IKEA to cut 300 managerial jobs in surprise overhaul

Published on Wednesday 11 July 2007 00:33

HOME furnishings giant IKEA is to axe 300 managerial posts in the UK as part of a "restructuring" of its British stores.

The furniture manufacturer and retailer said a "reorganisation" of the way it worked would result in fewer layers of management and open the way for co-workers to take on greater responsibility.

But union representatives expressed disappointment at the "shock" announcement and are seeking an urgent meeting with IKEA to discuss the business plan.

The Swedish-owned firm currently has a 9,000-strong workforce operating throughout 15 stores in the UK, including two in Scotland.

IKEA has also been hit by increasing competition in the home furnishings and furniture market, particularly from new homes ranges in supermarkets and high-street retailers .