The Co-op is set to scrap team manager roles across its c-stores as it restructures its store management but it insisted there will be no redundancies as part of the process.

The grocer said from this month, following a two-year trial at 300 stores, it would be implementing a three-tier store management structure across its estate, removing the team manager role from its current model affecting some 2,000 staff. 

The retailer stressed there would be no redundancies as affected staff will be offered alternative positions in the Co-op “as we want to retain them, their knowledge and experience within the business”.

The three-tier system will be broken into store manager, team leader and customer team members. 

All existing team managers will be offered roles as team leaders and the Co-op said those who wished to become store managers could apply for a development programme.

Retail Week understands the restructuring is being undertaken by the Co-op in response to similar changes made recently by competitors. 

The retailer also believes it will free up store staff to spend more time serving members and customers. 

A Co-op spokeswoman said: “Our aim at the Co-op is to serve and support our communities, giving our customers the best possible shopping experience. 

“As we move our stores over to a three-tier management structure, protecting jobs is a continuing key priority and we are pleased to be able to offer alternative positions to all the colleagues affected. 

“These changes will free up store colleagues to give our customers great service from efficient and well-run shops.”

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