Fears over major redundancies at Eurotunnel

Many retail outlets inside the Eurotunnel are currently struggling to survive due to the second lockdown; opening hours have been reduced and some stores may not re-open.

The Eurotunnel, in Folkestone, has experienced a massive change in the number of people travelling to cross the channel due to current travel restrictions and shops inside the tunnel have been left with few customers.

The empty terminal at the Eurotunnel, Folkestone

The Eurotunnel is a massive driver for jobs in the local area, with over 13,000 people employed across England and France. However, in recent weeks Eurotunnel and businesses inside the tunnel have had to let workers go. This has caused concern throughout Folkestone and surrounding areas as the pandemic continues to cause problems for employers as more businesses are set to close during the second lockdown.

Large businesses such as Burger King and La Gare have had to close for the foreseeable future. Other businesses, including Starbucks, Leon and WHSmith, are operating with fewer staff members.

Leon Team Member, Ryan Drake, 20, said: “I am currently furloughed so I’m in a good position, however, large numbers of our team have had to be let go. The tunnel was basically empty just before the second lockdown, it is strange to see.”

Following difficulties to the travel business, Eurotunnel, and many of the subcontractors within it had to make major redundancy decisions. The entire call centre has also had to be closed.

After the first lockdown, many of the subcontractors inside the business struggled to stay open and reduced their opening hours. The summer period saw an increase in people travelling through the tunnel, once travel was allowed. However, due to this second lockdown, these businesses are predicted to struggle yet again, during the usually busy Christmas period.

Former Chef at Leon, Nadine Jeffries, 19 said: “I’ve been made redundant. So many people have been made redundant, there is hardly any staff working there now.” She added: “It’s concerning.”

With the second lockdown due to end next week, all workers are hoping they can get back to normal.