Updated
Updated · The Grocer · Jun 3
ACS Warns 25 August Flexibility Reform Deadline Risks Higher Retail Costs
Updated
Updated · The Grocer · Jun 3

ACS Warns 25 August Flexibility Reform Deadline Risks Higher Retail Costs

1 articles · Updated · The Grocer · Jun 3

Summary

  • A government consultation running until 25 August will shape how new rights on guaranteed hours, shift notice and compensation for cancelled or cut-short shifts are put into practice.
  • ACS said the reforms must not add complexity or unintended costs for retailers already under pressure from higher business taxes, tighter regulation and a tight labour market.
  • The trade body argued many convenience retailers already offer two-sided flexibility: 96% of colleagues are on permanent contracts, more than three-quarters say they have never had a shift cancelled, and one in three has stayed over 10 years.
  • ACS said it supports tackling one-sided flexibility but wants implementation of the Employment Rights Act to stay pro-worker and pro-business, warning poorly designed rules could reduce flexible job opportunities.

Insights

As new laws mandate guaranteed hours, will UK businesses cut jobs or simply find new ways to maintain flexibility?
Beyond zero-hours contracts, how will new 'fire and rehire' rules reshape every UK employment relationship in 2027?