Woolworths confirms plan to move 130 NZ jobs to Sydney
Woolworths New Zealand has confirmed it will relocate its customer care operations to Sydney, resulting in the loss of approximately 130 local jobs. The company stated the move is intended to simplify operations and improve long-term sustainability despite criticism from union representatives.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing trend of corporate offshoring and the tension between operational efficiency and local employment stability in the retail sector.
<p>Woolworths will go ahead with plans to move its New Zealand customer care operation to Sydney, affecting over 100 roles.</p> <p>The supermarket giant said it would proceed with the move after completing a formal consultation process with staff and union representatives. The Workers First union said around 130 staff could lose their jobs. </p> <p>The supermarket giant first proposed integrating with the Sydney customer support network <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/09/01/woolworths-proposes-moving-dozens-of-customer-care-jobs-to-australia/" target="_blank">earlier this month.</a> </p> <p>"This has been a difficult decision, and we recognise the significant impact it has on our customer care team members who have served our Kiwi customers with dedication for many years," Woolworths NZ director of digital & eCommerce Mark Wolfenden said. </p> <p>"We have taken on feedback received during the consultation process, and adjusted our approach accordingly; however, we will progress with the core elements of the proposal."
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