THE CEO of a Leicester based retailer has issued an apology admitting that they “got it wrong”, after saying that employees could still come to work if they had Covid.
Wilko, which was founded in Leicester, has been criticised for the “reckless” memo it sent out to recently, regarding its workplace policy to Covid-19.
The memo, entitled “living with Covid” informs staff that “if you test positive for Covid-19 and feel well, you can continue to come to work.”
The chain’s advice, which applied from March 1, comes amid a new wave of coronavirus infections and hospitalisations.
“If you feel too unwell, you can follow the absence policy,” it added.
The government lifted the legal obligation to self-isolate after testing positive in England where most Wilko stores and staff are located, from February 24. Since the rule change, case numbers and hospitalisations have surged.
Wilko’s guidance drew criticism with GMB, the union representing the chain’s employees, who said it was “reckless guidance” that could set a precedent other companies may follow.
On Tuesday (March 15), Wilko CEO Jerome Saint-Marc issued an apology on Twitter, which clarified the company position admitting that they “got it wrong.”
Those who test positive should “still stay at home and avoid contact with others,” he said in a statement.
“When we get something wrong we hold our hands up, admit it, and work to correct the situation,” he added.
“Today’s news has highlighted some miscommunication within our Covid-19 policies, and I wanted to reassure all our customers and team members.
“The safety and wellbeing of our shoppers and teams is at the heart of our business and we’re truly sorry for any understandable concerns our communications may have raised.”
