Comet makes further head office redundancies

The administrator, appointed at the beginning of the month after Comet plunged into administration, have made 603 redundancies at 12 home delivery hubs across the UK.

The network will continue to operate, although with a significantly reduced workforce at each of the 12 locations, in order to complete deliveries and continue to support the repairs operation.

Deloitte has made a further 132 employees redundant from Comet’s head office and support functions. This includes 57 redundancies at Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire; 17 employees in Hull and 56 employees from its call centre in Clevedon. Staff were told today.

There has not yet been redundancies at any Comet stores however Deloitte has said 41 stores are likely to close by the end of November.

A closing down Sale with increased discounts has begun in 27 stores and a further 14 stores may be identified for closure in the coming days unless a buyer can be found or new terms agreed with landlords.

Deloitte said that there would “inevitably” be redundancies among the 869 full-time and part-time employees who work in the 41 stores despite attempts to re-employ staff in nearby stores.

Deloitte said Comet has made contacts with more than 35 prospective employers who are keen to offer roles to ex-Comet staff.

Deloitte has increased discounts at all Comet stores following criticism from shoppers the discounts, which averaged 10% were not more considerable.

Joint administrator Chris Farrington said: “Discussions continue to take place with parties who have expressed interest in parts of the business. However, it is unfortunately necessary to begin a store closure programme and to scale back the company’s support functions.

“While we will continue to do all we can to preserve jobs, we are working hard to put in place comprehensive support to help those employees who are made redundant during the administration.

He added: “This support includes connecting people to prospective employers who are keen to offer roles to ex-Comet staff, and providing assistance and workshops to help with job hunting skills, such as CV and cover letter writing and interview skills, to enhance their chances of securing new employment.”