Boots axes 4,000 jobs as coronavirus triggers business restructure

These jobs cuts, which represent 7% of Boots’ overall workforce, will be made across the retailer’s head office, store teams and opticians teams. Consultations with affected staff are underway.

The health and beauty retailer will also close 48 Boots Opticians stores as a result of the restructure.

The job cuts follow a 48% slump in like-for-like sales year on year in the retailer’s third quarter, while sales at Boots Opticians dived 72% during the period.

The retailer said although the majority of its stores remained open during the pandemic, its revenue-driving beauty and fragrance counters were closed, as well as more than 100 of its larger city-centre, station and airport stores.

While shopping restrictions have eased in recent weeks, Boots said “it is anticipated that the high street will take considerable time to recover” and the business has accelerated its transformation plan as a result.

Boots’ online sales have jumped 78% during lockdown. 

UK managing director Seb James said: “The proposals announced today are decisive actions to accelerate our transformation plan, allow Boots to continue its vital role as part of the UK health system, and ensure profitable long-term growth. In doing this, we are building a stronger and more modern Boots for our customers, patients and colleagues.

“I am so very grateful to all our colleagues for their dedication during the last few challenging months. They have stepped forward to support their communities, our customers and the NHS during this time and I am extremely proud to be serving alongside them.

“We recognise that today’s proposals will be very difficult for the remarkable people who make up the heart of our business and we will do everything in our power to provide the fullest support during this time.”