Argos is closing its stores in Ireland

Argos announced that they are intending to close its stores and operations across Ireland. It is expected that the closure will take place by the end of June this year. Moreover, the move is likely to cause loss of 580 jobs across the Republic of Ireland.

Closure of all 34 stores

Argos announced that they have reached the decision after going through a some thorough and careful consideration. Furthermore, the review included Argos business and operations performance in Ireland. Afterwards, the retail chain has announced to close all of its 34 stores across Ireland. The stores will gradually start to wind down its operations. The Argos stores will remain open until July 24 this year. However, its customers will not be able to place online order after March 22.

“Argos concluded the investment required to develop and modernize the Irish part of its business was not viable and that the money would be better invested in other parts of its business. As part of its consultation with colleagues and Mandate, the recognized trade union, Argos will propose an enhanced redundancy package that goes well beyond its statutory obligations. The small number of colleagues not eligible for redundancy under Irish Law are expected to receive a one-off goodwill payment.” The company said in a statement.

580 jobs will be affected

Importantly, the closure of stores and operations will affect 580 jobs across the country. However, Argos will offer enhanced redundancy package or a one off payment on case to case basis. Moreover, the company has announced to come up with a support program for its employees in coming months. “We understand this is difficult news for our customers and colleagues. As with any major change to our business, we have not made this decision lightly and we are doing everything we can to support those impacted. On behalf of everyone at Argos I would like to thank our colleagues, customers, suppliers and partners for their support to our business.” Andy McClelland, operations manager at Argos Ireland said in statement. However, the Department of Enterprise said it has not yet received a collective redundancy notification from the company.

Union’s stance

On the other hand, The Mandate union has shown its disappointment over Argos decision. The union official stated that they will engage with the company to come across a good deal for the affected employees. “Today is a difficult one for Argos’s staff here in Ireland as they get the news that the company will be closing down here. Because Argos is shutting down its complete operation in Ireland this amounts to a collective redundancy which requires a 30-day consultation period and we know the company intends to honor that obligation to engage. We will be using this period to negotiate the best possible terms for those who are losing their jobs and we are expecting a constructive response from the company.” Mandate official Michael Meegan said in a statement.

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