Argos to shut down all stores, say union

Published: Thu 19 Jan 2023, 11:54 AM

Last updated: Thu 19 Jan 2023, 11:58 AM

Company yet to make statement; 400 workers expected to be impacted

According to Mandate Trade Union the Irish limb of Argos is set to close down all retail outlets across the country.

In a statement regarding the matter, Mandate official Michael Meegan expressed his disappointment. "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."

@MandateTU disappointed at Argos's decision to close all of its Irish outlets but will be engaging intensively over next 30 days to get best deal for workers being made redundant.

See statement at this link:https://t.co/wk7QHCt2MN pic.twitter.com/bbAxEk89rW
— Mandate Trade Union (@MandateTU) January 19, 2023

Following the end of their leases, the major retailer is set to close its stores in the Republic by June.

It is believed that the reasons behind the closure are due to the trading conditions in Ireland. With over 30 stores in the Republic of Ireland, including one in Cavan, this move will impact more than 400 workers.

The Cavan store is expected to close on Saturday, June 24.

Mandate claim the closures will commence with Portlaoise on May 6, with the majority closing on June 24 and the Kilkenny store closing the following day, Sunday, June 25.

"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 honour that obligation to engage."

The trade union has stated that they intend on getting the best deal for staff made redundant.

"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."