Asda has rejected claims that customer and staff safety is at risk after its outsourced security provider Mitie launched a consultation that could cut security guard hours across 100 stores, putting more than 300 jobs in jeopardy. The GMB union has labelled the process “shambolic” and demanded its suspension.
Consultation Details and Job Impact
Mitie, which provides security staff, technology, and response services to Asda nationwide, began a consultation on plans to reduce security guard hours at 100 Asda stores as part of cost-cutting measures. This move places over 300 security officers at risk of redundancy or reduced hours. The consultation is scheduled to end on July 24.
GMB regional organiser Keith Dixon said: “Hundreds of security colleagues are facing the prospect of losing their job or seeing their hours cut, and they are deeply worried about what the future holds. Members are telling us this process feels like a done deal, not a meaningful consultation, and they have been hung out to dry by their new employer, Mitie.”
Asda's Response and Safety Concerns
Asda has strongly denied that the consultation will lead to a reduction in overall security coverage. A spokesperson for the supermarket stated: “The statement that we have cut or reduced security roles is entirely incorrect. All stores continue to have security resources allocated according to the risk profile of each store, ensuring support is directed where it is needed across the estate.”
The GMB union has written to Mitie’s chief executive, Phil Bentley, claiming that no comprehensive assessment of the impact on customer and staff safety has been conducted. The union also criticised the consultation period as too short for meaningful engagement and noted that some security guards were given incorrect information about the process.
Background on Incidents
Asda reported in January that it recorded 30,000 incidents of verbal and physical assault across its over 1,100 stores during 2025, emphasising that customer and staff safety is an “absolute priority”. The GMB argues that reducing security presence could exacerbate these risks.
