DATE: 15th February 2021
TO: All Members Tesco Wilton
Re: Overcrowding in Store Friday 12th and Saturday 13th February 2021
Dear Member
Please see below copy of correspondence sent today to Mr. Alan Coughlan, Store Manager.
Yours sincerely
for Mandate Trade Union
Lorraine O’ Brien
Divisional Organiser
___________________________________________________________________________
REF: LOB/JOR
15th February 2021
Mr. Alan Coughlan
Store Manager
Tesco
Wilton SC
Cork
Re: Overcrowding in Store Friday 12th and Saturday 13th February 2021
Dear Alan
We have been contacted by a number of members today expressing their concerns regarding the overcrowding in the store over the Valentines weekend period, particularly on Friday and Saturday. We are advised there was absolutely no attempt to manage the number of customers entering the store to the extent that customers congregated in both the food and clothing aisles.
At this stage of the ongoing pandemic given the extensive public and company Health & Safety guidelines, it is the cause of grave concern that the company did not take measures to prioritise our members’ welfare particularly in view of the high level of transmission of the virus in the community.
It was widely anticipated that last weekend would see a significant uplift in consumer activity given that it was Valentines weekend, however regrettably the store appears to have made no contingency for the increased customer numbers. As a consequence our members felt they were left at risk and vulnerable and comparisons were made with their experiences of 23rd December 2020.
In view of the aforementioned, we are seeking a commitment from the company that in advance of all future high profile celebratory or public holidays such as St. Patrick’s Day and Easter, that plans will be put in place to manage the number of customers in store at any one time and to ensure social distancing and in turn the safety of our members.
Your response would be appreciated.
Yours sincerely
for Mandate Trade Union
Lorraine O’ Brien
Divisional Organiser