Shopworkers’ trade union leader’s ‘dismay’ at troubles at Austin Reed

Shopworkers’ trade union leader John Hannett has reacted with dismay at news that another national retailer, Austin Reed, has gone into administration putting 1,200 jobs at risk in 100 stores and 50 concessions.

The news comes just days after BHS filed for administration, putting 11,000 jobs at risk.

Speaking from the union’s Annual Delegate Meeting in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens John Hannett, Usdaw general secretary, said: “The staff at Austin Reed will be shocked by this announcement after the company changed hands only a week ago.

“We will be providing the support, advice and representation our members require at this difficult and worrying time.

“The Government has promised me a meeting about the future of retail and how we can work together to help save the high street.

“I look forward to that happening very soon, because it is a very difficult time for retailers and action is required on tackling crippling overheads, such as rates and rents; putting more money in customers pockets by reducing VAT, and raising the skills and incomes of shopworkers, as called for the British Retail Consortium in their report on the future of the industry.

“Retail is an important employment sector and a major contributor to the British economy, it deserves more attention and support from the Government.”