RETAIL union Usdaw pledged to protect jobs at Primark today after the fast-fashion chain announced plans to axe about 400 positions. 

The clothing giant, which is owned by Associated British Foods, has launched a consultation with staff as part of what it says is a simplification of its retail management structure.

The retailer claimed the changes would “provide clearer accountability, greater flexibility and more management support on the shop floor.”

While the firm is creating a new management level role as part of the move, it is also removing others and expects the reforms to leave it with around 400 fewer retail managers.

Primark, which employs 29,000 staff across 191 British stores, expects the consultation to take place over the next couple of months.

The company’s UK retail director Kari Rodgers said: “The changes we’re proposing will deliver a simplified and more consistent management structure across all of our stores, provide more opportunities for career progression and offer greater flexibility.

“We are now focused on supporting our colleagues who are affected by these proposed changes and will be going through the consultation process.”

Usdaw national officer Dave Gill said: “We have been briefed by Primark of their proposal to restructure store management.

“Usdaw reps will now enter into meaningful consultation talks with the company, where we will examine the business case for this proposal.

“Our priority is to save jobs and keep as many staff as possible employed within the business.

“In the meantime, we are providing our members with the support, advice and representation they need through this process.”