically does nothing for the company as the best people are ignored in preference for a managers sibling or a Tesco brainwashed drone.Perhaps if TLs were allowed to do the jobs they are employed to do instead of being used in dotcom or checkouts they could improve there performance . Ah ,so we come back to the original point ,senior managements failure to manage staffing levels or understand the basics of the business .
All, That isn't happy returns 8-). I do miss his input though!
Quote from: oliver on 20-01-15, 04:17PM
All our team leaders in office today and told about there positions going ,our team leader thinks they will be no job as the manager will be staying on the department and we are told we are over hours,we still have too many managers in our store as our senior manager once told me,interesting see how this plays out not good to see them all upset, but i said at least we still have a job,
so what department are you on?
At the team leader meeting today they were told by pm that more manager positions will be created in the new structure.
NO NO NO this company does not require more managment it needs shop floor staff how many times are they going to get it so bloody wrong. What kind of idiots come up with these ideas do they have the Chuckle Brothers and Mr Bean in charge at head office or what.
Penguin ,sorry but our store manager told me yesterday that they were getting another senior manager to add to the two they already have ,that will be extra support because managers back on their own departments,and we have too many managers as it is ,one of them hasn't got a role at all everybody's kicking off about it,so they must get rid of some of them.
Has anybody actual got the finer details about the "turnaround bonus scheme"?
What are the actual target and forecast payout?
Howardsarmy, it will be the carrot and the stick again we'l get F***all ant the ones At the top reap the rewards, they ain't catching me out again,haha
Quote from: howardsarmy on 09-02-15, 07:52AM
Has anybody actual got the finer details about the "turnaround bonus scheme"?
What are the actual target and forecast payout?
Yes all of the staff are being given an extra packet of peanuts to supplement their wages!
So are wages going to staple them to our wage slips ??????
Quote from: penguin on 20-01-15, 07:01PM
NO NO NO this company does not require more managment it needs shop floor staff how many times are they going to get it so bloody wrong. What kind of idiots come up with these ideas do they have the Chuckle Brothers and Mr Bean in charge at head office or what.
Yes there will be more managers. "The plan" is to prevent managers from filling what will probably not work out.
At the moment Tesco WILL NOT employ more staff to the bussines. Stores that are curently heavly under hours (read:not enough workers) can only get more staff from diferent stores.
I at the moment have to fill aisles using "pixie dust" >:( as there is no staff in the building to do the job. Not only that, i will loose staff and i am told there will be no replacement, unless someone from diferent store will move. So as u can see its c**p. Try to fill 30 cages fresh delivery and 20 backstock(dairy) when there is only you and your shadow on the shop floor beacuse second person is on holiday :thumbdown:
There is lots of talking about giving great service to the customers but company is doing everything to deliver more s*** . Empty shelfs, more stock thrown away than sold , aisles if covered are not filled properly as there is no time. Qucik quick and go somewhere else. Day staff is even in a bigger s*** as there are some days that there are only few managers and GAs for the whole day to cover shop floor???? and they are beingpulled to dotcom and checkouts.
There is lots of rumours about creating twilight shifts so there will be someone on the shop floor for replenishement and customers but if and when it will happen there will be so much damage done to the shops that company will loose even more.
Quote from: howardsarmy on 09-02-15, 07:52AM
Has anybody actual got the finer details about the "turnaround bonus scheme"?
What are the actual target and forecast payout?
Its big unknown. It is curently under consultation.
PS.
If someone can access store reports may see that there is target of income set for each day. I can tell you straigt away it would be a miracle if the target will be achieved ;D.
The company is f***ed from the top down.
The arseholes at the top appear to have shafted the business for their own benefit, and left the mugs at the bottom (ie. anyone in a store) to take the hit.
Yes, it looks like there are probably far too many managers - but they shouldn't be going just because of what the pr**k* at the top have done.
I've worked for the company less than a month. Draw your own conclusions.
You catch on quick, Greenholme.
Guys I think the turnaround bonus will be based on the whole business results and not your individual store. This is fairer and ensures everyone has chance to achieve it. How much the £% will be is the big question. Now don't go getting your hopes up of anything like 10% or even 5% ( unless your on the board >:D). Though DD may shock us all and say 5%.
Weve never had more than 3.6% before have we? So how do you work that out,
[admin]Please only ask a particular question in one thread/topic. Nomad[/admin]
after all the changes in my store.3 full time team leaders taking the money and running. how does it pay tescos , to shell out £107.000, that's one hundred and seven thousand pounds. to ask three staff to leave.
The money is paid as a one off hit out of one years profits.. so once they are rid of the cost after that it is gone forever and hence increases profits. Hope that makes sense. Teamleaders were a wilful waste of money for the company. There were some excellent ones but the majority were poor and added little or no value to the organisation. Tough but true.
Yes that sound right, spend the money now and the next year have a bigger profit, unfortunately it is simple explanation but in reality it doesn't work like that. My current store was one of the best I've ever worked in and now its a dump, not enough staff. We have s*** loads of money to spend for overtime but we can't cover all the shifts (nights nor days). We bring everyone in who we can, doesn't matter if they are worth the money or not , single rate or double rate pay.
If we can't cover shifts then we leave an aisle unfilled. Then we bring s*** loads people in for overtime to catch up. Situation like that is causing drop in sale and is increasing amount of money we spend for pay.
Because of the performance bonus next year we are getting more stock to boost the sale but there is a problem to put it out so it sits in the warehouse. So we need more people for OT to be able to clear warehouse. On top of that I see more stock that is OOC.
We have green light to employ new staff but over a month gone now and no one applied yet (night shift). The longer a situation like that goes on the bigger the damage to the company.
Who'd have thought that might happen? 8-)
In our area its the right to work checks that are delaying people actually getting onto the shop floor. However it didn't help that the office staff that did the checks were made redundant. Big backlog.
Yo,
I'm doing an essay on Tesco for business, I need to talk about behaviours of the employees. for example you might do a chant before your shift starts, or anything like that? any help will be much appreciated.
In our store we don't chant. We just prostrate ourselves before a photo of our beloved leader Kim Jong Lewis and say silent prayers for forgiveness that our efforts will never be good enough.
A good title for your essay would be "they pretend to pay us and we pretend to work". I'm not sure there's more to it than that.
Quote from: louthaintrigg on 07-11-17, 10:16AM
Yo,
I'm doing an essay on Tesco for business, I need to talk about behaviours of the employees. for example you might do a chant before your shift starts, or anything like that? any help will be much appreciated.
"Tesco and Modern Serfdom" - how Tesco believes it 'owns' it's workforce and they should consider it a "privelage" to work for them. That would be a good start.
There was a huddle of managers at the front door but that soon stopped. Now the few left have been relegated to the warehouse. Customers were complaining the shop was too expensive due to all these managers standing about.
Clock in, keep my head down, do my job, clock out.
Hi, I am new here and had a question. How do I make a thread? I wanted to know if maintenance technicians at Tesco can be given automatic work vans?