RETAIL union Usdaw confirmed it is in talks with Tesco today after the supermarket giant announced “restructuring” plans that could put 1,600 jobs at risk.

The company is set to close just over half of its in-store meat, fish and deli counters, affecting 317 shops nationwide, as well as its Jack’s store format.

Seven of the cut-price shops, named after Tesco founder Sir Jack Cohen, will close, with the remaining six converted into Tesco superstores.

The firm, which expects its latest profit figures to top £2.6 billion, has also proposed changes to night-shift operations.

Usdaw national officer Daniel Adams warned the “devastating” changes will be “incredibly unsettling for those who may be affected.

“Usdaw will do all we can to support members, and we will fully engage with the business with a view to protecting jobs and, where this is not possible, securing the best possible deal for those affected.”

A company spokesperson claimed the changes will ensure Tesco remains “focused and competitive in a fast-changing market.”