River Island to cut 350 jobs
River Island is set to cut 350 jobs across its retail teams as it battles against the effects of the coronavirus crisis.
In a letter sent to staff by chief executive Will Kernan, the fashion retailer said the pandemic was one of the most significant challenges it had ever faced and that it needed to have the right structures in place to drive its omnichannel strategy.
River Island has been hit by weak footfall in its stores despite lockdown restrictions easing, and has also been impacted by the consumer shift to online shopping.
Kernan said in the letter: “We are in the process of restructuring our retail teams by simplifying our store management structures. With a heavy heart, I can confirm that these changes will potentially impact up to 350 store management and senior sales roles.
“By making these changes, will create a flatter management structure with a greater emphasis on customer service and a seamless experience, whether online or in-store”
Kernan also said that the company is renegotiating rents with landlords.
