Retail giant Pick n Pay has initiated formal consultations with labour unions as part of a broader strategy to stabilise its underperforming supermarket division.
The process is being conducted under Section 189A of the Labour Relations Act, which governs large-scale workplace restructuring and requires engagement with affected employees and their representatives.
The consultations will focus on proposed changes to store-level labour practices, including greater shift flexibility and a review of employee benefits. The company said the aim is not to implement job cuts, but rather to curb escalating labour costs and better align working conditions with prevailing retail industry standards.
Pick n Pay emphasised that no final decisions have been taken, describing the consultation phase as an opportunity to explore alternatives and engage stakeholders on potential solutions.
The retailer added that the process forms part of efforts to secure the long-term sustainability of the business while seeking to preserve jobs wherever possible.