Woolworths to move Auckland customer support to Sydney

Woolworths New Zealand has confirmed it will integrate its Auckland customer care operations into the Woolworths Group’s existing support network in Sydney, Australia. The move is expected to impact approximately 130 New Zealand-based roles.

Mark Wolfenden, Director of Digital & eCommerce, stated the decision aims to simplify operations and remove duplicated overheads to ensure long-term sustainability. The company noted that cost efficiencies would allow for continued investment in grocery networks and lower prices. Woolworths is offering impacted staff redundancy compensation, counseling, and assistance with redeployment or career transitions.

The Workers First union has criticized the decision, describing it as short-sighted. Deputy Secretary Rudd Hughes argued that the company is offshoring jobs to save costs despite significant recent earnings from New Zealand customers.