One of the UK’s largest supermarket chains, Morrisons, is launching a new operational model across its Morrisons Daily convenience stores. The company has begun internal consultations that could lead to significant changes in how staff work, including more flexible hours and an expectation for employees to be “multiskilled”.
The proposal, which was shared with managers in recent weeks, is still in its early stages. Yet it suggests a clear shift in how the retailer intends to meet customer demand, as its CEO Rami Baitiéh continues a wider turnaround strategy focused on improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Staff to Be Trained Across Multiple Roles Under New Model
Employees at Morrisons Daily stores may be required to take on a variety of tasks across the shop floor, including till operations, grocery stocking, and Post Office services. The internal memo outlining these changes emphasises that employees will be expected to be “multiskilled across all areas of store operations in the majority of cases,” according to a report by The Grocer.
Managers have been instructed to speak with their teams about their flexibility, as shift patterns and assigned stores may also change. The company is assessing how to align store hours and staffing with fluctuations in customer traffic. “Adjusting staffing store hours based on labour models isn’t about cutting back,” the memo noted, “it’s about matching the staffing levels to actual demand, ensuring we have the right people in place at the right time.”
These measures reflect a move away from fixed roles and regular shift routines towards a model where adaptability is key. The company said the changes are not yet finalised and that the process remains exploratory. As such, no formal action has been taken so far.
Cost-Saving Efforts Behind New Flexibility Drive
Morrisons’ push for greater flexibility among its employees is part of a broader cost-saving plan being driven by its chief executive, Rami Baitiéh. According to The Grocer, the initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency while ensuring stores are staffed appropriately throughout the day.
The retailer said the changes are designed to create a better in-store experience for customers by ensuring enough employees are available at peak times. A spokesperson for Morrisons stated: “We regularly review our shift patterns to make sure they are in line with customer demand and recently began exploring options for more flexible working with Morrisons Daily colleagues.”
Staff relocations could also form part of the upcoming adjustments. While this has not been confirmed, the internal communications suggest that some employees might be asked to move between stores, depending on where staffing needs arise.
The supermarket has stressed that any changes will take into account individual circumstances. “Individual colleague circumstances are fully taken into account when any changes are being considered,” the company said, according to The Times. The process is currently in consultation phase, with results from internal discussions likely to determine the next steps.
