Tesco to launch European Works Council

Date: 15 June 2009

Usdaw and Tesco have reached agreement to begin formal discussions to set up a European Works Council to cover the retailer’s European business.

Having expanded its European operations over the last few years it was felt that the time was right to create a forum that brings together staff from across its European Economic Area operations.

The creation of a European Works Council by Tesco is a landmark development and it is the first UK-based food retailer to launch such a council.

Steps will now be put in place to begin formal discussions between the Company and representatives from across Europe before the end of the year, with a view to having the European Works Council in place during 2010.

John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary commented, “This is a positive move for a progressive business and its social partners across Europe. It will build on existing arrangements and enhance levels of information and consultation between staff and the business.”

Ian Jefcoate, from Tesco International Personnel commented, “We now recognise given our scale in Europe it would be helpful to have a forum in which transnational issues can be discussed.”