Tesco announces plans for acquired Shoprite stores

Around 100 in-store jobs to be created

The sale of Shoprite to Tesco will create more than 100 jobs on the Isle of Man.

New details have been released by the retail giant overnight.

The news comes as Tesco begins plans to convert the nine former Shoprite stores into five Superstores and four Express stores throughout 2024. 

Here's everything you need to know:

JOBS

When the takeover of the Manx retailer was announced back in October, it was revealed around 60 members of staff were to be made redundant, primarily in administerial roles.

While many Shoprite store employees have been transferred to Tesco, we’ve now been told there will be an additional 107 vacancies created - meaning around 40 jobs have actually been created in real terms.

Tim Johnston MHK, Minister for Enterprise, said: "I welcome the news of job creation by Tesco as this demonstrates their commitment to not only maintain stability of our food supply, but also open further opportunities for the workforce. 

"The Department for Enterprise, along with our colleagues at The Department of Environment Food and Agriculture, have maintained close contact with Tesco management since their announcement, and continues to work to ensure the transition period has minimal impact on residents, and all supplier concerns are raised and communicated appropriately.”

LOCAL SUPPLIERS

The company is also in discussions with local suppliers on stocking their products, to expand on the six which are already stocked in its existing Douglas Superstore.

The six currently supplied are:

• Isle of Man Meats
• Isle of Man Creamery (who also make Tesco own brand Isle of Man butter which is sold in 65 stores)
• Laxey Glen Mills flour
• Gourmet Foods
• Stuart Allanson Produce
• Geo Devereau & Sons

Tesco says it's been working in partnership with the Isle of Man Government, who have created a funding scheme, to ensure that suppliers have the suitable SALSA accreditation to see their products stocked in Tesco stores.

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: “I am pleased Tesco are allowing a transition period to existing suppliers to arrange relevant accreditation for themselves.

“The Government’s new SALSA initiative aims to empower more local producers and creators to meet the stringent standards required for their products to be featured on the shelves of prominent retail outlets like Tesco. We hope the 100% funded grant support will serve as a catalyst for enhancing the presence of the Isle of Man's finest culinary offerings in wider market spaces and open up new and exciting doors to new customers both on and off island.”

CHARITIES

The company is set to introduce its 'Stronger Starts' programme to its new stores across the Island to 'support local causes'.

It means charities and community groups will be able to apply for funding of up to £1,500 for projects making an impact on the island.

Customers can vote using blue tokens in store for three different charities every three months to receive grants of £500, £1,000 and £1,500 - the system is currently in place at its Douglas superstore.

Andy Sanderson said: "The inclusion of Stronger Starts in our stores means we can have a real positive impact for the residents of the island. Each grant is chosen by customers, giving them the chance to shape where the money goes in their local community."

Manx Radio has contacted Tesco, the DfE Minister and DEFA Minister for further comment.

Got more time to spare?

You can find out about the relationship between charities and Shoprite HERE.