Artigiano relocation puts jobs at risk

Further to earlier news that Liz Earle will be moving into former Artigiano warehouse in Cowes, this confirmation in from Artigiano on their proposed relocation and subsequent job losses.

Our thoughts are with all those affected by the job losses. Ed


Scotts Ltd, parent company of multi-channel Fashion retailer Artigiano, has announced that in order to make substantial savings they plan to move the stock and all related processes out of the Distribution Centre located in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight into the Company’s main site in Wiltshire.

Risk of redundancy
As a result there is a risk of redundancy for up to 35 staff, 10 full time and 25 part time.

The company recognises the employee’s wealth of experience and skills and have invited them to consider relocating to the Wiltshire Warehouse.

12 new position at Call Centre
The Call Centre, which is also located in the same building, will be relocated to alternative space on the Island. Suitable offices are being considered in Cowes and Newport.

The Call Centre currently employs 15 permanent staff and has a number of workers on Fixed Term Contracts. Staff will be invited to apply for a further 12 permanent positions with a view to expanding the department. Additional temporary staff may be needed later in the year.

Proposal has been made with some sadness
Commenting on the announcement, Allie Oldham Group Marketing and Customer Service Director said “This proposal has been made with some sadness. We recognise that the employees on the Isle of Wight site are skilled individuals who have worked professionally and diligently during the past two years since joining the Scotts group. It is a matter of some regret that this measure has to be considered.

“The Call Centre has performed well taking increased calls from our other call handling centres and we are delighted that we are able to expand the IOW Call Centre to handle not only calls relating to Artigiano but a much wider set of enquiries which will benefit the group”.